Northern District of New York
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Former DeWitt Post Office Station Manager Sentenced for FraudRead the Press Release
SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – Emilio Chirico, 57, of Cicero, New York, was sentenced on October 29 in federal court in Utica to 6 months of imprisonment after previously pleading guilty to wire fraud and misappropriation of postal funds. Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Matthew Modafferi, Special Agent in Charge of the Northeast Area Field Office of the United States Postal Service, Office of Inspector General (USPS-OIG) made the announcement.
As part of his prior guilty plea, Chirico admitted that between January 2021 and March 2023, he stole $81,553.94 in stamps from the DeWitt Post Office and falsified postal records to conceal the theft of the stamps. Chirico had been the station manager at the DeWitt Post Office since March 2012.
Senior United States District Judge David N. Hurd also sentenced Chirico to serve a 2-year term of supervised release to begin after Chirico is released from prison, to pay a total of $81,553.94 in restitution, a forfeiture money judgment in the amount of $81,553.94, and a $5,500 fine.
Acting U.S. Attorney Sarcone stated, “Public servants are entrusted with the responsibility to serve their communities with honesty and integrity. Mr. Chirico chose instead to abuse that trust for his own personal gain. Today’s sentence makes clear that no one who steals from the public—no matter their position—will escape accountability. My office will continue to work tirelessly with our law-enforcement partners to protect taxpayer funds and uphold the integrity of our federal institutions.”
USPS-OIG Special Agent in Charge Modafferi said, “The Special Agents of the United States Postal Service Office of Inspector General will continue to maintain the integrity of the U.S. Postal Service and its personnel. Our office will continue to vigorously investigate Postal Service employees who violate the public’s trust. This case serves as an excellent example of the successful collaboration between the USPS OIG and the U.S Attorney’s Office Northen District of New York to pursue and prosecute Postal Service employees involved in criminal activity. The USPS OIG is thankful for the great longstanding relationships we have with the U.S. Attorney’s Office to combat fraud.”
The United States Postal Service, Office of Inspector General (USPS-OIG) investigated the case, which was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Tamara B. Thomson, Michael F. Perry, and Melissa O. Rothbart.
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Broome County Man Sentenced to 19 Years for Drug Trafficking, Firearm Offenses, and Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
BINGHAMTON, NEW YORK – Corey Jordon Green, age 33, of Vestal, New York, was sentenced on October 3, 2025 to 19 years in federal prison for his role in a drug trafficking conspiracy spanning the United States. Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III; Erin Keegan, Special Agent in Charge of the Buffalo Field Office of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI); and Harry T. Chavis, Jr., Special Agent in Charge of IRS-Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) New York, made the announcement.
As part of his previously-entered guilty plea to a seven-count superseding information, Jordon Green admitted that from at least January 2022 through November 2023 he possessed with intent to distribute, distributed, and conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute large quantities of fentanyl and heroin in and around Broome County. Jordon Green and his co-conspirators obtained these drugs from sources of supply in California and elsewhere. The Court also found Jordon Green responsible for distribution of methamphetamine. As part of his plea, Jordon Green also admitted to possessing five firearms—three handguns and two AK-47 style weapons—to further his drug-trafficking activities, all while being prohibited from possessing firearms due to having been previously convicted of multiple felonies. Green also admitted to conspiring with others to launder his drug-trafficking proceeds.
Chief United States District Judge Brenda K. Sannes imposed a 19 year prison term, concurrent 3 and 5-year terms of post-release supervision, and a money judgment of over $185,000 of unrecovered proceeds from his drug trafficking.
Co-conspirator Michael Jacobs, age 35, of Endicott, New York, was previously sentenced by Chief Judge Sannes in December 2024 to a 130-month (10 years and 10 months) term of imprisonment for his role in the conspiracy. Chief Judge Sannes also imposed on Jacobs a 5-year term of post-release supervision.
Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III stated: “Fentanyl, heroin and methamphetamine are a scourge on our communities. Coupled with unlawful firearms possession, the danger is multiplied exponentially. This substantial sentence holds the defendant responsible for the serious harm he caused to the Broome County community, protects the public from his dangerous actions for many years and should serve as a strong deterrent for others engaging in the same conduct. Let this significant prison sentence be a warning to others that if you engage in this unlawful conduct, we will prosecute you to the fullest extent of the law.”
HSI Special Agent in Charge Keegan stated: “Today's sentencing reflects the gravity of the defendant's crimes and underscores the critical importance of dismantling these dangerous networks, which continue to place the often-unsuspecting public at risk. Drug trafficking, particularly involving fentanyl, devastates our communities, claims countless lives, and fuels addiction. As demonstrated today, HSI Syracuse, together with our law enforcement partners, is unwaveringly committed to protecting New Yorkers and holding accountable those who profit from poisoning our neighborhoods.”
IRS-CI Special Agent in Charge Chavis stated: “Jordon-Green operated a multi-layered criminal enterprise that included weapons possession, narcotics trafficking and movement of those illicit funds through various banks and money apps. IRS Criminal Investigation is committed to working in lock-step with our law enforcement partners to make sure dangerous criminals like Jordon-Green are put behind bars for their greed and continued threat to their own community.”
New York State Superintendent Steven G. James stated: “The New York State Police will continue to work with our federal partners to hold those who traffic in fentanyl, heroin, and other dangerous drugs accountable. This investigation shows how coordinated enforcement can remove violent offenders, illegal weapons, and narcotics from our communities. I want to thank HSI, IRS-CI, the DEA, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and our VGNET members for their dedication to protecting the people of Broome County and the surrounding region.”
This case was investigated by HSI, IRS-CI, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and the New York State Police VGNET. Assistant United States Attorneys Kristen Grabowski and Ben Gillis prosecuted this case.
This case 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.
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Acting U.S. Attorney Welcomes Special Assistant U.S. AttorneysRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Since October, Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III has sworn in seven Assistant District Attorneys (ADAs) as Special Assistant U.S. Attorneys (SAUSAs).
SAUSAs are able to prosecute cases in federal court under the supervision of the U.S. Attorney’s Office while remaining employed as ADAs. The ADAs recently sworn in as SAUSAs include: First ADA Michael T. Johnson (Herkimer County); Chief ADA J. Sam Rodgers (Madison County); ADAs Manpreet Kaur and Kathleen Hofmann (Montgomery County); and Chief ADA Christopher Bednarski and Senior ADAs Sara Fitzpatrick and Alphonse L. Williams III (Onondaga County).
Acting United States Attorney Sarcone stated: “One of my top goals as the Acting U.S. Attorney is to strengthen the partnerships among federal, state and local law enforcement organizations. When we work seamlessly together, more criminals are taken off the street, more weapons are taken out of their hands, and our communities are safer. I am proud to welcome more ADAs as SAUSAs, and I thank District Attorneys Jeffrey S. Carpenter, Christina Pearson, William Fitzpatrick, and Robert A. Mascari for their partnership in this important endeavor.”
Herkimer County DA Jeffrey S. Carpenter stated: “Herkimer County First Assistant District Attorney, Michael Johnson, was recently sworn in by Acting US Attorney John Sarcone as a Special Assistant US Attorney. This honor, the first in Herkimer County’s history, exemplifies the commitment by AUSA Sarcone to ensure the continued safety of the residents of Herkimer County through a joint partnership between our two agencies.”
Montgomery County DA Christina Pearson stated: “This is an exciting opportunity for my office and for the people of Montgomery County, and I thank Acting U.S. Attorney John Sarcone for his continued partnership. I am confident ADAs Kaur and Hofmann will represent Montgomery County with integrity and distinction.”
Onondaga County DA William Fitzpatrick stated: “I want to personally thank my friend US Attorney John Sarcone for following through on his initial promise to work cooperatively with all 32 DAs Offices within the jurisdiction of the Northern District of New York. Through his cross designations of members of my office as Special Assistant US Attorneys, I look forward to working with John on crimes involving gun trafficking, gang violence, child pornography and human trafficking, and narcotic sales all in an effort to keep Onondaga County one of the safest places to live in New York State.”
Acting Madison County DA Robert A. Mascari stated: “The opportunity provided by Acting United States Attorney John Sarcone to have my Chief Assistant District Attorney Sam Rodgers appointed as a Special Assistant United States Attorney is greatly appreciated. Reaching out to counties like Madison in this way speaks volumes to the willingness of Mr. Sarcone and the federal agencies to work closely with Madison County on matters of mutual concern. I know Sam is the perfect person for this appointment and being our connection to the United States Attorney’s Office. We look forward to working with Mr. Sarcone and his staff to improve and promote public safety throughout Central New York.”
Pictured above (left to right):
Herkimer County District Attorney Jeffrey Carpenter, Acting U.S. Attorney John A. Sarcone III, Herkimer County First Assistant District Attorney Michael Johnson, his wife, Andrea, and daughters, Emma and Lily.
Pictured above (left to right)
Acting U.S. Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Madison County Chief Assistant District Attorney J. Sam Rodgers.
Pictured above (left to right):
Acting U.S. Attorney John A. Sarcone III, Montgomery County Assistant District Attorney Manpreet Kaur, Montgomery County Assistant District Attorney Kathleen Hofmann, and Montgomery County District Attorney Christina Pearson.
Pictured above (left to right):
Daniel LaDuke, Acting U.S. Attorney John A. Sarcone III, Diane Fitzpatrick, Onondaga County Senior Assistant District Attorney Sara Fitzpatrick, Onondaga County District Attorney William Fitzpatrick, and Sean Fitzpatrick.
Pictured above (left to right):
Pictured above: Onondaga County First Chief Assistant District Attorney Joseph Coolican, Acting U.S. Attorney John A. Sarcone III, Chief Assistant District Attorney Christopher Bednarski and his wife, Maria.
Pictured above (left to right):
Onondaga County Senior Assistant District Attorney Alphonse L. Williams III, Onondaga County District Attorney William J. Fitzpatrick, and Acting U.S. Attorney John A. Sarcone III.
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Acting U.S. Attorney Meets with Assistant Special Agent-in-Charge of the U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector GeneralRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – On October 7, 2025, Acting U.S. Attorney John A. Sarcone III had an introductory meeting with Assistant Special Agent-in-Charge Sean P. Roberts of the U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General.
DOL OIG Special Agent-in-Charge Jonathan Mellone stated: “The Department of Labor’s Office of Inspector General greatly values its partnership with the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of New York. Their commitment to pursuing justice is essential to our mission of safeguarding the integrity of DOL programs and protecting America’s workers. Through our collaborative efforts, we will continue to hold accountable those who defraud federal programs, exploit workers, or compromise workplace safety. This partnership enhances our ability to build strong cases and reinforces the public’s trust in government programs.”
Acting U.S. Attorney John A. Sarcone III stated: “Today’s meeting underscores the strong and essential partnership between the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the Department of Labor’s Office of Inspector General. We remain committed to working closely with our law enforcement partners to safeguard federal programs, protect workers, and ensure that those who engage in fraud or exploitation are held fully accountable. I look forward to continuing our collaborative efforts to uphold the rule of law and strengthen public trust throughout the Northern District of New York.”
Pictured above (from left to right):
U.S. Attorney’s Office Civil Chief Karen Lesperance, U.S. Department of Labor OIG Assistant Special Agent-in-Charge Sean P. Roberts, Acting U.S. Attorney John A. Sarcone III, and U.S. Attorney’s Office Criminal Chief Cyrus Rieck.
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New York City Based Drug Supplier Pleads Guilty for Role in Ulster County Drug Trafficking OrganizationRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Defendant, Cecilio Wareham, age 48 of Queens, New York, pled guilty in October to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine.
The announcement was made by Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III; William S. Walker, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), New York; and Ulster County Sheriff Juan Figueroa, whose office leads the Ulster Regional Gang Enforcement Narcotics Team (URGENT).
In April 2025, ten defendants, including Wareham, were indicted for their roles in drug trafficking organizations that distributed large quantities of cocaine and crack cocaine in and around Kingston, New York and other areas of Ulster County. The organizations are alleged to have distributed over 11 kilograms of cocaine and hundreds of grams of cocaine base. Through the execution of search warrants in Ulster County and additional enforcement actions, law enforcement seized over five kilograms of cocaine and 270 grams of cocaine base.
As part of his guilty plea, Wareham admitted to supplying his co-conspirator, Greg Tejada, with quantities of cocaine for redistribution, including over 2 kilograms of cocaine that were seized from Tejada in October 2024.
Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III stated: “This guilty plea sends a clear and unequivocal message: we will aggressively dismantle the drug-trafficking networks that threaten the safety of our communities. Our work is far from finished, but this case proves that those who choose to spread dangerous narcotics will face decisive accountability. I strongly commend our federal, state, and local partners for their unwavering dedication and coordination throughout this investigation.”
HSI New York Special Agent in Charge Ricky J. Patel stated: “This plea is the result of a sustained, collaborative investigation aimed at dismantling criminal networks that traffic dangerous drugs into our communities. HSI New York and our law enforcement partners will continue to target the supply chains, distributors, and organizations responsible for fueling addiction and violence. Our efforts will remain relentless as we work to safeguard the public.”
Ulster County Sheriff Juan Figueroa stated: “URGENT and our partnering agencies remain committed to protecting Ulster County from the destructive impact of narcotics trafficking. This case highlights the strength of interagency cooperation and the dedication of our investigators. We will continue to pursue those who bring illegal drugs into our neighborhoods and ensure they are brought before the justice system.”
Sentencing is scheduled for February 26, 2026, before United States District Judge Mae A. D’Agostino. Wareham faces a prison term of at least 10 years and up to life, a fine of up to $10 million, and a supervised release term of at least 5 years and up to life. 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 remaining defendants, all of whom are charged with conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute a controlled substance, would face the following minimum and maximum terms of imprisonment upon conviction:
NameAgeResidenceMinimum Term of ImprisonmentMaximum Term of ImprisonmentDamon Dunn, aka “Moe”48Tilson, New York10 yearsLifeGreg Tejada, aka “Bear,48Highland Lakes, New Jersey10 yearsLifeRichard Johnson35New York, New York10 yearsLifeKevin Dunn52New York, New York5 years40 yearsAidan White23Kingston, New York5 years40 yearsKristine Scibelli41Middletown, New York5 years40 yearsXavier Patterson, aka “Xay”28New York, New York5 years40 yearsAllen McGraw, aka “Snoop”44Utica, New YorkNone20 yearsRaymond Robinson53Kingston, New YorkNone20 yearsAdditionally, Damon Dunn, Raymond Robinson, Greg Tejada, Kristine Scibelli, Xavier Patterson, and Richard Johnson are charged with Distribution of a Controlled Substance, and Aidan White and Damon Dunn are charged with Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance.
The charges in the indictments are merely accusations. The defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
This case is being investigated by HSI; the Ulster County Sheriff’s Office in conjunction with URGENT (the Ulster Regional Gang Enforcement and Narcotics Team); Federal Bureau of Investigation, and New York State Police Special Investigations Unit, Valhalla.
Assistant United States Attorney Ashlyn Miranda is prosecuting the case.
These prosecutions are 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.
Colorado Man Sentenced to 2 Years for Threatening to Kill Cayuga County ManRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Jerry Gordon, age 56, of Colorado, was sentenced yesterday to 24 months in prison for transmitting a threat in interstate commerce to injure another person.
Acting 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 previously entered guilty plea, Gordon admitted that in April 2025, he sent threatening text messages to a man in Aurora, New York. In the text messages, Gordon told the victim to get his affairs in order before Friday April 25, 2025, as he was going to “drink your blood from the chalice that I will make out of your heart.” Gordon was arrested by FBI agents as he was getting off a plane in Syracuse, on April 25, 2025, after law enforcement became aware of the threats.
Acting U.S. Attorney John A. Sarcone III stated: “Disgusting threats to kill the citizens of our district will not be tolerated. The defendant not only made these abhorrent threats; he traveled from Colorado to Syracuse to make good on them. Thankfully, local, state and federal agents, working together, were one step ahead of him. They apprehended the defendant as he was getting off the plane, thwarting his devious plans.”
FBI Special Agent in Charge Craig L. Tremaroli stated: “The FBI, together with our law enforcement partners, worked to identify, investigate, and quickly intercept Mr. Gordon before he could follow through on his disturbing threats of violence. Today’s sentence should send a clear message that the FBI will not stand idly by when a dangerous individual threatens the safety of our communities.”
United States District Judge Elizabeth C. Coombe also imposed a 3-year term of post-release supervision.
The FBI investigated the case with assistance from the New York State Police, Syracuse Regional Airport Authority Police Department, Syracuse Police Department, Cornell Police Department, Tompkins County Sherriff’s Office, United States Marshals Service, Cayuga County District Attorney’s Office, Federal Air Marshal Service, and the Oneida County Sherriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Geoffrey J. L. Brown prosecuted the case.
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Repeat Child Molester and Rapist Sentenced to 30 Years in Prison for Attempted Enticement of 10-Year-Old While Required to Register as Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Charles Wager, age 57, of Castleton-on-Hudson, New York, was sentenced today to 30 years in prison after a jury convicted him in February 2023 of attempting to entice a minor into engaging in unlawful sexual activities while he was required to register as a sex offender for his prior rape of a minor. Acting 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.
The trial evidence established that in January and February 2021, Wager exchanged thousands of sexually explicit text messages with people he believed to be a 10-year-old girl and her mother. In these text messages, Wager, among other things, shared pornography with the presumed child to groom her into sexual activity with him, educated her on different sexual acts he would perform with the child, sent nude pictures of himself, and arranged for a reward system whereby he would provide the child with toys and treats for engaging in sexual acts with him. Wager arranged to meet with the presumed mother and 10-year-old in person and purchased a car to do so. On February 5, 2021, he traveled from Castleton-on-Hudson to Binghamton, New York, for the purpose of having sex with the presumed 10-year-old. He brought with him numerous toys that he intended to give the child as rewards for performing sexual acts with him. The defendant was arrested shortly after his arrival and has been detained ever since.
As further established at trial, in 2002, Wager pled guilty in Rensselaer County Court to rape in the third degree, after admitting to the rape of a then-15-year-old girl. He has been required to register as a sex offender ever since. Evidence at trial also established that Wager previously sexually molested two other minor victims several decades ago. In his prior crimes, he engaged in virtually identical grooming of his victims to the conduct he attempted on his intended 10-year-old victim in this case.
“Charles Wager is one of the most dangerous child predators our office has ever prosecuted, and that speaks volumes,” said Acting United States Attorney Sarcone. “We will continue to unleash the full powers of the federal government to hold these twisted and evil people accountable for their vile and despicable crimes. I commend the FBI for its flawless operation to bring this repeat, remorseless child predator to justice.”
Special Agent in Charge Craig L. Tremaroli stated: “Today’s significant sentence put an end to Mr. Wager’s horrific history of sexual abuse and vile behavior. This dangerous individual will now spend decades in federal prison where he can no longer harm any of our children. The FBI remains as dedicated as ever to ensuring any individual seeking to harm our most vulnerable is swiftly identified, investigated, and brought to justice.”
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.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Benjamin S. Clark and Thomas R. Sutcliffe 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.
Prime Capital Ventures CEO Pleads Guilty to Multimillion Dollar Wire Fraud ConspiracyRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Kris Roglieri, age 45, of Queensbury, New York, pled guilty today to wire fraud conspiracy in connection with the operation and collapse of his purported commercial lending business, Prime Capital Ventures, LLC.
Acting 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, Roglieri admitted that he operated Prime Capital Ventures, LLC (“Prime Capital”) and, between mid-2022 and January 2024, conspired with others to fraudulently obtain tens of millions of dollars from Prime Capital’s clients. As part of the scheme, Roglieri falsely promoted Prime Capital as a lending business capable of making large commercial loans through third-party funding arrangements. Roglieri admitted that he and his co-conspirators deceived clients into sending Prime Capital tens of millions of dollars in payments based on false promises that the payments would allow Prime Capital to obtain these large loans and that the payments would be refunded if those loans did not materialize. Roglieri then used that money to repay or fund prior clients and on extravagant purchases for himself, including private jet travel and jewelry.
Acting U.S. Attorney Sarcone stated: “Kris Roglieri brazenly flaunted the proceeds of his scheme—including luxury vehicles, rare watches, and private jet travel—all while feeding his victims bigger and bigger lies to fuel his greed to even greater heights. But the truth stopped him like a brick wall. All those trappings of wealth will be forfeited, and he will be ordered to make his victims whole. I applaud the FBI and the members of my office on this case for unraveling this devastating scheme and bringing its perpetrators to justice.”
FBI Special Agent in Charge Tremaroli stated: “Mr. Roglieri built his lavish lifestyle on the backs of hardworking Americans looking to fund their businesses. Today’s plea ensures he will pay the price for that disturbing deception and greed. The depth of his deceit was staggering, but the FBI was deeply committed to thoroughly investigating this case and bringing justice to the victims who continue to rebuild their lives. While Mr. Roglieri remains in prison, the FBI will continue to investigate and bring to justice those who commit fraud schemes to mislead innocent investors.”
Two co-conspirators have also pled guilty in connection with this case. Kimberly Owen, a/k/a Kimberly “Kimmy” Humphrey, age 41, and her brother Christopher Snyder, age 45, both of Virginia Beach, have each pled guilty to a charge of wire fraud conspiracy. Both Owen and Snyder admitted to conspiring with each other and Roglieri to defraud Prime Capital clients. Owen is scheduled to be sentenced on January 15, 2026, and Snyder is scheduled to be sentenced on January 16, 2025.
Roglieri has been in custody since his arrest on a criminal complaint on May 31, 2024.
At sentencing on March 11, 2026 before United States District Judge Mae A. D’Agostino, Roglieri faces up to 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, and a term of supervised release of up to 3 years. He will also have to pay restitution to his victims and forfeit property that he obtained as proceeds of this offense. As part of his plea agreement with the government, Roglieri agreed to consent to entry of an order directing forfeiture of over $55 million, a dozen luxury vehicles, six Rolex watches, two Richard Mille watches, and a Virigina Beach mansion that was purchased as part of the scheme.
The FBI investigated the case and Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua R. Rosenthal is prosecuting it.
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Phone Scammers Falsely Claiming to be from Department of JusticeRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of New York is alerting the public of imposter scams involving individuals claiming to work for the Department of Justice.
During these calls, scammers appear to focus on immigration-related matters, like visa status, and at times threaten to retaliate against the person if their demands are not met. They often ask for personal information, like the person’s address or where the person is located.
Scammers use many tactics to sound and appear credible. They typically spoof their phone numbers so that when you receive the call, it appears as if the call is coming from a number associated with a government agency, like the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office will never:
- Direct you to tell us exactly where you are at any given moment; or
- Threaten you or tell you there are “consequences” if you do not speak to us or comply with any demands.
As a reminder, the U.S. Attorney’s Office will also never demand payment of any kind, including by gift card, and it will never ask you for your credit card number. Such requests are often made by scammers.
If you have been contacted by someone claiming to be from the U.S. Attorney’s Office and would like to confirm the call is legitimate, please hang up and contact our Office’s main line at 315-448-0672. While scammers can spoof their phone numbers to appear to be calling from this number when making outgoing calls, they cannot receive calls made to this number.
If you suspect you have received one of these scam calls, you may also report the incident via the Internet Crime Complaint Center at http://www.ic3.gov/.
Member of Deadly Human Smuggling Organization Extradited from CanadaRead the Press Release
A dual Canadian American citizen made her initial appearance in court in Plattsburg, New York today after being extradited to New York from Canada to face charges relating to her role in a deadly human smuggling conspiracy that left a family of four, including two small children, dead in the St. Lawrence River.
In June 2024, a federal grand jury in the Northern District of New York returned an indictment against Stephanie Square, 52, of the Akwesasne Mohawk Indian Reservation (AMIR), Canada, for conspiring to engage in alien smuggling, four counts of alien smuggling for profit, and four counts of alien smuggling resulting in death.
Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew Galeotti of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III, and Erin Keegan, Special Agent in Charge of the Buffalo Field Office of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), made the announcement.
Square was arrested in Canada in August 2024 at the request of the U.S. government. Her extradition followed extensive coordination and cooperation between U.S. and Canadian law enforcement authorities. Co-conspirator Timothy Oakes, 34, from the AMIR, was arrested on June 15, 2025, and remains detained pending trial for his role in the deadly conspiracy. U.S.-based co-conspirators Dakota Montour, 31, and Kawisiiostha Celecia Sharrow, 43, both of Akwesasne, New York, and Janet Terrance, 45, of Hogansburg, New York, entered guilty pleas on Jan. 23, 2025, Oct. 8, 2024, and March 6, 2025, respectively.
According to court documents, Square allegedly was the U.S.-based leader of an alien smuggling organization (ASO), that regularly smuggled aliens across the U.S.-Canada border via the Akwesasne Mohawk Indian Reservation. During the week of March 27, 2023, a prolific Canadian smuggler contacted Square to smuggle a Romanian family of four across the St. Lawrence River into the United States. In furtherance of the conspiracy, Square is alleged to have recruited multiple co-conspirators to assist with the smuggling of the family, though one refused to assist due to the high winds on the St. Lawrence River that night. Undeterred by the dangerous weather conditions, as alleged, Square enlisted one of her regular drivers, Dakota Montour, to transport the family via automobile to Timothy Oakes’ residence on Cornwall Island, a notorious staging area for cross-border smuggling operations.
The family of four arrived at the Oakes’ residence on March 29, 2023, at approximately 3:35AM, and stayed there until evening. On March 29, 2023, at approximately 9:29PM, Timothy Oakes’ vehicle with a light blue boat in tow, is recorded traveling eastbound away from the Oakes’ residence towards a public boat launch.
On March 29, 2023, between 10:09PM and 10:50PM, the Akwesasne Mohawk Police Service (AMPS) received multiple calls from citizens on Cornwall Island reporting hearing cries for help on the St. Lawrence River. The callers also reported the terrible weather conditions. At the same time, Square instructed Montour to search the banks of the St. Lawrence River for the missing family. On March 30, 2023, at approximately 3:36AM, Square instructed Montour to delete all their messages.
Between March 30 and 31, 2023, AMPS conducted a riverine search and recovered the bodies of the Romanian family of four, including two small children. AMPS also recovered Oakes’ light blue boat. The body of the boat captain, Case Oakes, was found eight months later.
HSI Massena engaged in an extensive years-long investigation of the case, with assistance from the U.S. Border Patrol, 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 support with foreign legal assistance requests.
The investigation is a result of the coordinated efforts of Joint Task Force Alpha (JTFA). JTFA, a partnership with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), has been elevated and expanded by the Attorney General with a mandate to target cartels and other transnational criminal organizations and eliminate human smuggling and trafficking networks operating within the Americas that impact public safety and the security of our borders. JTFA currently comprises detailees from U.S. Attorneys’ Offices along the border, including the Northern District of New York. Dedicated support is provided by numerous components of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, led by the Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section (HRSP) and supported by the Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section, the Office of Enforcement Operations and the Office of International Affairs (OIA), among others. JTFA also relies on substantial law enforcement investment from DHS, FBI, and the Drug Enforcement Administration, and other partners. To date, JTFA’s work has resulted in more than 420 domestic and international arrests of leaders, organizers, and significant facilitators of alien smuggling; more than 370 U.S. convictions; more than 315 significant jail sentences imposed; and forfeitures of substantial assets.
Trial Attorney Jenna E. Reed of the Criminal Division’s HRSP and Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey Stitt for the Northern District of New York are prosecuting the case. OIA Trial Attorney Trish Maskew provided significant assistance with the extradition.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces and Project Safe Neighborhood.
Local Leader of New York Capital Region Chamber of Commerce Charged with Attempted Enticement of a MinorRead the Press Release
Peter Bardunias, 59, of Clifton Park, New York, was charged today with attempting to entice a minor to engage in prohibited sexual activity. Acting 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.
The criminal complaint filed today alleges that over the past two weeks, Bardunias, a Senior Vice President of Community Advancement for the Capital Region Chamber of Commerce, sent messages to an individual he believed to be a 15 year-year-old girl during which he discussed subjecting the would-be minor to violent and sadistic sexual activity.
As alleged in the complaint, Bardunias told the individual—who was in fact an undercover law enforcement official—that he wanted to, among other things, “strangle[]” and “tortur[e]” the purported child while raping them. On October 6, 2025, Bardunias traveled to Warren County, New York, to meet the would-be minor and brought them candy to make them feel more comfortable. Bardunias was taken into custody shortly thereafter. The complaint also alleges that a federal search warrant executed at Bardunias’ residence revealed a box of sex toys which included restraints and a knife consistent with the materials used for the “torture chamber” Bardunias told the would-be child he was going to prepare to rape and torture them within.
“Parents need to be hyper-aware of conversations their children are having via text or online — predators often lurk behind screens,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “This man’s alleged crimes are shocking, and our prosecutors will ensure he faces severe consequences for his evil conduct towards an innocent child.”
“As alleged in the federal criminal complaint filed today, Peter Bardunias attempted to engage in what can only be described as heinous, unspeakable, and violent actions against a minor,” Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III said. “I am thankful that the FBI intervened to ensure that he was unable to follow through in any of this horrific activity with a real minor, and our community is safer tonight because Bardunias is behind bars.”
FBI Special Agent in Charge Craig L. Tremaroli stated, “As detailed in the criminal complaint, the allegations against Mr. Bardunias are truly horrific. His intentions were beyond disturbing and have resulted in serious federal charges. The FBI commends the brave individual who contacted us with information that immediately launched this investigation and put an end to these disturbingly sinister plans. We will continue to use every resource available to find and hold accountable any predator looking to victimize our most vulnerable, and we encourage anyone with additional information on Mr. Bardunias to contact our office.”
The charge filed against Bardunias carries a maximum sentence of life in prison, a mandatory minimum of 10 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, and a term of supervised release of between five years and life. 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.
Bardunias had an initial appearance today in Albany, New York, before United States Magistrate Judge Paul J. Evangelista, and was held in custody pending a detention hearing set for Friday, October 10, 2025.
The charges in the complaint are merely accusations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
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. Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph S. Hartunian 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 www.justice.gov/psc.
Local Leader of Chamber of Commerce Charged with Attempted Enticement of a MinorRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Peter Bardunias, age 59, of Clifton Park, New York, was charged today with attempting to entice a minor to engage in prohibited sexual activity. Acting 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.
The criminal complaint filed today alleges that over the past two weeks, Bardunias, a Senior Vice President of Community Advancement for the Capital Region Chamber of Commerce, sent messages to an individual he believed to be a 15 year-year-old girl during which he discussed subjecting the would-be minor to violent and sadistic sexual activity.
As alleged in the complaint, Bardunias told the individual—who was in fact an undercover law enforcement official—that he wanted to, among other things, “strangle[]” and “tortur[e]” the purported child while raping them. On October 6, 2025, Bardunias traveled to Warren County, New York, to meet the would-be minor and brought them candy to make them feel more comfortable. Bardunias was taken into custody shortly thereafter. The complaint also alleges that a federal search warrant executed at Bardunias’ residence revealed a box of sex toys which included restraints and a knife consistent with the materials used for the “torture chamber” Bardunias told the would-be child he was going to prepare to rape and torture them within.
“Parents need to be hyper-aware of conversations their children are having via text or online — predators often lurk behind screens,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “This man’s alleged crimes are shocking, and our prosecutors will ensure he faces severe consequences for his evil conduct towards an innocent child.”
“As alleged in the federal criminal complaint filed today, Peter Bardunias attempted to engage in what can only be described as heinous, unspeakable, and violent actions against a minor,” Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III said. “I am thankful that the FBI intervened to ensure that he was unable to follow through in any of this horrific activity with a real minor, and our community is safer tonight because Bardunias is behind bars.”
FBI Special Agent in Charge Craig L. Tremaroli stated, “As detailed in the criminal complaint, the allegations against Mr. Bardunias are truly horrific. His intentions were beyond disturbing and have resulted in serious federal charges. The FBI commends the brave individual who contacted us with information that immediately launched this investigation and put an end to these disturbingly sinister plans. We will continue to use every resource available to find and hold accountable any predator looking to victimize our most vulnerable, and we encourage anyone with additional information on Mr. Bardunias to contact our office.”
The charge filed against Bardunias carries a maximum sentence of life in prison, a mandatory minimum of ten years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, and a term of supervised release of between five years and life. 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.
Bardunias had an initial appearance today in Albany, New York, before United States Magistrate Judge Paul J. Evangelista, and was held in custody pending a detention hearing set for Friday, October 10, 2025.
The charges in the complaint are merely accusations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
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. Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph S. Hartunian 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.
Cuban National Admits to Interstate Methamphetamine and Fentanyl DistributionRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Christian Mur-Santana, age 39, a Cuban national residing in Las Vegas, Nevada, pled guilty on Friday to 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.
Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III; Frank A. Tarentino III, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), New York Division; and Ketty Larco-Ward, Inspector in Charge of the Boston Division of the United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), made the announcement.
Mur-Santana admitted that between April and July 2023, he mailed several packages containing pure methamphetamine and fentanyl from Las Vegas to co-conspirator drug distributors in the Capital Region. During the conspiracy, Mur-Santana used the U.S. Mail to distribute more than five kilograms of methamphetamine and 10 grams of pressed pills containing fentanyl. In September 2023, law enforcement searched Mur-Santana’s Las Vegas residence and recovered approximately 391 grams of methamphetamine and a loaded 9mm pistol.
Acting U.S. Attorney John A. Sarcone III stated: “Christian Mur-Santana, while a guest in this country, repeatedly shipped deadly and addictive drugs, several thousand miles, to the Capital Region. He will now be serving at least 10 years in prison. Mailing highly toxic and lethal substances through the U.S. Mail places our Postal workers in danger. We will aggressively pursue abuse of our U.S. Mail system by dangerous criminals like Mur-Santana. I am grateful for and commend the outstanding investigative work of our federal law enforcement partners who worked this important case.”
DEA Special Agent in Charge Frank A. Tarentino III stated: “The DEA remains committed to stopping the flow of dangerous substances, like methamphetamine and counterfeit pills laced with fentanyl, from reaching our towns and communities. Today’s plea is the result of the tireless work the DEA and our law enforcement partners do when targeting those who weaponize our mail system to traffic illicit narcotics and ensuring justice is delivered. We remain committed to targeting those responsible for fueling addiction and causing needless deaths from the poison they push.”
USPIS Inspector in Charge Ketty Larco-Ward stated: “The U.S. Postal Inspection Service takes very seriously any abuse of our nation’s mail system for criminal purposes. Today’s plea is the result of rigorous investigative work and demonstrates that the U.S. Mail is not a safe harbor for drug traffickers. We will continue to safeguard the integrity of the mail and support efforts to protect public health and safety.”
Mur-Santana was one of nine defendants to be charged in this investigation. The following defendants have pled guilty and have been sentenced or are pending sentencing:
- Todd Austin was sentenced to 78 months in prison, to be followed by a 3-year term of supervised release;
- 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;
- Flor Arencibia is scheduled to be sentenced on December 9, 2025;
- Melissa Karwan is scheduled to be sentenced on December 9, 2025; and
- Keisha Duboise is scheduled to be sentenced on January 7, 2026.
Charges against the remaining defendant, Felix Arencibia, are pending. The charges in the indictment against Felix Arencibia are merely accusations, and he is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
At sentencing, Mur-Santana faces at least 10 years and up to life in prison and a term of post-imprisonment supervised release of at least 5 years and up to life. He will be sentenced on January 23, 2026, before United States District Judge Anne M. Nardacci. 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.
These cases are being investigated by the DEA and USPIS. Assistant United States Attorneys Ashlyn Miranda and Joshua R. Rosenthal are prosecuting the cases.
These cases are part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
Onondaga County Woman Sentenced for Firearms and Drug OffensesRead the Press Release
SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – Alexis Miranda, age 30, of Syracuse, was sentenced on Thursday to 60 months in prison for possessing defaced firearms and for conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute heroin, methamphetamine, and fentanyl.
Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III; Bryan Miller, Special Agent in Charge of the New York Field Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF); and New York State Police (NYSP) Superintendent Steven G. James made the announcement.
As part of his previously entered guilty plea, Miranda admitted that from August to October 8, 2019, she agreed with Christopher Montano to distribute and possess with intent to distribute controlled substances, including heroin, fentanyl, and methamphetamine. On September 12, 2019, Miranda travelled from the Rome, New York, area to meet Montano, where they distributed more than 80 grams of methamphetamine to another person. A few months later, in August 2020, Miranda was stopped for a traffic violation on Interstate 90, in Rensselaer County, New York, and law enforcement found heroin and fentanyl in her purse as well as a roller suitcase in her trunk containing four semiautomatic pistols with defaced serial numbers.
Last year, Montano was sentenced to 76 months in prison for unlawfully selling unregistered firearms and drug trafficking crimes.
Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III stated: “Alexis Miranda was engaged in trafficking deadly substances and weapons, each of which contribute to drug addiction and gun violence in the community. We will relentlessly pursue and prosecute individuals like her to get rid of deadly firearms and drugs from our streets.”
ATF Special Agent in Charge Bryan Miller stated: “Those who traffic in illegal firearms and deadly drugs will be held accountable. These defaced and stolen weapons pose a serious threat to our communities, and we remain committed to working with our federal and local partners to disrupt this kind of dangerous criminal activity.”
New York State Police Superintendent Steven G. James stated, “Strong partnerships are crucial for intercepting the illegal drugs and weapons that sustain a cycle of violence and threaten the quality of life in our communities. The collaborative multi-agency efforts of the United States Attorney’s Office, ATF, and New York State Police has resulted in the sentencing of Mr. Miranda and has eradicated an unprincipled gun and drug trafficking operation. We will continue to make it a priority to find those who commit these acts and dismantle the dangerous chain of activities they perpetuate.”
Senior United States District Judge Glenn T. Suddaby also imposed a 5-year term of post-release supervision.
ATF and the NYSP investigated this case. Assistant United States Attorney Alexander Wentworth-Ping 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.
Oneida County Man Sentenced for Conspiring to Receive and Distribute Child Pornography and for Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – John Kelly, age 83, of Rome, New York, was sentenced on Wednesday to 60 months in federal prison for conspiring to receive and distribute child pornography and for possessing child pornography, announced Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Erin Keegan, Special Agent in Charge of the Buffalo Field Office of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI).
As part of his prior guilty plea, Kelly acknowledged that in August 2022 he began conspiring with his co-defendant, Richard Hockersmith, about exchanging child sexual abuse material. Kelly further acknowledged that he and Hockersmith decided to exchange the material by mailing an SD card containing child sexual abuse images and videos back and forth, which each of them did. Kelly also acknowledged that during a search of his residence on February 23, 2024, he possessed numerous images and videos of child pornography on a laptop computer.
United States District Judge Anne M. Nardacci also sentenced Kelly to serve a 10-year term of supervised release to begin after Kelly is released from prison, and to pay a total of $15,000 in restitution. Kelly will also be required to register as a sex offender upon his release.
Hockersmith was previously sentenced on July 8, 2025, to six years in federal prison and a 10-year term of post-release supervision.
Acting U.S. Attorney Sarcone stated, “It is beyond disturbing that an 83-year-old man would seek out depictions of the sexual abuse of our most vulnerable population. Thanks to the diligent work of HSI, the Oneida County Sheriff’s Office, and New York State Police, this defendant will now be spending his twilight years in federal prison—where he belongs.”
HSI Special Agent in Charge Keegan said, “Today's sentence underscores how coordinated, targeted investigative efforts disrupt the distribution of child sexual abuse material and ensure offenders are held accountable. Protecting children from sexual exploitation is one of HSI's highest priorities, and we will relentlessly investigate and disrupt those who trade in child sexual abuse material. HSI Syracuse's strong partnership with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of New York—and our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners—has proven essential to holding these child predators accountable and strengthening public safety across New York.”
The case was investigated by HSI with assistance from the Oneida County Sheriff’s Office and New York State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney Adrian S. LaRochelle 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.
Florida Man Sentenced to 17.5 Years in Prison as Leader of Cocaine Conspiracy That Shipped Cocaine from Puerto Rico to SyracuseRead the Press Release
SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – Juan Correa Sr. age 49, of Lady Lake, Florida was sentenced on Wednesday to 210 months in prison for money laundering and conspiring to possess with intent to distribute over 5 kilograms of cocaine. Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Frank A. Tarentino III, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), New York Division, made the announcement.
As part of his prior guilty plea, the defendant admitted that from July 2021 through July 2024, he conspired with others to distribute cocaine in Onondaga County. As part of the conspiracy, the defendant directed Alex Calcano-Carrasquillo to mail packages with kilograms of cocaine from Puerto Rico to Syracuse. He then arranged for the packages to be picked up and delivered to Juan Correa, Jr. and Ashley Correa, who re-distributed the cocaine to others in the Syracuse area. Correa Sr. also arranged for them to mail cash from the cocaine sales back to Calcano-Carrasquillo for the purpose of purchasing more cocaine.
All four of these co-conspirators were charged in an indictment last year and have since pled guilty to various offenses. Alex Calcano-Carrasquillo was sentenced to 10 years’ imprisonment; Juan Correa, Jr. was sentenced to 7 years’ imprisonment; and Ashley Correa was sentenced to over 7 years’ imprisonment.
Senior United States District Judge Glenn T. Suddaby also ordered the defendant to serve a 5-year term of supervised release following his release from prison.
Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III stated: “Bringing the head of this dangerous organization to justice is a testament to the close collaboration of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies up and down the East Coast. This defendant had 5 prior state felony drug convictions and didn’t learn his lesson. 17 years in federal prison should do the trick. We remain committed to ensuring repeat offenders like this defendant, who make money from flooding our community with deadly drugs, get taken off our streets.”
DEA Special Agent in Charge Frank A. Tarentino III stated: “The sentencing of Juan Correa Sr., is the result of the hard work and determination the DEA and our law enforcement partners have when targeting those individuals looking to transport illicit narcotics through the northeast corridor. The DEA remains focused on disrupting these supply chains and preventing these dangerous narcotics from reaching our streets.”
Harry T. Chavis, Jr., Special Agent in Charge of IRS-Criminal Investigation New York, stated: “Juan Correa Sr. is just another predator who chose to bring highly addictive drugs into our neighborhoods, continuing to prey on the vulnerable. IRS-CI New York is proud to continue its work with the DEA and our law enforcement partners in ridding our communities of those who have no regard for the welfare of its people. This sentencing does exactly that.”
Ketty Larco-Ward, Inspector in Charge of the United States Postal Inspection Service, Boston Division, stated: “Through our joint enforcement efforts, we’ve dismantled a criminal organization that posed a serious public safety threat to New York communities. As this sentence demonstrates, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service is working closely with its law enforcement partners to prevent dangerous and addictive drugs from reaching our streets and ensuring that perpetrators of such attempts are brought to justice.”
Joseph L. Cecile, Chief of the Syracuse Police Department, stated: “Law Enforcement is never stronger than when we partner together. Together, we represent an omnipresent threat to criminal enterprises such as this one. On behalf of the Syracuse Police Department, I would like to both thank and congratulate the U.S. Attorney’s Office and all of our law enforcement partners who successfully dismantled this drug trafficking organization. Well done!"
This case was investigated by the DEA, U.S. Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI), United States Postal Inspection Service, and the Syracuse Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Geoffrey Brown prosecuted the case.
This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
Washington County Man Pleads Guilty to Transportation of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Thomas P. Allen, Sr., age 44, of Granville, New York, pled guilty on Monday to transportation of child pornography. Acting 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.
Allen admitted that from about February 2016 through November 2018, and in December 2019, he used the internet to upload images of child pornography to his Google Drive account. Additionally, he received images of child pornography on his cellular phone.
Acting U.S. Attorney John A. Sarcone III stated: “Thomas P. Allen’s deliberate and calculated use of the internet to transport and possess child pornography is a violation of the law and the innocence of children. My office will not allow anyone who engages in such sickening conduct to evade justice. This case should serve as a warning to all who would exploit children: we will pursue you relentlessly, and we will ensure you face the full force of the law.”
FBI Special Agent in Charge Craig L. Tremaroli stated: “This plea ensures Mr. Allen will spend time in federal prison for his despicable actions. The FBI will continue to aggressively seek out and investigate those who prey on our most vulnerable, especially predators who possess child pornography.”
Sentencing is scheduled for January 22, 2026, before United States District Judge Mae A. D’Agostino. Allen faces at least 5 years and up to 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. Allen also will have to pay restitution to victims, forfeit property he used to commit the offense, and will be required to register as a sex offender. 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 FBI investigated the case with assistance from the New York State Police. 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.
Syracuse Man Pleads Guilty to Distributing MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – Quintron Dixon, age 22, of Syracuse, pled guilty today to distribution of a controlled substance and possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance. Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Bryan Miller, Special Agent in Charge of the New York Field Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), made the announcement.
Dixon admitted that on September 13, 2023, he sold approximately 52 grams of pure methamphetamine to a customer in Syracuse. On July 24, 2025, during an arrest, Syracuse police officers found in Dixon’s pocket a plastic bag, which Dixon admitted as part of his plea contained approximately 84 grams of methamphetamine that he intended to distribute to others.
Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III stated: “Methamphetamine is a particularly dangerous and addictive drug, and those who peddle this deadly poison are a scourge on our communities. Together with our law enforcement partners, the U.S. Attorney’s Office is dedicated to rooting out drug traffickers and putting them behind bars, where they belong.”
ATF Special Agent in Charge Bryan Miller stated: “This guilty plea reflects the strength of ongoing collaboration with ATF NY Syracuse Field Office, Syracuse PD Intel Unit and the US Attorney’s Office NDNY. Those who think they can disregard laws and push dangerous drugs into our communities – fueling addiction and death – will be held accountable. ATF NY remains committed to protecting our neighborhoods and ensuring the safety of those we serve.”
Sentencing is scheduled for February 11, 2026, before Senior United States District Judge Glenn T. Suddaby. Dixon faces a prison term on each count of at least 5 years and up to 40 years, a fine of up to $5 million, 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 statute the defendant is convicted of violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, and other factors.
ATF is investigating the case with assistance from the Syracuse Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Matt McCrobie is prosecuting the case.
Cayuga County Sex Offender Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison for Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – Brien Fredendall, age 46, of Port Byron, New York, was sentenced Monday to 10 years in federal prison for his convictions on two counts of possession of child pornography. Acting 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 prior guilty plea, Fredendall, who has a previous New York State conviction for possession of child pornography, admitted that he possessed videos and images of child sexual abuse material (CSAM) he received from a minor on his Snapchat account. He also admitted to possessing additional CSAM on his cellular phone.
Chief United States District Judge Brenda K. Sannes also imposed a 15-year term of supervised release to begin after Fredendall’s release from imprisonment. Fredendall will also be required to continue to register as a sex offender upon his release.
Acting United States Attorney Sarcone stated: “The U.S. Attorney’s Office will relentlessly pursue and prosecute anyone who seeks to exploit and harm children. There is no room in our society for predators like Fredendall, other than in prison. His decade-long federal prison term is a clear message: those who prey on our most vulnerable will face the full force of the law. We are unwavering in our mission to protect children and hold offenders accountable.”
FBI Special Agent in Charge Tremaroli said, “Mr. Fredendall, who was already a convicted predator, continued to prey on our most vulnerable. Now, he’s headed to federal prison for a decade. The FBI’s Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force will continue to leverage our partnerships at every level of law enforcement to stop children from being exploited and bring to justice those responsible for these despicable acts.”
This case was investigated by the FBI’s Albany Division Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force with the assistance of the Cayuga County Sherriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Adrian S. LaRochelle 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.
Canadian Man Sentenced Following Trial Convictions for Pandemic FraudRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Joseph Osei, a/k/a/ “Kyngjo,” age 30, a Canadian citizen formerly of Albany, was sentenced on Tuesday to 54 months in prison for engaging in a fraudulent scheme to obtain COVID-19 pandemic-related unemployment insurance benefits using stolen identities.
Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III; Ketty Larco-Ward, Inspector in Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), Boston Division; Erin Keegan, Special Agent in Charge of the Buffalo Field Office of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI); and Jonathan Mellone, Special Agent in Charge, Northeast Region, United States Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General (USDOL-OIG), made the announcement.
The trial evidence showed that from August 2020 through November 2020, Osei fraudulently obtained unemployment insurance benefits from the New York State Department of Labor worth more than $200,000. Additional evidence also included Osei’s schemes to defraud the state workforce agencies of California, Rhode Island, and Arizona using stolen identities to apply for and obtain pandemic unemployment insurance benefits. In May, jurors deliberated for less than two hours before returning a guilty verdict on all counts, including four counts of mail fraud, one count of access device fraud, and two counts of aggravated identity theft.
United States District Judge Mae A. D’Agostino also ordered a 3-year term of supervised release to follow Osei’s release from prison, as well as restitution to the State of New York and State of Arizona in the total amount of $211,360, and forfeiture of a money judgment.
Acting U.S. Attorney John A. Sarcone III stated: “Joseph Osei’s brazen exploitation of critical relief programs during a national crisis was an affront to every individual who genuinely relied on these resources to survive. By stealing the identities of other people, Osei not only violated the law but also undermined the very purpose of programs designed to help those in need. His actions were callous and calculated, and justice was served when he was found guilty on all counts and then sentenced yesterday to 54 months in prison. I thank each law enforcement agency involved in this task force for their hard work in prosecuting this case.”
USPIS Inspector in Charge Ketty Larco-Ward stated: “The relief programs that Osei stole from were created as lifelines during the COVID pandemic and Osei took funds away from those in need and victimized unsuspecting people by stealing their personal identifying information. The U.S. Postal Inspection Service will relentlessly pursue those who misuse the mail for fraud and bring them to justice.”
HSI Special Agent in Charge Erin Keegan said: “HSI Albany is proud to have played a role in ensuring Joseph Osei faced the consequences of his fraud and identity theft. The prosecution of Osei will serve as a deterrent to anyone else who thinks about trying to steal from New Yorkers and government programs.”
Jonathan R. Mellone, Special Agent-in-Charge, Northeast Region, USDOL-OIG stated, “Joseph Osei used stolen identities to fraudulently obtain critical taxpayer funds intended for American workers in need of unemployment insurance benefits during the COVID-19 pandemic. Safeguarding the integrity of the unemployment insurance program remains a top priority for the Office of Inspector General. We will continue to work closely with the U.S. Attorney’s Office and our law enforcement partners to ensure the protection of U.S. Department of Labor programs and operations.”
This case was investigated by USDOL-OIG, USPIS, and HSI, with assistance from U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s New York Field Office and the New York State Department of Labor’s Office of Special Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Alexander P. Wentworth-Ping and Joshua R. Rosenthal prosecuted the case.
Rensselaer County Man Pleads Guilty to Money Order FraudRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Matthew Dundas, age 26, of Petersburgh, New York, pled guilty on Tuesday to money order fraud. Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Matthew M. Modafferi, Special Agent in Charge of the Northeast Area Field Office of the United States Postal Service, Office of Inspector General (“USPS-OIG”), made the announcement.
Dundas admitted that between January 2023 and September 2024, while he was employed with the USPS, he fraudulently issued 105 money orders to himself without paying for them, and stole $76,976.61 from the United States.
Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III stated: “Stealing from the government is a serious crime under any circumstance, but it is especially shocking when the perpetrator is a public servant engaged in self-dealing. We thank the Office of Inspector General for its continued efforts to root out fraud from within.”
USPS-OIG Special Agent in Charge Matthew M. Modafferi stated, “The Special Agents of the United States Postal Service Office of Inspector General will continue to maintain the integrity of the U.S. Postal Service and its personnel. Our office will continue to vigorously investigate Postal Service employees who violate the public’s trust. This case serves as an excellent example of the successful collaboration between the USPS OIG and the U.S Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of New York to pursue and prosecute Postal Service employees involved in criminal activity. The USPS OIG is thankful for the great longstanding relationships we have with the U.S. Attorney’s Office to combat fraud.”
Sentencing is scheduled for January 14, 2026, before U.S. District Judge Anne M. Nardacci. Dundas faces a maximum term of 5 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, and a term of supervised release of up to 3 years. 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 USPS-OIG is investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexander Wentworth-Ping is prosecuting the case.
Oneida County Man Charged with Sexual Exploitation of a Child and Receipt of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – John Secor, Jr., age 44, of Rome, New York, appeared in federal court on Friday on charges of sexual exploitation of a child and receipt of child pornography, announced Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Erin Keegan, Special Agent in Charge of the Buffalo Field Office of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI).
The complaint filed against Secor, Jr. alleges that beginning in or about May 2025, Secor Jr. began chatting online with a 16-year-old girl. Secor Jr.’s chats with the child quicky became sexual in nature with Secor Jr. requesting that the child create sexually explicit images and videos of herself for him, which she did. The complaint also alleges that on least one occasion Secor Jr. attempted to arrange a meeting with the child during which Secor Jr. planned to engage in sex acts with the child. The charges in the complaint are merely accusations. Secor, Jr. is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
The receipt charge filed against Secor, Jr. carries a mandatory minimum term of 5 years in prison and a maximum term of 20 years. The exploitation charge carries a mandatory minimum term of 15 years in prison and a maximum term of 30 years. Both charges carry a fine of up to $250,000 and a term of supervised release between 5 years and life. Secor, Jr. would 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.
Secor Jr. was arraigned before United States Magistrate Judge Miroslav Lovric and ordered detained pending further proceedings.
Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III stated, “We thank HSI and the NYSP for their tireless work in this case that, once again, resulted in a dangerous sexual predator facing justice and a child saved from unspeakable horrors. The defendant’s conduct as alleged in the complaint is disgusting and despicable and my office will make sure he is held accountable to the fullest extent of the law. He is also detained pending trial, which would not have happened had he been charged in a local court thanks to the bail ‘reform’ that has been plaguing New York State for eight years and counting.”
Erin Keegan, Special Agent in Charge of HSI Buffalo Field Office, stated, “These allegations represent some of the most reprehensible crimes imaginable, preying on the innocence of a child. HSI remains steadfast in its commitment to protecting our communities by leveraging our investigative expertise and partnerships to bring predators like this to justice. We will continue to work tirelessly with our federal, state, and local partners to ensure those who exploit children are held accountable to the fullest extent of the law.”
New York State Police Superintendent Steven G. James said, “Anyone involved in child pornography, promoting the acts of child predators, or performing predatory acts against children must understand that such crimes will not be tolerated. Through the partnership among members of the United States Attorney’s Office and the Buffalo Field Office of Homeland Security Investigations we were able to gather the necessary evidence and bring charges against Mr. Secor. The charges send a clear message as to the severity of the alleged crimes and our diligence in finding justice for the victims.”
HSI and NYSP are investigating this case, which 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.
Florida Man Sentenced to 18 Months for Firearm OffenseRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Akeem Davis, age 31, of Brandon, Florida, was sentenced today to 18 months in prison for possessing a firearm as a convicted felon.
Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Bryan Miller, 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, Davis admitted that he drove from Florida to Latham, New York, to sell a privately manufactured firearm—often referred to as a “ghost gun”— styled as a sub-machine gun in exchange for $1,200. Davis could not legally possess the firearm as he had been previously convicted of a Kansas state felony drug charge. Davis also offered to sell machine gun conversion devices and firearm silencers.
Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III stated: “Akeem Davis, a convicted drug felon, traveled across state lines to peddle a highly dangerous ‘ghost gun’—a firearm that has no serial number and is virtually untraceable. His actions, fueled by blatant disregard for the law, are a reminder that this office will not tolerate felons who attempt to flood our streets with illegal, unregulated weapons. We will relentlessly pursue and prosecute individuals like Davis, using every available legal tool to ensure they face the full weight of the law. Our commitment to public safety is unwavering, and we will continue to dismantle criminal networks that threaten our communities.”
ATF Special Agent in Charge Bryan Miller stated:“Those who traffic in illegal firearms — including machine guns and silencers — will be held accountable. These weapons pose a serious threat to our communities, and we remain committed to working with our federal and local partners to disrupt this kind of dangerous criminal activity.”
United States District Judge Mae A. D’Agostino also imposed a 2-year term of post-release supervision.
ATF investigated this case. Assistant United States Attorney Matthew Paulbeck 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.
Washington County Man Sentenced to 151 Months in Prison for Distribution and Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – David Dion, age 48, of Greenwich, New York, was sentenced yesterday to 151 months in prison for distributing and possessing child pornography. Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III, Craig L. Tremaroli, Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and New York State Police (NYSP) Superintendent Steven G. James made the announcement.
As part of his earlier guilty plea, Dion admitted that from July 2023 to January 2024, he distributed images and videos of child pornography via an encrypted chat messenger to another person, and that he possessed images of child pornography on five electronic devices on February 28, 2024, when his residence was searched. He also admitted that he produced morphed images of child pornography by using non-pornographic images of known children from his Washington County community and superimposing the faces of those children onto images of child pornography he found on the Internet to create an adapted or modified depiction of an identifiable minor engaged in sexually explicit conduct. Dion possessed more than 205,000 images and 545 videos depicting child pornography across his devices.
United States District Judge Anne M. Nardacci also ordered a 20-year term of supervised release to follow Dion’s release from prison, as well as restitution to the victims in the total amount of $105,000, and forfeiture of the electronic devices he used to commit the offenses. Dion will also be required to register as a sex offender upon his release from prison.
Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III stated, “Dion is a sexual predator who deeply impacted the lives of his community, by merging ordinary photos of local children into images of child pornography. He will now spend the next twelve and a half years of his wretched life locked up in a cage where he belongs. I thank our state and local partners for bringing this case to us for federal prosecution and for making our children safer.”
FBI Special Agent in Charge Craig L. Tremaroli stated: “Mr. Dion’s significant sentence ensures that he will now spend years in federal prison for terrorizing a community. The FBI is committed to working with our law enforcement partners to swiftly investigate any individual who knowingly possesses and distributes detrimental images that re-victimize our most vulnerable.”
New York State Police Superintendent Steven G. James said, “The steadfast work done by the State Police and our law enforcement partners ensures Mr. Dion will serve time for his deplorable actions. There is zero tolerance for those who prey on children, and this sentencing reflects the severity of these crimes. Together, we will continue to seek justice for those who have been victimized and protect those who are most vulnerable, our children.”
The FBI and NYSP investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexander Wentworth-Ping 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.
Member of Ulster County Drug Trafficking Organization Sentenced to PrisonRead the Press Release
UTICA, NEW YORK – Justin Torres, age 37, of Ellenville, New York, was sentenced today to serve 37 months in prison for conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute fentanyl and cocaine.
The announcement was made by Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III; Ricky J. Patel, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), New York; and Ulster County Sheriff Juan Figueroa, whose office leads the Ulster Regional Gang Enforcement Narcotics Team (URGENT).
Torres admitted that during the conspiracy he distributed and possessed with intent to distribute approximately 580 grams of cocaine and 200 grams of fentanyl.
Torres was one of 11 defendants charged in the case. These defendants have pled guilty and have been sentenced or are pending sentencing:
- Joshuan Atkinson was sentenced to 156 months in prison, to be followed by a 5-year term of supervised release;
- Christopher Baez was sentenced to 71 months in prison, to be followed by a 5-year term of supervised release;
- Michael Herry was sentenced to 27 months in prison, to be followed by a 3-year term of supervised release;
- Daryl Livingston was sentenced to 24 months in prison, to be followed by a 3-year term of supervised release;
- Joshua Morales is scheduled to be sentenced on December 3, 2025;
- Joseph Logan is scheduled to be sentenced on November 19, 2025; and
- Timothy Hutcherson is scheduled to be sentenced on December 17, 2025.
Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III stated, “This case demonstrates our commitment to dismantling drug trafficking organizations in Ulster County, where Justin Torres and his co-conspirators sold cocaine and fentanyl. With our federal, state, and local partners, we continue to target these poison peddlers and protect the public from the deadly scourge of drugs. I commend and thank Sheriff Figueroa for his courageous leadership spearheading this operation with URGENT and all the brave officers of the task force who sacrificed themselves in the spirit in which we have all sworn an oath to as members of law enforcement. As I have stated time and time again, if these gangbangers had been charged locally, they would all be out on the streets in two hours continuing their acts of violence against our communities for a year or more while their cases moved through the state court system. The State Legislature and Governor should call a special session to repeal the reckless and dangerous cashless bail law that has imposed massive casualties amongst the citizens throughout the State of New York for eight long suffering years. My office shall do everything in its power to assist state and local law enforcement to combat the revolving door of crime.”
Ricky J. Patel, Special Agent in Charge of HSI New York, stated, “This sentence is the result of a coordinated, intelligence-driven investigation that disrupted this organization’s fentanyl and cocaine distribution, and in turn stopped a narcotics pipeline in its tracks. HSI New York remains steadfast in our commitment to deploying our expertise, data-driven strategies, and investigative resources to identify traffickers, dismantle their networks, and prevent deadly drugs from reaching our neighborhoods. Together with the Ulster County Sheriff's Office, URGENT, and our local partners, HSI New York will never waver in our commitment to protecting families within our communities and the public we serve every day.”
Ulster County Sheriff Juan Figueroa stated, “This was a collaborative effort consisting of federal, state and local law enforcement. Drug trafficking continues to affect local communities and is a nexus to crime spikes. I thank the U.S. Attorney for prosecuting these criminals. I also thank the members of the URGENT task force who put long investigative hours into this critical case to rid our community of drugs.”
Senior United States District Judge David N. Hurd also imposed a fine of $5,000 and a 3-year term of supervised release to begin after Torres is released from prison.
This case is being investigated by HSI; the Ulster County Sheriff’s Office in conjunction with URGENT (the Ulster Regional Gang Enforcement and Narcotics Team), an inter-agency taskforce targeting drug dealers and gang members in Ulster County; the New York State Police; the Village of Ellenville Police Department; and the White Plains Police Department, with assistance from the Ulster County District Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ashlyn Miranda is prosecuting this case.
This case is also part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
Albany County Felon Admits Receiving Firearms Stolen from Hudson Falls Gun Store and Using the Firearms in Furtherance of Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Kwahpreme Mitchell, age 34, of Watervliet, New York, pled guilty today to one count of possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime and one count of possessing firearms as a convicted felon.
Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III; Bryan Miller, Special Agent in Charge of the New York Field Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF); New York State Police (NYSP) Superintendent Steven G. James; and Washington County Sheriff Jeffrey J. Murphy made the announcement.
Mitchell admitted to receiving firearms from Jonathon Combs and Martin Taft that they had stolen from Calamity Jane’s Firearms and Fine Shoes, a federally licensed firearms dealer, in Hudson Falls, New York, on October 21, 2022. In exchange for the stolen firearms, Mitchell agreed to provide Combs and Taft with 150 grams of cocaine, which they intended to distribute. Additionally, on or about October 15, 2022, Mitchell provided Combs with approximately 3.5 grams of cocaine base in exchange for a shotgun. Mitchell could not legally possess the firearms, as he had been previously convicted of a New York State felony drug charge.
Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III stated: “Mitchell, already a drug felon, admitted to using drugs to purchase stolen firearms. Drugs and guns are always a dangerous combination, which is why we will prosecute every armed drug dealer we can find. Thanks to the tremendous work of the ATF and our state and local partners following the October 2022 burglary of Calamity Jane’s, our communities are now safe from this dealer, his drugs, and his stolen guns.”
Special Agent in Charge Bryan Miller, stated, ““This case underscores the dangerous intersection of firearms trafficking and illegal drugs. A convicted felon exchanging cocaine for firearms — including guns stolen from a federally licensed dealer — poses a serious threat to public safety. Thanks to the outstanding collaboration between ATF NY Albany, the NYSP, Washington County Sheriff’s Office, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office NDNY, we were able to disrupt this illicit scheme. This outcome highlights the critical importance of strong partnerships at every level — local, state, and federal — in combating violent crime and keeping our communities safe.”
New York State Police Superintendent Steven G. James stated, “Collaborative efforts are an integral part of protecting against the crimes and associated terrors that come with illegal weapons and drug trafficking. The individual involved in this operation posed a significant threat to public safety and his guilty plea is a testament to the results we can achieve when agencies work together. We remain committed to targeting the sources of illicit gun and drug activity and holding those responsible fully accountable.”
Washington County Sheriff Jeffrey J. Murphy stated, “This case underscores the dangers posed by individuals who engage in these activities. The combination of narcotics and firearms in our communities puts not only the public at risk but also law enforcement. I appreciate the assistance received from our State and Federal Partners.”
Sentencing is scheduled for January 9, 2026, before United States District Judge Anne M. Nardacci. Mitchell faces at least 5 years and up to life in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, and a term of post-imprisonment supervised release of up to 5 years. 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.
NYSP, ATF and the Washington County Sheriff’s Office investigated this case with assistance provided by the Washington and Warren County District Attorney’s Offices. Assistant U.S. Attorney Allen J. Vickey is prosecuting 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.
Two Akwesasne Men Charged with Alien SmugglingRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Joseph Coffey, age 35, and Darren Cook, age 32, of Hogansburg, New York, were indicted yesterday for conspiracy to commit alien smuggling and three additional counts of alien smuggling. Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Chief Patrol Agent Robert Garcia of the U.S. Border Patrol’s Swanton Sector made the announcement.
On August 8, 2025, Coffey and Cook are alleged to have conspired with an alien smuggling organization in Canada to smuggle three aliens—two of which were from China, with the third being from the United Kingdom—across the St. Lawrence River and into the United States for profit. The charges in the indictment are merely accusations. The defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. The defendants will appear in federal court to be arraigned on the indictment before United States Magistrate Judge Gary L. Favro. The defendants were previously ordered detained and are presently in custody.
Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III said: “As alleged, Coffey and Cook, through their own greed to make a quick dollar, furthered the interests of dangerous alien smuggling organizations that put the people of our country in danger. What’s more, they utilized the Akwesasne Reservation ,which has been used by smugglers as a revolving door for moving aliens, drugs, and other contraband into the United States. My office will continue to aggressively prosecute alien smugglers, like Coffey and Cook, who put our country at risk.”
Chief Patrol Agent Robert Garcia said: “The United States Border Patrol remains steadfast in its commitment to securing our borders and protecting the American people. Human smuggling is a dangerous and exploitative enterprise that preys on vulnerable individuals, placing them in harm’s way for the sole purpose of profit. Smugglers show a complete disregard for human life and the rule of law, often subjecting their victims to inhumane conditions and perilous journeys. We will continue to work tirelessly with our local, state, and federal partners, including the United States Attorney's Office, to dismantle these criminal networks and ensure justice is served. Let this serve as a warning to smugglers and traffickers: we will apprehend you, and we will hold you accountable to the fullest extent of the law.”
The charges of alien smuggling and conspiracy to commit alien smuggling carry a mandatory minimum prison term of 5 years and a maximum prison term of 15 years. 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.
United States Border Patrol and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) are investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey Stitt is prosecuting the case.
Worksite Enforcement Operation Leads to Five Criminal Arrests and More than 50 Administratively Detained AliensRead the Press Release
SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – Federal law enforcement officers detained 57 illegally present aliens at their place of illegal employment in Cayuga County, New York, on September 4. Five of them have been charged by criminal complaint with illegally reentering the United States after a prior removal. They are:
- Alex Ben Chipin, a/k/a Alex Ben-Chiping, a/k/a Alex Bing-Chiping, a/k/a Antonio Lopez-Mendez, age 39, of Guatemala;
- Argentina Juarez-Lopez, age 50, of Guatemala;
- Luis Jom-Morales, age 27, of Guatemala;
- Gregorio Baldemar Ramirez-Perez, age 45, of Guatemala; and
- Francisco Salvardo-Mora, age 22, of Mexico.
Each defendant is charged separately. The charges in the complaints are merely accusations. The defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
The remaining 52 aliens were detained administratively pending immigration proceedings.
The announcement was made by Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III; Special Agent in Charge Erin Keegan, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Buffalo Field Office; Acting Chief Patrol Agent James P. D’Amato, United States Border Patrol, Buffalo Sector; and Harry Chavis, Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI), New York Field Division
Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III said, “These defendants face charges arising out of one of the largest worksite enforcement actions in recent history. Employers across the Northern District of New York must understand that they risk criminal investigation if they are employing non-citizens who are not authorized to work in the United States. Across Upstate and Central New York, there are hard-working Americans in need of well-paying jobs, especially in Cayuga County where unemployment is relatively high. Our worksite enforcement actions will ensure that those jobs go to people who are authorized to work in the United States, and not to aliens who illegally re-enter our country after prior deportations.”
Erin Keegan, Special Agent in Charge, HSI Buffalo, stated, “Today’s announcement underscores the continued coordination of law enforcement partners with the goal of uncovering possibly dangerous or abusive business practices and, in turn, protecting the public from labor exploitation. While this continues to be an active and ongoing criminal investigation, HSI remains committed to protecting the rights of workers and upholding U.S. laws, including by identifying and addressing exploitation in the workplace, ensuring compliance with labor and immigration laws, and safeguarding the integrity of our nation's workforce.”
Harry T. Chavis, Special Agent in Charge of IRS-CI New York, stated, “IRS-CI has a long history of collaborating with our law enforcement partners, and worksite enforcement operations are no different. Businesses are expected to apply good employment practices in hiring their workforce in accordance with U.S. laws and reporting payroll and other related financials appropriately. IRS-CI will continue to use their financial expertise in furthering these types of investigations.”
The charges filed against the five defendants listed above carry a maximum term of 2 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, and a term of supervised release of up to 1 year. 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.
HSI, Border Patrol, and IRS-CI are investigating the cases with investigative and/or operational assistance from various agencies including U.S. Customs and Border Protection, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, the United States Marshals Service, the Oswego County Sheriff’s Office, and the Madison County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael F. Perry is prosecuting the cases.
United States Files Forfeiture Action Against More Than $12 Million in Funds Involved in Cryptocurrency Investment Fraud and Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – The United States Attorney’s Office filed a civil forfeiture complaint on Friday against more than $12 million in Tether cryptocurrency relating to a cryptocurrency investment fraud scheme. Acting 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 complaint, the FBI identified 10 female Mandarin-speaking victims of a cryptocurrency investment fraud scheme who lost at total of more than $10.3 million. The unidentified perpetrator(s) courted his victims after striking up unsolicited conversations via text message and then persuaded them to invest large sums of money using a fraudulent website called ShakepayEX, which was made to mimic a popular cryptocurrency exchange based in Canada. When the victims tried to withdraw their funds, they were met with various excuses and fraudulent demands. Law enforcement used blockchain analysis and other investigative techniques to determine that the cryptocurrency sought to be forfeited was tied to the scheme.
Acting United States Attorney Sarcone said: “Cryptocurrency investment scams are the latest vehicle for con artists from all over the world to victimize Americans right here in our backyards. But this civil action is the latest example that law enforcement can and will use all the tools at our disposal to ensure that those who abuse legitimate technology will not profit from their deviant conduct.”
FBI Special Agent in Charge Tremaroli said: “Cryptocurrency scams are one of the most prevalent and damaging fraud schemes the FBI investigates. They have a devastating financial impact on victims and cause a tremendous amount of emotional distress. This filing serves as a reminder the FBI will continue to work with our partners to use every resource available to identify these schemes, investigate the criminals perpetrating them, and seek justice and relief for the victims.”
The FBI is investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua R. Rosenthal is representing the United States.
Anyone who believes they are a victim of a cybercrime – including cryptocurrency scams, romance scams, and investment scams – should contact the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at https://www.ic3.gov.
U.S. Attorney Remarks – News Conference, September 9, 2025Read the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – We are here to announce that on September 4, federal law enforcement officers conducted a major worksite enforcement operation in Cayuga County, New York, detaining 57 people unlawfully present in this country.
Among those detained, five have been criminally charged for illegally reentering the United States after prior removal — a felony offense that undermines the security of our borders and the safety of our communities. Each defendant is charged separately. The charges in the complaints are merely accusations. The defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Last week’s operation enforced our immigration laws, but it also struck a blow for fairness and opportunity for hard-working, able-bodied Americans who deserve access to all of the well-paying jobs in their communities, some of which suffer from relatively high unemployment rates. I am not here to comment on the specific employer whose offices were the subject of last week’s operation. What I will say, more broadly, is that employers that knowingly hire unauthorized workers are breaking the law and also contributing to a system that harms our economy, jeopardizes public safety, and devalues the hard work of lawful employees.
To employers across the Northern District of New York: heed this warning. We will aggressively pursue criminal investigations against those who violate our laws by employing non-citizens without authorization. There will be consequences. The bad old days of turning a blind eye are over.
We recognize the contributions that lawful immigrants make to our communities. But illegal reentry after deportation is a flagrant violation of federal law — and it will not be tolerated. Nor will we tolerate the greed of those employers that knowingly hire illegal aliens.
We will continue to work in close coordination with our partners at Homeland Security Investigations, the Border Patrol, the IRS, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and other agencies to identify violators and hold them accountable.
You can expect to see federal law enforcement at more worksites, going forward. We owe it to the American people to enforce our immigration laws fairly, firmly, and without exception.
Potsdam Man Pleads Guilty to Child Pornography ChargesRead the Press Release
SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – Richard LaPage, age 51, of Potsdam, New York, pled guilty yesterday to distribution, receipt and possession of child pornography. Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Erin Keegan, Special Agent in Charge of the Buffalo Field Office of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), made the announcement.
LaPage admitted that between December 2023 and October 2024, he used smartphone social networking applications to send and receive child pornography files to and from other users. Investigators also identified more than 150 child pornography images and videos on four of LaPage’s electronic devices. Previously, on April 25, 2010, LaPage was convicted of the New York State offense of attempted criminal sexual act in the first degree, which criminalizes an adult’s attempt to engage in sexual contact with a child less than 13 years old.
Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III stated: “The defendant, already a registered sex offender, again engaged in disgusting criminal conduct that revictimized the children whose abuse was depicted in the images he distributed, received, and possessed. Sex offenders who reoffend face particularly lengthy prison terms under federal law, and we will do everything in our power to make sure they serve the lengthiest terms possible so that our children are safe from these sick, twisted people.”
Erin Keegan, Special Agent in Charge of the HSI Buffalo Field Office, said: “Richard LaPage is a repeat child predator with a criminal history of targeting young children for his own abhorrent desires. Today and always, HSI Massena, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of New York and our local partners refuse to allow our communities to become safe havens for sex offenders intent on continuing their exploitation of minors.”
Sentencing is scheduled for January 9, 2026, before Chief United States District Judge Brenda K. Sannes. Because of his prior conviction, LaPage faces a mandatory minimum term of 15 years in prison on the distribution and receipt charges and 10 years in prison on the possession charges; a maximum term of imprisonment of 40 years in prison on the distribution and receipt charges and 20 years in prison on the possession charges; a fine of up to $250,000; and a term of supervised release of between 5 years and up to life. LaPage also will have to pay restitution to victims, forfeit property he used to commit the offenses, and will again be required to register as a sex offender. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the statutes a defendant violated, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, and other factors.
The case was investigated by HSI and the New York State Police Computer Crimes Unit (CCU), with assistance from the Potsdam Police Department and St. Lawrence County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ben Gillis 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.
Colorado Man Pleads Guilty to Sending Threats to Kill Cayuga County ManRead the Press Release
SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – Jerry Gordon, age 56, of Colorado, pled guilty Friday to transmitting a threat in interstate commerce to injure another person. Acting 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.
Gordon admitted that from April 22, 2025, to April 25, 2025, he sent four threatening text messages to a man in Aurora, New York. In the text messages Gordon told the victim to get his affairs in order before Friday April 25, 2025, as he was going to “drink your blood from the chalice that I will make out of your heart.” Gordon was arrested by FBI agents as he was getting off a plane in Syracuse, on April 25, 2025, after law enforcement became aware of the threats.
Acting U.S. Attorney John A. Sarcone III stated: “Vile threats to kill the citizens of our district will not be tolerated. Local, state and federal agents, working together, quickly responded to the impending threat and apprehended the defendant as he was getting off the plane having traveled from Colorado to Syracuse to attack the victim.”
FBI Special Agent in Charge Craig L. Tremaroli stated: “This case demonstrates the FBI’s unwavering commitment to working with our partners to swiftly investigate, intercept, and bring to justice anyone who threatens our citizens with disturbing acts of violence.”
At sentencing before United States District Judge Elizabeth C. Coombe on November 24, 2025, Gordon will face a maximum term of 5 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, and a term of supervised release of up to 3 years. 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 FBI investigated the case with assistance from the New York State Police, Syracuse Regional Airport Authority Police Department, Syracuse Police Department, Cornell Police Department, Tompkins County Sherriff’s Office, United States Marshals Service, Cayuga County District Attorney’s Office, Federal Air Marshal Service, and the Oneida County Sherriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Geoffrey J. L. Brown is prosecuting the case.
Former Delaware County Teacher Sentenced to 327 Months in Federal Prison for Coercing, Transporting, and Sexually Abusing StudentsRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Paul Geer, age 58, of Hancock, New York, was sentenced today to 327 months (27 years and 3 months) in federal prison for two counts of coercing and enticing two children to travel across state lines to engage in unlawful sexual activity and two counts of transporting the children across state lines with the intent to engage in criminal sexual activity with those children.
Acting 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.
Geer was found guilty on March 3, 2025, following a two-week trial. The evidence proved that, while Geer was a teacher at the Family Foundation School in Hancock, New York, from 1994 through 2001 he imposed disciplinary sanctions on students that were tantamount to torture. The sanctions included depriving children of food or forcing them to eat food that had been regurgitated, binding children in rugs and leaving them in isolated rooms for extended periods of time, and forcing children to perform physical labor. The evidence at trial further proved that Geer used his position of authority and his ability to impose these brutal sanctions to coerce two students to travel with him, on separate occasions, to Maine and Toronto, Canada, respectively. The jury found that Geer transported those students across state lines with the intent to engage in unlawful sexual activity with them. While on those trips, Geer raped and otherwise sexually abused each of the two children.
In addition to the term of imprisonment, United States District Judge Mae A. D’Agostino imposed a 3-year term of supervised release to follow Geer’s release from prison. Geer will also be required to register as a sex offender upon his release from prison.
Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III stated: “Paul Geer was a monster. As a teacher, Geer was supposed to help his students become better versions of themselves. Instead, Geer used his position of power to torture these children physically, emotionally, and psychologically. When Geer believed his tactics had been sufficiently effective in breaking these children and scaring them into silence, he proceeded to sexually abuse them. These children deserved to be protected, to be cared for, and to be helped, but Geer viewed these children only as a means to his sadistic and predatory end. Geer is now paying the price for his heinous conduct and will spend the next 27 years where he deserves to be, in a cage.”
FBI Special Agent in Charge Craig L. Tremaroli stated: “The depth of Mr. Geer’s sexual, physical, and psychological abuse is so depraved it’s truly hard to comprehend. He was entrusted to care for the students at the Family Foundation school but instead tortured them for years. Now he’s being held accountable for those actions and heading to federal prison. Nothing was more important than delivering justice to those students. Today, our thoughts are with them – and their peers who never got to tell their stories – as they continue to process the unimaginable impact his abhorrent behavior had on their young lives.”
The case was investigated by the FBI’s Albany Division Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force with assistance from the Colonie Police Department and New York State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jessica N. Carbone, Adrian S. LaRochelle, and Michael D. Gadarian prosecuted the case as a 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.
Albany Man Pleads Guilty to Drug Distribution and Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Tymell Cooks, age 36, of Albany, pled guilty today to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute fentanyl, possession with intent to distribute cocaine, and possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Frank A. Tarentino III, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), New York Division, made the announcement.
Cooks admitted that between January and June 2024, he sold approximately 202 grams of fentanyl to another person, both directly and using a co-conspirator. In June 2024, law enforcement executed a search warrant at his Albany residence and located approximately 69 grams of cocaine, a loaded Cobra Firearms Shadow 38 Special revolver, a loaded M&P Shield EZ 2.0 Smith & Wesson 9mm pistol, ammunition, $4,850 in cash, and body armor. Cooks admitted that he possessed the firearms to protect his drug supply and proceeds.
Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III stated: “Fentanyl continues to fuel the deadly overdose crisis across our communities. This case demonstrates our unwavering commitment to holding accountable those who traffic in this poison and use illegal firearms to protect their criminal enterprises. We thank the DEA and our law enforcement partners for their continued efforts to dismantle these dangerous networks.”
DEA Special Agent in Charge Frank A. Tarentino III stated: “Today’s guilty plea of Tymell Cooks is thanks to the hard work and determination of our DEA special agents and partners in targeting those individuals who pose a danger to our society. New Yorkers deserve safe communities free of drugs and violence, and the DEA is committed to delivering that.”
Sentencing is scheduled for January 6, 2026, before United States District Judge Anne M. Nardacci. Cooks faces a prison term of at least 10 years and up to life; a fine of up to $5 million; 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.
DEA investigated the case and Assistant U.S. Attorney Ashlyn Miranda 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.
St. Lawrence County Man Charged with Possession of Bulk Quantity CocaineRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Casey Kocher, age 28, of Colton, New York, was indicted yesterday with possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance.
Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Frank A. Tarentino III, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), New York Division made the announcement.
Kocher was stopped by the New York State Police in a rental vehicle in Colton, New York and allegedly possessed 25 kilograms of cocaine in a black duffle bag that was intended for further distribution. The charges in the indictment are merely accusations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. Kocher appeared in federal court this morning before United States Magistrate Judge Gary L. Favor and was ordered remanded to custody.
Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III said: “Drug distribution of this magnitude brings devastation to local communities by fueling addiction, driving violent crime, and endangering families and neighborhoods. Kocher showed no concern for his community as he allegedly brought bulk quantity cocaine to be disbursed among many, and now my office will bring the full force of the federal government to prosecute him. I thank our local partners in St. Lawrence County, the New York State Police, and the United States Border Patrol for their work in helping bring this individual to justice.”
DEA Special Agent in Charge Frank A. Tarentino III said: “The arrest of Casey Kocher and seizure of approximately 25 kilos of cocaine is a result of the collaborative efforts DEA New York and our law enforcement partners have when targeting those individuals responsible for poisoning our communities. I applaud the diligent work of our special agents and those officers who removed this trafficker and their illicit narcotics from the tri-state pipeline.”
New York State Police Superintendent Steven G. James said: “The seizure of 25 kilograms of cocaine underscores the commitment of the New York State Police to protecting our communities from the devastating impact of narcotics trafficking. I commend the professionalism of our Troopers and thank our partners at the DEA and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for their collaboration in this investigation. Together, we remain dedicated to disrupting the flow of illegal drugs and ensuring those responsible are brought to justice.”
The charge of possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance carries a mandatory minimum prison sentence of 10 years and a maximum prison sentence of up to life in 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.
DEA and the New York State Police are investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey Stitt is prosecuting the case.
St. Lawrence County Couple Pleads Guilty to Assaulting and Interfering with a Federal AgentRead the Press Release
PLATTSBURGH, NEW YORK – Richard A. Dominie, age 22, of Lisbon, New York and Brianna H. Rathbun, age 19, of Massena, New York, have each pled guilty to assaulting, resisting and impeding federal officers. Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Chief Patrol Agent Robert Garcia of the U.S. Border Patrol’s Swanton Sector, made the announcement. Dominie pled guilty July 3, 2025, and Rathbun pled guilty today.
As part of their pleas, the pair admitted that on March 12, 2025, at approximately 9:45 p.m., Dominie was driving with Rathbun in the vehicle as a passenger, in a dangerous and reckless manner on County Route 4 in Fort Covington, New York. A United States Border Patrol agent was also travelling west on County Route 4 in an unmarked Border Patrol K9 vehicle, enroute to the Massena Border Patrol station to begin his shift. At the intersection of County Route 4 and State Route 95, the agent caught up to the Dominie and Rathbun and activated the emergency lights on his Border Patrol unit to pull the vehicle over.
Dominie exited the vehicle and aggressively approached the agent while the agent was still in his Border Patrol unit. The agent exited his Border Patrol unit and identified himself as law enforcement. The agent drew his service weapon and ordered Dominie to the ground. Dominie refused and pulled a folding knife from his pocket. The knife blade was not extended. The agent, with his firearm still drawn, demanded Dominie drop the knife, which Dominie did. Dominie returned to his vehicle only after Rathbun told him to.
Dominie and Rathbun exited their vehicle again. The agent grabbed Dominie’s left shoulder and placed him against the Border Patrol unit. Dominie shrugged the agent off and Rathbun then grabbed the agent’s right arm and pulled him away from Dominie. The agent reached to grab Dominie with his left hand, in which the agent was still holding the knife he had secured from Dominie previously, causing the knife to fall to the ground. Rathbun retrieved the knife from the ground. Rathbun got in the vehicle’s driver’s seat, Dominie got in the passenger seat and Rathbun drove away from the traffic stop. The agent, later joined by a second, marked Border Patrol unit pursued Dominie and Rathbun, and Rathbun stopped the vehicle only when she encountered a law enforcement checkpoint with spike strips designed to deflate the vehicle’s tires.
Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III stated, “The agent simply wanted to issue Dominie a warning to slow down but Dominie and Rathbun never gave him the chance. My office will not tolerate noncompliance of federal agents tasked with keeping this community safe. Anyone in this district who assaults or interferes with federal agents should expect to be prosecuted.”
Dominie is scheduled to be sentenced on November 6, 2025, and Rathbun on December 23, 2025. At their sentencings, the pair each face up to 1 year in jail and a fine of up to $100,000. 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 U.S. Border Patrol. Assistant U.S. Attorney Douglas Collyer is prosecuting this case.
Clinton County Man Indicted for Sexual Exploitation of a Child and Distributing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
PLATTSBURGH, NEW YORK – Bradley Vincent, age 38, of Chazy, New York, was indicted today for sexual exploitation of a child and distribution of child pornography. Acting 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 indictment alleges that on February 18, 2024, the defendant used a minor female child, then 15 years old, to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing visual depictions of that conduct. The indictment also alleges that the defendant distributed those images of child pornography. The charges in the indictment are merely accusations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III stated: “As alleged, Vicent recorded sexually explicit conduct with a 15-year-old girl and then distributed those videos and images. This defendant already had a state conviction for aggravated sexual abuse or sexual abuse and was at that time only sentenced to probation by the state. This is a perfect example of the broken state system failing to protect our children and our citizens in general. This type of conduct is despicable and will be prosecuted vigorously by my office. I want to thank our state and local partners for their aggressive pursuit of this defendant.”
The charges filed against Vincent carry a maximum term of 50 years in prison, a mandatory minimum term of 25 years, a fine of up to $250,000, and a term of supervised release of at least 5 years and up to life.
HSI and NYSP are investigating the case. 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.
Watertown Man Pleads Guilty to Drug OffenseRead the Press Release
SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – Seth Demiceli, age 24, of Watertown, New York, plead guilty on Wednesday to possessing with intent to distribute methamphetamine. Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Bryan Miller, 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 plea, Demiceli admitted that on January 16, 2025, he drove from the Albany, New York, area, to Watertown with approximately 4.5 kilograms of methamphetamine in his vehicle. The methamphetamine was separated into 10 bags, each containing approximately 1 pound of narcotics. Law enforcement apprehended Demiceli as he returned to Watertown. Demiceli had intended to sell the methamphetamine in the Watertown area.
Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III stated: “This drug dealer was apprehended by law enforcement with a terrifying amount of methamphetamine in his car. This office and our law enforcement partners will continue to disrupt, arrest and prosecute those who traffic this poison in the Northern District of New York.”
Special Agent in Charge Bryan Miller stated: “Illegal drugs devastate lives and fuel violence. This case shows that those who profit from spreading poison will face serious consequences. Through ATF NY Syracuse Field Office’s strong partnership with the New York State Police, the Metro Drug Task Force, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office NDNY, we remain committed to working together to protect our communities.”
Sentencing is scheduled for December 17, 2025, before United States District Judge Elizabeth C. Coombe. At sentencing, Demiceli faces a prison term of at least 10 years and up to life, a fine of up to $10,000,000, 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.
ATF is investigating the case with assistance from the New York State Police Community Stabilization Unit and the Metro Jefferson Drug Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ben Gillis is prosecuting the case.
Crown Point Resident Convicted of Threatening President BidenRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Troy Kelly, age 20, of Crown Point, NY, plead guilty today to one count of a three-count indictment charging threats against the President of the United States. Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III, Michael Nichols, United States Secret Service Resident Agent in Charge of the Albany Resident Office (USSS), and Erin Keegan, Special Agent in Charge of the Buffalo Field Office of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) made the announcement.
In pleading guilty, Kelly admitted that in May 2024 he posted a threat to kill President Biden on a social media website and that he intended it to be understood as a threat. Responding to a post of President Biden, Kelly told the then-President that he was “[g]onna put a bullet in your head if I ever catch you.”
“We all witnessed the horrible attempt on President Trump’s life last July,” Acting U.S. Attorney John A. Sarcone III said. “Threatening to kill the President—any President: Republican, Democrat, or otherwise—is not First Amendment protected speech, it is illegal. My office takes threats against any public official seriously, and the conviction of Troy Kelly is a prime example. I thank the Secret Service, HSI, and the New York State Police for their work on this investigation.”
United States Secret Service Resident Agent in Charge of the Albany Resident Office Michael Nichols stated, “Threats made to anyone under the protective purview of the United States Secret Service are a top priority and are investigated thoroughly. We value our investigative partnerships with HSI and the New York State Police, and we greatly appreciate the strong working relationship between the United States Secret Service Albany Resident Office and the Northern District United States Attorney’s Office.”
Erin Keegan, Special Agent in Charge of the Buffalo Field Office of Homeland Security Investigations stated, "Troy Kelly's guilty plea underscores federal law enforcement's shared commitment to treating each and every threat seriously. Today's conviction should send a stark message to those who choose to threaten elected officials and government personnel: we will find you and ensure you are prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law."
At sentencing scheduled for December 22, 2025, Kelly faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 5 years. In addition to any term of imprisonment, Chief Judge Brenda K. Sannes may require the defendant to service a post-imprisonment term of supervised release of up to 3 years and he may be fined up to 250,000. Due to his felony conviction, Kelly will also be prohibited from owning firearms.
The United States Secret Service, and HSI are investigating this case with assistance from the New York State Police are investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joseph S. Hartunian and Cyrus P.W. Rieck are prosecuting the case.
Sex Offender Sentenced for Making False Statements to United States ProbationRead the Press Release
SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – Ashley K. Whitaker, age 49, was sentenced today to 30 months in prison for knowingly and willfully making a materially false statement on his written monthly reports to the United States Probation Office. The announcement was made by Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Acting United States Marshal Christopher Amoia.
Whitaker, originally from Lexington, Kentucky, was prosecuted in the Northern District of New York in 2008 for receiving sexually explicit images of an Oswego County minor. After serving a 10 year sentence for that crime, Whitaker has been living in Syracuse, NY, supervised by United States Probation. As a result of his 2008 conviction, Whitaker has been designated a Level 2 sex offender in New York and is required by both state and federal law to register as a sex offender with the Division of Criminal Justice Services. As a part of that registration, Whitaker is required to disclose all internet identifiers and accounts. Upon his release from prison, however, Whitaker created and used an email account that he failed to disclose to the registry, or to U.S. Probation, and then over a series of written monthly reports, falsely claimed to U.S. Probation that he was in compliance with his registration obligations.
Whitaker will have to serve 3 years of supervised release on the false statement charge. In addition, Whitaker’s actions violated the terms of his supervised release for the underlying sex offense. For that, he was sentenced to 24 months imprisonment, and 10 years of supervised release, to run consecutive to the false statement sentence. He will continue to be required to register as a sex offender.
Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone, III said “Sex offender registration, and truthful compliance with United States Probation is an important part of a sex offender’s sentence. These guardrails are put in place to protect the public and to monitor an offender’s transition back into society. These are simple requirements. When sex offenders fail to comply, we will hold them accountable.”
Acting United States Marshal Christopher Amoia, said “The protection of our communities, especially our most vulnerable populations, remains one of our highest priorities. The U.S. Marshals Sex Offender Investigative Division collaborates closely with federal, state, and local partners to track offenders, enforce sex offender registration laws, and to ensure compliance with the Adam Walsh Child Protection and Safety Act. These efforts are central to the Marshals Service mission of protecting communities and reducing the risk posed by offenders who attempt to evade accountability. The United States Marshals Service will continue to dedicate resources to locating and apprehending sex offenders nationwide, ensuring that those who violate federal law are brought to justice.”
The United States Marshal Service and the United States Probation Office investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Lisa M. Fletcher, Project Safe Childhood Coordinator for the Northern District of New York, 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.
Oswego County Man Sentenced to Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – Daniel LaRock, 21, of Oswego, New York was sentenced yesterday to 14 years in prison on three counts of possession of child pornography. Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Erin Keegan, Special Agent in Charge of the Buffalo Field Office of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) made the announcement.
During his previously entered guilty plea, LaRock admitted that he was convicted of Promoting the Sexual Performance by a Child in June 2024 in Oswego County Court and sentenced to 10 years’ probation. Later that same month, he possessed and distributed child pornography on multiple social media accounts, including videos depicting very young children engaged in sex acts with adults.
In addition to the imprisonment term, United States District Judge Anthony J. Brindisi also imposed a post-imprisonment term of supervised release of 15 years, ordered LaRock to pay $8,000 in restitution to victims, and required him to forfeit the device he used to commit the offenses.
Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III said: “LaRock received an incredibly lenient sentence of 10 years’ probation by the Owego County Court for committing essentially the same disgusting conduct less than two years ago. Not surprisingly, a sentence of probation for promoting the sexual performance of a child neither deterred LaRock from committing the same type of offense again nor did it protect the public. My Office will continue to work with our federal and state partners to charge and seek just punishment for people who possess child pornography.”
Special Agent in Charge of the Buffalo Field Office of Homeland Security Investigations Erin Keegan said: “Daniel LaRock’s repeated exploitation of children underscores his complete disregard for our most helpless, vulnerable populations. Today’s sentence reflects the utmost seriousness of the defendant’s crimes. I thank HSI Syracuse and our law enforcement partners for never wavering on their support for victims of unimaginable crimes and their shared pursuit of justice.”
This case was investigated by HSI with the assistance of the New York State Police. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael D. Gadarian 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.
Oneida County Man Charged with Receiving and Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – Win Naing, age 20, of Utica, New York, appeared in federal court yesterday on charges of receipt and possession of child pornography announced Acting 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)
The complaint alleges that in 2023, a cloud storage service reported to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) the upload of child pornography to the service’s platform by one of its users. Based on geolocation information associated with the internet protocol address linked to the upload, investigators from the Oneida County Sheriff’s Office were able to tie the uploads to Naing. During a subsequent search of Naing’s cellular telephone, investigators, including Special Agents from the FBI, found numerous images and videos of child pornography that Naing possessed on the device. Agents also found evidence that some of the material Naing possessed had been downloaded using a social networking application installed on Naing’s cellular telephone.
The charges filed against Naing carry a sentence of between 5 and 20 years in federal prison, a fine of up to $250,000, a term of supervised release of at least 5 years and up to life, and require sex offender registration upon release from incarceration. 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.
Naing had his initial appearance on the charges yesterday in Syracuse, New York, before United States Magistrate Judge Thérèse Wiley Dancks, and was detained pending further proceedings.
Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III stated: “Collecting child pornography is not a victimless crime and the defendant in this case will now suffer the grave consequences of his despicable actions. Anyone who traffics in child pornography in the Northern District of New York should be prepared to face swift and immediate justice and can expect to spend years behind bars.”
FBI Special Agent in Charge Craig L. Tremaroli stated: “As alleged, Mr. Naing had a disturbing amount of child pornography in his possession. The FBI remains committed to relentlessly investigating these appalling predators and ensuring justice is delivered to the victims.”
The charges in the indictment are merely accusations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
The FBI and Oneida County Sheriff’s Office are investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Adrian S. LaRochelle is prosecuting the case as a 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.
Ithaca Man Pleads Guilty to Drug and Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – Zachary Jackson, age 38, of Ithaca, New York, pled guilty on Tuesday to possessing with intent to distribute cocaine; possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime; and possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Frank A. Tarentino III, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), New York Division, made the announcement.
Jackson admitted that on November 19, 2024, he possessed a kilogram of cocaine and a Glock handgun he used to protect himself during the course of his drug sales. Law enforcement investigation revealed that Jackson sold cocaine to drug users in the Ithaca and Auburn, New York, areas. Jackson could not legally possess a firearm, as he had been previously convicted of a New York State felony assault for which he served over 10 years in prison.
Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III stated: “Drug dealers, especially ones with violent criminal histories like this defendant, should know that law enforcement in the Northern District of New York will find them and put them behind bars. Thanks to the investigative efforts of local agencies and the DEA, our communities are now safe from this dealer, his drugs, and his gun.”
Special Agent in Charge Frank A. Tarentino III, stated: “Drugs and weapons too often go hand in hand. Today’s guilty plea from Zachary Jackson serves a clear reminder that justice will be delivered to those who flood our communities with narcotics. The DEA remains steadfast in its commitment to working alongside our law enforcement partners in protecting our communities and enhancing public safety.”
Sentencing is scheduled for December 18, 2025, before United States Chief District Judge Brenda K. Sannes. At sentencing, Jackson faces a prison term of at least 10 years and up to life; 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.
DEA is investigating the case with assistance from the New York State Police; the Finger Lakes Drug Task Force (FLDTF); the Auburn Police Department; the Ithaca Police Department; and the Onondaga, Cayuga, and Tompkins County District Attorney’s Offices. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ben Gillis 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.
Former Border Patrol Agent Sentenced to a Year in Prison for Civil Rights ViolationsRead the Press Release
SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – Shane Millan, age 53, of Jefferson County New York, was sentenced today in federal court in Syracuse to 12 months in federal prison after previously pleading guilty to two misdemeanor counts of deprivation of rights under color of law. Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Vance Kuhner, Special Agent in Charge, New York Field Office, Office of Professional Responsibility, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, made the announcement.
Acting United States Attorney Sarcone stated: “Everybody deserves respect, and we will not tolerate the sexual exploitation of immigrants by members of law enforcement. Nobody is above the law.”
“U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) holds its employees to the highest standards of conduct and does not tolerate any employee who violates their oath or the rights of citizens and non-citizens,” said Special Agent in Charge Vance Kuhner. “The actions of this ex-U.S. Border Patrol agent are deeply troubling and do not reflect the values of the Border Patrol or CBP’s mission to protect the American people, safeguard our borders, and enhance the nation’s economic prosperity.”
In pleading guilty, Millan admitted that, while acting under color of law as a Border Patrol Agent, he willfully deprived multiple victims of their constitutional right to be free from unreasonable searches when, during virtual processing concerning their admission to the United States, he commanded the victims to expose their bare chests to him via webcam. Millan further admitted that he told these women that his requests were for legitimate searches incident to admission into the United States, but he knew his demands to see the victims’ breasts were for his own gratification.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection Office of Professional Responsibility Investigative Operations Directorate is investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael F. Perry and Michael D. Gadarian are prosecuting the case.
Veterans Affairs Employee Charged with Benefits FraudRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Edmond Anadio, aged 64, of Gloversville, New York, was arrested yesterday on charges of falsely claiming disability benefits. Anadio is alleged to have stolen almost $85,000 in benefits between 2021 and 2024 by claiming he was disabled, while in fact he was working full time for the Department of Veterans Affairs in Albany. Anadio took early retirement from the Department of Veterans Affairs earlier this year.
Acting 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 Christopher Algieri, Special Agent in Charge, Northeast Field Office, Department of Veterans Affairs Office of the Inspector General (VA-OIG), made the announcement.
The U.S. Marshals Service effected Anadio’s arrest and brought him to the federal courthouse in Albany. Anadio was arraigned before United States Magistrate Judge Paul J. Evangelista yesterday afternoon and was released pending further proceedings.
Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III said: “Edmond Anadio had a position of public trust and was well compensated for it — he worked for the VA earning over $100,000 a year. But that wasn’t enough, and he also pocketed up to $30,000 a year in disability benefits. My office has no tolerance for anyone who steals public money, let alone while also taking a paycheck from the taxpayer. We are glad he is no longer working for the VA and are prosecuting this case vigorously.”
Amy Connelly, Special Agent in Charge, Boston / New York Field Division, SSA-OIG, said: “We appreciate the assistance from our partners at the Department of Veterans Affairs Office of the Inspector General, the U.S. Marshals Service, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office during this significant Social Security disability fraud investigation. Federal employees are held to a higher standard of integrity and Edmond Anadio violated that standard. Our office will continue to work with other law enforcement agencies and the U.S. Attorney’s Office to protect the Social Security trust funds for those who truly deserve them.”
Christopher Algieri, Special Agent in Charge, Northeast Field Office, VA-OIG, said: “This indictment sends a clear message that VA-OIG will diligently investigate those who would misuse their positions of public trust to commit fraud. VA-OIG appreciates the commitment of the U.S. Attorney’s Office throughout this investigation and will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to hold wrongdoers accountable”
The charges in the indictment are merely accusations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
The charge of submitting a false application for disability benefits carries a maximum sentence of 5 years in prison, a term of supervised release of up to 3 years, and a maximum fine of $250,000. 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.
SSA-OIG is investigating the case, with assistance from VA-OIG. Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas Walter is prosecuting the case.
Schenectady Man Pleads Guilty to Drug Trafficking and Firearm CrimesRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Jabree Jones a.k.a. “Breezy,” age 33, of Schenectady, New York, pled guilty today to drug trafficking and firearms crimes, including a conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute fentanyl, cocaine, and methamphetamine, and to possess firearms in furtherance of his drug trafficking crimes.
Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III, Frank A. Tarentino III, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and Bryan Miller, Special Agent in Charge of the New York Field Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) made the announcement.
In pleading guilty, Jones admitted to his participation in a drug conspiracy from January to May 2023, that included eleven instances of drug distribution between January and May 2023, and possession with the intent to distribute fentanyl, cocaine, and methamphetamine on May 23, 2023, when the ATF and DEA searched a property on Western Avenue in Albany where they found one of Jones’ coconspirators, Brandon Bartley, with 34 firearms, including an illegal machinegun, as well as more than 400 grams of fentanyl pills, more than 7,000 grams of pills containing methamphetamine, and more than 700 grams of cocaine. That same day, the DEA and ATF also searched a property in Halfmoon, New York, where they found another one of Jones’ coconspirators, Anthony Luizzi, along with about 11 kilograms of fentanyl pills along with five firearms, including a defaced shotgun.
Another suspect in the investigation, Anthony Zaremski, was fatally shot during the execution of a federal search warrant on May 23, 2023, at Zaremski’s apartment in Clifton Park, New York, after Zaremski opened fire and wounded two officers.
Acting United States Attorney John Sarcone stated, “Mr. Jones and his coconspirators were engaged in a significant drug and firearms trafficking conspiracy in 2023 that had a huge impact on the Capital Region. Mr. Jones trafficked illegal firearms, including machineguns, as well as distributed deadly substances like methamphetamine, fentanyl, and cocaine. His guilty plea is the result of a multi-agency partnership that brought down one of the biggest drug and gun dealers this region has seen in recent years.”
DEA Special Agent in Charge Frank A. Tarentino III stated, “DEA New York continues work with our federal, state and local law enforcement partners in targeting those individuals who are responsible for the trafficking of cocaine, fentanyl, methamphetamine, and firearms in our communities. As we have seen, many of these individuals use violence to conduct their illicit drug and gun trafficking business which often has senseless and deadly consequences. The DEA remains committed to protecting our communities and saving lives.”
ATF Special Agent in Charge Bryan Miller stated, “This defendant’s guilty plea underscores the devastating impact that firearms trafficking, and drug distribution have on our communities. By conspiring to move dozens of firearms and significant quantities of drugs, he created conditions that fuel addiction, death and violence. ATF NY remains committed to working with our federal, state, and local partners to disrupt these dangerous networks, seize illegal firearms before they reach the streets, and protect the safety of the public.”
Sentencing is scheduled for December 19, 2025, before United States District Judge Anne M. Nardacci. Jones faces at least 15 years and up to life in prison, a fine of up to $10 million, and a supervised release term of at least 5 years and up to life, to begin after he finishes his prison term. 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 following defendants have been charged in connection with this investigation:
- Anthony Luizzi pled guilty to drug and gun crimes in connection with his trafficking of large amounts of fentanyl, cocaine, and methamphetamine, and his possession of the guns found at the Western Avenue property and Halfmoon property. Luizzi was sentenced to 210 months in prison and a $10,000 fine on October 1, 2024.
- Brandon Bartley also pled guilty to drug and gun crimes in connection with his trafficking of large amounts of fentanyl, cocaine, and methamphetamine, and his possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. He was sentenced to 180 months in prison and a $5,000 fine.
- Devon Newsome pled guilty to transferring 29 firearms to Jones that were ultimately found at the Western Avenue property and was sentenced to 60 months in prison.
The DEA and the ATF are investigating the case, with assistance from the Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office (SCSO), the United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General (USDOL-OIG), the Rotterdam Police Department, and the Henry County, Georgia Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexander Wentworth-Ping 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.
Mexican Citizen Pleads Guilty to Alien SmugglingRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Jose Rodriguez Barajas, age 40, and a citizen of Mexico, pled guilty today to conspiracy to commit alien smuggling and three counts of alien smuggling. Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Chief Patrol Agent Robert Garcia of the U.S. Border Patrol’s Swanton Sector made the announcement.
Rodriguez Barajas, an illegal alien himself, admitted that on March 14, 2025, he smuggled three aliens at the border who were hiding in the woods after entering the United States illegally from Canada. The defendant admitted he expected to be paid for helping the aliens get across the border and transporting them further into the United States.
Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III stated, “Rodriguez Barajas—an illegal alien from Mexico—thumbed his nose at our laws, snuck into our country and conspired to sneak more aliens through our Northern Border for his own profit. This administration, unlike past administrations, is committed to fully enforcing the immigration laws of this country. If you smuggle aliens through our Northern Border, you will be caught, you will be prosecuted, and you will be deported.”
Swanton Sector Border Patrol Chief Robert N. Garcia stated, "Jose Rodriguez Barajas' blatant disregard for U.S. immigration law, ranging from his illegal entry into the country to his involvement in smuggling others, poses a significant threat to our national security and the safety of our communities. Swanton Sector Border Patrol remains unwavering in its commitment to disrupting and dismantling criminal networks that exploit our immigration system. We commend the U.S. Attorney’s Office for their invaluable partnership in ensuring those who violate our laws are held accountable."
At his sentencing on December 23, 2025, Rodriguez Barajas faces at least 5 years and up to 15 years in 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.
Border Patrol investigated this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey Stitt is prosecuting this case.
Saratoga Man Charged with Child Pornography OffensesRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Conner Buskey, age 20, of Saratoga Springs, New York, was arrested and charged on Friday with receipt and possession of child pornography.
Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Erin Keegan, Special Agent in Charge of the Buffalo Field Office of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), made the announcement.
Buskey had previously been arrested by the Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office and charged with raping a minor victim who was known to him. Buskey’s phone was seized at the time of his arrest, and images and videos of child sexual abuse material were found, leading to the federal charges. The charges in the complaint are merely accusations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Buskey appeared in federal court on Friday afternoon before United States Magistrate Judge Paul J. Evangelista and was ordered remanded to custody.
Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III said: “Conner Buskey was arrested and charged in state court with raping a minor, but was inexplicably released on bail. He is a danger to the community who should be detained, which is why my office has charged him. I thank our partners at the Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office, the Saratoga County District Attorney’s Office and Homeland Security Investigations for their work in helping bring this individual to justice, and keeping our children and community safe from this alleged predator.”
Erin Keegan, Special Agent in Charge of the HSI Buffalo Field Office, said: “Conner Buskey is accused of abhorrent crimes against an innocent child, and would be roaming free if not for the federal charges brought last week. I applaud our HSI Albany personnel, the Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office, and the U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of New York for ensuring the wellbeing of the public, including and especially victims and vulnerable communities, remains the priority above all else.”
The charge of receipt of child pornography carries a minimum of 5 years and a maximum of 20 years in prison. The charge of possession of child pornography carries a maximum of 20 years in prison. Each charge carries a fine of up to $250,000, and a term of supervised release of at least 5 years and up to life. Buskey would 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.
HSI is investigating the case, with assistance from the Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas Walter 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.
Two Albany Men Charged in Fraud Investigation That Resulted in One of the Largest-Ever Firearms Seizures in the History of the Northern District of New YorkRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Iziah Cox, age 37, and Kaya Cox, age 41, both of Albany, were arrested on Tuesday for conspiracy to make false statements to financial institutions as part of Operation Tidal Wave, which included court-authorized searches of more than 15 locations and resulted in the seizure of 134 firearms. Iziah Cox was subsequently charged with unlawfully possessing a firearm as a felon.
Acting 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.
The conspiracy complaint alleges that in the spring of 2025, brothers Iziah Cox and Kaya Cox participated in a scheme to make false statements to numerous banks in the Capital Region and elsewhere by operating an elaborate network of dozens of New York State business entities and Albany County “Doing Business As” (DBA) business entities, misappropriating the names of real companies with which the conspirators had no relationship. These trade names were then used to open numerous bank accounts in the Capital Region and elsewhere that served to collect incoming wire transfers and checks resulting from numerous domestic and international scams targeting legitimate companies.
In connection with the execution of court-authorized search and seizure warrants in the fraud investigation, investigators recovered 134 firearms from two residences in Albany and Troy, as well as storage units in Menands. According to a complaint filed yesterday in which Iziah Cox was charged with unlawful possession of a firearm as a felon, many of these guns were hidden inside stereo equipment.
The charges in the complaints are merely accusations. The defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III said: “This is one of the largest firearms seizures, if not the largest firearms seizure, in the history of the Northern District of New York. The number of firearms is significant, but more important are the many lives saved as a result of Operation Tidal Wave now that these guns cannot be used to kill and maim people. Albany and Troy are much safer today than they were last week. This is what happens when federal, state and local law enforcement work together, which has been one of my top priorities since taking office five months ago.”
FBI Special Agent in Charge Craig L. Tremaroli said, “This seizure, one of the largest ever recorded in our district, is the direct result of the tremendous partnerships displayed throughout Operation Tidal Wave. These guns will never make it into the hands of dangerous criminals looking to wreak havoc in our communities. The FBI is grateful to our partners for standing shoulder to shoulder with us in our shared goal of keeping our communities safe.”
The conspiracy charges filed against both defendants carry a maximum term of 5 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, and a term of supervised release of up to 3 years. The firearm charge against Iziah Cox carries a maximum term of 15 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, and a term of post-imprisonment supervised release of up to 3 years. 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.
Both defendants appeared in federal court in Albany earlier this week and were ordered detained pending trial by United States Magistrate Judge Paul J. Evangelista.
Albany Police Chief Brendan Cox said, “Operation Tidal Wave represents our ongoing efforts to reduce gun violence. By seizing this large amount of illegal firearms, we have directly prevented these weapons from being used to harm our community. Each firearm removed from our streets is one less threat to our neighborhoods. The Albany Police Department is grateful for our partnerships we have with our federal, state and local agencies. Together, we are committed to protecting the public and holding offenders accountable.”
Troy Police Chief Daniel DeWolf stated: “I’m thrilled and proud we took this many guns off the street, and also of the collaboration that led to these historic seizures. We are all working together to achieve our collective mission of reducing violent crime.”
The FBI and its Albany Regional Financial Crimes Taskforce is investigating the cases, with assistance from Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation, the United States Postal Inspection Service, the New York State Comptroller’s Office, the Albany County Sheriff’s Office, the Albany Police Department, the Troy Police Department, the New York State Police, and the Capital Region Crime Analysis Center and the New York State Intelligence Center. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joshua R. Rosenthal, Matthew M. Paulbeck, and Benjamin S. Clark are prosecuting the cases.
Greene County Man Pleads Guilty to Sexual Exploitation of a ChildRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Stephen Wendell Lutes, age 32, of Greene County, New York, pled guilty today to sexual exploitation of children, receipt of child pornography, and possession of child pornography. Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Erin Keegan, Special Agent in Charge of the Buffalo Field Office of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), made the announcement.
In pleading guilty today, Lutes admitted that he sexually abused a girl from the time she was approximately 5 years old until she was approximately 8 years old (“V1”). He acknowledged further that he created recordings of some of that abuse. Lutes also admitted to creating a video depicting both V1 and a different child of approximately the same age (“V2”) naked in a bathtub.
In addition to the sexual exploitation of V1 and V2, Lutes also admitted that during the same approximate period of his sexual abuse of V1 that he knowingly viewed and downloaded child pornography depicting other children unknown to him via social media applications and possessed such material on his cellphone.
Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III said: “Lutes admitted to heinous sexual exploitation and child pornography crimes. My Office is committed to vigorously investigating and prosecuting child sex predators in coordination with our federal and state partners. The community is safer because Lutes will be behind bars for years to come.”
HIS Special Agent in Charge Erin Keegan said: “With today's guilty plea, the defendant admitted to his abhorrent exploitation of two children. While no amount of justice can undo the trauma of his crimes, I thank HSI Albany and our partners with the New York State Police and the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Northern District of New York for utilizing every tool at our disposal to confront threats against children and vulnerable communities.”
At sentencing scheduled for December 22, 2025, Lutes faces a mandatory minimum imprisonment term of 15 years and a maximum of 30 years for each of three counts of sexual exploitation of a child, a minimum of 5 years and a maximum of 20 years for the receipt of child pornography count, and a maximum of 20 years on the possession of child pornography count. In addition to an imprisonment term, the district judge will be required to impose a term of post imprisonment supervised release of at least 5 years and up to life. Lutes also will be required to pay restitution to his victims, may be fined up to $250,000, and will have to register as a sex offender upon his release from prison.
A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the statutes the defendant violated, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, and other factors.
HSI and the New York State Police investigated this case. Assistant United States Attorneys Mikayla Espinosa and Michael D. Gadarian are 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.