Western District of New York
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Man arrested for threatening a Cattaraugus County Sheriff’s detectiveRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Layton Love, 46, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with interstate communication of a threat, which carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison.
According to the complaint, the Cattaraugus County Sheriff’s Office contacted the FBI regarding threatening text messages sent on May 18, 2026, to the cellular telephone number of a detective (Victim) with the Sheriff’s Office.
The text message stated: You and your family are going to die soon! I will personally do the job if necessary. Death to the weaponized government means death to the weaponized government literally, (Victim) you are living on borrowed time. The home you own on (REDACTED)… is a legitimate target and will be hit at a time and place of my choosing. Prepare to die, (Victim), and everyone you hold dear. Your terrorist regime will burn.
Subsequent investigation identified Love as the user of the telephone number the threatening text messages were sent from. On May 21, 2026, a New York State arrest warrant was issued, charging Love with Making a Terroristic Threat, and Aggravated Harassment. Love was located and arrested by the Pennsylvania State Police at his parents’ residence in Eldred, PA.
Love made an initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge H. Kenneth Schroeder, Jr. and was held pending a detention hearing on June 8, 2026.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey E. Intravatola. The complaint is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Acting Special Agent-in-Charge Brendan Dunford and the Cattaraugus County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Eric Butler.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
# # # #
Rochester man sentenced to 10 years in prison for attempting to have sex with 11 and 13-year-old girlsRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, N.Y. -- U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Tony Rodriguez, 40, of Rochester, NY, who was convicted of attempted enticement of a minor, was sentenced to serve 120 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Meredith A. Vacca.
Between February 26 and March 12, 2025, Rodriguez engaged in graphic sexual conversations online with a person he believed to be an 11-year-old girl. Rodriguez was actually communicating with a member of the community group “Predator Poachers.” In addition to online conversations, Rodriguez also arranged a meeting with the 11-year-old girl in person, to engage in sexual activity. He arranged for the 11-year-old to meet him at the Fairport Public Library on March 12, 2025. However, when Rodriguez arrived at the library, he was confronted by the community group member. He left the location prior to the arrival of law enforcement.
On April 15, 2025, law enforcement responded to a residence in the Town of Perinton and apprehended Rodriguez for attempting to meet a 13-year-old female to engage in sexual contact. In reality, the 13-year-old was a member of an unrelated community group called “Child Predator Hunter.” Rodriguez was then taken into custody for this incident and arrested for the March 12, 2025 incident at the Fairport Library.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Melissa M. Marangola. The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Todd Baxter, the Fairport Police Department, under the direction of Acting Police Chief Matt Weber, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation Child Exploitation Task Force, under the direction of Acting Special Agent-in-Charge Brendan Dunford.
# # # #
Federal grand jury indicts two Canadian men for conspiracy to commit bank fraudRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that that a federal grand jury has returned an indictment charging James Rasmussen, 44, of Westmount, Quebec, Canada, and John Shestowsky, 51, of Greenfield Park, Quebec, Canada, with conspiracy to commit bank fraud, which carries a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison. In addition, defendant Rasmussen is charged with trafficking in unauthorized access devices and aggravated identity theft.
According to the indictment, between April 2018, and July 2020, Rasmussen and Shestowsky conspired with others to defraud financial institutions by false and fraudulent pretenses. In furtherance of the scheme, Shestowsky emailed Rasmussen the personal information, including bank account numbers, of various individuals without their knowledge or permission. On April 5, 2018, and January 2, 2019, Shestowsky emailed Rasmussen a listing of nine individuals, their addresses, phone numbers, and, for each individual, a bank name, bank account number, and note indicating a dollar amount in the bank account.
On March 26, 2019, Rasmussen, using the online name “chiefbanker,” established a vendor page on the “Nightmare” marketplace on the Darknet, advertising for sale “high value” bank accounts for “Fraud.” Between June 12, 2019, and January 4, 2020, Rasmussen exchanged a series of email communications concerning the sale of bank account numbers with an individual located in Buffalo, NY. During this time, Rasmussen emailed approximately 52 bank account numbers, along with associated personal identifying information of the account owners, to the individual in Buffalo, requesting payment in the form of Bitcoin. In exchange for bank account numbers, Rasmussen received Bitcoin payments totaling approximately $9,526.31.
In addition, Rasmussen incorporated a fictious business called “First America Solutions Corp.,” and then opened business checking accounts at Bank of America and Wells Fargo. He deposited 65 fraudulent checks totaling approximately $25,080.00 into the accounts. The checks were made using bank account numbers of 65 individuals, including a victim from Savannah, NY, in the Western District of New York.
James Rasmussen was arraigned this morning before U.S. Magistrate Judge H. Kenneth Schroeder, Jr. and was held pending a detention hearing on June 8, 2026.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul E. Bonanno. The indictment is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Acting Special Agent-in-Charge Brendan Dunford. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs provided valuable assistance with securing the arrest and May 28 extradition from Canada of Rasmussen to the United States.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
# # # #
Binghamton man pleads guilty to his role in narcotics conspiracyRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Jeryel Winfield, 52, of Binghamton, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Richard J. Arcara to narcotics conspiracy, which carries a mandatory minimum penalty of five years in prison, and a maximum of 40 years.
Between 2019 and May 26, 2022, Winfield conspired with Joseph S. Zaso and others to sell heroin. Winfield was a source of supply for and associate of Joseph Zaso. Winfield distributed quantities of heroin and cocaine to Zaso. He also utilized Cash App and Facebook to facilitate his drug trafficking activities. Winfield admits that he received proceeds from his involvement in the drug conspiracy. Joseph Zaso was previously convicted.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua A. Violanti. The plea is the result of an investigation by the Jamestown Police Department, under the direction of Chief Scott Forster, the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Farhana Islam, New York Field Division, and the Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff James Quattrone.
Sentencing is scheduled for September 23, 2026, before Judge Arcara.
# # # #
Fort Erie man pleads guilty to sneaking meth and fentanyl across the borderRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Eric Hagen, 57, of Fort Erie, Canada, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Richard J. Arcara to importation of controlled substances, which carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, and a fine of $1,000,000.
In June 2024, Hagen was convicted of possessing child pornography in St. Catharines, Ontario. On the morning of August 1, 2025, Customs and Border Protection encountered Hagen at the Peace Bridge Port of Entry, and he was referred for a secondary inspection. During Hagen’s secondary screening, CBP found multiple cellular telephones, hard drives, a laptop, and a baby monitor, as well as two plastic containers, which contained methamphetamine and fentanyl.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael J. Adler and Sasha Mascarenhas. The plea is the result of an investigation by Customs and Border Protection, under the direction of Director of Field Operations Rose Brophy and Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Acting Special Agent-in-Charge Anthony Patrone.
Sentencing is scheduled for September 22, 2026, at 12:30 p.m. before Judge Arcara.
# # # #
Elma man going to prison for 30 years for production and possession of child pornographyRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Matthew A. Steele, 55, of Elma, NY, who was convicted of production and possession of child pornography involving a prepubescent minor, was sentenced to serve 30 years in prison by U.S. District Judge John L. Sinatra, Jr. In addition, Steele was ordered to pay restitution totaling $410,610 to a victim in this case.
Between July 2008, and July 2010, Steele produced images of child pornography with a minor female (victim) on several occasions from the time she was approximately nine years old until she was approximately 12 years old. Some of the images were distributed by Steele to other unknown individuals. On March 11, 2024, investigators executed a search warrant at his residence, seizing two electronic devices. A forensic review of the devices recovered numerous sexually explicit images of the victim created by Steele. In addition, 45 images of child pornography, not involving the victim, that Steele obtained over the internet were recovered. Some of the images included prepubescent minors and depicted violence against children.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron J. Mango. The sentencing is the result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Acting Special Agent-in-Charge Anthony Patrone, the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Amie Feroleto, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.
# # # #
Rochester man sentenced for defrauding MedicareRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that John Weinmann, 57, of Rochester, NY, who was convicted of knowingly receiving a kickback under a federal health care program, was sentenced to serve three years’ probation and a $2,000 fine by U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo. This action is part of the Trump Administration’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud.
In 2017, Weinmann, while operating as an independent insurance broker, entered into an agreement with a Syracuse, NY, company to target Low Income Subsidy (LIS) Medicare beneficiaries. Under the terms of the agreement, the Syracuse company agreed to pay Weinmann money, as a kickback, for each prescription medication he was able to get filled and paid for under a beneficiary’s Medicare coverage. Between September 2017 and August 2018, Weinmann recommended the purchase of, and then arranged for, the purchase of prescription medications that were medically unnecessary. The payments Weinmann received were made in whole or in part by the beneficiaries Medicare coverage. The total amount of money received by Weinmann in kickbacks was $32,150.
On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division (Fraud Division). The Fraud Division is laser-focused on investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Franz M. Wright. The sentencing is the result of an investigation by U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Naomi Gruchacz, the New York State Department of Financial Services, under the direction of Acting Superintendent Kaitlin Asrow, the U.S. Department of Defense Criminal Investigative Service, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Christopher M. Silvestro, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Acting Special Agent-in-Charge Brendan Dunford.
Florida woman pleads guilty for her role in bank fraud schemeRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Renee M. Thompson, 53, of North Lauderdale, FL, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Frank P. Geraci, Jr. to conspiracy to commit an offense against the United States, which carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison and a fine of $250,000. Thompson also agreed to pay restitution totaling $28,500.
Beginning in April 2023, Thompson conspired with others to commit bank fraud. In April 2023, a Victim Company mailed a $12,914.11 check from the Western District of New York to a vendor in Florida. Thompson or a co-conspirator stole the check and altered it, making it payable to Thompson. In July 2023, Thompson deposited the check into an account in her name at TD Bank. Thompson or her co-conspirators then used the Victim Company’s name, address, bank account number, routing number, and signature to create 16 more fraudulent checks. Between July 24 and August 15, 2023, Thompson and her co-conspirators deposited the fraudulent checks and successfully obtained $205,780.52 from the Victim Company’s account at C&N Bank. In June 2023, Thompson deposited two additional counterfeit checks totaling $7,098 into an account in her name at Truist Bank.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan K. McGuire. The plea is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Acting Special Agent-in-Charge Brendan Dunford and the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Harry T. Chavis, Jr.
Sentencing is scheduled for September 9, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. before Judge Geraci.
# # # #
Buffalo man going to prison for selling methRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. -- U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Mario Pittman Jr., 32, of Buffalo, NY, who was convicted of distribution of methamphetamine, was sentenced to serve 114 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Richard J. Arcara.
In March 2024, the FBI Safe Streets Task Force and Lackawanna Police began investigating Pittman’s drug trafficking activities. The investigation included several controlled purchases of methamphetamine from Pittman. On April 30, 2024, investigators attempted to stop Pittman’s vehicle, but he fled at a high rate of speed through a residential neighborhood. Law enforcement eventually made a forced stop of his vehicle. Pittman fled on foot but was apprehended by law enforcement. Investigators recovered a clear plastic baggy of suspected methamphetamine, which Pittman dropped on the ground as he attempted to flee.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey E. Intravatola. The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Acting Special Agent-in-Charge Brendan Dunford, the Lackawanna Police Department, under the direction of Chief Mark Packard, and the Erie County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff John Garcia.
# # # #
South Dayton man going to prison for receipt of child pornographyRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Joseph A. Buelow, 31, of South Dayton, NY, who was convicted of receipt of child pornography, was sentenced to serve 108 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Lawrence J Vilardo.
In February 2024, the West Seneca Police Department seized Buelow’s phone, based on communications he was having online. A search of the phone recovered six images of child pornography that were saved on the phone and received by Buelow between August 2022, and November 2023. Some of the images depicted prepubescent minors and violence against children. In addition, Buelow admits that he engaged in the sexual abuse, exploitation, or attempted sexual abuse or exploitation of a minor on two or more occasions.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron J. Mango. The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Acting Special Agent-in-Charge Brendan Dunford, the West Seneca Police Department, under the direction of Chief Brian Cosgrove, the Town of Tonawanda Police Department, under the direction of Chief Corey Flatau, and the Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff James Quattrone.
# # # #
Israeli man sentenced for bringing an alien to the U.S.Read the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. -- U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Israel Enden, 46, a citizen of Israel, who was convicted of bringing an alien to the United States, was sentenced to time served by U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo.
Enden is a dual citizen, he was born in the United States and physically resides in the State of Israel. In the early morning hours of January 8, 2026, Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Officers encountered Enden driving a vehicle bearing Canadian license plates at primary inspection at the Rainbow Bridge Port of Entry. Enden was referred to for secondary inspection after failing to produce any rental agreement for the vehicle. During secondary inspection, officers opened the rear hatch of the vehicle and observed a large male, later identified as Elazar Wigdorowitz, hiding beneath some suitcases. Subsequent investigation determined that Enden, Wigdorowitz, and a third person flew from Warsaw, Poland to Toronto, Canada together the previous day on January 7, 2026. When Enden drove the rental from Canada to the United States, he knew Elazar Wigdorowitz was an alien and had not received prior official authorization to enter the United States.
Elazar Wigdorowitz was previously convicted of improper entry by an alien, sentenced to time served and turned over to Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
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 (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
The case is being prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brendan W. Fitzgerald and Maeve E. Huggins. The sentencing is the result of an investigation by Customs and Border Protection under the direction of Director of Field Operations Rose Brophy and Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Erin Keegan.
# # # #
Prior felon arrested on new drug chargeRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Michael Hatten, 55, of Buffalo, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance, which carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $1,000,000 fine.
According to the complaint, since November 2025, the Erie County Sheriff’s Office has been investigating a drug trafficking organization operating in Buffalo. During the investigation, law enforcement determined that Hatten was involved in the drug trafficking activities. On March 30, 2026, investigators conducted a traffic stop of Hatten’s vehicle, during which they recovered approximately 11 grams of fentanyl. Also on March 30, they conducted search warrants at a Zelmer Street residence in Buffalo, and an Adam Street residence in Lockport, NY. During the execution of the search warrants, investigators seized more than $25,000 in cash and drug paraphernalia. A search warrant was also executed at an East Ferry Street residence in Buffalo. During that search, law enforcement seized approximately 42 pounds of suspected crystal methamphetamine, 11 pounds of suspected fentanyl and approximately 1,900 grams of suspected cocaine, drug paraphernalia
At the time of his arrest, Hatten was on federal supervised release following a 2019 federal conviction for conspiracy to distribute narcotics.
Hatten made an initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Jeremiah J. McCarthy and was detained.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Donna Duncan. The complaint is the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Farhana Islam and the Erie County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff John Garcia.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
# # # #
Jamestown woman sentenced for assaulting a federal officerRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Alyssa Sheldon, 30, of Jamestown, NY, who was convicted of assaulting, resisting or impeding a federal officer, was sentenced to serve one year of probation by U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael J. Roemer.
On May 17, 2022, an arrest warrant was executed, and Sheldon was taken into custody. On May 18, 2022, made an initial appearance the U.S. Courthouse in the Western District of New York. During the proceeding, Sheldon was ordered remanded into custody of the U.S. Marshals Service. While being escorted back to her cell, Sheldon attempted to escape from custody. She resisted the escorting officer, kicking him below his waist. Sheldon continued to resist and attempted to spit in the officer’s face.
This case was part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF Buffalo comprises agents and officers from Homeland Security Investigations, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigations, Department of Homeland Security Emergency Removal Operations, Customs and Border Protection, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the U.S. Coast Guard Investigative Service, the U.S. Marshals Service, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the U.S. Secret Service, and the Diplomatic Security Service, with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of New York.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua A. Violanti. The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Farhana Islam, New York Field Division, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Philip Tejera.
# # # #
Jamestown man sentenced for his role in narcotics conspiracyRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Curtis Snyder, 53, of Jamestown, NY, who was convicted of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, heroin, fentanyl, and methamphetamine, was sentenced to serve 84 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo.
Snyder was an associate and co-conspirator of Rocco Beardsley, who sold large quantities of heroin, fentanyl, methamphetamine, and other controlled substances in the Jamestown area. On April 9, 2019, an individual identified as J.A. was discovered deceased from an apparent overdose at a residence in Jamestown and Beardsley was believed to be involved in the overdose. About a month after J.A.’s overdose death, Beardsley sent Snyder to the residence of another individual to force this individual to make a video regarding Beardsley’s lack of involvement with J.A.’s overdose death. In exchange, Snyder would receive a “bundle” of heroin/fentanyl. The individual complied and made the video, stating that Beardsley was not present at J.A. residence the date of J.A.’s overdose death.
Rocco Beardsley was previously convicted and sentenced.
This case was part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF Buffalo comprises agents and officers from Homeland Security Investigations, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigations, Department of Homeland Security Emergency Removal Operations, Customs and Border Protection, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the U.S. Coast Guard Investigative Service, the U.S. Marshals Service, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the U.S. Secret Service, and the Diplomatic Security Service, with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of New York.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joshua A. Violanti and Jeffrey E. Intravatola. The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Jamestown Police Department, under the direction of Jamestown Police Chief Timothy Jackson, the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Farhana Islam, New York Field Division, and the Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff James Quattrone.
# # # #
Buffalo man arrested on drug chargeRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Delmar Washington, 49, of Buffalo, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance, which carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $1,000,000 fine.
According to the complaint, since November 2025, the Erie County Sheriff’s Office has been investigating a drug trafficking organization operating in Buffalo. During the investigation, law enforcement determined that Washington was involved in the drug trafficking activities. On March 30, 2026, investigators executed a search warrant at a Landon Street residence in Buffalo, seizing approximately 475 grams of suspected crystal methamphetamine and 676 grams of fentanyl, drug paraphernalia, and a shotgun, which had previously been reported stolen. Investigators also seized seizing 3.5 grams of suspected crack cocaine and 3.5 grams of suspected fentanyl from Washington at the time of his arrest.
Washington made an initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge H. Kenneth Schroeder, Jr. and was held pending a detention hearing on May 19, 2026.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Donna Duncan. The complaint is the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Farhana Islam and the Erie County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff John Garcia.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
# # # #
Lancaster Medical LLC agrees to pay $500,000 to resolve allegations related to Paycheck Protection Program eligibilityRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. – The U.S. Attorney’s Office announced today that Lancaster Medical LLC, a former medical practice located in Depew, NY, has agreed to pay $500,000 to resolve allegations arising under the False Claims Act (FCA), that it fraudulently obtained a Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), which it was not eligible to receive. This action is part of the Trump Administration’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud.
Lancaster Medical LLC applied for and received a PPP loan in April of 2020, which was fully guaranteed by the SBA in the amount of $249,290. The United States alleges that Lancaster Medical LLC violated the FCA by falsely certifying its eligibility for the PPP loan. Lancaster Medical LLC was not eligible for the PPP loan because its assets had been sold pursuant to an asset sale in 2019—months before it applied for the PPP loan. The United States further contends that the PPP loan proceeds were used for impermissible purposes, such as personal expenses for Lancaster Medical LLC’s former owners. The United States further contends that after being informed that the PPP loan was not approved for forgiveness, Lancaster Medical LLC did not repay the loan.
The civil settlement also resolves pending civil forfeiture litigation in the United States District Court for the Western District of New York, United States of America v. One 2020 BMW X5, Vin: 5UXCR6C00L9C83972, Titled and Registered to Kevin G. Cleary, 23-cv-272. In that action, the United States was seeking the forfeiture of a vehicle that it contends was proceeds of and traceable to the proceeds of Lancaster Medical LLC’s PPP loan.
On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division (Fraud Division). The Fraud Division is laser-focused on investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Boston Division, under the direction of Acting Inspector-in-Charge Jason Buckley, the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Harry T. Chavis, Jr., and the United States Attorney’s Office. The FCA matter was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorneys David M. Coriell and Jonathan W. Ferris, and Investigator Peggy McFarland. The Civil Forfeiture matter was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Mary Clare Kane.
Individuals with information about allegations of fraud involving COVID-19 are encouraged to report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only; there has been no determination or admission of liability.
# # # #
Texas man pleads guilty for his role in cross country narcotics conspiracy originating in MexicoRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Ian Dyer, 26, of Texas, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, five kilograms or more of cocaine, which carries a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years in prison, a maximum of life, and a fine of $10,000,000.
Between April 2023, and February 20, 2025, Dyer conspired with others to sell cocaine that came from Mexico and was transported from Texas to multiple locations throughout the United States, including Buffalo. His role was primarily that of a drug courier and the receiver of bulk currency for counting. Dyer personally made numerous trips with bulk cocaine to Buffalo, NY, and took numerous trips back to Texas with bulk U.S. currency.
On April 8, 2023, the Ohio State and Highway Patrol seized 18.93 kilograms of cocaine from a co-conspirator who was attempting to transport the cocaine from Texas to Buffalo. On December 12, 2023, Tennessee’s 23rd Drug Task Force seized $100,000 in U.S. currency from Dyer and one of his co-conspirators, some of which currency had come from Buffalo. On May 7, 2024, the Ontario County, NY, Sheriff’s Office seized 9.3 kilograms of cocaine and 3,528 grams of pure methamphetamine from a co-conspirator during a traffic stop. On a typical trip, Dyer or his co-conspirators transported approximately 10 kilograms of cocaine to Buffalo and additional kilograms of cocaine to other destinations.
Dyer was arrested in April 2025, along with six other defendants, including: Winnie Taru Woods a/k/a Ru, Sharron McCullough a/k/a Black, Marlon Holt, Jr. a/k/a Scooter a/k/a Professor, Gary Sudesh Gosine, Sr., Shannell Gosine, and Norman Patillo. Dyer is the third to be convicted.
This case was part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF Buffalo comprises agents and officers from Homeland Security Investigations, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigations, Department of Homeland Security Emergency Removal Operations, Customs and Border Protection, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the U.S. Coast Guard Investigative Service, the U.S. Marshals Service, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the U.S. Secret Service, and the Diplomatic Security Service, with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of New York.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael J. Adler, Donna Duncan, and Jeffrey E. Intravatola. The plea is the result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Erin Keegan, and the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Farhana Islam, New York Enforcement Division. Additional assistance was provided by the Ontario County, NY, Sheriff’s Office, the 23rd Judicial Taskforce, Tennessee, as well as Homeland Security Investigations in NY, and Houston and Austin, Texas.
Sentencing is scheduled for February 9, 2027, at 9:30 a.m. before Judge Vilardo.
# # # #
Rochester man who threatened and stalked a police officer going to prisonRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Orlando Justice, 38, of Rochester, NY, who was convicted of transmission of threatening communications in interstate commerce, was sentenced to serve 21 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Meredith A. Vacca.
On November 23, 2024, a Rochester Police officer (Victim) participated in the arrest of Justice, who was intoxicated at the time of arrest and was transported to Strong Memorial Hospital. While at Strong, Justice threatened the officer by stating that he would come to officer’s house and injure him. Justice was subsequently charged with Trespassing and Resisting Arrest and issued an appearance ticket. The following day, Justice called the officer multiple times via cellular service and FaceTime. In one call on FaceTime, Justice told the officer, “I told you that I would find you,” and that he knew the officer’s personal information and where he lived. Justice also stated that the officer “messed with the wrong one” and that he (Justice) was “a different breed of human.” Justice demanded that the officer give him the names of the other officers who were present during his arrest. Justice threatened to go to the officer’s home, continued calling the officer and encouraged his friends to do the same.
A few hours later, Justice called the officer again via FaceTime, asking “Why your friends come to my house?” the officer asked Justice who he was, and he responded that the officer knew who he was and gave the name “John Doe.” The officer ended the call by telling Justice not to call him. The following day, Justice sent a series of text messages. In one of these messages, Justice told the officer, “Don't get scared now.”
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan K. McGuire. The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Rochester Police Department, under the direction of Chief David Smith, the Greece Police Department, under the direction of Chief Michael Wood, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Philip Tejera, and the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Kevin Sucher.
# # # #
Pharaoh’s owner going to prison for 25 years for bribery, sex trafficking conspiracy and witness tamperingRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Peter Gerace, 59, of Clarence, NY, was sentenced to serve 25 years in prison by U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo after a jury convicted him of conspiracy to commit sex trafficking, drug trafficking and defrauding the United States, along with witness tampering, maintaining a drug involved premises and bribing a public official.
Between 2005, and 2019, Gerace, owned and operated Pharaoh's Gentlemen's Club. While doing so Gerace engaged in various criminal activity to include conspiring to distribute controlled substances, sex trafficking and bribing former Drug Enforcement Agent Joesph Bongiovanni. Gerace paid Bongiovanni in exchange for Bongiovanni using his position to dissuade other members of law enforcement from conducting investigations into Gerace’s activities at Pharaoh’s. Bongiovanni was previously convicted and was sentenced to serve five years in prison. Gerace also forced and coerced Pharaoh’s dancers to engage in commercial sex acts.
“The conduct Peter Gerace engaged in had a horrendous impact on the victims and negatively impacted the community,” stated U.S. Attorney DiGiacomo. “My office will continue pursue individuals who engage in such conduct and hold them accountable.”
“Today’s sentencing of Peter Gerace sends a clear message that individuals who exploit vulnerable people for profit will be held accountable,” said Philip Tejera, Special Agent-in-Charge of the FBI Buffalo Field Office. “This case exposed the devastating impact of drug trafficking, public corruption, and human trafficking within Western New York. To those who have been exploited or trafficked: your life matters, and your voice matters. The FBI encourages victims and survivors to come forward, as we have dedicated professionals and resources available to provide support. Call 1-800-CALL-FBI or submit a tip online at tips.fbi.gov.”
“Today’s sentence closes a dark chapter in which this defendant treated people as commodities and tried to bend the justice system to his will,” said HSI Buffalo Special Agent-in-Charge Erin Keegan. “No amount of money, influence, or intimidation could shield Peter Gerace from accountability. HSI Buffalo and our partners will continue to stand with victims, follow the evidence, and dismantle criminal networks that profit from exploitation in our community.”
“Today’s sentence sends a clear message to anybody who would seek to bribe a corrupt federal law enforcement agent to facilitate crimes like drug and sex trafficking,” said Ryan T. Geach, Special Agent-in-Charge of the U.S. Department of Justice Office of the Inspector General Northeast Region. “The DOJ OIG commends its investigative partners and the U.S. Attorney’s Office on this just outcome.”
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joseph M. Tripi, Nicholas T. Cooper, and Casey L. Chalbeck. The sentencing is the result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Erin Keegan, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Philip Tejera, and the U.S. Department of Justice Office of the Inspector General, under the direction of Special-Agent-In-Charge Ryan T. Geach, Northeast Region.
# # # #
Former Hellenic Orthodox priest accused of stealing hundreds of thousands of dollarsRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. — U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Christos Christakis, 57, of Cincinnati, OH, was charged by criminal complaint with bank fraud, which carries a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison and a $1,000,000 fine.
According to the complaint, in March 2007, Christakis was hired to be the Priest at the Hellenic Orthodox Church of the Annunciation (HOCA) in Buffalo, NY. In 2011, Christakis inserted a provision into the HOCA by-laws, which resulted in Christakis having complete control over the Priest Discretionary Fund. Similar to a petty cash account, the fund is intended to allow the priest to provide small direct assistance payments and financial support to those in need. The fund at HOCA was overseen by the parish council and was subject to limits on how much money could be in the discretionary account at any given time, usually less than $1,500. In March 2025, a whistle-blower complaint was filed with the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America about the financial irregularities occurring at HOCA, which prompted the Archdiocese to conduct an internal investigation into Christakis, during which he made admissions to using parish funds for his own personal benefit between 2018 and 2025.
Investigators analyzed the HOCA Priest Discretionary Fund. According to the complaint, between January 2018 and July 31, 2025, approximately 725 checks were deposited into the fund, of which only 11 were specifically designated for donation into the fund. At least one $7,000 check was written from the fund to pay Christakis’s personal American Express bill.
The investigation also included analysis of Christakis’s personal bank account held jointly with his spouse, along with Christakis’s children’s accounts. Cash deposits into these accounts were identified and compared to the amount and timing of cash withdrawals from the Priest Discretionary Fund. The analysis found approximately $338,660 of cash deposited into the joint account. Christakis’s and his spouse’s known employment and lifestyle would not have generated this level of cash. In addition, an analysis of Christakis’s spending levels and bank accounts was conducted, which compared the primary sources and uses of funds each year, excluding cash deposits. The analysis revealed the non-cash sources of income were insufficient to support Christakis’s and his family’s lifestyle. Once cash deposits were added to their budget, the joint account was able to break even each year. Christakis is accused of stealing approximately $450,000.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Craig R. Gestring. The complaint is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Philip Tejera.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
# # # #
Justice Department announces results of Operation Iron PursuitRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. — The Department of Justice today announced the results of Operation Iron Pursuit, a one-month, nationwide enforcement effort to find child victims of sex abuse and arrest child sex predators. More than 200 child victims were located and over 350 child sexual abuse offenders were arrested. All 56 FBI field offices and U.S. Attorneys, offices around the country participated in the coordinated takedown effort, including the Buffalo FBI Field Office and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of New York.
The operation commenced April 1 and ended April 30. The Administration for Children and Families recognizes April as National Child Abuse Prevention Month.
“This operation puts every child predator on notice: we are coming for you,” said Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche. “The sexual exploitation of minors is an abomination with no place in our society. We will hunt down these offenders, hold them fully accountable under the law, and deliver justice for victims.”
“Every single day this FBI is working 24/7 to break networks of child abusers all across this country,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “Last year we joined our partners delivering a record year, identifying and rescuing over 6,300 missing children, and today’s announcement of Operation Iron Pursuit is just the latest success in that work — with over 200 victims located and over 350 offenders arrested. Let this be a message to criminal actors who seek to target America’s children: you will be pursued, and you will be brought to justice.”
“Working closely with our partners at every level of law enforcement, we will use all of the tools at our disposal to investigate and bring to justice those defendants who prey on the most vulnerable of victims, our children,” stated U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo. “Let these efforts also serve as a reminder to parents to be vigilant in consistently monitoring your children’s online activities.”
“FBI Buffalo and our law enforcement partners work every day to identify and arrest criminals who prey on children,” said Philip Tejera, Special Agent-in-Charge of the FBI’s Buffalo Field Office. “Operation Iron Pursuit exemplifies the FBI’s steadfast commitment: we will not stop until those who endanger children are removed from our communities and held accountable.”
Two defendants were charged in the Western District of New York as part of Operation Iron Pursuit:
- CJ A. Wolf, of Lewiston, NY, was arrested and charged with enticement of a minor, and faces a maximum penalty of life in prison. According to the criminal complaint, in October 2025, Wolf began communicating with an undercover law enforcement officer via text message, after responding to an advertisement, posted online by investigators, of a purported minor female willing to meet in person to have sex. During these communications, Wolf was told to travel to a specific location where he could have sex with the purported 13-year-old girl who was advertised online. Wolf traveled to a retail parking lot and interacted with the undercover officer who was coordinating the sexual interaction between Wolf and the purported 13-year-old girl. Wolf was asked if he had the money, which he confirmed by showing he had $200 and agreeing for “a half hour.” After some further conversation, Wolf was arrested.
- Kenneth Tootle, of Rochester, NY, was arrested and charged with production of child pornography, enticement of a minor, and receipt of child pornography, and faces a maximum penalty of life in prison. According to the criminal complaint, on January 18, 2026, the Rochester Police Department received a report from a mother that she found disturbing messages between her seven-year-old daughter (minor victim) and Tootle on her daughter’s cell phone, including sexual photos and videos. A review of the minor victim’s phone confirmed that she was communicating with Tootle and sent him images and videos of herself that constitute child pornography. Subsequently, a search warrant was executed on Tootle’s cell phone. However, the complaint states that the images of child pornography sent by the minor victim to Tootle had been deleted.
This effort follows three other successful operations last year. Operation Relentless Justice, concluded in December 2025, resulted in the rescue of 205 children and arrests of 293 offenders. Operation Enduring Justice, concluded in August 2025, resulted in the rescue of 133 children and the arrests of 234 offenders. And Operation Restore Justice, concluded in May 2025, resulted in the rescue of 115 children and the arrests of 205 child sex abuse offenders.
The FBI’s VSD assisted victims during Operation Iron Pursuit and provided services such as forensic interviews, referrals for medical and mental health resources, and coordination with partners. VSD's mission is to inform, support, and assist victims in navigating the aftermath of crime and the criminal justice process with dignity and resilience.
The Department partners with and oversees funding grants for the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), which receives and shares tips about possible child sexual exploitation received through its 24/7 hotline at 1-800-THE-LOST and on missingkids.org.
The Department urges the public to remain vigilant, and report suspected exploitation of a child through the FBI's tipline at 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324), tips.fbi.gov, or by calling your local FBI field office.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
# # # #
Venezuelan national sentenced for stealing nearly $300,000 from ATMS in NY, Massachusetts and IllinoisRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. –U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that David Jose Gomez Cegarra, 25, a citizen of Venezuela, who was convicted of bank larceny, was sentenced to time served and ordered to pay restitution totaling $294,820 by U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo. Cegarra was then turned over to Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Between October 5 and November 11, 2024, Gomez Cegarra, and several co-conspirators, stole more than $290,000 using an illicit technique known as “ATM Jackpotting,” in which they either removed an ATM’s cover and infected its hard drive with malware or removed the entire hard drive and replaced it with an infected hard drive. The technique allows an individual to assume control of an ATM and cause it to dispense currency.
- On October 5, 2024, Gomez Cegarra and his co-conspirators stole $109,620.00 from an ATM located at Radius Federal Credit Union in Kenmore, NY.
- On October 6, 2024, Gomez Cegarra and his co-conspirators stole $58,000.00 from an ATM located at St. Mary’s Federal Credit Union in Framingham, MA.
- On October 17, 2024, Gomez Cegarra and his co-conspirators stole $21,600.00 from an ATM located at First National Bank of Dryden in Dryden, NY.
- On November 11, 2024, Gomez Cegarra and his co-conspirators stole $105,600.00 from two separate Community First Bank ATMs in Mount Vernon, Il.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jeffrey E. Intravatola and Douglas A.C. Penrose. The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Philip Tejera, the Kenmore Police Department, under the direction of Chief Thomas Phillips, the Homer, NY, Police Department, under the direction of Chief Robert Pitman, the Framingham, MA, Police Department, under the direction of Chief Lester Baker, and the Mahomet, Illinois, Police Department, under the direction of Chief David Smysor.
# # # #
Rochester man pleads guilty for conspiring to defraud victims, including taxpayers, of more than $2,000,000 and money launderingRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Timothy Wadsworth, 35, of Rochester, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Frank P. Geraci, Jr. to conspiracy to commit wire fraud and money laundering, which carry a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Between March 2020, and September 2021, Wadsworth conspired with others to fraudulently obtain money. To execute the scheme, he obtained credit card account numbers from coconspirators and processed unauthorized credit card transactions from those accounts, transferring the money to his bank accounts, transferring a portion of the money to his Coinbase account to purchase Bitcoin, and transferring Bitcoin to his coconspirators. Between March 10, 2020, and May 15, 2020, Wadsworth, using a Stripe, Inc. account, which allows merchants to receive funds from consumers as payments for goods and services, attempted to process 310 payments totaling $1,673,578. Of the 310 attempted transactions, 116 were initially successful totaling $730,728.22. These transactions were fraudulent. The credit card account holders did not authorize the transactions, and their account information was used to make the payments without authorization.
Once credit card payments were successfully processed, Wadsworth transferred the funds from his Stripe account to bank accounts he owned with HSBC and Evolve Federal Credit Union. He then transferred funds from those bank accounts to his Coinbase account, purchased Bitcoin with the money, and transferred the Bitcoin to various external addresses. These transactions were often in excess of $10,000 each. For example, between April 22 and April 28, 2020, Wadsworth transferred fraudulently obtained proceeds from his Stripe account to his HSBC account on three separate occasions, in the amounts of $49,419.99, $45,501.85, and $53,496.75.
In addition, between May 13, 2020, through May 5, 2021, Wadsworth and others submitted nine false Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) applications in an attempt to obtain money they were not entitled to. The applications contained misrepresentations about the businesses’ revenue and operation, which was material in assessing the businesses’ eligibility for the EIDL funds. Three of the EIDL applications were approved, and a total of $161,200 was paid to Wadsworth’s bank accounts as a result of the fraud. Between March 7 and April 26, 2021, Wadsworth applied for six Payroll Protection Program (PPP) loans totaling $91,219. Two of the loans were funded for $20,833 and $20,416, respectively, which was paid to Wadsworth’s bank account. Once again, the applications contained misrepresentations about the businesses they were submitted for.
From May 2020 through September 2021, Wadsworth fraudulently received approximately $65,896 in unemployment benefits from New York State, the State of Washington, and the Department of Labor. He was not eligible to receive any unemployment funds from any source during that time.
Wadsworth also participated in a romance fraud scheme in 2020. The victim, recently widowed, met an individual on Facebook that represented himself as an oil rig worker, and requested $42,000 from her to pay for travel expenses to return to the United States. The victim was directed to wire the money to Wadsworth’s bank account, which she did on March 20, 2020.
Wadsworth also defrauded six other victims out of $26,000 as a result of his schemes.
Wadsworth’s actions, including the credit card fraud, the PPP and EIDL fraud, the unemployment fraud, and the other frauds, resulted in actual and intended losses of approximately $2,059,893.00.
On April 7, 2026, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division. The core mission of the Fraud Division is to zealously investigate and prosecute those who steal or fraudulently misuse taxpayer dollars. Department of Justice efforts to combat fraud support President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Katelyn M. Hartford. The plea is the result of an investigation by Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Philip Tejera, the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Harry T. Chavis, Jr., New York Field Office, the New York State Department of Financial Services, under the direction of Acting Superintendent Kaitlin Asrow, and the New York State Department of Labor, under the direction of Commissioner Roberta Reardon.
Sentencing is scheduled for September 10, 2026, before Judge Geraci.
# # # #
Geneva man charged with production and possession of child pornographyRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Rafael Arroyo-Ubiles, 27, of Geneva, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with production and possession of child pornography. The charges carry a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison, a lifetime period of supervised release, and a $250,000 fine.
According to the complaint, in January 2026, Arroyo-Ubiles came to the attention of the Geneva, NY, Police Department during an investigation into illegal narcotics sales in the City of Geneva. Geneva Police executed multiple search warrants related to illegal narcotics sales. During the execution of one of the search warrants, investigators discovered an online account belonging to Arroyo-Ubiles. While searching for evidence of narcotics activity in the account, investigators observed videos depicting Arroyo sexually abusing a five-year-old girl.
The defendant made an initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Colleen D. Holland and was detained.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kyle P. Rossi. The criminal complaint is the result of an investigation by the Geneva, NY Police Department, under the direction of Chief Ronald Eveland, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Philip Tejera.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
# # # #
Alabama man going to prison for his role in drug conspiracyRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that James Walker, 71, of Huntsville, AL, who was convicted of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, a mixture and substance containing cocaine, was sentenced to serve 30 months in prison by U.S. District Judge John L. Sinatra, Jr.
Between February and July 25, 2018, Walker conspired with Adrian Goudelock, Eric Young, and others, to sell cocaine. The conspiracy involved the transport of bulk quantities of cocaine to multiple areas in the country including Buffalo, NY. Walker owned a commercial tractor-trailer, which was outfitted with a lined hidden compartment for the purpose of concealing bulk cocaine and/or bulk currency. He hired Young, who drove the tractor-trailer to the Western District of New York with bulk cocaine on at least two occasions. Walker told Young about the hidden compartment and directed him to communicate with specified co-conspirators to arrange the logistics of the bulk cocaine deliveries and to retrieve bulk cash in exchange for the bulk cocaine.
Communicating over an encrypted messaging application, Walker directed Young, in June 2018, to make three drops of 20 kilograms each in Cleveland, OH, Buffalo, and New York. On June 21, 2018, the same day law enforcement observed co-conspirators bringing a duffle bag of cocaine into a stash location, law enforcement observed phone calls between Walker and Adrian Goudelock, the bulk cocaine purchaser in Buffalo. Law enforcement learned that the tractor-trailer owned by Walker and operated by Young was in the Western District of New York. On July 25, 2018, Young and the tractor trailer were observed in a parking lot in West Seneca, NY. Law enforcement observed an exchange of duffle bags: one containing 52 packages of U.S. currency, wrapped, taped, and labeled exactly how Walker had told Young they would be packaged. The other duffle bag that was collected from the tractor-trailer by a co-conspirator in Buffalo contained 17 kilograms of cocaine. Law enforcement subsequently found the hidden compartment in the rear wall of the sleeper area of the tractor cab that contained three plastic wrapped packages of bulk U.S. currency totaling $145,380, which was payment for a load of cocaine that Young had collected prior to his arrival in Buffalo. In total, law enforcement seized $664,960 from Walker’s tractor-trailer.
This case was part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF Buffalo comprises agents and officers from Homeland Security Investigations, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigations, Department of Homeland Security Emergency Removal Operations, Customs and Border Protection, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the U.S. Coast Guard Investigative Service, the U.S. Marshals Service, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the U.S. Secret Service, and the Diplomatic Security Service, with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of New York.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Adler. The sentencing is the result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Erin Keegan; the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Philip Tejera; the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Amie Feroleto; the Erie County Sheriff’s Department, under the direction of Sheriff John Garcia; and Customs and Border Protection, Air and Marine Unit, under the direction of under the direction of Director Christopher Romosz. Additional assistance was provided by the New York National Guard and Homeland Security Investigations, El Paso, Texas.
Prior felon charged again with crack cocaine possessionRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Eli Clark, 36, of North Tonawanda, NY, was charged by criminal complaint with possession with intent to distribute crack cocaine, which carries maximum penalties of 20 years imprisonment, followed by not less than 3 years of supervised release, and a fine up to $1,000,000.
In January 2020, Clark was sentenced on a federal charge of possession with intent to distribute 28 grams or more of crack cocaine. In March 2025, Clark violated his federal supervised release and was sentenced to an additional 12 months in prison. He was released in January 2026. In March 2026, the North Tonawanda Police Department conducted a stop of a vehicle Clark was riding in. During the stop, law enforcement recovered 33 grams of suspected crack cocaine from Clark’s waistband. Clark was taken into custody. Law enforcement also executed a search warrant at a River Road residence, seizing several drug paraphernalia items.
Clark made an initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael J. Roemer and was detained.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey E. Intravatola. The complaint is the result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Erin Keegan, the Niagara County Sheriff’s Office Drug Task Force, under the direction of Sheriff Michael Filicetti, and the North Tonawanda Police Department, under the direction of Chief Keith Glass.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
# # # #
Niagara Falls man pleads guilty to attempting to disable a CSX railroad switchRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Charles Wilson, 66, of Niagara Falls, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo to damaging or impairing the operation of a train control system, which carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
CSX uses railroad switches to control the movement of trains throughout the CSX Railyard. On June 29, 2025, Wilson entered the CSX Railyard, removed a 102 switch lock, and replaced it with a different lock. By replacing the lock, Wilson impaired the operation of the railroad switch by preventing CSX personnel from operating the railroad switch in a timely manner. Previously, on June 22, 2025, Wilson replaced a 102 switch lock on a railroad switch at the CSX railyard with a different type of lock. This delayed an Amtrak passenger train because the railroad switch could not be unlocked. In addition, on July 1, 2025, Wilson moved a railroad switch at the CSX railyard into a new position after a train carrying hazardous materials had passed the switch.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles M. Kruly. The plea is the result of an investigation by the CSX Police Department, under the direction of Chief Sean Douris, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Phillip Tejera.
Sentencing is scheduled for September 14, 2026, before Judge Vilardo.
# # # #
Lewiston man charged with enticement for attempting to have sex with a 13-year-old girlRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that CJ A. Wolf, of Lewiston, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with enticement of a minor, which carries a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years in prison, and a maximum of life.
According to the criminal complaint, on October 4, 2025, Wolf began communicating with an undercover law enforcement officer via text message, after responding to an advertisement, posted online by investigators, of a purported minor female willing to meet in person to have sex. During these communications, Wolf was told to travel to a specific location where he could have sex with the purported 13-year-old girl who was advertised online. Wolf traveled to a retail parking lot and interacted with the undercover officer who was coordinating the sexual interaction between Wolf and the purported 13-year-old girl. Wolf was asked if he had the money, which he confirmed by showing he had $200 and agreeing for “a half hour.” After some further conversation, Wolf was arrested.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Franz M. Wright. The complaint is the result of an investigation by Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Philip Tejera, and the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Amie Feroleto.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
# # # #
Williamsville man arrested, charged by complaint in multi-million dollar fraud schemeRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Richard Teplitsky, 71, of Williamsville, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with mail and wire fraud, which carry a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison.
According to the criminal complaint, Teplitsky served as the president of Woodhill Capital Corporation, located in Williamsville, NY. As president, he and other Woodhill personnel solicited funds from investors within the Western District of New York and elsewhere. Teplitsky claimed the funds would be used to finance loans to businesses that were seeking to borrow money to acquire commercial equipment. When investors provided funds to Woodhill, Teplitsky provided them with copies of equipment financing agreements and repayment schedules of the borrowers. According to Teplitsky, investors would receive payments, typically by check of electronic transfers, from Woodhill based on these repayment schedules.
For instance, the complaint states that Victim 1 has had approximately 15 investment loans with Woodhill since 2018. Between 2018 and February 2026, Victim 1 received monthly payments from Woodhill. However, in March 2026, Victim 1 did not receive a payment. He attempted to reach Teplitsky but was unsuccessful. Victim 1 then reached out to other investors and learned that they also had not received payment in March. Victim 1 then sent a certified letter to the borrowers of his loans directing them to pay him instead of Woodhill. Approximately 3-4 borrowers responded, claiming that they did not have a loan with Woodhill, that the amount of the loan was incorrect, or that it was not their signature on the equipment financing agreement.
The investigation has identified more than 100 victims with estimated losses in excess of 10,000,000.
Teplitsky made an initial appearance this afternoon before U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael J. Roemer and was released on home confinement with electronic monitoring.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul E. Bonanno. The complaint is the result of an investigation by Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Philip Tejera.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
# # # #
Jamestown woman sentenced on meth chargeRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Kelly Berenguer, 46, of Jamestown, NY, who was convicted of possession of methamphetamine, was sentenced to time served by U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael J. Roemer.
On October 17, 2024, Kelly Berenguer’s vehicle was stopped by Jamestown Police. During a search of the vehicle, law enforcement recovered a quantity of methamphetamine and a digital scale. Berenguer was taken into custody at that time.
This case was 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 (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua A. Violanti. The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Jamestown Police Department, under the direction of Chief Scott Forster, the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Farhana Islam, New York Field Division, and the Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff James Quattrone.
# # # #
Jamestown man sentenced for his role in drug conspiracyRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Brian Cessna, 66, of Jamestown, NY, who was convicted of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, 400 grams or more of fentanyl, was sentenced to time served by U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo.
During the course of the conspiracy, Cessna bought and sold heroin and fentanyl, for profit and his own use. He also assisted co-conspirator Holly Berenguer in selling heroin and fentanyl, for profit and her own use, delivering on her behalf and collecting payments. An individual known as “Joey Cracks” (co-defendant Joseph Zaso) was Berenguer’s source of supply. Cessna utilized his Fairview Avenue residence for drug trafficking purposes and also allowed Berenguer to utilize the residence to sell drugs.
Holly Berenguer and Joseph Zaso were previously convicted.
The 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 (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua A. Violanti. The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Jamestown Police Department, under the direction of Chief Scott Forster, the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Farhana Islam, New York Field Division, and the Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff James Quattrone.
# # # #
Jamestown man charged with possession and distribution of child pornographyRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. –U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Connor J. Higgs, 20, of Jamestown, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with possession and distribution of child pornography, which carry a mandatory minimum penalty of five years, and a maximum of 20 years.
In August 2025, the New York State Police (NYSP) received a CyberTipline Report from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), regarding a Discord account, which contained suspected child pornography. Subsequent investigation traced the account to Higgs. In October 2025, the NYSP executed a search warrant at Higgs’ Jamestown residence, seizing eight electronic devices. Higgs was taken into custody at the scene.
A review of the devices recovered child pornography from two of the devices, including images of a minor victim known to investigators. The images also include prepubescent minors and depictions of violence against children.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Colleen M. McCarthy. The complaint is the result of an investigation by the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Amie Feroleto, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Philip Tejera, and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
# # # #
Buffalo man previously convicted of possessing child pornography pleads guilty to new chargeRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Jamie Anderson, 26, of Buffalo, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo to possession of child pornography by a person having a prior conviction relating to the possession of child pornography. The charge carries a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years in prison, a maximum of 20 years, and a fine of $250,000.
In January 2022, Anderson was convicted of Possessing a Sexual Performance by a Child in New York State Court. In December 2024, the New York State Police executed a search warrant at Anderson’s Buffalo residence, after receiving a CyberTip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) that he uploaded files containing child pornography to Kik. During the search, law enforcement seized a tablet, which contained at least 10 images of child pornography.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Colleen M. McCarthy. The plea is the result of an investigation by the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Amie Feroleto and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Philip Tejera. Additional assistance was provided by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.
Sentencing is scheduled for September 11, 2026, before Judge Vilardo.
# # # #
Grand jury indicts six defendants in financial fraud scheme impacting victims across the countryRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. –U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that a federal grand jury has returned an indictment charging six defendants with conspiracy to commit bank fraud and aggravated identity theft for their roles in a financial fraud scheme. The charges carry a mandatory minimum penalty of two years in prison and a maximum of 30 years. Named in the indictment are:
- Jeffrey Fleischer, 36
- Crystal Velez, 36
- Blaine Webster, 40
- Reginald Seals, 47
- Johnny Ray Mcduffie, 36
- Anthony Zorilla A/K/A Anthony Velazquez, 28, all of Buffalo, NY.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul E. Bonanno, who is handling the case, stated between August 2023 and May 2024, the defendants are accused of conspiring to fraudulently obtain funds from financial institutions by depositing stolen United States Treasury checks into bank accounts opened by the defendants. The defendants used fraudulent identification documents to open the accounts and then withdrew the funds from those bank accounts.
According to the indictment, the defendants obtained stolen United States Treasury tax refund checks that were payable to other persons, and then used fraudulent identification documents to open bank accounts in the names of the persons the tax refund checks were payable. The checks would then be deposited into the fraudulent bank accounts, allowing the defendants to withdraw or transfer the funds from the accounts for their benefit. Accounts were opened at various financial institutions including Northwest Bank, Evans Bank, Good Neighbors Credit Union, ServU Credit Union, Sweet Home Federal Credit Union, Erie Federal Credit Union, Corning Credit Union, Greater Niagara Federal Credit Union, Cornerstone Community Federal Credit Union, and High Point Federal Credit Union. The financial institutions were located in Buffalo, Amherst, Getzville, Niagara Falls, Painted Post, and Corning, NY, and Erie, Pennsylvania. The defendants are accused of stealing the identities of more than 12 victims living in NY, Florida, New Jersey, Virginia, Connecticut, and Oregon, with estimated losses totaling more than $1,300,000.
The Department of Justice has created the National Fraud Enforcement Division. The core mission of the Fraud Division is to zealously investigate and prosecute those who steal or fraudulently misuse taxpayer dollars. Department of Justice efforts to combat fraud support President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul E. Bonanno. The indictment is the result of an investigation by the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Harry T. Chavis, Jr., the U.S. Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Michael Carpenter, Northeast Field Division, the United States Secret Service, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Charles T. Perras, the Erie County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff John Garcia, the North Tonawanda Police Department, under the direction of Chief Keith Glass, the Town of Niagara Police Department, under the direction of Chief Craig Guiliani, the Amherst Police Department, under the direction of Chief Scott Chamberlin, the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Amie Feroleto, and the Erie and Niagara County Crime Analysis Centers.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
# # # #
Federal grand jury indicts Little Valley man who fled from police following high speed chase on drug chargesRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that a federal grand jury has returned an indictment charging Ronald D. Mitchell, 44, of Little Valley, NY, with possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, distribution of methamphetamine, and possession with intent to distribute cocaine, which carry a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years in prison, a maximum of life, and a fine of $10,000,000.
According to the indictment and a previously filed complaint, in September of 2025, law enforcement began investigating the drug trafficking activities of Mitchell, who was identified as a distributor of methamphetamine and cocaine in Cattaraugus County. Just after midnight on September 17, 2025, investigators, while surveilling Mitchell in the Village of Little Valley, observed him selling drugs inside his vehicle. A Cattaraugus County Sheriff’s deputy subsequently conducted a traffic stop on the vehicle, during which Mitchell appeared very nervous and started to sweat profusely. Mitchell was asked to exit the vehicle, but instead he fled from the scene, leading deputies on a chase, which exceeded 90 MPH. Mitchell eventually crashed his vehicle into a tree in Ellicottville, and fled. Investigators seized 52 grams of cocaine and a large amount of cash from the vehicle. A bag containing a large quantity of suspected narcotics, believed to have been discarded by Mitchell when he fled from the crash, was discovered on Route 242. The bag contained drug paraphernalia, 196 grams of cocaine and 472 grams of crystal methamphetamine.
Mitchell was arraigned this afternoon before U.S. Magistrate Judge H. Kenneth Schroeder, Jr. and was detained.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Matt I. Kass. The indictment is the result of an investigation by the Southern Tier Regional Drug Task Force, under the direction of Cattaraugus County Sheriff Eric Butler and the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Farhana Islam, New York Field Division.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
# # # #
Bronx man pleads guilty to child pornography chargeRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Nasif Talukder, 24, of the Bronx, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge Jeremiah J. McCarthy to transferring obscene material to a minor, which carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison, and a fine of $250,000.
According to the plea agreement, in March 2024, Talukder communicated with a 14-year-old girl on teen-chat.org. In the course of the communications, the girl told Talukder, “Also im 14.” Talukder asked the girl to engage in sexual activity in exchange for $100. Talukder met the girl in a Tonawanda, NY, park. After engaging in sexual activity, he gave the girl $100.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Colleen M. McCarthy and Maeve E. Huggins. The plea is the result of an investigation by the Town of Tonawanda Police Department, under the direction of Chief Corey Flatau and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Philip Tejera.
Sentencing will be scheduled at a later date.
# # # #
Georgia man sentenced for his role in fraud conspiracyRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Quentavious Price, 38, of Hampton, GA, who was convicted of conspiracy to commit bank fraud, and aggravated identity theft, was sentenced to serve 36 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo.
Between January and September 2022, Price, along with co-conspirators Lorenzo Jones, Ameer Clark, and Montez White, and others, conspired to defraud financial institutions. Members of the conspiracy would travel from Atlanta, Georgia, to the Western District of New York, and steal genuine checks from businesses. Using those checks, they would create fraudulent checks drawn on the bank accounts of the businesses. Members of the conspiracy then recruited individuals to cash the fraudulent checks, buy clothes for the individuals to make them appear to be construction workers or laborers, and then drive them to area financial institutions and direct them to cash the fraudulent checks. If the checks were successfully cashed, the individuals received a small payment. Specifically:
- in January 2022, Price, Jones, and two others flew from Atlanta to Buffalo and drove an individual to various KeyBank branches to cash or attempt to cash fraudulent checks drawn on the KeyBank accounts of a business based in Elma, NY, and a second business based in Tonawanda, NY.
- in March 2022, Price and two others came to Buffalo from Atlanta and drove three individuals to M&T Bank branches, Bank on Buffalo branches, and Evans Bank branches to cash, or attempt to cash, fraudulent checks drawn on the bank accounts of businesses based in Tonawanda, Clarence, NY, and Sanborn, NY.
- in September 2022, Price, Jones, Clark, and White flew from Atlanta to Rochester, NY, and drove six individuals to M&T Bank branches, KeyBank branches, Northwest Bank branches, Bank on Buffalo branches, and Evans Bank branches, to cash or attempt to cash, fraudulent checks drawn on the bank accounts of two businesses based in Rochester, and one based in Alden, NY.
In addition, Price used the identity of the owner of one of the victim businesses during a felony violation. The total loss amount, including actual loss and intended loss, Is $64,979.67.
Lorenzo Jones, Ameer Clark, and Montez White were previously convicted and sentenced.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul E. Bonanno. The plea is the result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special-Agent-in-Charge Erin Keegan, and the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Amie P. Feroleto.
# # # #
Israeli man pleads guilty to bringing an alien to the U.S.Read the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. -- U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Israel Enden, 46, a citizen of Israel, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo to bringing an alien to the United States, which carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000.
According to the plea agreement, Enden is a dual citizen, he was born in the United States and physically resides in the State of Israel. In the early morning hours of January 8, 2026, Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Officers encountered Enden driving a vehicle bearing Canadian license plates at primary inspection at the Rainbow Bridge Port of Entry. Enden was referred to for secondary inspection after failing to produce any rental agreement for the vehicle. During secondary inspection, officers opened the rear hatch of the vehicle and observed a large male, later identified as Elazar Wigdorowitz, hiding beneath some suitcases. Subsequent investigation determined that Enden, Wigdorowitz, and a third person flew from Warsaw, Poland to Toronto, Canada together the previous day on January 7, 2026. When Enden drove the rental from Canada to the United States, he knew Elazar Wigdorowitz was an alien and had not received prior official authorization to enter the United States.
Elazar Wigdorowitz was previously convicted of improper entry by an alien, sentenced to time served and turned over to Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
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 (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
The case is being prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brendan W. Fitzgerald and Maeve E. Huggins. The plea is the result of an investigation by Customs and Border Protection under the direction of Director of Field Operations Rose Brophy and Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Erin Keegan.
Sentencing is scheduled for September 1, 2026, at 9:30 a.m. before Judge Vilardo.
# # # #
Cheektowaga man pleads guilty to stealing from local unionRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that David Martinez, 58, of Cheektowaga, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael J. Roemer to embezzlement by union officials, which carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison, and a fine of $250,000.
According to the plea agreement, between December 2019, and March 2024, Martinez served as president of the International Association of EMTs and Paramedics, Local 394. During his time as president, Martinez embezzled approximately $87,542.03 from the union by writing checks payable to himself, making electronic transfers for his own benefit, and making unauthorized purchases using debit cards belonging to Local 394. None of the funds were used for a legitimate union purpose.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul E. Bonanno. The plea is the result of an investigation by the Department of Labor Office of Labor-Management Standards, under the direction of Jonathan Russo, Boston-Buffalo District Office.
Sentencing will be scheduled at a later date.
# # # #
Armed meth dealer going to prison for 151 monthsRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, N.Y. – U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Kavon A. Wilson, 32, of Elmira, NY, who was convicted of possession with intent to distribute five grams or more of methamphetamine, and possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, was sentenced to serve 151 months in prison by Chief U.S. District Judge Elizabeth A. Wolford. Wilson was also ordered to forfeit two firearms and 14 rounds of ammunition.
On April 2, 2024, law enforcement executed a search warrant at an Erie Street residence in Elmira. Investigators encountered Wilson’s girlfriend lying on the living room couch with an infant in her arms. Two other small children were also in the residence. Under a couch pillow, they recovered a loaded handgun. Investigators also seized another loaded handgun, approximately 1,559 grams of methamphetamine, 124 grams of cocaine, 154 fentanyl pills, and over $11,500 in cash. During the search, Wilson approached the residence and was taken into custody.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert A. Marangola handled the prosecution of the case. The sentencing is the culmination of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives Violent Crimes Task Force, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Bryan DiGirolamo, New York Field Division, the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Kevin Sucher, and the Elmira Police Department, under the direction of Chief Kristen Thorne.
# # # #
Niagara Falls man pleads guilty to distributing hundreds of packages of pills and illegal narcotics via the mailRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. –U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Edwin Miguel Batista, 46, of Niagara Falls, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge H. Kenneth Schroeder, Jr. to narcotics conspiracy, which carries a mandatory minimum penalty of five years in prison and a maximum of 40 years.
According to the plea agreement, in January 2025, the DEA executed search warrants on a vehicle, a storage unit on Fashion Outlets Blvd in Niagara Falls, and a hotel room, which led to the arrests of Batista and a co-conspirator, Victor Miguel Brito Luna. Investigators recovered numerous pills including Oxycodone, Adderall, Hydrocodone, Percocet, Tramadol, Diazepam, Alprazolam, Carisoprodol and Tapentadol, 12 pounds of Ivermectin, a non-controlled substance which does require a prescription, and 16,577 grams of methamphetamine and ketamine, 2,074 grams of methamphetamine, 548 grams of fentanyl and ketamine, and 932 grams of fentanyl. Investigators also seized mailing materials and a cell phone.
The plea agreement further states that Batista received payments from customers who ordered pills via Cash App. He was supplied by an individual in India who mailed bulk parcels to Batista containing various drugs. Co-conspirator, Brito Luna assisted by helping to package up pills for mailing and driving Batista around as he mailed out parcels. Between December 11, 2024, and January 21, 2025, Batista mailed approximately 1,589 parcels.
Charges remain pending against Victor Miguel Brito Luna.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua A. Violanti. The plea is the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration Buffalo Office, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Farhana Islam with additional assistance provided by the DEA Chicago Office.
Sentencing will be scheduled at a later date.
# # # #
Buffalo man pleads guilty to COVID fraudRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. –U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Jamar Jackson, 43, of Buffalo, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo to conspiracy to commit wire fraud, which carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, and a fine of $250,000.
According to the plea agreement, on June 29 2020, Jackson and his co-conspirators submitted a fraudulent application for an Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) through the Small Business Administration for a business that he supposedly owned. The defendant and his co-conspirators knew that the EIDL application contained materially false and fraudulent pretenses, representations and promises. The application falsely stated that Jackson was the sole proprietor of a lawn and garden business that had eight employees and $142,000 in revenue for the 12 months prior to the COVID pandemic. Jackson did not own a lawn and garden business, did not have employees and did not earn revenue. As a result, the SBA disbursed $70,900.00 in EIDL funds to Jackson.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul E. Bonanno. The plea is the result of an investigation by the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Harry T. Chavis, Jr. and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Philip Tejera.
Sentencing is scheduled for August 31, 2026, before Judge Vilardo.
# # # #
Prior felon arrested on gun chargeRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. –U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Earl Stone, 34, of Buffalo, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with being a felon in possession of a firearm, which carries a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison.
According to the complaint, late in the evening on April 12, 2026, Buffalo Police officers conducted a traffic stop of a vehicle on Route 33 Expressway. During the stop, officers detected the smell of alcohol and asked the driver to step out of the vehicle to conduct a standard field sobriety test. Officers then asked the passengers for a New York State Drivers’ License so someone could move the vehicle to a safe location. All passengers refused, including Stone, who got out of the vehicle and sat on ground of the 33 Expressway. Officers noticed what appeared to be the outline of a slide of a firearm by the right shin of his pantleg. As he stood up at the request of officers, a loaded .40 caliber firearm fell out of his pant leg. Stone was charged with Criminal Possession of a Weapon- 2nd Degree: Loaded Firearm and Criminal Possession of a Weapon-3rd Degree: Large Capacity Feeding Device. In December 2013, Stone was convicted of a felony in Erie County Court and is legally prohibited from possessing a firearm.
Stone made an initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael J. Roemer and was held pending a detention hearing on April 21, 2026.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joshua A. Violanti and Louis A. Testani. The complaint is the result of an investigation by the Buffalo Police Department, under the direction of Acting Commissioner Craig Macy and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Philip Tejera.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
# # # #
California man sentenced for making fake ID’s for delivery driversRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Miguel Angel Guevara-Murillo, 35, of Stockton, California, who was convicted of possession of device-making equipment, was sentenced to time served (approximately nine months) by U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo.
On July 28, 2025, Guevara-Murillo was inspected at the Rainbow Bridge Port of Entry. In the trunk of his car, U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers found, among other things, a laptop, an access card printer, blank plastic access cards, a scanner, and a paper cutter, which Guevara-Murillo brought with him from California to New York. He used these items to make counterfeit identification documents that appeared to be issued under the authority of different states in the United States. Guevara-Murillo then sold the documents for $250, which allowed individuals who purchased the documents to work for an online food delivery company.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles M. Kruly. The sentencing is the result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Erin Keegan and Customs and Border Protection, under the direction of Director of Field Operations Rose Brophy.
# # # #
The Buffalo Club agrees to pay $1.5 million to resolve False Claims Act allegations related to Paycheck Protection Program loan eligibilityRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. – The U.S. Attorney’s Office announced today that The Buffalo Club has agreed to pay $1,500,000 to resolve allegations that it improperly obtained a Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), which it was not eligible to receive.
The PPP loan program, enacted in March 2020, provided emergency financial assistance to Americans suffering from the economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. The program allowed eligible small businesses to receive loans guaranteed by the federal government.
For decades, the SBA has explained that private clubs and businesses, which limit the number of memberships for any reason other than capacity, or restrict patronage for any reason other than capacity, are not eligible for loans through the SBA. The SBA’s guidance also specifically states that this restriction applies to eligibility for PPP loans.
In March 2021, The Buffalo Club applied for a PPP loan and certified that it was eligible to receive the loan. After receiving the PPP loan, The Buffalo Club sought and received forgiveness of the entire loan amount. The United States contended that The Buffalo Club falsely represented its eligibility to receive the PPP loan because it operated as a private membership club that restricted membership for reasons other than capacity.
This matter was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan W. Ferris, and Investigator Margaret McFarland, with assistance from the SBA’s Office of General Counsel.
The civil settlement includes the resolution of claims brought under the qui tam or whistleblower provisions of the False Claims Act. Under the qui tam provisions of the False Claims Act, a private party can file an action on behalf of the United States and receive a portion of the settlement or judgment. The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only; there has been no determination or admission of liability.
Individuals with information about allegations of fraud involving COVID-19 are encouraged to report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
# # # #
Buffalo man sentenced for his role in credit card scamRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. –U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Angel Valentin-Martinez, 34, of Buffalo, NY, who was convicted of conspiracy to commit bank fraud, was sentenced to serve five years supervised release and pay restitution totaling $13,098 by U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo.
Between October and December 2024, Martinez conspired with Daniel Plata Miranda to fraudulently gain access to the credit card accounts of individuals at Synchrony Bank. The two used an account holder’s personally identifiable information to pass Synchrony’s account verification process. Martinez and Miranda then changed the address of record on the accounts to an address that they controlled or had access to. This oftentimes caused new credit cards to be sent to Martinez’s residence in Buffalo, or to a P.O. Box registered to Miranda in Rochester, NY. On one or more occasions, Martinez drove to the Rochester P.O. Box to retrieve mail. Martinez and Miranda then used the fraudulently obtained credit cards to make purchases in the Western New York area, including numerous purchases at Lowe’s Home Improvement stores. In total, Martinez and Miranda used five fraudulently obtained credit cards at six different Lowe’s locations to make more than two dozen purchases, totaling approximately $13,098.
Charges are pending against Daniel Plata Miranda.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Douglas A. C. Penrose. The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, under the direction of Acting Postal Inspector in Charge Jason Buckley, Boston Division.
Buffalo man arrested on cocaine charge involving shipments from Puerto RicoRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. – U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Daniel Lopez-Rivera, 40, of Buffalo, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with possession with intent to distribute cocaine, which carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $1,000,000 fine.
According to the complaint, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and Drug Enforcement Administration are investigating Lopez-Rivera, who is believed to be involved in on-going narcotics activity in Buffalo. On April 12, 2026, the Postal Inspection Service was alerted to a Priority Mail parcel, suspected of containing narcotics, being shipped from Puerto Rico to a residence on Tonawanda Street in Buffalo, a residence utilized by Lopez-Rivera. On April 14, 2026, investigators executed a search warrant on the parcel and found approximately seven pounds of suspected cocaine inside.
On April 16, 2026, investigators conducted a controlled delivery of the parcel to the Tonawanda Street address. A short time after the delivery, Lopez arrived at the residence. Investigators observed another individual approach Lopez’s vehicle and hand him a grocery bag with the parcel inside. Lopez then returned to his Chadduck Avenue residence, where he was taken into custody. Investigators then executed a search warrant on the residence, seizing postage labels addressed to another residence believed to be utilized by Lopez for his drug trafficking activities.
Lopez-Rivera made an initial appearance this afternoon before US. Magistrate Judge Michael J. Roemer and was released on conditions.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Matt I. Kass. The complaint is a result of an investigation by U.S. Postal Inspection Service, under the direction of Acting Postal Inspector in Charge Jason Buckley, Boston Division and the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Farhana Islam, New York Field Division.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
# # # #
Rochester man arrested, charged with production and receipt of child pornography and enticement of a minorRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Kenneth Tootle, 37, of Rochester, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with production of child pornography, enticement of a minor, and receipt of child pornography. The charges carry a mandatory minimum penalty of 15 years in prison and a maximum of life.
According to the criminal complaint, on January 18, 2026, the Rochester Police Department received a report from a mother that she found disturbing messages between her seven-year-old daughter (minor victim) and Tootle on her daughter’s cell phone, including sexual photos and videos. A review of the minor victim’s phone confirmed that she was communicating with Tootle and sent him images and videos of herself that constitute child pornography. Subsequently, a search warrant was executed on Tootle’s cell phone. However, the complaint states that the images of child pornography sent by the minor victim to Tootle had been deleted.
Tootle made an initial appearance this afternoon before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark W. Pedersen and was held pending a detention hearing on April 20, 2026.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Katelyn M. Hartford. The complaint is the result of an investigation by the Rochester Police Department, under the direction of Chief David Smith, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Philip Tejera, and the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Todd Baxter.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
Grand jury indicts Lockport man on charges of enticement of a minor and production and possession of child pornographyRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that a federal grand jury has returned an 11-count indictment charging Damon Singleton-Spencer, 33, of Lockport, NY, with enticement of a minor, three counts of production of child pornography, and seven counts of possession of child pornography. The charges carry a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years in prison and a maximum of life.
According to the indictment, on June 30, 2019, Singleton-Spencer coerced a minor victim to engage in sexual activity. He is accused of coercing the minor victim on three more occasions, in November 2020, June 2021, and November 2022, to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing a visual depiction of the conduct. In addition, on February 16, 2024, Singleton-Spencer possessed three hard drives, a desktop computer, an SD card, a gaming computer, and a cellular telephone that all contained images of child pornography.
Singleton-Spencer was arraigned before U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael J. Roemer.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Colleen M. McCarthy. The indictment is a result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Philip Tejera and the Niagara County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Michael Felicetti.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
# # # #
Cheektowaga man pleads guilty to production and possession of child pornographyRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Dustin Coffelt, 36, of Cheektowaga, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo to two counts of production and one count of possession of child pornography. The charges carry a mandatory minimum penalty of 15 years in prison, a maximum of 30 years, and a $250,000 fine.
In July 2022, the Depew Police Department received a report that Coffelt sexually abused a 13-year-old girl (minor victim). Subsequent investigation determined that the alleged abuse may have been ongoing for several years and included communication over various social media applications and text messaging. On July 29, 2022, Coffelt provided a voluntary statement to detectives from the Depew and Cheektowaga Police Departments admitting to the sexual abuse and producing sexually explicit photographs of the minor victim. Coffelt also voluntarily provided his phone to the detectives and subsequent extraction of the device revealed numerous sexually explicit images of the minor victim, which constitute child pornography. Members of the Federal Bureau of Investigation subsequently arrested Coffelt on August 11, 2022.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Maeve E. Huggins and Sasha Mascarenhas. The plea is the result of an investigation by the Depew Police Department, under the direction of Chief James McNamara, the Cheektowaga Police Department, under the direction of Chief Brian Coons, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Philip Tejera.
Sentencing is scheduled for August 24, 2026, before Judge Vilardo.
# # # #