Northern District of New York
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Swears in Assistant U.S. Attorney Sandra HebertRead the Press Release
SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – Monday July 13th, 2026, First Assistant U.S. Attorney John A. Sarcone III swore in Sandra Hebert as an Assistant United States Attorney for the Northern District of New York.
Hebert brings more than 20 years of federal prosecutorial experience to the Northern District. She has served as an Assistant U.S. Attorney since 2004, first in the Western District of Texas, and most recently in the District of Rhode Island. During her tenure, Hebert held multiple leadership roles including OCDETF Chief, Deputy Criminal Chief and Criminal Chief.
“We are proud to welcome Sandra Hebert to the Northern District family,” said First Assistant U.S. Attorney John A. Sarcone III. “Sandra’s extensive experience spanning the spectrum of federal prosecutions makes her an outstanding addition to our team. Her commitment to justice and strong track record of public service will complement and enhance our ability to protect communities throughout the Northern District of New York.”
Prior to joining the United States Attorney’s Office, Hebert clerked for the Honorable John D. Rainey in the Southern District of Texas and was an active-duty United States Army Judge Advocate General Officer.Sandra joins the Office’s Criminal Division, where she will contribute her extensive federal prosecutorial experience to ongoing and future cases. She will be based in the Syracuse office, supporting the District’s efforts to advance public safety and uphold the rule of law across the Northern District.
First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone swears in Assistant United States Attorney Sandra Hebert
Twice Convicted Sex Offender Pleads Guilty to Failing to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Willie Davis, 37, of Syracuse, New York, pleaded guilty in federal court on June 24, 2026, to one count of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender and admitted to violating a condition of his supervised release related to his possession of an unmonitored cell phone.
First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Acting United States Marshal Christopher J. Amoia made the announcement.
As part of his guilty plea, Davis admitted that in 2011, he was convicted in of Rape in the Second Degree and sentenced to six months’ imprisonment followed by 10 years’ probation. As a result of this conviction, Davis was also ordered to register as a sex offender in New York. In 2012, Davis was convicted of Coercion and Enticement of a Minor in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of New York and sentenced to 180 months’ imprisonment followed by 20 years of supervised release. He was also required to register as a Sex Offender based on this federal conviction.
“Operation Safe Childhood provides resources and connections to protect our nation’s children, I am thankful to the United States Marshals Service for their efforts in catching this repeat offender,” said First Assistant U.S. Attorney John A. Sarcone III. “Due to his continued pattern of disregarding the law and endangering the safety of others, Mr. Davis once again will spend time behind bars, where he cannot pose a threat to the community.”
“The sex offender registration system exists to protect our communities by ensuring accountability and enabling law enforcement to monitor convicted offenders,” said Christopher J. Amoia, Acting United States Marshal for the Northern District of New York. “Individuals who deliberately disregard these legal obligations or violate the conditions of their supervised release will be held accountable.” “The United States Marshals Service will continue working with our law enforcement partners to aggressively pursue and apprehend offenders who disregard the law and threaten the safety of our communities.”
In September 2025, Davis was released from custody of the Bureau of Prisons and entered the Residential Reentry Center in Syracuse, New York, as part of his term of federal supervised release. In November 2025, staff at the Residential Reentry Center found an unregistered cell phone in Davis’s possession. Forensic examination of the phone by United States Probation Office revealed that three e-mail addresses were being utilized on the device that had not been registered by Davis as required by law.
At sentencing, currently scheduled for November 18, 2026, in Utica, New York, Davis faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in federal prison, a fine up to $250,000, and term of supervised release of at least 5 years and up to life on his Failure to Register conviction. Davis also faces an additional term of imprisonment based on his admission to a violation of his supervised release term. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statute the defendant is convicted of violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors.
The United States Marshals Service investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Whalen is prosecuting the case as part of Project Safe Childhood.
Project Safe Childhood is a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
Schenectady Man Sentenced to 38 Months for Methamphetamine OffenseRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Keith Edmonds, age 31, of Schenectady, New York, was sentenced July 7th 2026, to 38 months in federal prison and 2 years of post-imprisonment supervised release, a fine of $1,500 and a money judgment for forfeiture of $9,730, for possessing methamphetamine with the intent to distribute it. First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) New York Enforcement Division Special Agent in Charge Farhana Islam made the announcement.
As part of his previously-entered guilty plea, Edmonds admitted that on April 24, 2025, he possessed 425 pills containing methamphetamine that he intended to sell. Edmonds also admitted that between October 2024 and March 2025, he sold more than 1,300 pills containing either methamphetamine or benzodiazepine to buyers in the Capital Region.
“I applaud the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Schenectady and Albany County Sheriff’s Offices for bringing down yet another drug dealer,” said First Assistant United States Attorney John Sarcone. “Deadly narcotics are a plague on our communities, devastating families and undermining public safety. Thanks to the dedication and coordination of our partners in law enforcement, this defendant has been held accountable for his actions and will now be serving his sentence in federal prison. Their continued commitment to protecting our neighborhoods makes a meaningful difference every single day.”
“The sentencing of Keith Edmonds reflects the unwavering commitment of the DEA and our law enforcement partners to hold accountable those who distribute dangerous counterfeit pills,” stated DEA New York Enforcement Division Special Agent in Charge Farhana Islam. “Counterfeit pills, frequently laced with methamphetamine, fentanyl, or other illicit substances, place countless lives at risk through addiction and far too often, death. The DEA remains committed to identify and target those individuals who profit from poisoning our communities.”
DEA investigated the case with assistance from the Schenectady County Sheriff’s Office and the Albany County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua R. Rosenthal prosecuted the case.
Schenectady Man Sentenced to 140 Months for Drug and Gun Crimes Committed While on Bail for State ChargesRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Christopher Garrow, age 40, of Schenectady, New York, was sentenced on June 24, 2026, to 140 months’ imprisonment following his guilty plea to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, fentanyl, and cocaine, and to possessing a firearm in furtherance of that drug trafficking crime. First Assistant U.S. Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Special Agent in Charge of the New York Field Division Bryan DiGirolamo made the announcement.
The defendant’s conviction was based on his drug trafficking activities in Schenectady over several months in 2024, including while he was actively wanted on arrest warrants for unrelated state charges.
“Thanks to the coordinated efforts of the ATF, the Schenectady Police Department, and the Schenectady District Attorney’s Office, this dangerous offender has finally been brought to justice, and his supply of deadly narcotics has been removed from our streets, said First Assistant U.S. Attorney John A. Sarcone III. “Under New York State’s current bail laws, defendants like Mr. Garrow can repeatedly return to the community while awaiting trial, giving them the opportunity to reoffend again and again. That is why federal intervention is essential. Working with our local partners the ATF and U.S. Attorney’s Office were able to bring charges federally, where we can ensure that violent, repeat offenders are detained and unable to continue their illegal operations, protecting both public safety and our communities.”“This investigation demonstrates the persistence and coordination required to dismantle armed drug trafficking operations before more lives are put at risk,” said ATF New York Special Agent in Charge Bryan DiGirolamo. “Armed drug traffickers fuel violence and endanger our communities by combining deadly narcotics with illegal firearms. ATF NY remains committed to working alongside our partners to identify, investigate, and disrupt those who threaten public safety. This sentence is the result of the outstanding collaboration between ATF NY Albany, Schenectady Police Department, the Schenectady County District Attorney’s Office and the U.S. Attorney’s Office.”
Schenectady Police Chief Brian Whipple stated: "Our officers are doing outstanding work every day alongside our federal partners to make Schenectady safer. The combination of fentanyl, methamphetamine, cocaine, and an illegal firearm is incredibly dangerous, and this sentence ensures one more violent offender has been removed from our community. Our officers will continue to proactively target those responsible for bringing guns and deadly drugs into our neighborhoods.”As part of his sentence, the defendant will also be required to serve a term of supervised release of 4 years, which will follow his term of imprisonment.
ATF investigated this case with the assistance of the Schenectady Police Department and the Schenectady County District Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mikayla Espinosa prosecuted this case as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods.
Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psn.
Pompey Man Sentenced for Possessing over 400 Grams of Pure MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
UTICA, NEW YORK – Jon Radway, age 47, of Pompey, New York, was sentenced today to 70 months in federal prison for possessing with intent to distribute methamphetamine. First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Bryan DiGirolamo, Special Agent in Charge of the New York Field Division of the United States Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), made the announcement.
As part of his prior guilty plea, Radway admitted that on October 9, 2025, he knowingly possessed with intent to distribute approximately 466 grams of pure methamphetamine at his home. He further admitted that he intended to sell that methamphetamine to numerous customers located in Onondaga County and elsewhere.
First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III stated: “Dangerous narcotics place a tremendous burden on our communities and public health systems. Individuals like this defendant choose to profit at the expense of the very people they harm. I appreciate the diligent investigative work of our partners at the ATF, whose efforts were critical in bringing Mr. Radway to justice.”
Special Agent in Charge Bryan DiGirolamo stated: “This guilty plea is the result of strong collaboration among ATF’s Syracuse Field Office, the New York State Police Community Stabilization Unit and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of New York. Together, we remain committed to disrupting criminal activity that fuels the illegal distribution of dangerous drugs and threatens the safety of our communities.”
United States District Judge Anthony J. Brindisi also imposed a 4-year term of supervised release to begin after Radway is released from prison and ordered $3,135.00, seized from Radway’s home, to be forfeited as drug proceeds.
ATF investigated the case with assistance from the New York State Police Community Stabilization Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorney Geoffrey Brown prosecuted the case.
Albany Redesignated as Primary Office of the U.s. Attorney's Office for the Northern District of New YorkRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – The Executive Office for United States Attorneys, in coordination with the General Services Administration, has approved the redesignation of the Albany office as the primary headquarters location of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of New York.
By bringing the district’s headquarters into closer alignment with the federal agencies whose largest regional presence is based in Albany, this transition creates a more unified and efficient operating landscape. The move positions our leadership within facilities that meet the modern demands of federal prosecution and support closer collaboration with the full range of federal partners. It strengthens routine coordination, enables a more effective All‑of‑Government approach, supports faster and more cohesive investigative work, and builds on the interagency cooperation that is critical to successful federal prosecution.
“The Northern District of New York continues to evolve in ways that honor our history and strengthen our future,” said First Assistant U.S. Attorney John A. Sarcone III. “Returning the primary office to Albany enhances our ability to work side‑by‑side with the federal agencies that anchor law enforcement in this region. This is a significant achievement for our district, and I am proud of the collaborative effort that made it possible.”
“Our mission remains steadfast: to uphold the law, protect the public, and serve the people of this district with fairness, integrity, and unwavering accountability,” Sarcone continued. “This redesignation advances that mission by placing our primary office where it can most effectively support today’s investigative demands and the long‑term success of our district.”
In the years following the opening of the James M. Hanley Federal Building in the late 1970s, the district’s primary office designation transitioned to Syracuse, reflecting an administrative realignment responsive to the needs and priorities of that period. The decision to now place the district’s primary office in Albany marks a return to a location that sits at the geographic and operational center of the Northern District’s 32 counties. Albany offers a more balanced vantage point for managing the full breadth of our work—from the critical efforts carried out across the North Country by our Plattsburgh branch, to the wide range of cases arising in Central New York through Syracuse, and the matters handled along the corridor into the Southern Tier in Binghamton. This central location strengthens oversight, supports coordinated districtwide operations, and better aligns our leadership with the realities of serving a region that stretches from the Canadian border to the Southern Tier.
The Northern District of New York was created by Congress in 1814, with court initially convening in Utica, Canandaigua, and Salem. Congress designated Albany as a place of court in 1818, and early U.S. Attorneys—beginning with Roger Skinner, appointed by President James Madison—operated from the capital region as the district expanded across upstate New York. Although the district later established major court locations in Syracuse, Binghamton and Plattsburg, Albany remained central to its development, connected to the state’s government, its civic institutions, and its longstanding federal presence.This redesignation returns the district’s primary office to its historical foundation, linking a 212‑year legacy to the operational needs of the present day. By restoring Albany as the headquarters of the Northern District of New York, the office reaffirms both its history and its future.
Schenectady Man Sentenced for Possessions of Multiple Illegal FirearmsRead the Press Release
Schenectady Man Sentenced for Possessions of Multiple Illegal Firearms
ALBANY, NEW YORK –Steven Dunn, age 38 of Schenectady, New York, was sentenced on June 24, 2026 by United States District Judge Anne M. Nardacci to a total of 15 months in Federal Prison to be followed by a term of three years of supervised release. The sentence stems from his conviction to two counts of being a felon in possession of a firearm.
The announcement was made by First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III; United States Marshals Service, Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms (ATF), Schenectady Police Department and the Rotterdam Police Department.
On January 21, 2025 Schenectady Police responded to a complaint for a suspicious vehicle. A search of defendant’s vehicle revealed a quantity of methamphetamine and a Mossberg 535 shotgun. Approximately 6 months later, a search warrant was conducted on his residence and another shotgun was recovered. Defendant is a convicted felon stemming from a prior Burglary conviction in Schenectady and is prohibited from possessing both firearms.
First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III stated: “Thanks to the dedication of our partners at the Schenectady Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, this defendant is no longer a threat to our streets. Mixing lethal narcotics and illegal firearms creates a volatile and unpredictable combination, and I thankful this investigation stopped Mr. Dunn before that volatility could harm the community.”
Schenectady Police Chief Brian Whipple stated: "This sentence is another example of what can be accomplished through the strong partnerships between the Schenectady Police Department, ATF, the United States Attorney's Office, and our law enforcement partners. We remain committed to proactively identifying those who illegally possess firearms, removing dangerous weapons from our streets, and holding offenders accountable. Every illegal firearm we recover has the potential to prevent violence, save lives, and spare another family from tragedy. We will continue using every tool and every partnership available to make Schenectady a safer community."ATF Special Agent in Charge Bryan DiGirolamo stated: “This defendant repeatedly demonstrated a blatant disregard for federal law by illegally possessing firearms despite being prohibited from doing so as a convicted felon. Every illegal firearm recovered represents a potential act of violence prevented. Today’s sentence reflects the outstanding partnership between ATF NY Albany, the Schenectady Police Department, Rotterdam Police Department, U.S. Marshals and the U.S. Attorney’s Office, whose collective efforts continue to hold violent offenders accountable and make our communities safer.”
Assistant United States Attorney Paul DerOhannesian handled the sentencing.Oneida County Sex Offender Pleads Guilty to Distribution, Receipt, and Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – Patrick Weaver, age 36, of Waterville, New York, pled guilty in federal court yesterday to distributing, receiving, and possessing child pornography.
The announcement was made by First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Buffalo Acting Special Agent in Charge Anthony Patrone.
As part of his plea, Weaver, who is a registered sex offender because of a prior conviction related to child pornography, admitted that in July of 2025 he used an internet-based messaging application installed on his cell phone to receive from and distribute to other users of the application numerous images and videos of child pornography. Weaver also admitted that in February of 2026, he possessed additional images and videos images and videos of child pornography on another cell phone.
“This defendant’s disturbing conduct continued even after he was first caught and convicted,” said First Assistant U.S. Attorney John A. Sarcone III. “Day in and day out, members of law enforcement—especially the Special Agents at Homeland Security Investigations—work tirelessly to track, investigate, and build cases against child predators like Mr. Weaver. I am grateful for their relentless efforts, and I am proud that our office was able to secure a plea that will keep this defendant away for many years.”
Acting Special Agent in Charge Patrone stated: “Patrick Weaver’s guilty plea exposes the grave conduct of a repeat sex offender who again chose to distribute, receive, and store images and videos documenting the sexual abuse of children. By uncovering and disrupting his use of online platforms to fuel this exploitation, HSI has helped protect vulnerable victims and reinforced the safety of our community. Together with our law enforcement partners, HSI Syracuse remains firmly committed to pursuing offenders who target children, wherever they operate and however many times they attempt to reoffend.”
Because of Weaver’s prior conviction, the distribution and receipt charges against him carry a term of imprisonment between 15 and 40 years while the possession charge carries a term of imprisonment between 10 and 20 years. Each count carries a fine of up to $250,000 and a term of supervised release of at least 5 years and up to life. Weaver will also be required to continue registering as a sex offender upon his release from prison. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statutes the defendant is convicted of violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors.
Sentencing is currently scheduled for October 29th, 2026, in Syracuse, New York before United States District Judge Elizabeth C. Coombe.
HSI investigated the case with assistance from the NYSP Computer Crimes Unit (CCU). The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Adrian S. LaRochelle as part of Project Safe Childhood.
Project Safe Childhood is a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
Massachusetts Man Pleads Guilty to Assaulting a Federal Officer and Failing to Register as Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – Cedric E. Cundiff, age 68, of Massachusetts, pleaded guilty in federal court on June 29th, 2026, to assaulting a federal officer, failing to register as a sex offender, and committing a crime of violence while failing to register as a sex offender.
First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III, Federal Bureau of Investigation Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Division Craig Tremaroli, and Christopher Amoia, U.S. Marshal for the Northern District of New York made the announcement.
As part of his guilty plea, Cundiff admitted that in June 2025, Cundiff was charged in Suffolk Superior Criminal Court in Massachusetts with multiple felony offenses, including armed robbery. He was released pending trial, but failed to appear in court as required in August 2025, which resulted in a warrant being issued for his arrest. Cundiff admitted that in approximately September 2025, he moved from Massachusetts to Syracuse, because he did not want authorities to know where he was living. The U.S. Marshals Fugitive Task Force for the Northern District of New York was asked to assist in efforts to arrest Cundiff. On January 29, 2026, members of the Task Force went to an apartment in Syracuse after receiving information that Cundiff may be staying there. Cundiff further admitted that when Task Force members knocked on the apartment door, he answered the door and falsely told them that his name was William, before shutting the door and fleeing to a rear bedroom of the apartment. As Cundiff admitted, when Task Force members entered the apartment to apprehend him, he took efforts to prevent officers from opening the bedroom door. When a Task Force member attempted to open the bedroom door, Cundiff slashed the Task Force member’s hand with a knife, which caused multiple lacerations and a fractured finger. Cundiff also admitted that as a result of a 2005 Massachusetts conviction for aggravated rape, he was required to register as a sex offender under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act, and further, that he knowingly failed to register when he changed his residence to New York.
“This case underscores how lenient bail restrictions put the public and law enforcement at risk, this defendant should never have been released in the first place,” said First Assistant U.S. Attorney John A. Sarcone III. “While released pending trial, Mr. Cundiff believed he could evade justice by fleeing to another state, but thanks to the diligent work of the U.S. Marshals Service, he was quickly located and arrested, where he violently resisted, slashing an officer with a knife. This guilty plea ensures he is held behind bars where he can no longer continue to reoffend.”
Christopher Amoia, Acting U.S. Marshal stated, “The guilty plea entered by Cedric Cundiff holds him accountable for not only failing to meet his legal obligation to register as a sex offender, but also for the violent actions he took while attempting to evade arrest. Individuals who disregard registration requirements and resort to violence against law enforcement officers pose a significant threat to public safety. The United States Marshals Service remains steadfast in its commitment to locating and apprehending violent fugitives, protecting communities, and supporting our law enforcement partners in bringing dangerous offenders to justice.
“Mr. Cundiff’s violent attack illustrates the risks our law enforcement partners face every day while protecting our communities. The FBI’s response should send a clear message that anyone who assaults a law enforcement officer carrying out their duties risks spending decades in federal prison like Mr. Cundiff,” said Special Agent in Charge Craig Tremaroli, Albany FBI.Under the plea agreement, the defendant will serve a sentence of 20 years’ imprisonment, a term of supervised release of 5 years, and be required to pay restitution to the victim of the offense.
Sentencing is currently scheduled for October 27th 2026, before Chief Judge Brenda K. Sannes.
FBI and U.S. Marshals Service are investigating the case, with the assistance of the New York State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Matthew J. McCrobie and Adrian S. LaRochelle are prosecuting the case.
Broome County Man Sentenced to 25 Years in Prison for Possession and Receipt of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
BINGHAMTON, NEW YORK – Neil Wesley, 47, of Broome County, New York, was sentenced on June 25, 2026 to 25 years in prison for receipt and possession of child pornography.
First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Craig L. Tremaroli, Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), New York State Police Superintendent Steven G. James and Broome County District Attorney F. Paul Battisti made the announcement.
As part of his guilty plea, Wesley admitted he had been previously convicted of rape in New York in 2001. He also admitted that from at least December 2024 through February 2025 he received and distributed child pornography. Further, he admitted that in February 2025 he possessed over 200 images and 18 videos of child pornography.
In addition to the 25-year imprisonment term, United States District Judge Anthony J. Brindisi imposed 15 years of supervised release, forfeiture and directed restitution to victims of the offense.
“Another child predator is behind bars, thanks to the diligent work of the FBI, New York State Police and Broome County District Attorney’s Office, said First Assistant U.S. Attorney John A. Sarcone III. “This defendant failed to correct his behavior the first time and has now been sentenced to 25 years in prison for his continued depravity. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, together with our federal and local law enforcement partners, will continue to aggressively pursue those who prey on our children and use every resource available to bring them to justice.”
FBI Special Agent in Charge Craig Tremaroli said, “Mr. Wesley, already a convicted rapist, horrifically exploited our most vulnerable by both possessing and distributing Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM). This 25-year sentence illustrates just how depraved his behavior was, but it also highlights how impactful law enforcement can be when we leverage our collective resources to hold these sick predators accountable. The FBI’s Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force is wholly committed to working with every level of law enforcement to investigate these dangerous predators and send them to prison where they belong.”
New York State Police Superintendent Steven G. James said, “The State Police and our law enforcement partners have zero tolerance for those who prey on children, and this sentencing reflects the severity of these crimes and our commitment to finding justice for the victims. We will remain dedicated to intercepting the lengths child predators go through to exploit and harm children. I commend our State Police members, United States Attorney’s Office, Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Broome County District Attorney’s Office for their steadfast work in keeping innocent children safe.”Broome County District Attorney F. Paul Battisti said, “This sentence reflects the unwavering commitment of our law enforcement partners to protecting children and holding those who exploit them fully accountable. Cases involving the sexual exploitation of children require seamless collaboration between federal, state, and local agencies, and this investigation is a testament to what can be accomplished when we work together toward a common goal. I commend the FBI, the New York State Police, the United States Attorney's Office, and the dedicated members of our office whose coordinated efforts helped ensure this dangerous offender will no longer pose a threat to our community or to vulnerable children."
FBI-Albany, the New York State Police, and the Broome County District Attorney’s Office investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorneys Michael Gadarian and Kristen Grabowski prosecuted it.
Project Safe Childhood is a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
Binghamton Man Indicted for Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl and Crack CocaineRead the Press Release
BINGHAMTON, NEW YORK – Robert Scott, age 60, of Binghamton, New York, was indicted on a charge of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and crack cocaine.
First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Craig L. Tremaroli, Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office for the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) made the announcement.
According to the indictment, on October 30, 2025, Scott possessed with the intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl and 28 grams or more of crack cocaine. Scott was also on federal probation at the time of the offense. The charges in the indictment are merely accusations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
First Assistant United States Attorney John Sarcone stated: “The allegations in this indictment remind us that our efforts to stem the tide of deadly drugs into our communities remains an ongoing endeavor. I thank the Special Agents at the FBI and their partners at the Binghamton Police Department and Broome County Special Investigations Unit Task Force for their never‑ending pursuit of tracking down and holding accountable individuals such as this defendant, who, as alleged, sought to profit from selling deadly substances in our community.”
“This indictment perfectly illustrates the FBI’s commitment to working with our law enforcement partners throughout Broome County to leverage our collective resources and aggressively investigate and hold accountable anyone allegedly trafficking dangerous drugs into our communities,” said Craig Tremaroli, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI–Albany Field Office.
The charge filed against Scott carries a minimum sentence of 5 years in prison and a maximum sentence of up to 40 years in prison, a fine of up to $5,000,000, and a period of supervised release of at least 4 years and up to life. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statutes the defendant is convicted of violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors.
The FBI is investigating the case, with assistance from the United States Probation and Pretrial Services Office for the Northern District of New York, the Binghamton Police Department, and the Broome County Special Investigations Unit Task Force. Assistant United States Attorney Kevin Cheung is prosecuting the case.
Oswego County Man Pleads Guilty to Receipt of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Oswego County Man Pleads Guilty to Receipt of Child Pornography
UTICA, NEW YORK – Robert J. Stachura, age 56, of, Oswego, New York, pled guilty on June 10, 2026, to receipt of child pornography. First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Craig L. Tremaroli, Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), made the announcement.
In June 2015, after pleading guilty in the Northern District of New York to using the internet to attempt to entice minors to engage in unlawful sexual contact with him and possessing child pornography, Stachura was sentenced to serve concurrent terms of 135 months in prison, to be followed by 20 years of supervised release. Stachura’s term of supervised release began in December 2023. In March 2025, Stachura admitted to the United States Probation Office to possessing an unreported internet-capable cellular phone, in violation of his conditions of release. The phone was found to contain videos and images of child sexual abuse material (CSAM).
“This repeat offender has once again been brought to justice thanks to the relentless efforts of the FBI’s Special Agents,” said First Assistant U.S. Attorney John Sarcone. “After his release, the defendant chose to continue engaging in this abhorrent conduct, showing a complete disregard for the law and a disturbing willingness to reoffend. He now faces up to 40 years in federal prison. My office, working alongside our partners at the FBI and other law enforcement agencies, will aggressively pursue anyone involved in this behavior. We will not hesitate to bring charges, and we will do everything in our power to ensure that individuals who threaten our communities are removed from our streets.”
“Mr. Stachura was barely out of federal prison before falling back into his sickening cycle of behavior. As he heads back to federal prison for up to 40 years, the FBI’s Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force will continue to prioritize aggressively investigating these depraved individuals who are harming our children,” said Craig L. Tremaroli, Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation
As part of his June 2026 guilty plea, Stachura admitted that in March 2025, he received 8 videos and 2 images of CSAM. The receipt charge carries a mandatory minimum term of 15 years in federal prison and maximum sentence of 40 years. Stachura also faces a fine of up to $250,000 and a term of supervised release of at least 5 years and up to life. Stachura is already a registered sex offender based on his 2015 convictions and will have to continue his registration requirements upon his release from prison. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statutes the defendant is convicted of violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors.Sentencing is currently scheduled for October 14, 2026, in Utica, New York before Senior United States District Judge David N. Hurd.
This case was investigated by the FBI’s Albany Division Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force, the New York State Police, and the United States Probation Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney A.J. Vickey is prosecuting the case as part of Project Safe Childhood.
Project Safe Childhood is a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
Newly Naturalized Citizen Sentenced for Assaulting Federal Agent with VehicleRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Ruben Dario Loja Castro, age 33, of Irvington, New Jersey, was sentenced to 12 months in prison followed by one year of supervised release, following a guilty plea earlier this year to resisting, impeding, and assaulting a federal officer engaged in official duties and inflicting bodily injury with his vehicle during a lawful traffic immigration enforcement stop along Interstate 90 on October 1, 2025. First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Anthony Patrone, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Buffalo Field Office of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) made the announcement.
According to the plea and documents previously filed in the case, on October 1, 2025, law enforcement officers with HSI and other federal agencies conducted an immigration enforcement operation targeting an illegal alien residing in Albany who had recently been charged with rape of a minor. The agents observed the suspected individual exit a building in Albany and enter a car being driven by Loja Castro, a native of Ecuador who became a naturalized U.S. citizen in January 2025. Agents followed the car and pulled it over as it traveled westbound on Interstate 90. Loja Castro refused to comply with the agents’ repeated requests that he turn off the ignition and provide identification for his passengers. As agents attempted to gain access to the vehicle, Loja Castro suddenly put the car into gear, slammed it back and forth into law enforcement vehicles, and then swerved in the direction of an HSI special agent who had to jump out of the way to avoid being hit by the car. Loja Castro then fled the scene at a high rate of speed on Interstate 90. The agent suffered a sprained right wrist and other injuries. Loja Castro was located and arrested later that day, and has been detained ever since.
Following his release from prison, Loja Castro will be required to serve 1 year of supervised release.
“Mr. Loja Castro had the opportunity to live the American dream. After receiving his citizenship in 2025, he was on the right path to enjoy the freedom and opportunity that all Americans hold dear. Things took a turn when he began associating with a criminal illegal alien and alleged child rapist,” said First Assistant U.S. Attorney John Sarcone. “When law enforcement attempted to apprehend his associate, Mr. Lojas Castro put innocent lives at risk and defied lawful commands from federal agents. He has now come to understand the responsibility that comes with being an American citizen. In America, actions have consequences, and anyone who chooses to resist, impede, or assault a federal agent will be pursued without hesitation and brought to justice.”
HSI Buffalo Acting Special Agent in Charge Anthony Patrone said “By his own admission, Ruben Dario Loja Castro used his vehicle as a weapon against HSI special agents who were placing their lives on the line for the sake of protecting the public. Attacks and attempted assaults on law enforcement will never be tolerated. I commend HSI Albany, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of New York and our invaluable law enforcement partners for placing the safety of our neighborhoods, our roadways, and the people above all else.”
HSI investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin S. Clark prosecuted the case.Chinese National Sentenced to Prison for Money Laundering Conspiracy Involving $2.2 Million in Walmart Gift CardsRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Jun Wang, age 64, a Chinese national and lawful permanent resident of the United States, was sentenced to 70 months in federal prison following his trial conviction for participating in a money laundering conspiracy.
First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Craig L. Tremaroli, Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office for the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), made the announcement. This case is part of the Department of Justice’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud.
Evidence presented during the bench trial in December 2025 proved that, between June 2019 and June 2021, Wang redeemed $2,285,039.81 in gift cards originally purchased by defrauded victims throughout the United States (including in the Northern District of New York). Wang, who received the gift card information electronically from co-conspirators overseas, used the fraud proceeds to buy other gift cards at Walmart and Sam’s Club stores in Florida to disguise the source and nature of the funds. To try to evade detection and disguise the volume of his gift card redemptions, Wang often used different registers within the same store and frequently drove from store to store to redeem gift cards, sometimes visiting several Walmart stores on the same day. Wang often redeemed gift cards just hours, and sometimes minutes, after they were purchased by victims. Multiple victims testified at trial about the gift cards they purchased after being scammed online or over the phone. Although the trial evidence proved that Wang’s role in the scheme was to redeem gift cards purchased by victims he never interacted with directly, he admitted to an FBI agent in a secretly recorded conversation that “[w]e all know” about the fraud, which is “[e]asy to know.” In relation to one elderly victim, Wang explained on the recording, “[t]he only loser is the lady,” and, “[o]ther than this lady, everybody’s happy.”
As part of his sentence, Wang was also ordered to pay a forfeiture money judgment of $2,285,039.81 and to pay restitution in the amount of $275,634.27 to identified victims. Following his release from imprisonment, Wang will serve 3 years of supervised release. Because his offense of conviction is an aggravated felony, Wang also faces deportation to China upon release from imprisonment.
“Mr. Wang preyed on vulnerable victims to enrich himself and his co-conspirators to the tune of $2,285,039.81, and on recoding boasted about defrauding senior citizens,” First Assistant U.S. Attorney John A. Sarcone III stated. “My office is committed to aggressively pursuing all acts of fraud to protect the American people from defendants like Mr. Wang and ensure justice for the victims who were defrauded.”
FBI Special Agent in Charge Craig L. Tremaroli stated, “Mr. Wang once joked that everyone was happy in his scheme and the only person who lost anything was his elderly victim. With this sentence, the tables have turned, and he has now lost his freedom. Fraud is one of the most pervasive threats facing our communities today, but the FBI is relentless in our mission to aggressively investigate and bring to justice anyone responsible for stealing from hardworking Americans.”
FBI investigated the case, and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael F. Perry and Tamara B. Thomson prosecuted the case.
On April 7, 2026, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division (“Fraud Division”). The Fraud Division is laser-focused on investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.
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Venezuelan Citizen Sentenced for Unlawfully Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Yohandry Jose Molina-Camacho, age 19, a native and citizen of Venezuela illegally in the United States, was sentenced on June 1, 2026, to 8 months in prison for illegally possessing a firearm. First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Bryan DiGirolamo, Special Agent in Charge of the New York Field Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), made the announcement.
As part of his previously entered guilty plea, Molina-Camacho admitted that in August 2025, he sold another individual a Hi-Point CF380, .380-caliber pistol in exchange for $500. At the time he possessed the pistol, defendant knew he was an alien who had been illegally residing in the United States for approximately one year. Molina-Camacho also admitted that he knew he was not allowed to possess a firearm.
“Thanks to the previous administrations failed border policies, criminal illegal aliens such as this defendant have been allowed to roam freely in our country,” said First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III. “Mr. Molina‑Camacho’s illegal possession of a firearm serves as a reminder of the risks posed when individuals engage in criminal activity while unlawfully present in this Country. Thanks to the work of the ATF, he will now be held accountable for his actions and will face deportation proceedings upon completion of his sentence.”
Bryan DiGirolamo, Special Agent in Charge of the New York Field Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives said; “This sentence holds the defendant accountable for knowingly violating federal firearms laws by unlawfully possessing and selling a firearm despite knowing he was prohibited from doing so. When prohibited individuals possess and traffic firearms, they put communities at risk. Thanks to ATF NY Albany, HSI, Albany PD & USAO NDNY. We will continue working to reduce illegal firearm trafficking and protect our communities from gun violence.”ATF investigated this Project Safe Neighborhoods case with Homeland Security Investigations. Assistant United States Attorney A.J Vickey prosecuted this case.
Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psn.
Union Ex-President Pleads Guilty to Theft and Wire Fraud ChargesRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Kye Carbone, 69, of Athens, New York, pled guilty on June 22, to 3 counts of wire fraud and 3 counts of theft from a labor union. First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III; Anthony P. D’Esposito, Inspector General, Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General; and Erica Weber, District Director, Department of Labor, Office of Labor-Management Standards, made the announcement.
Between 2003 and 2023, Carbone served as the president of United Federation of College Teachers Local 1460, the union representing faculty members at the Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, New York. Carbone pled guilty to stealing over $290,000 from the Local between 2011 and 2023, Carbone used the money for his personal expenses, restaurants, and travel. In 2023 Carbone was voted out of office.
“Unions exist to protect and uplift their members, yet this defendant chose greed over duty, stealing from the very people he was entrusted to serve,” said First Assistant U.S. Attorney John A. Sarcone III. “I commend our investigative partners at DOL‑OIG and DOL‑OLMS, whose diligent work brought Mr. Carbone to justice. Let this serve as a warning: if you steal from hardworking Americans, the United States government will find you and hold you accountable.”
“Carbone didn’t just steal money — he betrayed the union he served for nearly two decades, robbing the American taxpayer of hundreds of thousands of dollars. His actions represent a serious abuse of position and his blatant disregard for hardworking Americans. At the Office of Inspector General, we are unwavering in our mission to expose union fraud and ensure those who steal from American workers are held fully accountable. We will continue to work relentlessly with our law enforcement partners to crush these schemes, put fraudsters behind bars, and protect the integrity of our nation's labor unions,” said Anthony P. D’Esposito, Inspector General, U.S. Department of Labor.“The U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Labor-Management Standards remains committed to safeguarding union financial integrity and combating fraud,” said New York District Director Erica Weber. “Alongside our partners in law enforcement, we will continue to identify criminal violations and pursue legal action when individuals unlawfully exploit their union positions without regard to the best interests of their members.”
The wire fraud charges carry a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and a maximum $250,000 fine per count, as well as up to 3 years of post-imprisonment supervised release. The embezzlement charges carry a maximum sentence of 5 years in prison and a maximum fine of $10,000 per count, as well as up to 3 years of post-imprisonment supervised release. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statutes the defendant is convicted of violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors.
Carbone’s guilty plea was accepted by the Honorable Anne M. Nardacci. Sentencing is set for October 20, 2026, in Albany, New York.
The Department of Labor, Office of the Inspector General, and the Department of Labor, Office of Labor-Management Standards, are investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas Walter is prosecuting the case.
On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division ('Fraud Division'). The Fraud Division is laser-focused on investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.
Broome County Man Indicted for Distribution and Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
BINGHAMTON, NEW YORK – Thomas Murray, age 24, was arraigned on June 22nd on an indictment charging him with Distribution of Child Pornography and Possession of Child Pornography.
First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Craig L. Tremaroli, Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office for the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and New York State Police Superintendent Steven G. James, made the announcement.
Murray was arraigned on Monday, June 22nd before United States Magistrate Judge Miroslav Lovric and was returned to state custody where he is currently being held on state charges. A trial on the indictment will be scheduled before United States District Court Judge Anthony J. Brindisi.
According to the indictment, Murray distributed child pornography on a web-based messaging facility on two separate occasions in June 2024. The indictment also alleges that Murray possessed child pornography on two different electronic devices. The material found stemmed from a search warrant conducted on Murray’s residence on April 4, 2025, by the New York State Police, stemming from a cyber tip by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC).
“The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, together with our dedicated partners at the FBI and the New York State Police, have once again played a critical role in bringing an alleged predator into custody,” said First Assistant U.S. Attorney John A. Sarcone III. “The alleged reprehensible behavior displayed by this defendant serves as a powerful reminder that threats to our children are not abstract, they are real, persistent, and constantly evolving. I thank our partners for their tireless investigative efforts, which brought this defendant into custody so he can now face justice.”“As alleged, Mr. Murray perpetuated the abuse of children by both possessing and distributing Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM). The FBI’s Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force leveraged the full weight of our partnership with New York State Police to ensure he was brought to justice for those disturbing actions. FBI Albany remains committed to working with our law enforcement partners at every level to hold accountable any predator looking to inflict harm on our children,” said Craig L. Tremaroli, Special Agent in Charge FBI – Albany.
New York State Police Superintendent Steven G. James said, “Anyone engaged in acts that threaten the safety of children will be investigated for their illicit actions. The indictment is the result of great investigative synergy and clearly demonstrates that child pornography crimes will not be tolerated. With our partners in law enforcement, we will continue to investigate, develop, and implement effective response strategies to child sexual exploitation, cyber enticement, and internet crimes against children.”Murray faces a mandatory minimum term of 5 years in federal prison on the distribution charges, a maximum term of 20 years in federal prison for the distribution and possession offenses, a fine of up to $250,000, and a mandatory term of supervised release of between 5 years and life. Murray would also be required to register as a sex offender if convicted of the charged offenses. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statutes the defendant is convicted of violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors.
The charge in the indictment is merely an accusation. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
The FBI is investigating the case, with assistance from the New York State Police. Assistant United States Attorney Kevin Cheung is prosecuting the case as part of Project Safe Childhood.
Project Safe Childhood is a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
Statement on Federal Decertification of the New York Medicaid Fraud Control UnitRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – The Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG) has formally denied the recertification of the New York State Medicaid Fraud Control Unit (MFCU) and suspended its federal funding effective July 1, 2026. According to HHS-OIG’s findings, New York’s MFCU—despite receiving roughly $60 million in federal funding each year and employing more than 270 staff—has repeatedly produced the lowest levels of criminal Medicaid fraud enforcement among large states.
In FY 2023 and 2025, the Unit secured only eight to nine criminal indictments annually, while other states of similar size produced results in the hundreds. Over that same period, the Unit obtained just four convictions involving patient abuse or neglect, despite receiving more than 2,000 such referrals each year. HHS-OIG also identified long-standing issues that contributed to these outcomes, including slow case progression, a significant backlog in investigations, and systemic referral and tracking deficiencies.
In response to these persistent gaps, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of New York along with its partners in the Northern District of New York Healthcare Fraud Task Force have continued to expand its federal enforcement efforts involving Medicaid fraud, patient abuse, and related offenses to protect program integrity and ensure accountability.
“Attorney General James’ apparent inability to explain the New York MFCU’s indefensible criminal enforcement performance is not a political distraction as she puts it,” said First Assistant U.S. Attorney John A. Sarcone III. “Instead, based on its own reported statistics, the New York MFCU—despite having a staff of 272 employees and a $60 million budget—has failed to address public benefits crime in any meaningful way. According to the data the unit is required to report to the HHS‑OIG for annual recertification, the New York MFCU averaged only nine criminal indictments per year from 2021 to 2025. Yet between 2016 and 2018—just prior to Ms. James taking office—the unit averaged more than 100 indictments per year.”
Sarcone continued, “Public benefits fraud and Medicaid fraud did not abruptly stop in 2019. Instead, under the failed leadership of AG James, criminal Medicaid fraud in New York State has been ignored. Highlighting civil recovery data—figures that may or may not combine New York’s results with those of other states to create an impression of financial success—only serves to gloss over and obscure the unit’s dramatic failure to enforce criminal law. Rather than spending resources ‘assessing legal options,’ the New York MFCU would better fulfill its mandate by focusing on investigating and prosecuting crime, as it is both required and funded to do.”
Capital Region Man Sentenced to 180 Months for Distributing and Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Michael Klugo, age 46, of East Greenbush, New York, was sentenced July 1, 2026 to 180 months in prison and 15 years of supervised release for distributing and possessing child pornography.
First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Craig L. Tremaroli, Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), made the announcement.
As part of his guilty plea, Klugo admitted that in June 2024, he used an end-to-end encrypted messaging application to distribute an image of child pornography. In addition, in or about June 2024, he possessed approximately 6 videos and 100 images of child pornography on his cellular phone. Klugo also admitted that in or about July 2024, he possessed approximately 2 videos of child pornography in an online storage account.
In addition to the imprisonment and supervised release terms, United States District Judge Mae A. D’Agostino also ordered Klugo to pay a total of $55,356 in restitution to victims. Klugo also will be required to register as a sex offender upon his release from prison.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney John A. Sarcone III said, “Thanks to the incredible work of the FBI, New York State Police, Colonie Police Department, and the Rotterdam Police Department, this defendant has been brought to justice. Working together through Project Safe Childhood, federal, state, and local law enforcement are empowered to go after those who seek to harm our children and bring justice to victims across the Northern District.”
“This sentence represents the FBI’s unwavering commitment to working with the outstanding partners on our Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force to investigate and hold accountable any individual who exploits our children. Together, we will continue to leverage every resource necessary to ensure every victim is delivered the justice they deserve.” Said Craig L. Tremaroli, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI – Albany.
This case was investigated by the FBI and its Child Exploitation Task Force, which includes members of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies, including the Colonie Police Department, Rotterdam Police Department, and the New York State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney A.J. Vickey prosecuted the case as part of Project Safe Childhood.
Project Safe Childhood is a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
John A. Sarcone III Receives Outstanding Law Enforcement Executive AwardRead the Press Release
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarcone, with NY & NJ Detectives Crime Clinic Executive Leadership: Mohammad Quazi, Jose Morales, John Sarcone, Robert Basso, Bryan Negron
ALBANY, NEW YORK – The New York and New Jersey Detectives Crime Clinic awarded First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III with it’s Outstanding Law Enforcement Executive Award during their 2026 Awards Luncheon.Founded in 1942, The New York and New Jersey Detectives Crime Clinic brings together members of law enforcement for networking, training, and recognition of their dedication to public safety throughout the community.
“It is a true honor to be recognized by the dedicated men and women of the NY/NJ Crime Clinic. These public servants devote their careers to protecting our communities, and I am grateful for their service,” said First Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarcone. “Since being appointed to lead the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of New York, I have worked tirelessly to strengthen collaboration among our Federal, State, and Local law enforcement partners—sharing resources, intelligence, and a unified dedication to public safety and justice.”
Sarcone continued, “Growing up, my father served our community as a Detective for the Town of Greenburgh Police Department. I believe that had he been with us longer, he would have continued his life of service and likely been involved in this very organization. I know he would be proud of the work being done here today. I want to thank President Robert Basso and the entire organization for their efforts and for this humbling award.”
John A. Sarcone is the First Assistant United States Attorney for the Northern District of New York. United States Attorney’s Offices conduct most of the trial work in which the United States is a party. The United States Attorneys have three primary statutory responsibilities under Section 547 of Title 28 of the United States Code: the prosecution of criminal cases brought by the federal government; the prosecution and defense of civil cases in which the United States is a party; and the collection of debts owed to the federal government which are administratively uncollectible.
The Northern District of New York encompasses 32 counties in Northern and Central New York, covering an area of more than 30,000 square miles. It is home to approximately 3.4 million people.
Two Men Sentenced to Prison for Identity Theft and Fraud ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Two Men Sentenced to Prison for Identity Theft and Fraud Conspiracy
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Christopher Alexander Jr., age 21, of Syracuse, New York, and Devin Latrell Coleman, age 31, of Atlanta, Georgia, have been sentenced in federal court in Syracuse respectively to 40 months and 36 months in prison for creating and using stolen identities to commit fraud.
First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Craig L. Tremaroli, Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office for the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), made the announcement. This case is part of the Department of Justice’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud.
In pleading guilty previously to bank fraud and aggravated identity theft charges, the defendants admitted that Alexander purchased fraudulent identification documents, including driver’s licenses, passport cards, and Social Security cards, from Coleman. Alexander used these fraudulent identification documents, some of which bore his image alongside the personal identifying information of identity theft victims, to commit fraud by obtaining bank loans, lines of credit, and even an apartment lease, among other things. In communicating with Coleman through an encrypted messaging application, Alexander identified himself with the handle, “9-5 will be my last resort.” Coleman coached Alexander on how to use the fraudulent identification documents, which were sophisticated enough to contain security features, to commit fraud.
Senior United States District Judge Glenn T. Suddaby sentenced Alexander to a total term of 40 months in prison, to be followed by 3 years of supervised release, and ordered him to pay $30,500 in restitution to various victims and to pay a forfeiture money judgment of $15,000, and he sentenced Coleman to a total term of 36 months in prison, to be followed by 3 years of supervised released, and ordered him to pay $15,000 in restitution, jointly and severally with Alexander.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney John A. Sarcone III stated, “The greed of these defendant’s has landed them in federal prison. With a renewed focus on weeding out fraud in our society, we will pursue all leads and investigate all individuals who attempt to defraud the system. I thank our partners at the Federal Bureau of Investigations for their efforts. Together, under the leadership of the Department of Justice Fraud Division, residents in the Northern District can look forward to more successful prosecutions of defendants like Mr. Alexander and Mr. Coleman who seek to defraud the system for their personal gain.”
FBI Special Agent in Charge Craig L. Tremaroli stated, “As Mr. Alexander and Mr. Coleman head to federal prison for their deception and fraud, FBI Albany will continue to work with our partners on the Northern District of New York Healthcare Fraud Task Force to aggressively investigate and hold accountable anyone trying to defraud our systems and line their pockets at the expense of hardworking Americans.”
FBI investigated the case, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael F. Perry prosecuted the case.
On April 7, 2026, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division (“Fraud Division”). The Fraud Division is laser-focused on investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs
Syracuse Man Pleads Guilty to Drug OffenseRead the Press Release
SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – Kelvin Lacen-Roman, age 44, of Syracuse, New York, plead guilty today to possessing with intent to distribute cocaine.
The announcement was made by First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III, the Special Agent in Charge of the Northeast Area Field Office of the United States Postal Service, Office of Inspector General (“USPS-OIG”), Matthew M. Modafferi, and the United States Postal Inspection Service (“USPIS”), Boston Division, Acting Inspector in Charge Jason Buckley.
As part of his plea, Lacen-Roman admitted that on March 17, 2026, he possessed with intent to distribute over 3 kilograms of cocaine in Onondaga County. He had the cocaine shipped from Puerto Rico to Syracuse, New York. After receiving the cocaine Lacen-Roman intended to sell it to numerous customers located in Onondaga County and elsewhere.
“This defendant’s scheme to receive dangerous narcotics through the mail was foiled thanks to the efforts of the USPS-OIG and the USPIS,” said First Assistant U.S. Attorney John A. Sarcone III. “The Department of Justice remains committed to disrupting the flow of deadly drugs into our communities. Through our strong partnership with law enforcement across the Postal Service, Mr. Lacen‑Roman is now facing up to 40 years in federal prison.”
Matthew M. Modafferi, Special Agent in Charge of the Northeast Area Field Office of the USPS-OIG stated: “The use of the U.S. Mail to traffic dangerous narcotics is a serious federal offense. This guilty plea reflects the coordinated efforts of the USPS OIG, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Central New York Contraband Interdiction Team, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of New York. The USPS OIG values its strong working relationship with its law enforcement partners.”
Acting Inspector in Charge, Jason Buckley of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service – Boston Division stated: “The Postal Service has no interest in being involved in the distribution of illegal drugs. Our objectives are to rid the mail of illicit drug trafficking, preserve the integrity of the mail and, most importantly, provide a safe environment for postal employees and the American public. The U.S. Postal Inspection Service, along with our federal law enforcement partners, will remain vigilant in pursuing criminals who seek to use the mail stream illegally.”
Sentencing is scheduled for October 28th, 2026, before Senior United States District Judge Glenn T. Suddaby. At sentencing, Lacen-Roman faces a prison term of at least 5 years and up to 40 years, a fine of up to $5,000,000, and a supervised release term of at least 4 years and up to life. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statutes the defendant is convicted of violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, and other factors.
This case is being investigated by USPS-OIG and the Central New York Contraband Interdiction Team which consists of members of USPIS, the Syracuse Police Department, the Onondaga County Sheriff’s Office, and the Oswego Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Geoffrey J. L. Brown is prosecuting the case.
Capital District Drug Trafficker Sentenced to 168 Months for Leading Methamphetamine ConspiracyRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Felix Arencibia, age 40, of Amsterdam, New York, was sentenced today to 168 months’ imprisonment and five years of post-imprisonment supervised release for conspiracy and methamphetamine distribution charges in connection with his distribution and possession with intent to distribute more than 5 kilograms of pure methamphetamine and fentanyl.
First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III; Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) New York Enforcement Division Special Agent in Charge Farhana Islam; and acting Inspector in Charge Jason Buckley of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service Boston Division, made the announcement.
As part of his guilty plea, Arencibia admitted that between November 2022 and July 2023, he received through the United States mail at least 5,615 grams of pure methamphetamine from Christian Mur-Santana, his Nevada-based drug supplier. Arencibia then distributed the methamphetamine to drug dealers in the Capital District.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney John A. Sarcone III stated: “Thanks to the outstanding work of our partners at the Drug Enforcement Administration and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, this defendant is no longer able to traffic dangerous narcotics into our community. Dismantling the sophisticated operation run by this individual and his co-conspirators underscores the critical role of federal law enforcement working together to deliver justice for the American people. The U.S. Postal Service is a vital part of our nation’s infrastructure, not a tool for criminal organizations to exploit.”
“The sentencing of Felix Arencibia, who operated a significant drug trafficking organization responsible for distributing methamphetamine and fentanyl throughout the Capital District, marks the end of his ability to poison our communities,” stated DEA New York Enforcement Division Special Agent in Charge Farhana Islam. “Mr. Arencibia exploited the U.S. Postal Service to facilitate his drug trafficking network, fueling addiction and placing profit above human life. The DEA and our law enforcement partners remain steadfast in identifying, targeting, and dismantling those who abuse our nation’s mail system to distribute deadly narcotics. We will continue pursuing those who profit from addiction and work tirelessly to protect the people of New York.”
“Today’s sentencing is an example of the resolve of U.S. Postal Inspectors and their law enforcement partners to uncover and bring to justice drug traffickers who, through their network of criminal enterprise, prey on our communities” said acting Inspector in Charge Jason Buckley of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service Boston Division. “We will not tolerate these criminals distributing lethal substances such as fentanyl, destroying the lives of many who fall victim to addiction and despair. Let this be a warning that no matter where you are, you will be held accountable for your illegal activity, restoring safety to the communities we serve.”
Arencibia was the leader of the organization comprised of eight additional defendants charged in this investigation. The following defendants have pled guilty and have been sentenced or are pending sentencing:
- Andrew Deleon was sentenced to 72 months imprisonment, to be followed by a 3-year term of supervised release
- Stefanie Plass was sentenced to 24 months in prison, to be followed by a 3-year term of supervised release
- Ahmad Burke was sentenced to 14 months in prison, to be followed by a 3-year term of supervised release
- Todd Austin was sentenced to 78 months in prison, to be followed by a 3-year term of supervised release
- Kevisha Duboise is scheduled to be sentenced on August 13, 2026.
- Flor Arencibia is scheduled to be sentenced on July 10, 2026.
- Melissa Karwan is scheduled to be sentenced on July 15, 2026.
- Christian Mur-Santana is scheduled to be sentenced on July 9, 2026.
These cases were investigated by the DEA and USPIS. Assistant United States Attorney Joshua R. Rosenthal is prosecuting the cases.
This prosecution is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. he HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF Buffalo comprises agents and officers from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Alcohol, Tabacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Internal Revenue Service (IRS/ CID), U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO), Customs and Border Protection/ Office of Border Patrol (CBP/ OBP), Customs and Border Protection/ Office of Field Operations (CBP/ OFO), DEA, Coast Guard Investigative Service (CGIS), U.S. Marshals Service (USMS), USPIS, U.S. Secret Service (USSS), Department of State/Diplomatic Security Service (DSS) with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of New York.
764 Member Charged with Plot to Kill Two FBI Special Agents and a Federal Prosecutor and to Steal Incriminating Evidence from FBIRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Aaron Corey, a.k.a. “Baggeth,” age 23, of Albany, New York, has been charged in a federal criminal complaint with attempted murder for hire, solicitation of a crime of violence, and obstruction of justice, related to his attempts to hire a hit man kill the two FBI Special Agents and the Assistant United States Attorney (“AUSA”) assigned to investigate and prosecute him in an unrelated federal criminal case.
First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Federal Bureau of Investigation Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Division Craig Tremaroli made the announcement.
The complaint, which was unsealed today, alleges that Corey self-identifies as a member of the “764,” a criminal organization of Nihilistic Violent Extremists operating within the United States and abroad. Among other things, those involved with the 764 network methodically target vulnerable, underage populations by using social media to encourage the possession, production, and sharing of extreme gore media and child sexual abuse material (CSAM).
The complaint further alleges that Corey, who is being detained pending trial on unrelated federal child pornography charges, sent multiple letters to another inmate asking for help to hire someone to steal from the FBI the electronic devices seized from him for use at his upcoming trial and to murder the two FBI agents and the AUSA assigned to that case. Specifically, Corey allegedly directed that the victims be kidnapped, injected with fentanyl, and then put through a woodchipper. When the AUSA assigned to Corey’s case left the U.S. Attorney’s Office to take another job, Corey allegedly updated his request and added to his hit list the name of the AUSA who took over the case.
According to the complaint, the inmate who received Corey’s letters sent them to his attorney, who informed the FBI, and at the FBI’s request the other inmate provided the phone number of an undercover law enforcement officer (the “UC”) to Corey. The complaint further alleges that Corey, believing the UC to be a real hit man, wrote a letter to the UC offering to pay $200 down and $5,000 total for his electronic devices to be stolen from the FBI and $500 down and $30,000 total for the two FBI agents and the recently assigned AUSA to be murdered, reiterating his desire for them to be put through a woodchipper, this time asking for a video recording. Corey allegedly spoke with the UC multiple times and arranged for his fiancée, who lives abroad, to send the requested down payments of $200 and $500 to the UC, which she did.
“I commend the quick work of the FBI in investigating and disrupting this alleged and depraved murder‑for‑hire scheme. Their swift actions brought an immediate end to this disturbing situation involving an Assistant United States Attorney in my office and two FBI Special Agents. We will prosecute this case to the fullest extent of the law,” said First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III. “Let me be clear: any attempt to obstruct justice or to harm federal law enforcement officials or federal prosecutors will be met with the full weight of the Department of Justice. My office will continue to tirelessly prosecute all 764 members and other Nihilistic Violent Extremists, whose violent and anti‑social goals have no place in civilized society and will not be tolerated.”
FBI Special Agent in Charge Craig Tremaroli said, "As alleged in the criminal complaint, Mr. Corey ordered the gruesome murder of two FBI Special Agents and an Assistant United States Attorney. He quickly found out just how seriously the FBI takes threats of violence, especially those directed toward law enforcement. His alleged plot was a depraved effort to rid himself of the serious federal charge he was facing, but it only resulted in additional charges that, if convicted, will significantly extend his time in federal prison. This sadistic behavior is exactly why the FBI is deeply committed to relentlessly investigating the sick individuals in the dangerous 764 network that aim to spread violence and chaos in our society."Corey was arraigned on the new charges today in Albany, New York, before United States Magistrate Judge Daniel J. Stewart and will remain in pretrial detention. The charges in the complaint carry a combined maximum sentence of 50 years in prison, a fine of up to $750,000, and a term of supervised release of up to 5 years. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statute(s) the defendant is convicted of violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors.
The charges pending against Corey in the underlying receipt of child pornography case and in the complaint described above are merely accusations. The defendant is presumed innocent of all charges unless and until proven guilty.
FBI is investigating the case, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael F. Perry is prosecuting the case.
criminal_complaint_us_v_aaron_corey_ndny.pdfOperation Fast Track Leads to 83 Arrests and Numerous Drug SeizuresRead the Press Release
SARATOGA, NEW YORK – Operation Fast Track has led to the arrest of 83 defendants and seizures of more than 2,100 counterfeit pills, 1,100 fentanyl pills, 125 grams of methamphetamine, 510 grams of Crack Cocaine, 569 grams of Cocaine, 2,00 grams of Fentanyl & Heroin, more than 500 lbs. of Marijuana and 8 firearms.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney John A. Sarcone III, Saratoga County District Attorney Brett Eby, Drug Enforcement Administration New York Enforcement Division Special Agent in Charge Farhana Islam, Special Agent in Charge Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Special Agent in Charge Craig L. Tremaroli, Homeland Security Investigations Buffalo Office Acting Special Agent in Charge Anthony Patrone Investigations New York State Police Superintendent Steven G. James, Saratoga County Sheriff's Office Sheriff Jeffrey Brown, Washington County Sheriff's Office Sheriff Jeffrey J. Murphy, Saratoga Springs Police Department Chief Tyler McIntosh made the announcement.
Among the defendant’s charged, 18 are being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office, while the remaining 65 defendants’ cases are being handled by the District Attorney’s Offices in Washington, Warren, and Saratoga County. The charges range from drug trafficking and firearms offenses to child pornography and immigration offenses
The charging instruments in any jurisdiction contain merely accusations. The defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
“Since being appointed to lead this office, I have worked tirelessly to drive collaboration between Federal, State and Local law enforcement. The results announced today speak for themselves 83 criminals off our streets, countless deadly narcotics off our streets, all because our law enforcement partners worked together, shared intelligence and collaborated on cases,” said First Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarcone. “That is the kind of action that makes our communities safer. Under the leadership of President Trump and Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche, my office is leveraging the resources of the federal government to step up and protect our communities when State laws fail to do so. Earlier this year, I led efforts to gather our law enforcement leaders in the region to create Operation Fast Track. With one goal in mind, to clean up our beautiful communities ahead of the busy summer season. Thanks to the countless leaders and law enforcement officers across the region who were involved in this operation, we now can enjoy all the beauty this region has to offer for locals and tourists alike, without the worry of violent criminals and deadly narcotics lurking in the shadows.
“The arrests of 83 individuals, removal of eight firearms, and the seizure of two kilos of fentanyl and heroin, along with thousands of counterfeit pills, some of which contained fentanyl and bromazolam, and other dangerous narcotics represent far more than enforcement statistics. They represent lives protected and communities made safer” stated DEA New York Enforcement Division Special Agent in Charge Farhana Islam. “The growing presence of counterfeit pills containing substances like bromazolam, often mixed with fentanyl, continue to pose an extraordinary threat to public safety, potentially turning a single pill into a fatal dose. Every pill removed from our streets is one less opportunity for tragedy. This operation demonstrates the power of partnership and our unwavering commitment to identifying, targeting, and dismantling those individuals and drug trafficking organizations that profit from poisoning our communities. Every life matters, and the DEA will continue to work with all our law enforcement partners, to pursue those who threaten them.”
“The coordination between the agencies involved was incredibly powerful and the results truly speak for themselves. 83 criminals are off the streets and can no longer harm our communities through their illicit activities and dangerous behavior. Operation Fast Track may be over, but the partnerships remain and our dedication to ensuring the safety of our communities together is unwavering.” Said FBI Albany Special Agent in Charge Craig TremaroliNew York State Police Superintendent Steven G. James said, “As a result of the commitment among law enforcement partners, a major drug and weapon operation has ceased. Strong partnerships are key when it comes to keeping dangerous individuals out of our communities and stopping the heinous crimes that they perpetuate. These arrests are yet another example of how dedicated police work and strong collaboration among law enforcement officials are succeeding in keeping New York State safe.”
Saratoga County Sheriff Jeff Brown said, “Operation Fast Track is a clear example of the dedication and professionalism demonstrated every day by the men and women of the Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office, working alongside our law enforcement partners. The safety of our great county remains my top priority. We will continue to collaborate with our federal, state, and local partners to ensure that the residents and visitors of Saratoga County are protected.”
The individuals listed below have been charged federally. The specific charges, along with additional case information, are contained in the publicly available court filings. The identities of two defendants are being withheld at this time due to ongoing investigations.
Defendant(s) NameLead ChargeALLEN, JoshuaDistribute or possess with intent to distribute a controlled substance (21 USC 841(a)(1))BELILE, Christopher & Kelly JACOBSDrug trafficking conspiracy (21 USC 846)ELKINS, DanielReceive or distribute child pornography (18 USC 2252A(a)(2)A))HILL, JamesUnlawful possession of ammunition by a felon (18 USC 922(g)(1))MAMOUDOU, DialloDistribute or possess with intent to distribute a controlled substance (21 USC 841(a)(1))MILEY, ShamikDistribute or possess with intent to distribute a controlled substance (21 USC 841(a)(1))MORALEZ-SANCHEZ, IvanUse false visa or immigration document (18 USC 1546(a))MUCUR-YUCUTE, SergioReentry of a removed alien (08 USC 1326(a))PERU, AmyDistribute or possess with intent to distribute a controlled substance (21 USC 841(a)(1))PHILLIPS, SeanDistribute or possess with intent to distribute a controlled substance (21 USC 841(a)(1))REESE, MontrellDistribute or possess with intent to distribute a controlled substance (21 USC 841(a)(1))SMITH-GARCIA, PatricioReentry of a removed alien (08 USC 1326(a))TAYLOR, DylanReceive or distribute child pornography (18 USC 2252A(a)(2)A))THURBER, WesleyAttempted enticement or coercion of a minor to engage in unlawful sexual activity (18 USC 2422(b))TORNEZ-SOLANO, PatricioReentry of a removed alien (08 USC 1326(a))The cases are being investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration New York Enforcement Division, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Homeland Security Investigations, New York State Police, Saratoga County Sheriff's Office, Washington County Sheriff's Office, Warren County Sheriff’s Office and the Saratoga Springs Police Department.
Extradited Canadian American Man Pleads Guilty for Role in Deadly Alien Smuggling ConspiracyRead the Press Release
A dual Canadian American citizen who was extradited from Canada pleaded guilty today for his role in a human smuggling conspiracy that resulted in the deaths of a family, including two children under the age of three, in the St. Lawrence River.
“This case is a tragic example of what happens when alien smugglers act for their own greed with callous disregard for human life and for the orderly administration of our nation’s immigration laws,” said Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Through investigations and prosecutions, we will continue to eliminate alien smuggling networks that flout our laws and evade lawful entry at our borders.”
“Protecting our homeland remains a top priority and I thank our federal partners for their unwavering efforts along our Northern Border to keep Americans safe,” said First Assistant U.S. Attorney John A. Sarone III for the Northern District of New York: This case highlights the success we can have when working together across government, federal law enforcement, tribal leaders on both sides of the Akwesasne Mohawk Indian reserve and our partners across the border in Canada, all played a key role in bringing this defendant to justice. Although this smuggling attempt ended in tragedy, let this case serve as a warning: Those who attempt to unlawfully bring individuals into our country will be stopped, identified, and brought to justice.”
“Rahsontanohstha Delormier’s actions led to the deaths of two young children and their parents — a loss that will be felt forever by their family and the North Country community,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Anthony Patrone of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Buffalo Field Office. “In response to this tragedy, HSI Massena and our federal, state, tribal, and Canadian partners worked tirelessly to dismantle this deadly smuggling organization, sending a clear message that those who endanger lives at our border will be identified, brought to justice, and removed from our communities.”
According to court documents, Rahsontanohstha Delormier, also known as “Storm,” 31, from the Akwesasne Mohawk Indian Territory in Canada, was a boat driver for a human smuggling organization (HSO) that smuggled aliens from Canada into northern New York. Delormier, working with the HSO, routinely smuggled aliens into the United States by piloting boats across the St. Lawrence River.
Beginning in and around 2023, the defendant worked with an HSO that smuggled illegal aliens of various countries from mainland Cornwall, Ontario to Cornwall Island, Canada and through the Akwesasne Mohawk Indian reserve into the Northern District of New York. The organization arranged for aliens to stay in local motels in Cornwall before they were transported from Cornwall Island and staged along the banks of the St. Lawrence River. Members of the organization would then transport the aliens by boat over the St. Lawrence River to drivers who transported them further into the Northern District of New York.
On the night of March 28, 2023, and into the early morning of March 29, 2023, a co-conspirator travelled to mainland Cornwall and transported a family of four Romanian aliens to Cornwall Island in a truck provided by Delormier. At approximately 3:06 a.m., the co-conspirator dropped the Romanian family off at Delormier’s residence to be brought across the St. Lawrence River. Delormier launched a boat from a landing in St. Regis, Quebec, intending to pick up the family, but due to high winds, freezing temperatures, and limited visibility on the St. Lawrence River, Delormier’s boat broke down and he became stranded on St. Regis Island. Later that night a co-conspirator transported the Romanian family to a public boat launch on the tip of Cornwall Island where a different boat pilot picked them up and attempted to take the family across the St. Lawrence River. While in transit, the boat capsized due to severe weather. As a result, the Romanian family and the boat driver died.
Mother and child departing room 140 at the Elect Inn walking towards a co-conspirator’s vehicle on March 29, 2023 at 3:21 a.m. Father and child departing room 140, pulling the door closed before the father walks towards the co-conspirator’s vehicle on March 29, 2023 at 3:21 a.m. A second co-conspirators vehicle with light blue boat in tow on March 29, 2023, at 9:29 p.m., appearing to match the boat found in the river during recovery efforts. The second co-conspirators light blue and white boat being recovered from the St. Lawrence River near the bodies of the Romanian family.Delormier pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit alien smuggling and four counts of alien smuggling for financial gain. He is scheduled to be sentenced on Oct. 27 and faces a minimum penalty of five years in prison and a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Co-conspirators Dakota Montour, 32, and Kawisiiostha Celecia Sharrow, 45, both of the Akwesasne Mohawk Indian reserve, New York; Janet Terrance, 46, of Hogansburg, New York; and Timothy Oakes, 35, from the Akwesasne Mohwak Indian reserve, entered guilty pleas on Jan. 23, 2025, Oct. 8, 2024, March 6, 2025, and May 11, 2026, respectively. Delormier and co-conspirator Stephanie Square, 53, of the Akwesasne Mohawk Indian Territory in Canada, were extradited to the United States from Canada in 2025. Square is awaiting trial.
HSI Massena engaged in an extensive years-long investigation of the case, with assistance from the U.S. Border Patrol (USBP), U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), HSI’s Human Smuggling Unit in Washington, D.C., CBP’s National Targeting Center International Interdiction Task Force, New York State Police, Canada Border Services Agency, Akwesasne Mohawk Police Service, St. Regis Mohawk Tribal Police Department, Ontario Provincial Police, Sûreté du Québec, St. Lawrence County Sheriff’s Department, Royal Canadian Mounted Police and the Cornwall Police Service. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs provided significant assistance in securing the arrests and extraditions of Delormier and Square.
The investigation and indictment were supported and prosecuted by Joint Task Force Alpha (JTFA), the Department’s lead effort in combating high-impact human smuggling and trafficking committed by cartels and Transnational Criminal Organizations (TCOs). A highly successful partnership between the Department of Justice and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), JTFA investigates and prosecutes human smuggling and trafficking and related immigration crimes that impact public safety and border security. JTFA’s mission is to target the leaders and organizers of Cartels and TCOs involved in human smuggling and trafficking throughout the Americas. The Attorney General has elevated and expanded JTFA to target the most prolific and dangerous human smuggling and trafficking groups operating not only in Mexico and the Northern Triangle countries of Guatemala, El Salvador, and Honduras, but also in Canada, the Caribbean and the maritime border, and elsewhere. Led by the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section and supported by the Money Laundering, Narcotics and Forfeiture Section, the Office of International Affairs, and the Office of Enforcement Operations, among others, JTFA has dedicated Assistant U.S. Attorneys from the Southern District of California; District of Arizona; District of New Mexico; Western and Southern Districts of Texas; Southern District of Florida; Northern District of New York; and District of Vermont. JTFA also partners with other U.S. Attorney’s Offices throughout the country and supports high-priority cases in any district. All JTFA cases rely on substantial law enforcement resources from DHS, including HSI and CBP USBP and Office of Field Operations, as well as FBI and other law enforcement agencies. To date, JTFA’s work has resulted in more than 458 domestic and international arrests of leaders, organizers, and significant facilitators of alien smuggling and/or trafficking; more than 408 U.S. convictions; and more than 357 significant jail sentences imposed, and forfeitures of substantial assets.
Trial Attorneys Lindsey Roberson and Alexandra Skinnion of the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey Stitt for the Northern District of New York are prosecuting the case.
Tioga County Man Pleads Guilty to Sexual Exploitation of a Child and Transportation of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Tristan Kovacs, age 22, of Waverly, New York, pled guilty on June 17, 2026, in federal court to sexual exploitation of a child and transportation of child pornography announced First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Craig L. Tremaroli, Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
As part of his guilty plea, Kovacs admitted that in April of 2025, he produced a sexually explicit image of himself and a 10-year-old female child which Kovacs then uploaded to a pornographic website where other users could access and download the image.
The sexual exploitation charge against Kovacs carries a mandatory minimum term of 15 years in federal prison and maximum sentence of 30 years while the charge of transportation of child pornography carries a mandatory minimum term of five years and maximum sentence of 20 years. Both charges carry a maximum fine of $250,000, and a term of supervised release of at least 5 years and up to life. Kovacs will also be required to register as a sex offender upon his release from prison. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statutes the defendant is convicted of violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors.
Sentencing is currently scheduled for October 6, 2026, in Utica, New York before United States District Judge, Anthony J. Brindisi.
First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III stated: “This defendant has finally admitted the reprehensible conduct he engaged in which included his victimization of a nine-year-old child. My office will now ensure the defendant spends decades in federal prison where he belongs. Let this be a message to others who target and exploit children: we will find you, we will charge you, and we will put you behind bars.”
FBI Special Agent in Charge Craig A. Tremaroli stated: “Mr. Kovacs’ depraved abuse caused irreparable trauma to the child he victimized. This plea ensures he will spend at least the next two decades in federal prison. This investigation should send a strong message to any predator looking to perpetuate the abuse of our most vulnerable that the FBI will find you and send you to prison where you belong.”
This case was investigated by the FBI’s Albany Division Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force and the New York State Police with assistance from the Waverly New York Police Department and the Broome County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Adrian S. LaRochelle is prosecuting the case as part of Project Safe Childhood.
Project Safe Childhood is a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
Thirteen Indicted in Albany-Based Bank Fraud ConspiracyRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Jahquel Robertson, 31, of Albany, and twelve others were charged in April with participation in a large-scale bank fraud scheme involving over $1 million dollars in stolen checks, according to a fourteen-count indictment fully unsealed June 16th in the Northern District of New York.
The announcement was made by First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III, Anthony Patrone, Special Agent in Charge (Acting) of the Buffalo Field Office of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Matthew M. Modafferi, the Special Agent in Charge of the Northeast Area Field Office of the United States Postal Service, Office of Inspector General (“USPS-OIG”), and New York State Police Superintendent Steven G. James.
According to the indictment, Robertson, a/k/a “Jolly;” Nathaniel Williams, 35, of New York City; Anisa Marie Figueroa, 35, of Albany; Tyler Whittingham, 30, of New York City; Mishak Sam-Hinton, 29, of Newark, New Jersey; Britani Williams, 26, of North Adams, Massachusetts; Kedar Morton, 35, of Albany; Ray Hernandez, 28, of Albany; Slyvia Harris Thomas, 22, of Troy; Ladezma Scurry, 32, of Schenectady; Raheen Williams, 30, of Albany; Kaitlyn Thompson, 38, of Albany; and Emahnee Shelton, 28, of Schenectady, allegedly conspired to defraud various businesses, individuals, and financial institutions throughout the United States using stolen, forged and counterfeited financial instruments to fraudulently obtain money under the control of financial institutions.
As alleged, Robertson received more than $1,000,000 of checks stolen out of the mail by bribing a corrupt United States Postal Service employee. The USPS employee provided Robertson with checks that were originally mailed to or sent by individuals and businesses in the Northern District of New York. The indictment alleges that Robertson and his coconspirators then used personal identifying information and banking information of willing participants in the scheme to attempt to make fraudulent deposits of checks designed to appear identical to those stolen by the USPS employee. The defendants have been arraigned in Albany, New York over the last several weeks, and have been released on conditions pending trial before United States District Court Judge Anne M. Nardacci.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney John A. Sarcone said: “Jolly and his merry band of alleged co-conspirators attempted to defraud national financial institutions by depositing fraudulent checks into theirs and others bank accounts then quickly move to withdraw the funds. As alleged in the indictment, he bribed a public official to do so and committed a host of other federal crimes in the process. We will work quickly to seek justice against these defendants and are thankful for our legion of partners in this matter, including HSI, the USPS-OIG, and the NYSP.”
Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Buffalo Acting Special Agent in Charge Anthony Patrone stated: “These charges describe a far-reaching bank fraud scheme that diverted more than a million dollars in stolen checks and victimized honest residents, businesses, and financial institutions that sustain our communities. HSI Albany remains firmly dedicated to uncovering and disrupting fraud schemes that prey on hardworking people and exploit the banking and mail systems for personal gain. Working in close coordination with our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners, HSI continues to prioritize safeguarding the public and protecting the integrity of our financial systems."
“Postal Service employees hold positions of public trust, and allegations involving mail theft, check fraud, or bribery are taken seriously. The USPS OIG remains committed to working with our partners to protect the integrity of the U.S. Mail and hold those who exploit it accountable. We appreciate the continued partnership of the U.S. Attorney’s Office, HSI, and the New York State Police.” Said Matthew M. Modafferi, the Special Agent in Charge of the Northeast Area Field Office USPS-OIG.
New York State Police Superintendent Steven G. James said, “As alleged, these individuals concocted a scheme to engage in fraud and theft for the purpose of depriving unsuspecting individuals out of their rightfully owed money. Our members and law enforcement partners have once again removed deceptive criminals from our community, putting an end to fraudulent and dishonest acts. I applaud the work of all those involved for holding these bad actors accountable and pursuing a justice for the victims.”
The indictment further alleges that Robertson and his co-conspirators committed a variety of federal criminal violations, including bribing a public official, receipt of stolen mail, engaging in transactions in criminally derived property, use of fraudulent financial instruments, money laundering, and aggravated identity theft. Not all defendants are alleged to have committed all crimes listed in the indictment.
The charges against Robertson, Figueroa, Whittingham, and Shelton, which include aggravated identity theft, carry a mandatory minimum of two years. The bank fraud conspiracy charges against all defendants carry a maximum term of imprisonment of 30 years, a maximum fine of $1,000,000, and a term of supervised release of up to five years. The charges in the indictment are merely accusations. The defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
HSI, USPS-OIG, and New York State Police are investigating the case, with assistance from the Rensselaer Police Department, Cohoes Police Department and the United States Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph S. Hartunian is prosecuting the case.
On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division ('Fraud Division'). The Fraud Division is laser-focused on investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.
New York City Woman Pleads Guilty for Role in Multi-State Prescription Fraud RingRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – On June 15, 2026, Ciera Washington, age 35, of the Bronx, New York, pled guilty to conspiracy to commit health care fraud and aggravated identity theft. Washington’s guilty plea followed the creation of the Trump Administration’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud.
The announcement was made by First Assistant U.S. Attorney John A. Sarcone III; Craig L. Tremaroli, Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office for the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI); Naomi Gruchacz, Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG); and New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli.
Washington admitted that from April 2023 through October 2024, she worked with Raven White, Bryan Otero, and others to steal the personally identifiable information of Medicaid beneficiaries and use that information to fraudulently obtain prescription medications from pharmacies throughout the Northeastern United States. She further admitted that the conspiracy causes a loss of nearly $4 million to the New York Medicaid program and tens of thousands of dollars to pharmacies. Washington agreed to forfeit over $400,000 in proceeds she obtained in connection with her crimes and to consent to an order of restitution for the losses they caused.
First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III said “Healthcare fraud is theft from both the taxpayers and the vulnerable individuals these programs are designed to serve. This office is committed to pursuing individuals such as Ms. Washington who abuse public benefit programs for personal gain. Working alongside our partners, we will continue to root out fraud and recover stolen funds for the American People.”
“Americans suffer when criminals like Ms. Washington and her co-defendants defraud government programs. This investigation proves the FBI will not stand by while deceptive individuals compromise invaluable programs designed to help our citizens who need it most.” Said Craig L. Tremaroli, Special Agent in Charge Albany FBI.
“This egregious fraud committed by the defendant is hazardous in several ways. Actions like hers can harm Medicaid beneficiaries by violating their benefits and privacy information, harm the Medicaid program by driving up costs for prescriptions that were not legitimate, and harm the public through the diversion of prescription medication outside of legitimate drug channels,” stated Naomi D. Gruchacz, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “We appreciate our strong collaborative partnership with both the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the New York State Comptroller’s Office to root out this type of fraud within HHS programs.”At sentencing on October 14, 2026, Washington faces up to 10 years’ imprisonment on the fraud count and a mandatory term of 2 years on the aggravated identity theft count, which must run consecutive to any term imposed on the fraud count. She also faces a term of supervised release of up to 3 years.
The FBI, HHS-OIG, and the New York State Comptroller’s Office are investigating this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mikayla Espinosa is prosecuting the case.
On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division (“Fraud Division”). The Fraud Division is laser-focused on investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.
Major Drug and Weapon Seizure in Johnson CityRead the Press Release
BINGHAMTON, NEW YORK – Robert Randesi of Johnson City was charged federally on June 11th, 2026. First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III, Craig L. Tremaroli, Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office for the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Johnson City Police Department Chief Brent Dodge made the announcement.
The charges in this case are merely an accusation. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
After the execution of search warrants on this case, including at a warehouse style building in Johnson City, New York, police arrested Robert Randesi, age 69, and located evidence including: over 20 pounds of suspected methamphetamine, quantities of marijuana, approximately $24,000 in cash, several firearms including AR-15 style rifles and privately made firearms (also known as “ghost guns”), lower receivers for firearms, and firearm parts and ammunition including a firearm suppressor. Police also located machinist tools and metal fabricating equipment consistent with tools used to construct or mill firearms/firearms parts.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney John Sarcone III: “It is disturbing for a small community to have this level of alleged criminal actively going on so brazenly. That’s why I’m grateful to be partnering with our local and federal partners to bring criminal actors to justice. Thanks to the partnerships of the Johnson City Police, Binghamton Police Department, Broome County Sheriff’s Office, and our federal partners that allowed us to unite on this case to achieve a coordinated response.”
FBI Special Agent in Charge Craig Tremaroli: “As alleged in the criminal complaint, Mr. Randesi was in possession of a dangerous amount of illegal narcotics that was intended for distribution throughout our Broome County communities. He was met with the full force of our federal, state, and local law enforcement partnerships and is now facing serious federal charges that, if convicted, will send him to federal prison for a substantial amount of time. The FBI remains committed to working with our partners to aggressively investigate and hold accountable any individual looking to poison our communities through the sale of illicit narcotics.”
Johnson City Police Department Chief Brent Dodge Said: “To put this seizure into perspective, 21 pounds of methamphetamine represents more than half a million dosage units. That’s enough to get every man, woman, and child in Broome County high three times over. I cannot overstate the value, of getting these dangerous drugs and these dangerous weapons off our streets.”The investigation was conducted by the Broome County Special Investigations Unit, a task force composed of members of the Binghamton Police Department, Broome County Sheriff's Office, and Johnson City Police Department. Assisting agencies included: the FBI - Albany; Drug Enforcement Administration; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the U.S. Attorney's Office, and the Broome County District Attorney's Office. Additional support was provided by the Johnson City Department of Public Works, the Broome County Highway Department, the Johnson City Fire Department, the Binghamton Fire Department, and the Owego Fire Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kristen Grabowski is prosecuting the case.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney John A. Sarcone
Johnson City Police Department Chief Brent Dodge
FBI Special Agent in Charge Albany Field Office Craig L. Tremeroli
Walton Man Pleads Guilty to Receipt of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Jerry N. Butler III, 20, of Walton, New York pled guilty yesterday to receiving child pornography. First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Craig L. Tremaroli, Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), made the announcement.
As part of his guilty plea, Butler admitted that in January and February 2025, he used a social media messaging application to receive child sexual abuse material (CSAM) from an out-of-state minor victim. Butler exchanged approximately 20,000 messages with the victim in which Butler persuaded the victim to create and send to Butler sexually explicit depictions of herself. Butler accomplished this by, at times, implying to the victim that he would distribute and/or “leak” sexually explicit content of her or would otherwise publicly embarrass her if she did not comply with Butler’s demands.
In addition to those admissions the investigation into Butler revealed that he was involved in a nihilistic violent extremist (NVE) network, whose members seek to corrupt and exploit vulnerable populations, including minors. Butler was the administrator of an online offshoot of the “764” NVE group that operated across multiple social media channels and whose members engaged in extortion of minors, coercive self-harm, harm to animals, and the production and dissemination of CSAM.
Those involved with “764” and related NVE networks methodically target vulnerable, underage populations by using social media to encourage the possession, production, and sharing of extreme gore media and child sexual abuse material (CSAM). Members of NVE groups, including 764, seek to desensitize young people to violence and break down societal norms regarding violence. They normalize the possession, production, and sharing of explicit CSAM and gore material to corrupt and groom their victims toward future violence, gain notoriety among other members of the network, and spread fear for the purpose of accelerating chaos under the NVE ideology with an aim toward the disruption of society.
“When FBI Special Agent in Charge Tremaroli brought this case to my attention, I immediately deployed the resources of the U.S. Attorney’s office, to pick up a case that had been neglected by previous administrations,” said First Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarcone. “Those involved with Nihilistic Violent Extremist (NVE) groups such as this defendant, exhibit among the most reprehensible behavior and will be met with justice. Thanks to the diligent work of our investigative partners, Mr. Butler can no longer hide behind a screen to harm children. Instead, he now faces a federal prison term of up to 20 years. My office, and our investigative partners will relentlessly pursue anyone engaged in such grotesque conduct.”
FBI Special Agent in Charge Tremaroli stated: "Mr. Butler’s days of forcing minors to send CSAM and sowing chaos online are over. Nihilistic Violent Extremist (NVE) networks pose a troubling threat to our most vulnerable, but the FBI continues to dedicate every resource necessary to aggressively investigate the predators connected to these violent networks and ensure they are sent to prison for their heinous actions."
At his sentencing on October 16, 2026. Butler faces a term of imprisonment of at least 5 years and up to 20 years in prison. Butler also faces a fine of up to $250,000 and a term of supervised release of at least 5 years and up to life. Butler will also be required to register as a sex offender upon his release from prison. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statutes the defendant is convicted of violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors.
This case was investigated by FBI with the assistance of the New York State Police, Walton Police Department, Broome County Sheriff’s Office, and the FBI Atlanta and Milwaukee field offices. Assistant United States Attorney Geoffrey J. L. Brown is currently prosecuting the case as part of Project Safe Childhood. Former Assistant United States Attorney and PSC Coordinator Michael Gadarian prosecuted the case.
Project Safe Childhood is a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
Warren County Physician and Nurse Practitioner Pay $500,000 to Resolve Unlawful Opioid Prescribing and Fraudulent Conveyance Actions; Barred from DEA Registration for 20 YearsRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Dr. Douglas Cline and nurse practitioner Laurie McKenna have agreed to pay $500,000 to resolve civil actions brought by the United States involving unlawful opioid prescribing practices and a fraudulent conveyance action against Dr. Cline, announced First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III. This settlement is part of the Department of Justice’s 2026 National Health Care Fraud Takedown.
Dr. Cline formerly owned and operated Chronic Pain Management (CPM), a cash-pay medical practice in Queensbury, New York focused on prescribing controlled substances. Under the settlement, Dr. Cline and Ms. McKenna are barred for 20 years from applying for or holding a DEA controlled-substances registration.
As reflected in the settlement agreement, the defendants admitted and accepted responsibility for conduct involving a practice in which several patients received high-dose opioid medications, often in combination with other controlled substances. Access to prescriptions was tied to recurring payments, including in circumstances where patients were not regularly examined by a provider.
“Douglas Cline operated a high-volume, cash-pay medical practice in which hundreds of patients received high-dose opioid prescriptions, often in combination with other controlled substances. Access to those medications was tied to recurring payments, including in circumstances where patients were not seen by him or another provider,” said First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III. “After federal scrutiny began, Dr. Cline transferred his lake house valued at over $1 million to his ex-wife to diminish assets that could pay an eventual judgment. This resolution holds him accountable for his prescribing conduct and his attempts to frustrate collection, and reinforces that such conduct will meet continued aggressive enforcement action.”
"While today’s settlement against Dr. Douglas Cline and Nurse Practitioner Laurie McKenna may resolve their scheme to unlawfully distribute controlled substance prescriptions for money, exploiting their patients to addiction and their harmful effects are not” stated DEA New York Enforcement Division Special Agent in Charge Farhana Islam. “Medical professionals are entrusted with protecting patients’ lives, not placing profits above their health and safety. I commend the work of our DEA Diversion SPEAR team for pursuing those who endanger public health and profit from the ongoing opioid crisis."
“The illegal prescribing practices detailed in this settlement were especially egregious in light of the ongoing opioid epidemic, and they were committed without regard for the proper care of Dr. Cline’s patients,” said Special Agent in Charge Naomi D. Gruchacz of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “HHS-OIG will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to ensure that health care providers who are involved in schemes that threaten patient safety are held accountable.”In March 2024, the United States filed a civil action against the defendants’ involving prescriptions issued to a combat wounded military veteran and his spouse, including escalating doses of fentanyl, oxycodone, and benzodiazepines despite warning signs of misuse and dependency. The complaint further described continued prescribing to these individuals over extended periods, including while they resided in the southeastern United States and were not regularly examined in person, while continuing to pay CPM appointment fees for continued access to prescriptions.
After learning of the government’s investigation and his potential liability, Dr. Cline transferred substantial assets, including a residence in Bolton Landing, New York, to his then-spouse. The United States later filed a separate civil action alleging that the transfer constituted a fraudulent conveyance intended to hinder federal recovery in the first action.
Dr. Cline surrendered his DEA Certificate of Registration on August 29, 2025. Ms. McKenna’s registration expired on January 31, 2026.
Under the settlement, both defendants are barred for 20 years from applying for, renewing, or reinstating DEA controlled-substances registration.
“Douglas Cline’s reckless prescribing practices caused needless harm to TRICARE beneficiaries and placed profit ahead of proper medical care,” said Christopher M. Silvestro, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS), Northeast Field Office. “As the investigative arm of the Department of War’s Office of Inspector General, we are committed to protecting the health and well-being of our service members and their families.”
The case was investigated by the DEA Albany District Office SPEAR Group, the DCIS Syracuse Resident Agency, and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General, with assistance from the Defense Health Agency, the New York State Department of Health Bureau of Narcotic Enforcement, the New York State Police, and the Warren County Sheriff’s Office.
Assistant United States Attorneys Christopher R. Moran and Adam J. Katz represented the United States.
Latham Taxi Operators and Employees Charged in $660,000 Medicaid Fraud and Kickback SchemeRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – A federal grand jury has returned a superseding indictment charging Muhammad Zishan, a/k/a “Sean,” a/k/a “Shaun,” a/k/a “Shawn,” age 48, of Albany County, New York; Madiha Javed, a/k/a “Maddie,” age 34, of Rensselaer County, New York; and Ghazali Shaikh, age 20, of Warren County, New York, with conspiracy to commit health care fraud and wire fraud and conspiracy to pay health care kickbacks in connection with Medicaid transportation services. The charges filed in federal court are part of the Department of Justice’s 2026 National Health Care Fraud Takedown.
The announcement was made by First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Special Agent in Charge Craig L. Tremaroli, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG) Special Agent in Charge Naomi Gruchacz, and New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli. This prosecution is part of the Trump Administration’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud.
“The superseding indictment alleges a scheme grounded in false claims, illegal kickbacks, and inducements used to generate Medicaid reimbursements,” said First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III. “If proven, the conduct reflects a deliberate effort to drain public funds through fraud and to distort a program designed to serve those in need across New York. My office will continue to target those who weaponize federally funded health care systems for private gain and to safeguard taxpayer dollars from abuse.”
“HHS-OIG works tirelessly with our law enforcement partners to ensure that individuals are held accountable if they attempt to exploit federal health care programs for their own greed,” stated Special Agent in Charge Naomi Gruchacz with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “It is alleged in this case that the defendants offered illegal kickbacks and billed Medicaid improperly for millions of dollars, which can affect the availability of funds and services for others and drive up the cost of taxpayer-funded health care.”
FBI Special Agent in Charge Craig L. Tremaroli said, “The allegations against these defendants are infuriating. Vital government programs like Medicaid are designed to help people access the care they need. They are not designed so criminals can extort taxpayer dollars and line their own pockets. The FBI will continue to work with our partners to investigate and bring to justice any criminal looking to defraud our invaluable government programs.”
According to the superseding indictment, between approximately January 2020 and February 2025, the defendants operated and were associated with Latham Taxi Inc., a Medicaid-enrolled transportation provider. Medicaid is a federal and state health care program that reimburses providers for medically necessary services, including non-emergency transportation to medical appointments.
The superseding indictment alleges that the defendants engaged in a scheme to defraud Medicaid by submitting and causing the submission of claims for transportation services that were not provided, not medically necessary, or improperly inflated. The alleged fraudulent billing included claims for “ghost rides,” claims for trips in which Medicaid recipients were not transported or not seen by medical providers and claims that improperly increased reimbursement by treating group transportation as multiple individual trips.
The superseding indictment further alleges that the defendants provided Medicaid recipients with cash, rent abatement, controlled substances, and other things of value to induce them to use Latham Taxi Inc. as their transportation provider. These payments were intended to generate additional Medicaid reimbursements and to sustain the fraudulent billing scheme.
As alleged, the defendants caused the submission of false and fraudulent claims through the New York State Department of Health, which processed Medicaid reimbursements through systems located in Rensselaer County and transmitted payments through interstate wire communications.
The alleged conduct resulted in the fraudulent receipt of at least $666,281.42 in Medicaid funds.
Zishan, Javed, and Shaikh are charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud and health care fraud, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, and a term of supervised release of up to three years. The defendants are also charged with conspiracy to pay health care kickbacks, which carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, and a term of supervised release of up to three years. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The defendants were arraigned yesterday in Albany, New York, before United States Magistrate Judge Paul J. Evangelista. Zishan was detained pending trial, Javed was detained pending a detention hearing scheduled for June 24, 2026, and Ghazali was released on conditions pending trial. The trial will be held before Senior United States District Judge Frederick J. Scullin
The charges in the superseding indictment are merely accusations. The defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
The Northern District of New York worked with the Department’s Health Care Fraud Unit of the Fraud Division, together with the FBI, HHS-OIG, and the New York State Comptroller’s Office, with additional assistance from the New York State Office of the Medicaid Inspector General.
Assistant United States Attorneys Benjamin S. Clark and Adam J. Katz are prosecuting the case.
First Assistant United States Attorney Sarcone Announces Ten Capital Region Actions: Five Arrests and Civil Settlements Involving Five PartiesRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Today, First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III announced criminal charges against five defendants and civil health care fraud and controlled substances settlements with five defendants. The charges filed in federal court are part of the Department of Justice’s 2026 National Health Care Fraud Takedown.
“Today’s announcement should put all fraudsters on notice,” said First Assistant U.S. Attorney John A. Sarcone III. “Those who enrich themselves through stealing from the hardworking American taxpayers will be relentlessly investigated, prosecuted, and held accountable to the highest standard under the law. Together our partner agencies with the full support of the federal government, will use every available tool to identify fraud, dismantle criminal schemes, and recover taxpayer dollars. Health care fraud is not a victimless crime, every fraudulent claim submitted, every false bill paid, and every scheme designed to exploit our system steals from the taxpayers and exploits the integrity of programs that millions depend upon.”
The charges announced today by First Assistant United States Attorney Sarcone are part of a strategically coordinated, nationwide law enforcement action that resulted in charges against 455 defendants, including 90 doctors and other licensed medical professionals, for their alleged participation in health care fraud and opioid abuse schemes involving over $6.5 billion in false claims and significant patient harm, including death. Today’s Takedown represents a new era in federal, state, and international cooperation to combat health care fraud: cases in 56 federal districts and 45 U.S. states and territories, with 50 state Medicaid Fraud Control Units participating, the most in Department history. In addition, unprecedented international cooperation over the two-week Takedown resulted in the apprehension and return to the United States of the following health care fraudsters: one defendant in Kyrenia in connection with an over $3.7 billion scheme; two defendants in Estonia in connection with a previously charged $10.6 billion scheme; and, in the Philippines, one of FBI’s Most Wanted Fraudsters in connection with a previously-charged $1.2 billion telemedicine fraud scheme. The Takedown involves the cutting-edge use of data analytics to target the worst actors; the seizure of over $182 million in cash, luxury vehicles, jewelry, and other assets; and full-spectrum accountability for all criminal actors from doctor’s offices to corporate boardrooms.
Today’s coordinated enforcement action involves a whole-of-government approach, including:
- Actions by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to suspend 1,079 providers and revoke billing privileges for 1,403 providers.
- 48 Civil Monetary Payment settlements amounting to over $73 million, over 1,400 provider exclusions, and 25 actions by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General (“HHS-OIG”) under the Civil Monetary Penalties Law seeking more than $10 billion in payments to the Medicare Trust Fund from payments that CMS caught and suspended before the funds were paid to the fraudulent providers.
- Civil charges against 13 defendants for $14.8 million in health care fraud schemes, as well as civil settlements with 31 defendants totaling $23 million.
- 928 administrative cases by the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) seeking the revocation of authority to handle and/or prescribe controlled substances since October 1, 2025.
The following individuals were charged in the Northern District of New York:
- Joseph Carl, 55, of Clifton Park, New York, and Randolph Ekstrom, a/k/a “Randy,” 48, of Canajoharie, New York, were charged by superseding indictment with one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and health care fraud and one count of conspiracy to pay healthcare kickbacks. As alleged in the superseding indictment, Carl and Ekstrom managed Carl’s Cab, a DBA entity owned by Carl, that was enrolled as a Medicaid transportation provider in New York State from at least January 1, 2020 through March 31, 2025. The defendants are charged with paying Medicaid recipients cash and other things of value in exchange for using Carl’s Cab to transport them to medical appointments, including methadone treatment facilities. The superseding indictment alleges the defendants fraudulently obtained $4,296,374.02 in Medicaid reimbursements paid to Carl’s Cab over the time-period of January 1, 2020 through March 31, 2025.
- Muhammad Zishan, a/k/a “Sean,” a/k/a “Shaun,” a/k/a “Shawn,” 47, of Glens Falls, New York, Madiha Javed, a/k/a “Maddie,” 34, of Glens Falls, New York, and Ghazali Shaikh, 21, of Latham, New York, were charged by superseding indictment with one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and health care fraud and Zishan and Javed were charged with one count of conspiracy to pay health care kickbacks. As alleged in the superseding indictment, Zishan, Javed, and Shaikh managed Latham Taxi Inc., which was enrolled as a Medicaid transportation provider in New York State from at least January 1, 2020 through February 28, 2025. The superseding indictment alleges Zishan and Javed conspired to pay Medicaid recipients cash, controlled substances, and other things of value in exchange for using Latham Taxi Inc. to transport them to medical appointments, including methadone treatment facilities. In addition, all three defendants are charged with conspiring to falsify trip data to fraudulently obtain Medicaid reimbursement by overbilling for services provided and billing for services that were not provided at all. The superseding indictment alleges the defendants fraudulently obtained $666,281.42 in Medicaid reimbursements paid to Latham Taxi Inc. over the time-period of January 1, 2020 through February 28, 2025. According to statements made by prosecutors at Shaikh’s arraignment on June 22, 2026, federal agents seized over $30,000 in cash and precious metals they contend are proceeds of the offenses during the execution of a search warrant at Shaikh’s residence.
The following parties entered civil settlement agreements in the Northern District of New York:
- Douglas C. Cline, M.D. P.C., doing business as Chronic Pain Management, formerly located in Queensbury, New York, its owner Douglas C. Cline, M.D., 67, of Saratoga Springs, New York, and nurse practitioner Laurie McKenna, 64, of Bolton Landing, New York, reached a civil settlement to pay $500,000 to resolve allegations that they prescribed high-dose opioids and other controlled substances to patients without adequate medical oversight, tied continued access to prescriptions to recurring cash payments, and that Dr. Cline fraudulently transferred assets to avoid payment of a potential judgment.
- Aptihealth Inc. and Aptihealth Medical, PLLC (collectively, “Aptihealth”), a telehealth behavioral health provider located in Clifton Park, New York, reached a civil settlement to pay $300,000 to the United States and the State of New York to resolve allegations that the company billed Medicare and Medicaid for services that were not rendered or not supported by adequate documentation, improperly billed administrative tasks as reimbursable medical services, provided gift cards to induce recipients to receive services, and failed to maintain an effective compliance program as required by New York law.
“I want to thank our partners for their continued efforts. We look forward to bringing more cases like this as we work together to protect the integrity of our healthcare system” said First Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarcone. “Although the New York State Attorney General’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit (MFCU) was not involved in the cases announced today, they have a substantial responsibility ahead of them. New York’s Medicaid program now exceeds $100 billion, with more than half funded by federal taxpayers. Safeguarding those dollars requires an all of government approach and strong coordination across federal and state enforcement partners. I stand ready to work alongside them, bringing together both state and federal resources to protect the integrity of the program.”The cases are being prosecuted by the Health Care Fraud Unit’s National Rapid Response, Florida, Gulf Coast, Los Angeles, Midwest, New England, Northeast, Texas, and West Coast Strike Forces; U.S. Attorneys’ Offices for the Middle District of Alabama, District of Arizona, Central District of California, Southern District of California, District of Colorado, District of Connecticut, District of Delaware, Middle District of Florida, Northern District of Florida, Southern District of Florida, Northern District of Georgia, District of Hawaii, District of Idaho, Northern District of Illinois, Northern District of Iowa, Southern District of Iowa, Western District of Kentucky, Eastern District of Louisiana, Middle District of Louisiana, District of Massachusetts, Eastern District of Michigan, Southern District of Mississippi, District of Montana, District of Nebraska, District of New Hampshire, District of New Jersey, District of New Mexico, Eastern District of New York, Northern District of New York, Southern District of New York, Eastern District of North Carolina, Middle District of North Carolina, Western District of North Carolina, Northern District of Ohio, Northern District of Oklahoma, Western District of Oklahoma, District of Oregon, Eastern District of Pennsylvania, Middle District of Pennsylvania, Western District of Pennsylvania, District of Puerto Rico, District of Rhode Island, District of South Carolina, District of South Dakota, Middle District of Tennessee, Western District of Tennessee, Northern District of Texas, Southern District of Texas, Western District of Texas, District of Vermont, Eastern District of Virginia, Western District of Virginia, Northern District of West Virginia, Southern District of West Virginia, Eastern District of Wisconsin, and Western District of Wisconsin; and State Attorneys General’s Offices, through their MFCUs, in Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Utah, Vermont, Virgin Islands, Washington, Wisconsin, and West Virginia. In addition, the MFCUs for Alabama, North Carolina, South Dakota, Texas, and Virigina participated in the investigation of federal cases announced today.
Descriptions of each case involved in today’s enforcement action are available on the Department’s website here.
The Northern District of New York, in particular, worked with the Department’s Health Care Fraud Unit of the Fraud Division and the following law enforcement agencies to investigate and prosecute the cases filed during the Takedown: the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG); FBI; the Defense Criminal Investigative Service; the Drug Enforcement Administration; the Office of the New York State Comptroller; and the New York State Office of the Medicaid Inspector General.
On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division (“Fraud Division”). The Fraud Division is laser-focused on investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.
An indictment, information, or complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Clifton Park Telehealth Company to Pay $300,000 to Resolve Allegations of Improper Billing for No-Show Visits and Other ServicesRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III announced today that Clifton Park-based Aptihealth, Inc. and Aptihealth Medical, PLLC (Aptihealth), a behavioral health provider operating a telehealth platform, will pay $300,000 to resolve False Claims Act allegations concerning its Medicare and Medicaid billing practices. This settlement is part of the Department of Justice’s 2026 National Health Care Fraud Takedown.
“Aptihealth submitted claims to Medicare and Medicaid that did not comply with program requirements,” said First Assistant United States Attorney Sarcone. “The integrity of these programs depends on accurate billing and adherence to established rules. I commend the former employee who brought these issues to the government’s attention. The Healthcare Fraud Task Force is committed to identifying and holding accountable those who act with disregard of taxpayer dollars.”
“Violations of the Anti-Kickback Statute and False Claims Act can negatively affect the integrity of federal health care programs, undermining resources upon which millions of beneficiaries depend. In this case, the defendants’ actions artificially created demand for services and siphoned off funds for services that were never provided,” said Naomi D. Gruchacz, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “HHS-OIG is committed to working with our law enforcement partners to safeguard federal health care programs and ensure the return of funds that were falsely received.”
As part of the settlement, Aptihealth admitted responsibility for certain billing conduct described in the settlement agreement. This includes billing Medicare and Medicaid for patient appointments that did not occur because the patient was a “no-show,” billing for responses to patient messages without regard to whether such communications involved billable clinical content, and billing for psychological testing services that were not sufficiently documented.
Aptihealth also implemented an incentive program that involved a small number of patients who received a $25 gift card after attending a therapy session, which the United States contends violated the Anti-Kickback Statute.
Finally, Aptihealth admitted that its compliance program failed to meet certain New York statutory requirements relating to billing oversight, compliance monitoring, and training and education.
The settlement resolves a whistleblower lawsuit filed under the qui tam provisions of the False Claims Act by a former Aptihealth employee. The Act allows private persons to file civil actions on behalf of the government and share in any recovery. Under the settlement, the whistleblower will receive approximately $51,000 of the settlement proceeds. The case is docketed with the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of New York under number 1:23-cv-878.
This year the Administration launched the Task Force to Eliminate Fraud and the National Fraud Enforcement Division to enhance the Administration’s war on fraud, waste, and abuse in federal programs. When unscrupulous actors exploit these programs for their own financial gain, they defraud the government, harm the people these programs are designed to aid and protect, and undermine American businesses that play by the rules. False Claims Act enforcement plays a critical role in combatting such fraudulent schemes, recovering billions of dollars for the American taxpayers, and holding wrongdoers accountable. False Claims Act matters will continue to be on the forefront of the battle against fraud, and our False Claims Act work will support and advance the mission of the Task Force to Eliminate Fraud and the National Fraud Enforcement Division.
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of New York jointly investigated this matter with the Office of the New York Attorney General’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Moran represented the United States.
Carl’s Cab Operators Charged in $4.2 Million Medicaid Fraud and Kickback SchemeRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – A federal grand jury has returned a superseding indictment charging Joseph Carl, age 55, of Saratoga County, New York, and Randolph Ekstrom, a/k/a “Randy,” age 48, of Saratoga County, New York, with conspiracy to commit health care fraud and wire fraud and conspiracy to pay health care kickbacks in connection with Medicaid transportation services. The charges filed in federal court are part of the Department of Justice’s 2026 National Health Care Fraud Takedown.
The announcement was made by First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Special Agent in Charge Craig L. Tremaroli, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG) Special Agent in Charge Naomi Gruchacz, and New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli. This prosecution is part of the Trump Administration’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud.
“The superseding indictment alleges a sustained scheme to exploit the Medicaid program through false claims, inflated billing, and unlawful kickbacks,” said First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III. “If proven, this conduct reflects a deliberate effort to convert a taxpayer-funded health care program into a source of illicit profit, including by paying recipients with cash to facilitate fraudulent claims. My office will hold accountable those who corrupt public programs and divert public funds away from legitimate health care services and the patients who depend on them.”
“These allegations describe deceptive actions—billing for services not rendered and bribing beneficiaries—that divert essential financial resources from the Medicaid program and the legitimate medical care it is meant to provide,” stated Naomi D. Gruchacz, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “HHS-OIG will continue working with our law enforcement partners to ensure that individuals suspected of abusing federal health care programs are investigated and, when appropriate, brought to justice."
“As alleged in the superseding indictment, Mr. Carl and Mr. Ekstrom stole over $4 million from critical Medicaid funds” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Craig L. Tremaroli. “Americans expect government funds to be used as intended, and this investigation proves the FBI will work with our Healthcare Fraud Task Force partners to leverage any resource necessary to investigate and hold accountable anyone looking to take advantage of our systems and line their own pockets at the expense of hardworking Americans.”According to the superseding indictment, between approximately January 2020 and March 2025, the defendants operated and were associated with Carl’s Cab, a Medicaid-enrolled transportation provider. Medicaid is a federal and state health care program that reimburses providers for medically necessary services, including non-emergency transportation to medical appointments.
The superseding indictment alleges that the defendants engaged in a scheme to defraud Medicaid by submitting and causing the submission of claims for transportation services that were not provided, not medically necessary, or improperly inflated. The alleged fraudulent billing included claims for “ghost rides,” claims for trips in which Medicaid recipients were not transported or not seen by medical providers, and claims that improperly increased reimbursement by treating group transportation as multiple individual trips.
The superseding indictment further alleges that the defendants paid cash and controlled substances to Medicaid recipients to induce them to use Carl’s Cab as their transportation provider. These payments were intended to generate additional Medicaid reimbursements and to sustain the fraudulent billing scheme. During the course of the investigation, law enforcement recovered photographs depicting large amounts of U.S. currency prepared for distribution in furtherance of the alleged kickback scheme.
As alleged, the defendants caused the submission of false and fraudulent claims through the New York State Department of Health, which processed Medicaid reimbursements through systems located in Rensselaer County and transmitted payments through interstate wire communications. The alleged conduct resulted in the fraudulent receipt of at least $4,296,374.02 in Medicaid funds.
Carl and Ekstrom are charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud and health care fraud, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, and a term of supervised release of up to three years. Carl and Ekstrom are also charged with conspiracy to pay health care kickbacks, which carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, and a term of supervised release of up to three years. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
As alleged in the superseding indictment, on August 17, 2023, Carl prepared cash payments to Medicaid recipients and messaged an acquaintance, “I’m stuffing envelopes!!!! $23,500!!!” and attached an unredacted version of the following photograph showing money used for bribes.
In addition, the superseding indictment alleges that on November 2, 2023, Carl prepared cash payments to Medicaid recipients and messaged an acquaintance, “Getting ready to stuff. $27,000 in envelopes for the junkies” and attached an unredacted version of the following photograph showing money used for the bribes:
Carl and Ekstrom were arraigned yesterday in Albany, New York, before United States Magistrate Judge Paul J. Evangelista, and were released pending trial scheduled for a date to be determined before United States District Judge Anthony J. Brindisi.
The charges in the superseding indictment are merely accusations. The defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
The Northern District of New York worked with the Department’s Health Care Fraud Unit of the Fraud Division, together with the FBI, HHS-OIG, and the New York State Comptroller’s Office, with additional assistance from the New York State Office of the Medicaid Inspector General.
Assistant United States Attorneys Benjamin S. Clark and Adam J. Katz are prosecuting the case.
Madison County Man Charged with Receipt and Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – Travis J. Longo, age 46, of Cazenovia, New York, appeared in federal court on June 20, 2026, on charges of receiving and possessing child pornography. The announcement was made by First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III, Homeland Security Investigations Buffalo Acting Special Agent in Charge Anthony Patrone (HSI), and New York State Police (NYSP) Superintendent Steven G. James.
The complaint filed against Longo alleges that during a search of Longo’s cellular telephone seized by NYSP investigators on June 18, 2026, numerous images and videos of child pornography were discovered including several videos depicting the sexual abuse of infants that Longo had received from other users of an internet-based messaging application.
The receipt charge filed against Longo carries a mandatory minimum term of five years in federal prison, while both counts carry a statutory maximum term of 20 years. Both charges carry a fine of up to $250,000, and a term of supervised release of at least five years and up to life. Longo will also be required to register as a sex offender upon his release from prison. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statutes the defendant is convicted of violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors.
Longo made his initial appearance on June 20, 2026, via video, before United States Magistrate Judge Miroslav Lovric, and was detained pending further proceedings.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarcone stated, “As school board vice president, the defendant was entrusted by parents and the community to help protect and serve the interests of children. Instead, as alleged, he exploited his position of public trust while actively seeking out and accumulating images and videos depicting the heinous sexual abuse of children. This shocking betrayal makes his conduct all the more reprehensible. Thanks to the great investigative work of HSI and the New York State Police, he is now behind bars where he belongs and where my office will work tirelessly to ensure he stays for a long time.”
Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Buffalo Acting Special Agent in Charge Anthony Patrone said: “These allegations against a school board vice president strike at the heart of parents’ trust and fears. For HSI Syracuse and our law enforcement partners, protecting children is not just a duty—it’s personal. Together with our law enforcement partners, we will aggressively pursue anyone who endangers children, so parents can send their kids to school knowing they are safe.”
NYSP Superintendent Steven G. James stated: “The exploitation of children is among the most disturbing crimes we investigate, and those who seek out, possess, or distribute this material will be held accountable. I commend the dedicated work of our investigators and our federal partners whose efforts led to these charges. The New York State Police remain committed to protecting vulnerable victims and aggressively pursuing individuals who exploit children through technology and online platforms.”The charges in the indictment are merely accusations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
HSI and the NYSP Computer Crimes Unit (CCU) are investigating the case. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Adrian S. LaRochelle as part of Project Safe Childhood.
Project Safe Childhood is a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
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Latham Man Indicted for Receipt of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – – Ethan Rupeka, age 22, of Latham, New York, was arraigned 5/29 on an indictment charging him with Receipt of Child Pornography and Possession of Child Pornography.
United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Craig L. Tremaroli, Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), made the announcement.
Rupeka was arraigned on Friday May 29th before United States Magistrate Judge Daniel J. Stewart and was released on Monday June 1st to probation pending trial. The charge in the indictment is merely an accusation. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.According to the indictment, Rupeka received child pornography on social media messaging services, and possessed the child pornography on four different electronic devices. The material found stemmed from a search warrant conducted on defendant’s residence on February 12, 2025 by the New York State Police, stemming from a cyber tip by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC).
First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III stated: “The reprehensible conduct exhibited by this defendant was identified thanks to the dedicated efforts of the NCMEC. Their work allowed the New York State Police and FBI to arrest Mr. Rupeka who will now be prosecuted by my office to ensure he can no longer victimize children for his perverted satisfaction.”
“FBI Albany’s Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force is deeply committed to working with partners to swiftly investigate predators like Mr. Rupeka and ensure they are held accountable for their disturbing behavior. We will continue to leverage every resource necessary to protect our most vulnerable from these monsters.” Said Craig L. Tremaroli, Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation
New York State Police Superintendent Steven G. James said, “These types of investigations are difficult and show the lengths child predators will go to exploit children. It is through great partnership that we continue to hold those accountable who seek to put a child in harm’s way. I applaud the diligent work done by our State Police members and law enforcement partners that led to this indictment and ensures the defendant will serve time for these deplorable crimes.”The Receipt of Child Pornography charge filed against Rupeka carries a mandatory minimum term of 5 years in prison, a maximum term of 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, and a term of supervised release of at least 5 years and up to life. In addition, a conviction will require Rupeka to register as a sex offender. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statute the defendant is charged with violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, and other factors.
The charge in the indictment is merely an accusation. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
The FBI’s Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force is investigating the case, with assistance from the New York State Police. Assistant United States Attorney Paul DerOhannesian is prosecuting the case as Part of Project Safe Childhood.
Project Safe Childhood is a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
Illegal Alien - Former Nicaraguan Tactical Instructor Sentenced for Assault of HSI Special AgentRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Nicaraguan National Michel Manuel Garcia Rojas was sentenced Wednesday June 17th in Albany by The Honorable Mae A. D'Agostino to 51 months in federal prison. Garcia Rojas pled guilty on February 9, 2026 to a single count indictment charging assaulting, resisting, and impeding a federal officer, in violation of 18 U.S.C. Section 111(a)(1) and (b).
First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III, Buffalo Acting Special Agent in Charge Anthony Patrone and ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Buffalo Acting Field Office Director Philip Rhoney made the announcement in Albany today.
On March 5th, 2025, Garcias Rojas was detained charged by the Rotterdam Police Department for misdemeanor charges including petit larceny. Pursuant to the Laken Riley Act, Federal Agents attempted to detain the defendant and his partner upon their release from Rotterdam Police custody, for detention and immigration removal proceedings pursuant to their lack of lawful authority to be in the United States.
While handcuffed, the defendant resisted lawful arrest and fled the special agents. During the course of the encounter an HSI Special Agent attempted to rearrest the defendant during what proved to be a violent fight, at one point repeatedly throwing the agent into an exterior door inside a vestibule, which prevented police officers inside the building from coming to the agent’s aid. The defendant’s assault on the agent caused a variety of injuries to the Agent. Throughout the altercation captured on audio and video surveillance, the Special Agent can repeatedly be heard calmly telling the defendant to “stop resisting,” while the defendant screams in rage. Ultimately, through the force of several law enforcement agents and the use of tasers the defendant was subdued and arrested.
The violent assault of a federal agent by a criminal alien, is the unfortunate result of the prior administrations failed immigration policies” said First Assistant U.S. Attorney John A. Sarcone III. “Thanks to the Laken Riley act, violent aliens such as this defendant can be detained and removed from our country. Let Mr. Garcias Rojas be an example to anyone who interferes with and/or assaults members of law enforcement – conducting lawful enforcement actions, this administration will leverage the resources of the federal government to enact justice and protect the American people.”
Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Buffalo Acting Special Agent in Charge Anthony Patrone: “This defendant, trained in defensive tactics, ran from federal agents, fought them and continued to resist in attempt to flee and attack law enforcement. Across the nation and here in New York, law enforcement personnel – enforcing the laws as they exist – are operating in an increasingly complex and dangerous threat environment. Despite the growing threats, HSI remains resolute in our mission to protect our communities and uphold the law. We stand united with our law enforcement partners and the communities we serve and will ensure that any attack on law enforcement is vigorously investigated and prosecuted."
The assault on our HSI colleague while in the course of their official duties comes at a time when open border activists routinely demonize ICE for enforcing the laws passed by Congress, and blatantly false anti-ICE rhetoric from irresponsible politicians is at an all-time high, ,” said ERO Buffalo Acting Field Officer Director Philip Rhoney. “Criminals and agitators will not stop us from carrying out our mission in a way that best serves national security, public safety and border security. I remain grateful to our officers and our federal partners for their work to keep violent illegal aliens off the streets in our state and our country.”Homeland Security Investigations investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Clark prosecuted the case.
Sarcone Leads Revival of NDNY Health Care Fraud Task ForceRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of New York convened a meeting of the NDNY Health Care Fraud Task Force, bringing together representatives from federal and state agencies, regulatory partners, and private-sector stakeholders to strengthen collaboration in the fight against health care fraud.
The meeting marks the revitalization of a task force designed to support information sharing, investigative coordination, and strategic enforcement efforts across the Northern District of New York. The task force was established in 2004 and was suspended in 2020.
First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III was joined by Assistant Attorney General for the Department of Justice National Fraud Enforcement Division, Colin M. McDonald, Federal Bureau of Investigation Special Agent in Charge Craig Tremaroli, and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General Special Agent in Charge Naomi Gruchacz.
“I commend the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of New York for its decisive leadership in revitalizing the NDNY Health Care Fraud Task Force,” said Assistant Attorney General Colin M. McDonald of the Department of Justice, National Fraud Enforcement Division. “By convening federal, state, regulatory, and private-sector partners, this Office is sending a clear message: health care fraud will not be tolerated in this country. Focused initiatives like this task force are vital to protecting vulnerable patients, safeguarding taxpayer dollars, and preserving the integrity of our health care system. I look forward to working closely with this outstanding team in the fight against fraud.”
“The reconvening of this task force should put all fraudsters on notice,” said First Assistant United States Attorney John Sarcone. “Those who enrich themselves through stealing from the hardworking American taxpayers will be relentlessly investigated, prosecuted, and held accountable to the highest standard under the law. I thank Assistant Attorney General Colin M. McDonald for joining our task force meeting and for his leadership in advancing the Trump Administration’s whole-of-government approach to these investigations. Together our partner agencies with the full support of the federal government, will use every available tool to identify fraud, dismantle criminal schemes, and recover taxpayer dollars. Health care fraud is not a victimless crime, every fraudulent claim submitted, every false bill paid, and every scheme designed to exploit our system steals from the taxpayers and exploits the integrity of programs that millions depend upon.”
Federal Bureau of Investigations Special Agent in Charge Craig Tremaroli, stated: “The criminals committing health care fraud operate across jurisdictions, exploit technology, move money rapidly, and often rely on the assumption that government agencies will remain siloed in their response. Our responsibility is to prove them wrong. Americans expect government funds to be used as intended, and the strength of this task force is found in our collective ability to share intelligence and coordinate resources to ensure anyone who chooses to abuse our systems is swiftly investigated and brought to justice.”
“The mission of the Office of Inspector General for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services is to root out fraud, waste, and abuse in federal health care programs. Our agency is incredibly grateful to have such strong partnerships with our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners as well as private entities that contribute to safeguarding health care programs,” stated Special Agent in Charge Naomi Gruchacz with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General. “Fraud in our health care system is a billion-dollar problem that affects taxpayers, vulnerable populations, and citizens who rely on health care providers to prioritize care over greed. This task force is an exemplary effort of public and private partnership to protect the federal health programs that serve millions of beneficiaries.”The task force will focus on identifying emerging fraud trends, coordinating investigations among partner agencies, sharing intelligence, and pursuing both criminal and civil enforcement actions against individuals and organizations engaged in fraudulent conduct involving federal and state health care programs.
The inaugural meeting included representatives from the following entities:Federal agencies: U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of New York; Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI); U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG); Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS); Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA); U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Office of Inspector General (VA-OIG); U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of New York.
New York State agencies: New York State Office of the Attorney General, Medicaid Fraud Control Unit (MFCU); New York State Office of the Medicaid Inspector General (OMIG); New York State Office of the State Comptroller (OSC); New York State Department of Financial Services (DFS); New York State Department of Health, Bureau of Narcotic Enforcement (BNE).
Program integrity contractor: Northeastern Unified Program Integrity Contractor (NE UPIC).
Private-sector partners: UnitedHealthcare; MVP Health Care; Excellus BlueCross BlueShield; Fidelis Care; Capital District Physicians’ Health Plan (CDPHP); MetLife.
FAUSA Sarcone said “I want to sincerely thank all our task force members—federal, state, and private—for their commitment to this mission. Working together, sharing intelligence, resources, and investigative tactics to detect fraud, we can hold offenders at all levels accountable, recover taxpayer dollars and root out fraud. I applaud their commitment to proactively pursuing these fraudsters.
The United States Attorney’s Office expects future announcements and press conferences in the coming months announcing investigations, prosecutions, and task force updates
On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division ('Fraud Division'). The Fraud Division is laser-focused on investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.
Government Contractor and Executives to Pay $21.3M to Resolve Fraud Scheme Involving Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business ContractsRead the Press Release
Broadway Electric Inc. (Broadway), Cornerstone Contracting Inc. (Cornerstone), Chief Executive Officer John Oehler, and President Christian Blake agreed to pay $21.3 million to resolve False Claims Act allegations that they improperly obtained federal contracts reserved for service-disabled veteran-owned small businesses and other eligible small businesses.
“Congress intended certain federal contracts to be set aside for small businesses and for service-disabled veterans who sacrificed for this country,” said Assistant Attorney General Brett A. Shumate of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “We will hold accountable those who fraudulently obtain, or assist others in fraudulently obtaining, these set-aside contracts.”
“Broadway, Cornerstone, and their executives engaged in a multi-year scheme to exploit federal contracting programs set aside for small businesses owned and controlled by service-disabled veterans,” said First Assistant U.S. Attorney John A. Sarcone III for the Northern District of New York. “When contractors circumvent eligibility rules through misrepresentation and undisclosed control arrangements, they undermine the integrity of federal procurement. These programs are designed to aid our nation’s heroes; it is unfortunate that these defendants sought to exploit the sacrifices our service members have made. My office will continue to aggressively pursue individuals and entities who engage in that conduct.”
Federal contracts may be set aside for small businesses that meet specific eligibility requirements, including those owned, controlled, and operated by service-disabled veterans of the United States military. These service-disabled veteran-owned small businesses (SDVOSBs) are intended to provide contracting opportunities to qualifying veteran entrepreneurs.
The settlement resolves allegations that, from approximately April 2017 through May 2025, the defendants engaged in a coordinated scheme to obtain federal set-aside contracts for which Broadway and Cornerstone were not eligible by using purported SDVOSBs and other small businesses as pass-through entities. Neither Oehler nor Blake is a service-disabled veteran and neither qualified to own or control a service-disabled veteran-owned small business. And although contracts were set aside by law for qualifying small businesses, Broadway and Cornerstone personnel in fact primarily controlled execution, staffing, and financial administration.
“The VA OIG will continue to vigorously pursue unscrupulous government contractors who attempt to profit from programs intended for qualifying service-disabled veteran business owners,” said Special Agent in Charge Gregory Billingsley with the Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General’s Central Field Office. “We thank the Department of Justice and our law enforcement partners for their joint efforts in this case.”
“The deliberate exploitation of the U.S. Small Business Administration’s (SBA) set-aside program, designed to give service-disabled veteran-owned small businesses a fair opportunity to compete, compromises the contracting process and the warfighters those resources are meant to support,” said Special Agent in Charge Jason J. Sargenski of the Department of Defense Office of Inspector General’s Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS), Southeast Field Office. “When large contractors fraudulently control small business entities to capture contracts they are not entitled to, they divert critical defense resources away from their intended purpose, undermine the competitive process, and betray the veterans these programs exist to serve. DCIS remains steadfast in its commitment to protecting the Department’s resources and preserving the trust that underlies every contracting dollar.”
“The favorable settlement in this case is the product of enhanced efforts by President Trump’s Small Business Administration, working with the Department of Justice and other federal law enforcement partners, to uncover misconduct in SBA’s contracting assistance programs and hold wrongdoers to account,” said SBA General Counsel Wendell Davis.
“This settlement sends a clear message: programs created to help America’s disabled veterans should not be exploited for personal profit. Our veterans earned these opportunities through their service and sacrifice. I want to thank our law enforcement and oversight partners for their continued collaboration and commitment to protecting the integrity of these important programs,” said SBA Inspector General William W. Kirk.
“The GSA Office of Inspector General will aggressively pursue contractors that provide false information to win federal contracts,” said Special Agent in Charge Jeffrey Ryan of the GSA Office of the Inspector General Mid-Atlantic Investigations Division. “We will continue to work with our federal partners to protect the integrity of the federal contracting process.”
“Fraudulent schemes that target programs designed to support our nation’s disabled veterans are an affront to those who served our country,” said Acting Inspector in Charge, Nicholas Bucciarelli, who leads the Chicago Division of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. “By exploiting these set-aside federal contracts, the defendants stole opportunities from honest, service-disabled veteran business owners. Postal Inspectors, working alongside our federal law enforcement partners, remain fiercely committed to protecting the integrity of government procurement and ensuring that federal funds serve their intended heroes. Today’s action demonstrates no matter how complex the deceptive trail is, we will bring fraudsters to justice.”
According to the settlement agreement, Defendants admit, acknowledge, and accept responsibility for the following conduct: Broadway and Cornerstone identified contracting opportunities and prepared and priced bids submitted in the names of purported small businesses, including through teaming agreements, joint ventures, and mentor-protégé structures. They secured bonding, selected subcontractors and personnel to perform contract work, and primarily controlled project execution and financial administration, including payroll. The purported small businesses received fixed payments, typically approximately one to three percent of total contract value and not tied to the scope of work performed, while the remaining contract revenue flowed to Broadway, Cornerstone, and contractors they selected. Broadway and Cornerstone personnel used small-business email domains and exercised signature authority in communications with federal agencies on behalf of the purported small businesses. At least one SDVOSB owner raised concerns regarding compliance with federal control and participation requirements, but Defendants did not implement material changes to the structure or operation of the arrangements.
Oehler and Blake were directly involved in establishing, maintaining, and directing the arrangements throughout the relevant period. They were informed of federal requirements that SDVOSBs control contract performance and receive commensurate benefits for their work, but did not materially alter the structure or operation of the arrangements they had established and maintained.
The civil settlement includes the resolution of claims brought under the qui tam provisions of the False Claims Act by two whistleblowers, a veteran of the United States Air Force and an executive with an SDVOSB firm. The False Claims Act allows private individuals to file suit on behalf of the United States for false claims and share in any recovery. Under the settlement agreement, the relators will receive $3,674,250. The case is captioned United States ex rel. Welch, et al. v. American First Contracting Inc., et al., No. 3:23-cv-0525 (N.D.N.Y.).
This year the Administration launched the Task Force to Eliminate Fraud and the National Fraud Enforcement Division to enhance the Administration’s war on fraud, waste, and abuse in federal programs. When unscrupulous actors exploit these programs for their own financial gain, they defraud the government, harm the people these programs are designed to aid and protect, and undermine American businesses that play by the rules. The Civil Division’s False Claims Act (FCA) enforcement plays a critical role in combatting such fraudulent schemes, recovering billions of dollars for the American taxpayers, and holding wrongdoers accountable. FCA matters will continue to be on the forefront of the battle against fraud, and the Civil Division’s FCA work will support and advance the mission of the Task Force to Eliminate Fraud and the National Fraud Enforcement Division.
The resolution obtained in this matter was the result of a coordinated effort by the Justice Department’s Civil Division, Commercial Litigation Branch, Fraud Section, and the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of New York, with assistance from the Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General, the Defense Criminal Investigative Service, the Department of the Army Criminal Investigation Division, the General Services Administration Office of Inspector General, the Small Business Administration Office of Inspector General, the Small Business Administration Office of General Counsel, and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. The matter was investigated by Trial Attorney James Nealon and Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam J. Katz for the Northern District of New York.
New York City Man Charged with Theft of Government PropertyRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Ezriel Green, age 41, of Brooklyn, New York, appeared in federal court June 2nd, 2026, on charges of theft of government property. This action is part of an ongoing effort of the Trump Administrations Fraud Task Force aimed at eliminating fraud across the country.
First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III, Amy Connelly, Special Agent in Charge, Boston/New York Field Division, Social Security Administration Office of the Inspector General (SSA-OIG), and Harry T. Chavis, Jr., Special Agent in Charge, Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI), New York Field Division made the announcement.
The complaint filed against Green alleges that between October 2024 and April of 2025, Green was employed by an assisted living facility in Mohawk, New York to manage the facility’s finances. While functioning in that capacity Green obtained and cashed over $573,000.00 of checks made payable to the facility and issued by the United States Treasury Department and New York Medicaid. Although these funds were intended for the operation of the facility and the care of its elderly residents, Green cashed the checks and converted the funds to his own use.
The charges in the indictment are merely accusations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.First Assistant United States Attorney John Sarcone stated, “This defendant’s greed was astounding and the way he went about satisfying it was despicable. His conduct targeted and harmed a community of elderly New Yorkers, and he will now be held accountable for that. My office and our agency partners remain dedicated to rooting out and eliminating this type of conduct and we will relentlessly pursue anyone involved in it.”
“Mr. Green callously stole more than $500,000 from elderly beneficiaries, diverting the funds for his own benefit,” said Amy Connelly, Special Agent-in-Charge, Social Security Administration, Office of the Inspector General (SSA OIG), Boston–New York Field Division. “We will continue to investigate those who misuse funds and work with our law enforcement partners to hold them accountable.”
“Stealing money that was meant to support a community’s most vulnerable is simply unacceptable,” said Harry T. Chavis, Jr., Special Agent in Charge of IRS-CI New York. “At IRS‑CI, we follow the money wherever it leads, and in this case, the path was clear. We’re committed to working alongside our partners to make sure anyone who abuses their position of trust faces the consequences.”
The charges filed against Green carry a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, and a term of supervised release of up to 5 years. Green may also be ordered to pay restitution to the victims of his offense. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statutes the defendant is convicted of violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors.
IRS-CI and SSA-OIG are investigating the case, and the case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Adrian S. LaRochelle.
On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division ('Fraud Division'). The Fraud Division is laser-focused on investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.
Homeland Security Task Force Investigation Results in Convictions for Eleven Drug TraffickersRead the Press Release
BINGHAMTON, NEW YORK – The final defendant in a multi-defendant Northern District of New York drug trafficking organization was sentenced last month in Utica, New York, by Senior United States District Judge David N. Hurd. Demario Shell, 52, previously of Michigan, was sentenced to 188 months in federal prison to be followed by a term of 5 years of supervised release. The sentence stems from his convictions for federal drug trafficking and money laundering offenses.
The announcement was made by First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III, Homeland Security Investigations Buffalo Acting Special Agent Charge Anthony Patrone and Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigations New York Special Agent in Charge Harry Chavis Jr. New York State Police Superintendent Steven G. James
A total of eleven defendants were charged and convicted for their roles in the organization that distributed large quantities of methamphetamine, cocaine, heroin and other drugs primarily from 2019 to 2021 throughout the Southern Tier of New York including Broome, Tioga and Chemung Counties. Shell, along with other convicted Michigan based defendants Hawkins and Merritt, supplied drugs to re-distributors in Broome, Tioga and Chemung Counties including to convicted co-defendants David Wemmer, David Cobb, Brandon Vanorman and Shawn McCabe. Several of these re-distributors also provided drugs to other re-distributors convicted as part of this case including Phillip Acciarito, Alan Wheeler, Jennifer Patton and Eini Raupers.
“The successful conclusion of this case is a testament to the tireless work of the Homeland Security Task Force and our partners,” said First Assistant United States Attorney John Sarcone. “With the sentencing of this final defendant, a dangerous drug trafficking group has been dismantled, those responsible held accountable, and our communities are safer as a result.”Members of the organization also unlawfully possessed firearms as felons or in furtherance of their drug trafficking. Throughout the investigation, law enforcement obtained over 1.5 kilograms of methamphetamine, various other drugs, over 65 firearms and proceeds of drug trafficking including currency and ATVs.
Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Buffalo Acting Special Agent in Charge Anthony Patrone: "These traffickers pumped methamphetamine, cocaine, heroin, and guns into the Southern Tier, profiting from addiction and violence. This investigation demonstrates the Homeland Security Task Force’s mission: dismantling complex, multi-state criminal networks from suppliers to street-level dealers and bringing them to justice. Working side-by-side with our federal, state, and local partners, HSI Syracuse remains firmly committed to driving criminal organizations out of our communities and protecting the homes, businesses, and futures of the people we serve.”
“Today’s outcome reflects the unwavering commitment of our federal, state, and local partners to continue our work together towards safer communities. By bringing this group to justice, we’ve helped protect families across the Southern Tier of New York and closed the door on a drug network that caused real harm,” said Harry T. Chavis, Jr., Special Agent in Charge of IRS-CI New York.New York State Police Superintendent Steven G. James said, “The final sentencing in this case is a true testament to the perseverance and aggressive strategy of law enforcement in stopping illegal drug trafficking at its source. This sends a strong message to all those trafficking drugs in New York that we will not tolerate these threats in our state. With our partners in law enforcement, we will remain in full force to combat the infiltration of illegal drugs into our communities and the dangers they impose.”
Below is a list of all the other defendants convicted in the case and the sentences they received:
NameAgePrevious Residence Charges of ConvictionSentenceTushaun Merritt49Jackson, MichiganConspiracy to Distribute and Possess with Intent to Distribute Drugs (PWID) and Conspiracy to Commit Promotional Money Laundering
170 months with 5 years post release supervisionMichael Hawkins43Benton Harbor, MichiganConspiracy to Distribute and PWID Drugs, PWID Drugs and Conspiracy to Commit Promotional Money Laundering
121 months with 10 years post release supervisionDavid Wemmer55Spencer, New YorkConspiracy to Distribute and PWID Drugs, Conspiracy to Commit Promotional Money Laundering, Possession of Short Barreled Shotgun in Furtherance of Drug Trafficking and Illegal Possession of Machine Gun
161months with 5 years post release supervisionDavid Cobb37Spencer, New YorkConspiracy to Distribute and PWID Drugs and Felon in Possession of Firearm and Ammunition
121 months with 4 years post release supervisionBrandon Vanorman50Spencer, New YorkConspiracy to Distribute and PWID Drugs and PWID Drugs
60 months with 4 years post release supervisionShawn McCabe38Windsor, New YorkConspiracy to Distribute and PWID Drugs and PWID Drugs
121 months with 5 years post release supervisionPhilip Acciarito39Owego, New YorkConspiracy to Distribute and PWID Drugs, Possession of Firearm in Furtherance of Drug Trafficking and Felon in Possession of Firearms and Ammunition
90 months with 5 years post release supervisionAlan Wheeler40Basset, VirginiaConspiracy to Distribute and PWID Drugs and PWID Drugs
120 months with 5 years post release supervisionJennifer Patton 44Spencer, New YorkConspiracy to Distribute and PWID Drugs and PWID Drugs
87 months with 4 years post release supervisionEini Raupers49Candor, New YorkConspiracy to Distribute and PWID Drugs
37 months with 5 years post release supervisionThis case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security-Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI), the New York State Police Violent Gang and Narcotics Enforcement Team (NYSP VGNET, Troop C and E), the New York State Police Special Investigations Unit (SIU) and the Tioga County District Attorney’s Office, with the assistance of the United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), Broome County Special Investigations Unit Task Force (BCSIUTF), the Elmira Police Department, the Michigan Jackson Narcotics Enforcement Team (JNET),Tioga County Sheriff’s Office, the Owego Police Department and the Sayre Police Department and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kristen Grabowski, with the assistance of the United States Attorney’s Offices in the Eastern and Western Districts of Michigan, the Western District of New York and the District of Nevada.
This operation is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF Buffalo comprises agents and officers from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Alcohol, Tabacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Internal Revenue Service (IRS/ CID), U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO), Customs and Border Protection/ Office of Border Patrol (CBP/ OBP), Customs and Border Protection/ Office of Field Operations (CBP/ OFO), Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Coast Guard Investigative Service (CGIS), U.S. Marshals Service (USMS), U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), U.S. Secret Service (USSS), Department of State/Diplomatic Security Service (DSS) with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of New York.
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Delaware County Man Sentenced for Social Security Fraud ChargeRead the Press Release
SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – Brian Gill, age 60, of Andes, New York, was sentenced Friday to 5 years’ probation and restitution in the amount of $117,015.40 for a charge of social security fraud.
First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Amy Connelly, Special Agent in Charge, Boston/New York Field Division, Social Security Administration Office of the Inspector General (SSA-OIG), made the announcement.
As part of his guilty plea, Gill admitted that between January 2021 and November 2023, while Gill was actively collecting social security disability benefits, Gill was also managing and personally engaging in physical labor for a tree services company he owned and operated. Gill also admitted he concealed from the Social Security Administration (SSA) the fact that he was working and falsely stated on a SSA form that he had not been working.
First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III stated: “Social Security Disability fraud is a serious offense that robs taxpayers of funds needed to assist those who are truly unable to work. Thanks to the diligent efforts of our law enforcement partners, people who try to game the system, like this defendant, are identified and held accountable.”
“Individuals who deliberately conceal work activity while receiving Social Security disability benefits undermine programs intended to support those with legitimate needs,” said Special Agent-in-Charge Amy Connelly, SSA OIG, Boston/New York Field Division. “We remain committed to investigating allegations of fraud and working with our law enforcement partners to ensure those who exploit these programs are held accountable.”
Chief United States District Judge Brenda K. Sannes also imposed conditions of supervision that included regular reporting to a probation officer; at least monthly restitution payments to the SSA; reporting to probation officials regarding income and earnings; and prohibitions against drug use and firearms possession.
The case was investigated by the Social Security Administration Office of the Inspector General, with assistance from the Offices of the New York State Inspector General. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ben Gillis and Adrian LaRochelle prosecuted the case.
Supporting McMahon Ryan Child Advocacy Center Through America’s 250th Birthday CelebrationRead the Press Release
SYRACUSE, NEW YORK - As part of America’s 250th Birthday celebration initiative, the United States Attorney’s Office is proud to support McMahon Ryan Child Advocacy Center through a gift-in-kind donation drive benefiting children and families in crisis.
First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III led the effort recognizing the important partnership McMahon Ryan brings to United States Attorney’s Office in support of victims.
McMahon Ryan Child Advocacy Center provides immediate assistance to children facing abuse and trauma, while offering healing through counseling, advocacy, and support services. The organization also works to educate and empower the community to help prevent future abuse. Project Safe Childhood and Human Trafficking cases receive wraparound care through the Child Advocacy Center, providing critical services and support for victims and their families.
FAUSA Sarcone Said: “As we celebrate the 250th Birthday of America we are reminded of the values that formed this great nation, Liberty, Service and Civic Responsivity, all ideals that shine bright through the work of the McMahon Ryan Child Advocacy Center. Our office was glad to participate in this collection and looks forward to our continued partnership.”
This effort was made possible through the generosity and participation of employees of the Syracuse and Binghamton United States Attorney’s Offices, as part of the ongoing Freedom 250 celebration. Freedom 250 celebrates the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States of America. It honors the enduring ideals of Liberty, Service, and Civic Responsibility.
Left to right: Ivy Schoff, Erin Bates, John A. Sarcone III, Michelle Jaeger, Desirae Boehle-Berler Syracuse U.S. Attorney’s Office Staff with collected itemsAmerica 250 Charity Drive Collects items for WellspringRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – In recognition of America’s 250th birthday the Department of Justice and the United States Attorney’s Office is proud to support Wellspring through a gift-in-kind donation drive.
First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III led the effort recognizing the important partnership Wellspring brings to United States Attorney’s Office in support of victims.
Wellspring is the domestic violence and sexual assault services resource for Saratoga County residents and the sexual assault services resource for Washington County residents. Wellspring’s mission is to support survivors and engage our community to end relationship and sexual abuse.In recognition of this event First Assistant U.S. Attorney John A. Sarcone III said “As our office celebrates the 250th birthday of our nation, we are reminded that one group alone cannot do it all. We are proud to collect and donate these items in support of our partners’ mission and to support victims. Their partnership and resources are a vital piece of the puzzle during the often long and complex investigations and prosecutions surrounding their work.”
This effort was made possible through the generosity and participation of employees of the Albany and Plattsburg United States Attorney’s Offices, as part of the ongoing Freedom 250 celebration. Freedom 250 celebrates the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States of America. It honors the enduring ideals of Liberty, Service, and Civic Responsibility.
Jefferson County Man Pleads Guilty to Receipt and Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Jefferson County Man Pleads Guilty to Receipt and
Possession of Child Pornography
ALBANY, NEW YORK – James Yerdon, age 55, of Adams Center, New York, pled guilty in federal court May 7th, to charges of receiving and possessing child pornography. First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III, Erin Keegan, Special Agent in Charge of the Buffalo Field Office of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), and New York State Police (NYSP) Superintendent Steven G. James made the announcement.
As part of his guilty plea, admitted that on May 13, 2025, he possessed multiple images and videos of child pornography that he had downloaded from the internet including material depicting the sexual abuse of children as young as five months old. The defendant also possessed nude images of a 7-year-old child Yerdon had created during a trip Yerdon took with the child to the Albany, New York area.
At sentencing, which is currently scheduled for September 8, 2026, in Syracuse, New York, Yerdon faces 15 to 40 years in federal prison for the receipt charge and 10 to 20 years for the possession charge. Both charges carry a fine of up to $250,000 and a term of supervised release between 5 years and life. Yerdon will also be required to register as a sex offender upon his release from prison. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statute the defendant is charged with violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors.
“This defendant will now face 15-40 years behind the walls of federal prison for his unconscionable actions” said First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III. “When caught before, New York State allowed Mr. Yerdon to face probation, furthermore, release him from supervision after serving only one-third of his sentence. This soft on crime approach allowed this defendant to continue preying on young children and reoffend. Thanks to the efforts of the New York State Police and Homeland Security Investigations for catching this predator yet again, my office was able to aggressively prosecute Mr. Yerdon and ensure will now truly face justice for his crimes.”
Yerdon was previously convicted on October 22nd, 2004, in Jefferson County Court for Promoting an Obscene Sexual Performance by A Child less than 17 Years of Age. Mr. Yerdon was sentenced to 10 years’ State Probation and received an early discharge February 15th, 2007.
HSI Buffalo Special Agent in Charge Erin Keegan: “James Yerdon’s reprehensible conduct—including his deliberate exploitation of a child in his care and his collection of images depicting the abuse of extremely young children—lays bare the profound threat posed by predators who target those least able to protect themselves. HSI Albany, in close coordination with our law enforcement partners, remains steadfast in our commitment to safeguarding vulnerable communities and upholding the safety and trust of the public we serve.”
New York State Police Superintendent Steven G. James said, “Although these types of investigations are difficult, we will continue to seek justice for those who have been victimized. No child should be placed in harm’s way of sexual exploitation and endure the physical, emotional, and psychological suffering it inflicts. I thank our State Police members, the United States Attorney’s Office, and the Buffalo Field Office of Homeland Security Investigations for their firm, proactive work on this case.”
The case was investigated by HSI and NYSP with assistance from U.S. Customs and Border Patrol and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Adrian LaRochelle as part of Project Safe Childhood.
Project Safe Childhood is a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
Armed Schenectady Drug Dealer Pleads Guilty to Multiple Federal OffensesRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Emery Moore, age 57, of Schenectady, New York pled guilty May 20th, to distributing methamphetamine, possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and possession of a firearm as a felon. First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Special Agent in Charge Farhana Islam and Schenectady Police Chief Brian Whipple made the announcement.
As part of his guilty plea, Moore admitted that on five occasions from March through July, 2025, he sold methamphetamine and cocaine in Schenectady, including at his home and on a playground. Moore further admitted that when DEA agents executed a search warrant at his home in July 2025, they recovered three guns, 50 rounds of ammunition, and 91 grams of cocaine that he intended to sell. Moore was prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition under federal law because he had been previously convicted of numerous felonies, including state drug and gun offenses.
“Thanks to the fine work of the DEA and Schenectady Police Department, this repeat offender will be spending a minimum of 10 years to life in federal prison where he can no longer poison our streets.” Said First Assistant U.S. Attorney John A. Sarcone III. “My office along with our partners are committed to Project Safe Neighborhoods by deploying the resources of the federal government to stop the crime and drug abuse plaguing our communities.”
“Drugs and weapons too often go hand in hand. Today’s guilty plea from Emery Moore serves a clear reminder that justice will be delivered to those who flood our communities with illicit drugs” stated DEA New York Enforcement Division Special Agent in Charge Farhana Islam. “The DEA remains steadfast in its commitment to working alongside our law enforcement partners in protecting our communities and enhancing public safety.”
Schenectady Police Department Chief Brian Whipple stated: “This guilty plea is another powerful example of what can be accomplished through strong local and federal partnerships to get deadly guns and dangerous drugs off our streets. Every firearm and narcotic removed from our community has the potential to save numerous lives and prevent devastation throughout our community.”
When he is sentenced by U.S. District Judge Elizabeth C. Coombe on September 9, 2026, Moore faces a combined mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years, a maximum term of imprisonment of up to life, a maximum fine of up to $5,500,000, and a term of supervised release of at least 4 years and up to life. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statutes that the defendant is convicted of violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors.
Moore has been detained since his July 1, 2025 arrest.
The DEA investigated the case with significant assistance from the Schenectady Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua R. Rosenthal is prosecuting the case.
Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psn.
Plattsburgh Man Arrested and Detained for Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
PLATTSBURGH, NEW YORK – George Shimell, age 29, of Plattsburgh, New York, formerly of Virginia Beach, Virginia, was detained, May 14, 2026.
First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III; Erin Keegan, Special Agent in Charge of the Buffalo Field Office of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI); and New York State Police (NYSP) Superintendent Steven G. James made the announcement.
The defendant was arrested on May 11, 2026, for possession of child pornography. A tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children led to his arrest.
In making his detention decision, U.S. Magistrate Judge Gary L. Favro stated that Shimell is a danger to the community.
The defendant faces up to 20 years’ imprisonment, supervised release for life, a fine of $250,000, restitution to victims, and sex offender registration. The charge in the complaint is merely an accusation. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
First Assistant United States Attorney John Sarcone said: “We thank HSI and the NYSP for their tireless work in this case that, once again, resulted in an alleged child predator brought in to face justice. This arrest and detention should serve as a warning to all who seek to exploit children: we will pursue you relentlessly, and we will ensure you face the full force of the law.”HSI Buffalo Special Agent in Charge Erin Keegan: "As alleged, this defendant’s possession of child sexual abuse material is among the most depraved conduct we investigate, and individuals who collect and trade in this material revictimize children again and again. HSI Albany utilizes every tool at our disposal, including and especially strong partnerships with our federal, state, and local counterparts, to identify, target, and confront child predators wherever they operate.”
New York State Police Superintendent Steven G. James said, “Implementing effective response strategies to technology-facilitated child sexual exploitation, cyber enticement and any crimes against children is paramount in keeping our communities safe. The New York State Police stand firm on the mission to assist in the prosecution of those who use the internet to gain access to and victimize our children. I thank our law enforcement colleagues for their partnership and coordinated efforts on the monumental task of keeping all children safe from predators.”HSI and NYSP are investigating the case. Also assisting on the investigation were the NYSP Special Operations Response Team (SORT), United States Customs and Border Protection Air and Marine Branch, Clinton County Sheriff’s Department, and the Plattsburgh City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Carling Dunham is prosecuting the case.
Project Safe Childhood is a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc
Collaboration Between Federal and Local Law Enforcement Leads to Seizures of Drugs, Guns and MoneyRead the Press Release
PLATTSBURG, NEW YORK – Three unlicensed marijuana dispensaries in Massena, New York were closed yesterday after an investigation led by the Drug Enforcement Administration after receiving information from law enforcement in Massena. The announcement was made by First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III, DEA New York Enforcement Division Special Agent in Charge Farhana Islam, FBI Special Agent in Charge Craig A. Tremaroli, HSI Special Agent in Charge Erin Keegan, IRS-CI Special Agent in Charge Harry Chavis, USBP Chief Patrol Agent Robert Garcia, St. Lawrence County District Attorney Gary Pasqua, St. Lawrence County Sheriff Rick Engle , Clinton County Sheriff Dave Favro, Massena Police Chief Cody Wilson, Plattsburgh Police Chief Jarrod Trombley.
“Since appointed to lead this office, it has been my priority to improve collaboration between federal partners and local law enforcement.” Said First Assistant U.S. Attorney John A. Sarcone III. “This operation is a shining example of that collaboration. Let this operation serve as a warning to anyone who believes they can exploit this region for criminal activity: the full resources of the federal government, working alongside our state and local partners, are now aligned, coordinated, and committed to shutting these operations down.”
“Yesterday, with the assistance our law enforcement partners, the DEA New York Enforcement Division conducted an operation which targeted three illegal and unlicensed marijuana dispensaries and numerous locations in upstate New York along the Northern Border” stated DEA New York Enforcement Division Special Agent in Charge Farhana Islam. “This operation resulted in the seizure of over 1000 lbs. of marijuana and THC related products, 40 pounds of suspected Methamphetamine, and approximately 20 illegal firearms, including assault style weapons and firearms equipped with extended magazines. Thanks to the strong partnership between the DEA and our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners, we are securing our northern border, dismantling illegal operations, and holding accountable those responsible for flooding our neighborhoods with illicit drugs and violence.”
FBI Special Agent in Charge Craig A. Tremaroli Stated: "The success of Operation Weed Out demonstrates the incredible partnerships at every level of law enforcement on the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF). When we leverage our resources, we're able to deliver impactful results like this seizure, that undoubtedly make our communities safer. The North Country communities should know this collective team is laser focused on finding the individuals responsible for trafficking dangerous drugs and weapons on our streets and ensuring they are brought to justice."
Special Agent in Charge of IRS-CI New York Harry T. Chavis, Jr. Stated: “We remain committed to ensuring that every business operating in this district follows the law and puts community safety first. These unlicensed dispensaries chose profit over public health, and our team worked closely across agencies to trace the financial flows behind their illegal operations. By following the money, we are able to disrupt the profit incentives that drive this conduct and make clear that such schemes will not be tolerated,”St. Lawrence County Sheriff Rick Engle Stated: “This was a great law enforcement collaboration with our federal and local partners to help keep our community safe, especially the youth of the community. This collaboration ensures that illegal marijuana shops don’t continue to operate in our county.”
“This case is a perfect example demonstrating the impact of strong interagency partnerships. The multi-agency members Safely executed a well-designed plan after an in-depth methodical investigation resulting in a much safer community.” Said Clinton County Sheriff David FavroAccording to civil forfeiture complaints filed in the United States District Court for the Northern District of New York, Uncle Crandy’s, Vape Bank/All the Smoke Massena, formerly known as 1 Willow Cannabis Co., and Famous A’s were distributing marijuana and marijuana products without obtaining the necessary licenses from the State of New York. Each dispensary also allegedly sold products prohibited by New York State law. For instance, Famous A’s sold THC products that look like candy bars; Uncle Crandy’s sold THC gummies advertised as containing more than 10 times the limit; and Vape Bank/All the Smoke Massena, formerly known as 1 Willow Cannabis Co. Bank, sold marijuana products with cartoon labels. Uncle Crandy’s and Famous A’s also allegedly distributed marijuana to an underage law enforcement officer.
The DEA, FBI, HSI, IRS-CI, Massena Police Department, St. Lawrence County Sheriff’s Office, and Plattsburgh City Police Department are investigating the case with the assistance of the United States Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey Brown is handling the civil forfeiture.