Western District of New York
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Falconer man is going to prison for 20 years for his role in a cold case murderRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. — U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Anthony Neubauer, 39, of Falconer, NY, who was convicted of aiding and abetting a kidnapping, was sentenced to serve 20 years in prison by U.S. District Judge Elizabeth A. Wolford.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael J. Adler and Timothy C. Lynch, who handled the case, stated that on May 27, 2014, Neubauer and Matthew Rudy kidnapped Joseph Anthony and then traveled from Jamestown, NY, to Rudy’s property in Pennsylvania. Anthony was tricked into traveling to Pennsylvania by an offer of cocaine. Neubauer and Rudy took Anthony to Pennsylvania because they believed he was a cooperator. After arriving in Pennsylvania, Neubauer and Rudy told Anthony they did not have any cocaine, before shooting and killing him, and then burying him on Rudy’s property.
Matthew Rudy was previously convicted and sentenced to prison.
“Anthony Neubauer and his co-defendant went to great lengths to silence a person they believed was cooperating in a law enforcement investigation, including kidnapping, crossing state lines, murder and disposing of a body” stated U.S. Attorney DiGiacomo. “A lot of time may have passed, but our law enforcement partners demonstrated perseverance and unwavering determination, which ultimately resulted in uncovering Neubauer’s actions. As a consequence, he will now spend the next two decades in prison.”
“Today’s sentencing of Anthony Neubauer reflects the FBI’s unwavering commitment to pursuing justice, no matter how much time has passed,” said Philip Tejera, Special Agent-in-Charge of the FBI’s Buffalo Field Office. “When the Jamestown Police Department requested assistance with this cold case murder investigation, the FBI surged resources across Western New York and northern Pennsylvania. By combining investigative technology and proven tactics, we were able to secure justice for the victim and his family.”
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Jamestown Police Department, under the direction of Interim Chief Scott D. Forster and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Philip Tejera. Additional assistance was provided by the Warren County, PA, District Attorney’s Office.
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Tonawanda man pleads guilty to his role in narcotics conspiracyRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Edward Wilkie, 31, of Tonawanda, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael J. Roemer to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin, which carries a minimum penalty of five years in prison, a maximum penalty of 40 years, and a $5,000,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Donna Duncan, who is handling the case, stated that in January 2025, law enforcement received information that Wilkie and co-conspirator Daniel Eberle were storing and selling large quantities of fentanyl and methamphetamine at Wilkie’s Shelly Court residence and at a stash house on Sheridan Parkside Drive. Wilkie used both residences to store the drugs, which he would then distribute in Salamanca, NY, and Pennsylvania.
On March 25, 2025, investigators executed search warrants on Wilkie’s vehicle, his Shelly Court residence and the Sheridan Parkside Drive stash house. They recovered $42,330 in cash and approximately 384 grams of heroin from Wilkie’s vehicle and $4,000 in cash from his residence. As investigators entered the Sheridan Parkside Drive stash house, they encountered Daniel Eberle attempting to destroy narcotics evidence by flushing it down the toilet. Law enforcement ultimately recovered approximately 66 grams of methamphetamine and a loaded shotgun.
Charges remain pending against Daniel Eberle.
The plea is the result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Erin Keegan, and the Erie County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff John Garcia.
Sentencing will be scheduled at a later date.
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Oregon man sentenced for his role in cross country marijuana conspiracyRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Robert Fiels, 38, City Falls, Oregon, who was convicted of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and distributing, 1,000 kilograms or more of marijuana, was sentenced to serve 70 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua A. Violanti, who handled the case, stated that Fiels served as the source of supply for individuals that trafficked marijuana and marijuana-based products across the country. Fiels utilized individuals, including co-defendant Syed Ahmad and others, to deliver the marijuana and marijuana-based products. Others, including co-defendant Frank Vacanti, then distributed the marijuana to individuals such as co-defendant Vincent Lopresti, who then sold the marijuana and marijuana products across Western New York. Between late 2016, and June 2019, Fiels trafficked approximately 1,800lbs of marijuana to one individual.
In January 2017, Fiels was stopped by DEA-Chicago and Amtrak Police while traveling from Buffalo, NY to Chicago, Illinois. After questioning and providing consent, DEA-Chicago seized $222,965.00 in drug proceeds located in Fiel’s suitcases. On December 31, 2017, in Morgan County, Illinois, local law enforcement and the DEA, recovered approximately 1,000 lbs. of marijuana from an RV driven by co-defendant Syed Ahmad and another individual. The marijuana belonged to Fiels and was destined for locations around the United States. On January 18, 2018, Fiels was stopped in a vehicle for traveling too fast for conditions in Hobart, Indiana by local law enforcement. During a search his vehicle, law enforcement seized $48,000 in drug proceeds. On February 10, 2020, law enforcement in Springfield, Oregon seized approximately $15,000 in drug proceeds sent to the defendant via USPS.
On June 29, 2020, law enforcement executed search warrants at three locations in the State of Oregon associated with Fiels, including his residence, work apartment, and the residence of his former girlfriend. Law enforcement recovered marijuana, marijuana-based products, USPS parcels, drug paraphernalia, packing materials, scales, psychedelic mushrooms, two firearms, and liquid steroids.
Syed Ahmad, Frank Vacanti, and Vincent Lopresti were previously convicted and sentenced.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations Buffalo, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Erin Keegan; HSI Portland, Oregon; HSI Springfield, Illinois; the Illinois State Police, under the direction of Director Brendan F. Kelly; the Oregon State Police, under the direction of Superintendent Casey Codding; the Morgan County, Illinois Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff’s Office Director Mike Carmody; the Hobart, Indiana Police Department, under the direction of Chief Garrett Ciszewski; and the Springfield, Oregon Police Department, under the direction of Chief Jami Resch.
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Greece man pleads guilty to threatening FBI agent and familyRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, N.Y.–U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Steven L. Ploof, 48, of Greece, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Meredith A. Vacca to threatening to assault a member of the immediate family of a Federal law enforcement officer with intent to impede with such law enforcement officer while engaged in the performance of official duties, or with intent to retaliate against such law enforcement officer on account of the performance of official duties. The charge carries a maximum penalty of six years in prison and a fine of $250,000.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Everardo A. Rodriguez, who is handling the case, stated that on September 15, 2025, Ploof went to the Ogden, NY, residence of an FBI Special Agent and his family. When he arrived at the house, Ploof placed two posterboard signs on the front porch, one sign read “Corrupt FBI AGENT!” and the other sign read “I Want To (expletive) Your Kids!” Video of Ploof placing the two signs on the front porch was obtained from a residential security system.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Philip Tejera, the Greece Police Department, under the direction of Chief Michael Wood, the Ogden Police Department, under the direction of Chief Travis Gray, and the Orleans County Sherriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Christopher Bourke.
Sentencing is scheduled for June 18, 2026, before Judge Vacca.
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Texas and Maryland women plead guilty to COVID fraudRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Brandie S. Williams, 45, of Dallas, Texas, and Brittany L. Herbert, 39, of Brandywine, Maryland, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge John L. Sinatra, Jr. to conspiracy to commit wire fraud and bank fraud, which carries a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison and a $1,000,000 fine. In addition, defendant Herbert also pleaded guilty to bank fraud.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Colleen M. McCarthy and Charles M. Kruly, and Ariel Glaser and Jennifer L. Bilinkas of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section, who are handling the case, stated that between May 2020 and June 2021, Williams and Herbert conspired with Adam Arena and Amanda Gloria, and others, to fraudulently obtain and misuse multiple COVID-19 Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) emergency relief loans, including:
- Williams, Herbert, and Gloria worked together to fraudulently obtain an approximately $292,700 loan for Williams’s business, Beyond the Next Level, Inc. including by, among other things, preparing and submitting a fraudulent IRS tax form as part of the PPP loan application, which falsely stated that Williams’s business had 25 employees and paid total payroll expenses of $1.4 million in 2019 when, in fact, the business had no employees. After receiving the PPP loan, Williams did not use the funds for legitimate business-related purposes. Instead, Williams used the funds for her own personal enrichment and transferred over $43,000 to bank accounts controlled by Gloria and Herbert.
- Williams, Herbert, Gloria, and Arena also worked together to fraudulently obtain a loan for approximately $954,000 for Arena's business, ADA Auto Group. After the PPP loan proceeds were transferred into an account controlled by Arena, he conducted a series of financial transactions, including for his own personal benefit, for Gloria's benefit, and for the benefit of others.
Adam Arena and Amanda Gloria were previously convicted for their roles in the conspiracy.
Anyone with general information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Justice Department’s National Center for Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
The pleas are the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Philip Tejera; the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Harry T. Chavis, Jr.; the United States Postal Inspection Service, Boston Division, under the direction of Acting Inspector-in-Charge Nicholas J. Bucciarelli; and the Social Security Administration Office of Inspector General, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Michael McGill, New York Field Division.
Brandie Williams is scheduled to be sentenced on June 11, 2026, and Brittany Herbert is scheduled to be sentenced on July 8, 2026, both before Judge Sinatra.
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Niagara Falls man pleads guilty to meth chargeRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.–U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Charles Barker, 70, of Niagara Falls, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo to possession with intent to distribute five grams or more of methamphetamine, which carries a minimum penalty of five years in prison, a maximum of 40 years, and a fine of $5,000,000.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Matt I. Kass, who is handling the case, stated on June 13, 2025, the United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) was alerted to a parcel being shipped from Arizona to Niagara Falls, that was consistent with parcels containing narcotics. USPIS investigators executed a search warrant on the parcel, which was found to contain approximately 703 grams of crystal methamphetamine. On June 17, 2025, a controlled delivery of the parcel was conducted to the 77th Street residence of Barker, who was listed as the recipient. Barker was arrested after accepting the parcel, which had been replaced with sham methamphetamine. During a search of the residence, investigators recovered quantities of crystal methamphetamine and cocaine, a shotgun, and $25,821 in cash.
The plea 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 United States Postal Inspection Service, under the direction of Acting Inspector-in-Charge Nicholas J. Bucciarelli, Boston Division.
Sentencing is scheduled for June 23, 2026, before Judge Vilardo.
Amherst Police officer pleads guilty to impeding an FBI investigationRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Gregory Trotter, 51, of Williamsville, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo to impeding with a federal officer, which carries a maximum penalty of one year in jail and a $100,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Douglas A.C. Penrose, who is handling the case, stated that in September 2022, an FBI Special Agent arranged to meet with Trotter, who was an Amherst Police detective at the time, regarding Trotter’s involvement in a 2019 investigation of the alleged theft of a Rolex watch belonging to Peter Gerace. Trotter was questioned about his contact with Gerace during the investigation, with the agent asking Trotter multiple times whether Gerace had reached out to him while the investigation was active, to ask him questions about the status of the investigation. Trotter said no. During this exchange, Trotter reacted with disproportionate emotion and became physically animated, losing his professional bearing. Due to Trotter’s status as a trained law enforcement officer who was possibly armed, this conduct intentionally impeded the agent in the performance of his duties.
“This defendant, a police officer, who was sworn to protect and serve, intentionally impeded the duties of another sworn law enforcement officer, and as a result he now stands convicted of committing a federal crime,” stated U.S. Attorney DiGiacomo.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Philip Tejera.
Sentencing is scheduled for May 22, 2026, at 1:30 p.m. before Judge Vilardo.
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Little Valley man who fled from police following high speed chase arrested, charged with selling cocaineRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Ronald D. Mitchell, 44, of Little Valley, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with possession with intent to distribute cocaine, which carries up to 20 years in prison and a $1,000,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Matt I. Kass, who is handling the case, stated that according to the 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 made an initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge H. Kenneth Schroeder, Jr. and was detained.
The complaint 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.
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East Aurora man sentenced for receipt of child pornographyRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Brian O’Brien, 43, of East Aurora, NY, who was convicted of receipt of child pornography, was sentenced to serve 108 months in prison and 30 years supervised release by U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo. O’Brien will also have to register as a sex offender.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Evan K. Glaberson, who handled the case, stated that between June 2022, and July 19, 2023, O’Brien used Snapchat and WhatsApp to receive, view, and upload visual depictions of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct on his cellular telephone. Between June 2022, and March 2023, O’Brien used WhatsApp to communicate with an individual located in Phoenix, Arizona. During these communications, he discussed sexually abusing minor children, and distributed files containing child pornography to the other individual.
Between December 2022, and May 2023, O’Brien communicated by text message with a person he knew as “J.J.” During these communications, he solicited J.J. to find a minor boy for him to sexually abuse. J.J. provided O’Brien with a phone number for a person purported to be a 15-year-old boy. O’Brien then negotiated with the purported 15-year-old boy to perform sex acts. O’Brien then sent a message to J.J. in which he agreed to pay both the purported 15-year-old boy and J.J. for sexual activity with the purported minor and offered to buy drugs for the purported minor.
In July 2023, law enforcement executed a search warrant at O’Brien’s residence in East Aurora, during which numerous devices were seized, including two cell phones, a hard drive, and a laptop computer. A search of the devices recovered over 2,000 images and videos of child pornography.
“This case highlights the lengths that predators will go in their attempts to abuse children,” stated U.S. Attorney DiGiacomo. “Thankfully, this defendant was unsuccessful in his attempts but let this serve as a reminder of how important it is for adults and minors to be vigilant online.”
“The FBI has zero tolerance for any adult, like Brian O’Brien, who preys upon the innocence of children. Today’s sentencing reiterates that those who exploit children will be held accountable for their actions,” said Philip Tejera, Special Agent-in-Charge of the FBI’s Buffalo Field Office.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by 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 Amie Feroleto.
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Webster man who committed fraud while awaiting sentencing on a previous fraud conviction sentencedRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Timothy Siverd, 38, of Webster, NY, who was convicted of two counts of wire fraud and one count of aggravated identity theft, was sentenced to serve 111 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Charles J. Siragusa.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas M. Testani, who handled the case, stated that in November 2021, while employed as a vice president at Tompkins Community Bank, Siverd convinced two victims to invest in fraudulent real estate transactions. Victim 1 paid Siverd approximately $158,429, but after realizing that the transactions were fraudulent, Victim 1 demanded repayment. Siverd returned $108,429 of Victim 1’s funds, using funds fraudulently obtained from Victim 2, who paid Siverd $346,511.55. Siverd never returned any of Victim 2’s funds.
While on supervised release for committing this scheme, between November 2022, and September 19, 2024, Siverd operated and controlled ROC Scrubby LLC, a residential and commercial cleaning services company. During that time, Siverd overbilled ROC Scrubby clients for cleaning services that were not performed. He would manually change appointments on ROC Scrubby’s booking software without client permission to increase the amount each client would be billed, however employees would not perform the more expensive services. He used, without lawful authority, client credit card numbers to overbill his clients.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Erin Keegan and the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Todd Baxter.
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U.S. Attorney, FBI and HSI issue warning about latest romance and other online investment scamsRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo, FBI Special Agent-in-Charge Philip Tejera and Department of Homeland Security Special Agent-in-Charge Erin Keegan announced the #DatingOrDefrauding Campaign to draw attention to relationship investment scams.
Romance scams are on the rise and are becoming more sophisticated than ever. Would be scammers use dating apps, social media, and messaging platforms to find victims. These scammers build trust to gain confidence of victims and then push victims into investments, which turn out to be fake crypto or trading platforms with manipulated results. Victims are often left emotionally devastated and financially drained. Over the past few years, scammers have targeted just about every one of every age, including:
- Professionals
- Seniors
- Younger people, who are more willing to consider online dating and crypto investing
One of the newest romance scams is called “pig-butchering.” Scammers lure in a victim, bombard them with affection, manipulate their emotions, and then convince them to make an investment. The scam’s name comes from the way these predators “fatten up” their victims—encouraging larger investments—before slaughtering their hopes and stealing every dollar. To avoid this and other types of fraud:
- Do not engage with online requests for money
- If something doesn’t feel right, rust your instincts
- Limit who can see your information on social media and what you share
- Check privacy settings on all social platforms, messaging apps, and mobile devices
- Report suspicious people and activity to social media, dating or messaging platforms
- Don’t respond to wrong number text messages
- Before investing, learn all that you can about the investment
- Never risk more money than you can afford to lose
“With romance scams on the rise and more and more people being targeted, it’s imperative that everyone uses extreme caution online to avoid being emotionally devastated and financially drained,” stated U.S. Attorney DiGiacomo. “Be very cautious about what you share online and do not engage with any online requests for money. Trust your gut, if it doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t.”
Homeland Security Investigations Buffalo Special Agent-in-Charge Erin Keegan stated, “The Valentine’s Day season brings an increased risk of romance scams, including and especially the ‘so-called’ pig-butchering schemes – which are not just financial crimes; they are calculated attacks on people’s trust, emotions, and livelihoods. The reality is, these scams target everyday people, and anyone can be a victim. The emotional toll is significant, and many victims feel embarrassed or ashamed, making it harder to come forward. Together with the FBI, the Western District of New York, and several partners, our newly created Homeland Security Task Force is utilizing every tool at our disposal to ensure criminal opportunists cannot freely exploit innocent, unsuspecting and hard-working Americans.”
“Romance and confidence scams remain a significant threat, causing substantial financial and emotional harm to victims nationwide. As criminals exploit various tools, such as artificial intelligence, to enhance their schemes, it is vital for individuals to be vigilant,” said Philip Tejera, Special Agent-in-Charge of the FBI’s Buffalo Field Office. “The FBI encourages anyone who believes they have been targeted to immediately stop communication, report the incident to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at ic3.gov, and contact their local FBI field office or other law enforcement agency.”
According to the FBI, in 2024, approximately 59,000 people fell victim to romance-related scams, losing over $672-million dollars. The FBI says that many times, once a victim realizes that they have been exploited, they feel embarrassed or ashamed, and do not want to let anyone know what happened to them, including law enforcement. However, the FBI encourages anyone who has been victimized by this fraud or unsuccessfully targeted to file a complaint. If you suspect an online relationship is a scam, stop all contact immediately. If you have already sent money, report any transfer of funds to your financial institution and contact law enforcement.
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Man from Dominican Republic with prior child sexual abuse convictions pleads guilty to fentanyl chargeRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Reinaldo Sanchez Gonzalez a/k/a Delvis Mendoza, 51, a citizen of the Dominican Republic, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge John L. Sinatra, Jr. to possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl, which carries a mandatory minimum penalty of five years in prison, a maximum of 40 years, and a fine of $5,000,000.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Adler, who is handling the case, on April 28, 2023, Sanchez Gonzalez traveled to the Buffalo, NY, area with co-defendant Robert Hernandez, intending to distribute approximately a kilogram of fentanyl. The vehicle that Sanchez Gonzalez and Hernandez were riding in was pulled over by deputies from the Erie County Sheriff’s Office. During the traffic stop, law enforcement recovered a brick of fentanyl from the trunk of the vehicle.
Sanchez Gonzalez is awaiting sentencing on prior felony convictions in New York State Court for Sexual Abuse 1st (sexual contact with an individual less than 11 years old) and Sexual Conduct Against Child 2nd (two or more acts/child less than 11 years old). Federal charges remain pending against Robert Hernandez
The plea is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Philip Tejera and the Erie County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff John Garcia.
Sentencing is scheduled for June 11, 2026, before Judge Sinatra.
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Greece pawn shop owner going to prison for his role in retail theft ring involving hundreds of thousands of dollars worth of stolen merchandiseRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Dominic Sprague, 42, of Greece, NY, who was convicted of conspiracy to transport stolen goods in interstate commerce, was sentenced to serve 60 months in prison by Chief U.S. District Judge Elizabeth A. Wolford.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kyle P. Rossi, who handled the case, stated that between December 2021 and October 17, 2024, Sprague, who was the owner and operator of the New York Gold Diamond Pawn Shop in Greece, engaged in a conspiracy with larcenists, Amanda Reeves, Shabon Banks, Chad Lewis, Jr., and pawn shop manager James Civiletti, to buy and sell stolen goods.
As part of the scheme, Reeves, Banks, and Lewis stole new-in-box items from store shelves on a weekly and sometimes daily basis, both alone and in concert with one another. They then sold the stolen goods to the pawn shop, which was managed by Civiletti, for a fraction of their actual retail value. The pawn shop then resold the stolen merchandise on eBay at much higher prices, resulting in significant profits. In total, the New York Gold Diamond Pawn Shop purchased 37,936 stolen new-in-box items from Reeves, Banks, and Lewis on more than 670 occasions, for which they were paid $290,000.00, which was approximately 25% of the actual retail value of the stolen items. This resulted in actual losses to the victim-retailers of approximately $1,160,000.00.
Banks, Reeves, Lewis and Civiletti were previously convicted.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Greece Police Department, under the direction of Chief Michael Wood; the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Todd Baxter; Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Erin Keegan, and the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigations Division, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Harry Chavis.
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Federal grand jury indicts Clarence man for attempting to have sex with a 12-year-oldRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. –U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that a federal grand jury has returned an indictment charging Daniel Gregory, 33, of Clarence, NY, with attempted enticement of a minor, which carries a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years in prison and a maximum of life.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Evan K. Glaberson, who is handling the case, stated that according to the indictment and a previously complaint, on January 6, 2025, the North Tonawanda Police Department learned that a person named “Daniel Gregory” was sending messages to other Facebook users asking the following question: “You know any NT teens I could hook up with? 13-16” Detectives traced the messages to the defendant. On January 9, 2025, an undercover law enforcement officer created a Facebook profile under the name “Alexis Jones,” and sent Gregory a friend request, which he subsequently accepted. Gregory started sending messages to “Alexis Jones” via Facebook messenger. After sending messages, Gregory began attempting to video call “Alexis Jones” and asked for “Alexis Jones” to call him. No video calls were answered, all communication was done electronically through Facebook messenger. In the subsequent weeks, Gregory consistently attempted to coordinate a meeting with “Alexis Jones,” who he believed was 12 years old. He also repeatedly attempted to video call and sent explicit photos of himself to the undercover account. Some of the conversations between Gregory and the undercover law enforcement officer were sexual in nature.
On February 3, 2025, Gregory arranged to meet “Alexis Jones” at an apartment in the City of Tonawanda to engage in sexual activity. When Gregory arrived at the apartment, North Tonawanda detectives were waiting and took him into custody. They also seized Gregory’s cell phone.
In May 2019, Gregory was convicted of Harassment in the 2nd Degree, in Cheektowaga Town Court, for contacting a minor victim on social media, and attempting to pursue a romantic relationship with the minor for approximately two years.
The indictment is the result of an investigation by the North Tonawanda Police Department, under the direction of Chief Keith Glass and Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Erin Keegan.
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.
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Chautauqua county man pleads guilty to possession of child pornographyRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. -- U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Jose Perez, 41, of Celeron, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo to possession of child pornography involving a prepubescent minor, which carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, and a fine of $250,000.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron J. Mango, who is handling the case, stated that on December 15, 2022, a search warrant was executed at Perez’s residence after he uploaded a child pornography file to Dropbox, an electronic service provider that offers internet-based file storage services. During the search, Perez’s cell phone was seized. A subsequent examination of the phone revealed approximately three images and one video of child pornography. Some of the images depicted prepubescent minors less than 12 years old engaging in sexually explicit conduct. In addition, Perez admits that, on two or more occasions, he engaged in the sexual abuse, exploitation, and attempted sexual abuse and exploitation of a minor.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff James Quattrone, Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Erin Keegan, and the Jamestown Police Department, under the direction of Chief Timothy Jackson.
Sentencing is scheduled for June 22, 2026, before Judge Vilardo.
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Buffalo man going to prison for his role in a drug trafficking organization and failing to appear in courtRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. -- U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Omar Vazquez-Baez, a/k/a Tutu, 33, of Buffalo, NY, who was convicted of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and distribution of, five kilograms or more of cocaine, was sentenced to serve a total of 146 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo. Vazquez-Baez received 120 months for his drug conviction and 46 months for failing to appear in court for his original sentencing.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy C. Lynch, who handled the case, stated that between July 2017 and September 29, 2017, Vazquez-Baez conspired with others to distribute cocaine in the Niagara Falls area for a drug trafficking organization led by co-defendant Cesar Rivera-Figueroa. Vazquez-Baez regularly distributed quantities of cocaine to customers on behalf of the Rivera-Figueroa organization.
On September 13, 2017, investigators intercepted a phone call between Rivera-Figueroa and Vazquez-Baez. During the call, Rivera-Figueroa told Vazquez-Baez, “I have some lockers for you to take a look at. I already gave six, but for you to see them and offer them around. . . .I’m like a display cabinet right now.” Vazquez-Baez then met with Rivera-Figueroa and collected several packaged quantities of cocaine. Later that day, Vazquez-Baez called Rivera-Figueroa looking for more cocaine but Rivera-Figueroa indicated he was out of supply. On September 29, 2017, during the execution of a search warrant at Vazquez-Baez’s residence, investigators recovered a firearm and ammunition, multiple quantities of cocaine and marijuana, drug paraphernalia, and numerous cell phones.
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 Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Farhana Islam, New York Field Division, the Buffalo Police Department, under the direction of Acting Commissioner Craig Macy, and the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Amie Feroleto.
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Prior felon going back to prison for selling meth and possessing firearmsRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, N.Y.–U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Albey H. Braster, 44, of Elmira, NY, who was convicted of distribution of five grams or more of methamphetamine, and being a felon in possession of firearms, was sentenced to serve 128 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Frank P. Geraci, Jr. Braster was also ordered to forfeit $1,861.00 in seized U.S. currency.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert A. Marangola, who handled the case, stated that on multiple occasions between December 4, 2023, and January 18, 2024, Braster distributed over 166 grams of methamphetamine, four firearms, and over 100 rounds of ammunition to an undercover investigator with the New York State Police. Braster, who has multiple prior felony convictions, was arrested January 18, 2024, after members of the ATF Violent Crime Task Force, New York State Police, and the Elmira Police Department executed a search warrant at his Columbia Street residence, during which they recovered approximately 2.4 grams of methamphetamine, and $1,861 in cash.
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, the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Kevin Sucher, and the Elmira Police Department, under the direction of Chief Kristen Thorne.
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Jamestown woman pleads guilty to narcotics conspiracy and firearms chargeRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Sabrina Flores a/k/a Notorious Marie, 25, of Jamestown, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge John L. Sinatra, Jr. to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, 400 grams or more of fentanyl and being a user of a controlled substance in possession of a firearm. The charges carry a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years in prison and a maximum of life in prison.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua A. Violanti, who is handling the case, stated that Flores was an associate of Zaid Mendoza, a Jamestown-based drug trafficker, distributing heroin, fentanyl, and methamphetamine on Mendoza’s behalf. She utilized Facebook to conduct her drug trafficking activities. On December 7, 2022, investigators executed a search warrant at Mendoza’s West main Street residence, seizing $1,800 in cash, 34 grams of fentanyl, 14 grams of methamphetamine, a gram of a combination of fentanyl, cocaine, para-fluorofentanyl, acetyl fentanyl, 4-anilino-N-phenethyl-4-piperidine (ANPP), and methamphetamine, a semi-automatic pistol, and a large capacity magazine. Flores admits that at the time of her possession of the firearm, she was an unlawful and habitual user of fentanyl.
Charges remain pending against Zaid Mendoza.
This case is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF Buffalo/Rochester comprises agents and officers from HSI and the FBI with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of New York.
The plea is the result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Erin Keegan, the Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff James Quattrone, the Jamestown Police Department, under the direction of Chief Timothy Jackson and the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Farhana Islam, New York Field Division.
Sentencing is scheduled for August 11, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. before Judge Sinatra.
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Jamestown sex offender going to prison for 20 years on child pornography chargeRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Timothy Douglas, 65, of Jamestown, NY, who was convicted of possession of child pornography by a person having a prior conviction related to aggravated sexual abuse, sexual abuse, and abusive sexual conduct involving a minor, was sentenced to serve 240 months in prison and lifetime supervised release by U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo. Douglas must also register as a sex offender.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Maeve E. Huggins, who handled the case, stated that in August 2023, employees at a local grocery store found an unattended cell phone by the checkout area. When they opened the phone to look for the owner’s information, they found sexually explicit images of young girls and immediately called Jamestown Police. Jamestown Police notified the FBI who helped identify the children in the images. A forensic examination of the cellphone located images depicting prepubescent minors or minors under 12-years-old. The investigation determined that between July 2022 and August 2023, Douglas produced images of three minor children engaged in sexually explicit conduct. One of the children was five years old and the other two children were approximately 10 years old. Some of the images sadistic in nature. In 2003, Douglas was convicted in New York State of Possessing an Obscene Sexual Performance by a Child less than 16 years old, Sexual Abuse in the First Degree, and Course of Sexual Conduct Against a Child in the 2nd Degree.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Jamestown Police Department, under the direction of Chief Timothy Jackson and the Federal Bureau of Investigation Child Exploitation Human Trafficking Task Force, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Philip Tejera.
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Dansville woman pleads guilty to bilking elderly victim out of tens of thousands of dollarsRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Nahtahna Castner, 46, of Dansville, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Charles J. Siragusa to conspiracy to commit wire fraud and aggravated identity theft. The charges carry a minimum penalty of two years in prison, a maximum of 22 years and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas M. Testani, who is handling the case, stated that between July 2020, and February 2023, Castner and another individual (co-conspirator) conspired to defraud an elderly victim. In July 2020, Castner had the trust of an elderly and vulnerable neighbor, who was over 90 years old. Using Castner’s position of trust, the co-conspirator gained access to the victim banking information. Castner and the co-conspirator then began withdrawing large sums of cash from ATMs, initiating wire transfers to Castner’s personal bank account, and making purchases using the victim’s debit card. Castner and the co-conspirator executed approximately $252,672.97 worth of unauthorized transactions. Most transactions executed by Castner and the co-conspirator were not authorized by the victim. Over the course of the fraud, the victim bank account savings went from approximately $283,954.95 to $99.59. In addition, Castner and the co-conspirator also used the victim’s personal identifying information to apply for three credit cards in the victim’s name. They then used the credit cards to make purchases resulting in fraud against three financial institutions in the amount of $2,039.04, $819.33, and $809.74.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Philip Tejera and the New York State Department of Financial Services, under the direction of Acting Superintendent Kaitlin Asrow.
Sentencing is scheduled for June 9, 2026, before Judge Siragusa.
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Rochester woman sentenced for entering restricted area at Rochester airportRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Takesha Rogers, 40, of Rochester, NY, who was convicted of entering an airport area in violation of security requirements, was sentenced to serve 12 months in prison by U.S. Magistrate Judge Colleen D. Holland.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan K. McGuire, who handled the case, stated that on November 27, 2024, just after 11:30 p.m., Rogers climbed the perimeter fence of the Greater Rochester International Airport and entered the secured Aircraft Operations Area (a.k.a. the tarmac). She entered the secure area of the airport willfully, in violation of established security measures.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by 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.
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Rochester man pleads guilty to possessing child pornographyRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Zachary Guthrie, 32, of Rochester, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Charles J. Siragusa to possession of child pornography involving a prepubescent minor, which carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, and a fine of $250,000.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Katelyn M. Hartford, who is handling the case, stated that in October 2024, the New York State Police (NYSP) executed a search warrant at Guthrie’s residence after receiving CyberTips from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) that Guthrie uploaded child pornography to Instagram and Discord. During the search, investigators seized his cell phone. A forensic review of the phone recovered more than 200 videos, and more than 320 images of child pornography. Some of the images depicted the sexual exploitation of children as well as violence against children.
The plea is the result of an investigation by 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 Kevin Sucher, and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.
Sentencing is scheduled for June 18, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. before Judge Siragusa.
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Former New York State correctional officer going to prison for 30 years for production of child pornographyRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Michael Regan, 43, of Amherst, NY, who was convicted of two counts of production of child pornography, was sentenced to serve 30 years in prison, lifetime supervised release, and was ordered to register as a sex offender by U.S. District Judge John L. Sinatra, Jr. Regan was a New York State Correctional Officer from 2007 until his arrest by the FBI in 2020.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Craig R. Gestring, who handled the case, stated that in August 2020, Regan took multiple sexually explicit photos of Minor Victim 1, an infant, using his cellular telephone. Also in August 2020, during communications over the social media application TextNow, Regan solicited, enticed, and directed a 13-year-old girl to produce sexually explicit images for him. Regan then met Minor Victim 2 to engage in sexual contact. After the sexual contact, Regan instructed Minor Victim 2 not to tell anyone, or he would come to her house. Minor Victim 2 felt threatened by Regan’s statement.
The sentencing 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 Child Exploitation Task Force, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Philip Tejera.
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Two German-owned companies pay $2.1 million to resolve allegations of fraudulent PPP loansRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. – U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Kemper Systems America, Inc. and Thermacut, Inc. agreed to pay $2.1 million to resolve False Claims Act allegations of improperly obtained Paycheck Protection Program loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration for which they were not eligible to receive.
In March 2020, Congress created the Paycheck Protection Program to provide emergency financial assistance to American small businesses suffering from the economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Under the program, eligible small businesses could receive forgivable loans guaranteed by the SBA provided they met various eligibility requirements. One such requirement limited the total number of employees an applicant company could employ, which included employees associated with the applicant company’s foreign affiliates.
The United States contends that in 2021, Kemper and Thermacut obtained forgiven PPP loans that they were not eligible for because they exceeded the PPP size requirement. When Kemper and Thermacut obtained the loans, they were wholly owned subsidiaries of Industrie-Beteilugungs-Gesellschaft mbH & Co. (IBG), a German-based conglomerate that owned numerous subsidiaries worldwide. IBG and its affiliates, including Kemper and Thermacut, had over 300 employees at the time the applications were submitted, thereby exceeding the total number of employees the companies could have.
“The Paycheck Protection Program was designed to support small business during the COVID-19 Pandemic, but too often large businesses took advantage of the program by having their subsidiaries obtain loans,” said U.S. Attorney DiGiacomo. “This settlement, and others like it, demonstrate that this office is committed to holding those who improperly took government aid accountable.”
The civil settlement includes the resolution of claims brought under the qui tam or whistleblower provisions of the False Claims Act. Under those provisions, a private party—known as a relator—can file an action on behalf of the United States and receive a portion of any recovery. The qui tam case is captioned United States ex rel. Verity Investigations, LLC v. Kemper System America, Inc.; Thermacut, Inc., 25-cv-405 (W.D.N.Y.). The relator will receive a share of the settlement.
This matter was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney David M. Coriell and USAO Investigator Margaret McFarland, with assistance from the SBA’s Office of General Counsel.
Individuals with information about allegations involving fraud, waste and abuse associated with 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 of liability.
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Federal grand jury indicts convicted felon on multiple drug and weapons chargesRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that a federal grand jury has returned an indictment charging Martino Carter, 38, of Sloan, NY, with possession with intent to distribute marijuana, possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition, and possession of firearms and ammunition by person subject to domestic violence protective order. The charges carry a mandatory minimum penalty of five years in prison, a maximum of life and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Matt I. Kass, who is handling the case, stated that according to the indictment and a previously filed complaint, on June 5, 2025, the Buffalo Police Department, ATF and FBI executed a search warrant at Carter’s Jackson Avenue residence in Sloan. During the search, investigators recovered two firearms, a magazine, and approximately 25 pounds of suspected marijuana. Carter was taken into custody at the scene.
In May 2009, Carter was convicted of two felonies in Erie County Court and is legally prohibited from possessing a firearm. In addition, at the time of his arrest, he had an active order of protection against him, which also legally prohibited him from possessing a firearm.
Carter was arraigned this morning before U.S. Magistrate Judge Jeremiah J. McCarthy and was detained.
The indictment is the result of an investigation by the Buffalo Police Department, under the direction of Acting Police Commissioner Craig Macy, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Bryan DiGirolamo.
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.
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Father and son going to prison for killing Niagara Falls man in furtherance of drug conspiracyRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. –U.S. Attorney Office Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Lavon Parks, a/k/a Dutch, 35, and his father, James C. Parks, 61, both of Niagara Falls, NY, were sentenced to serve 30 years and 20 years in prison respectively, by U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo. The defendants were convicted following a jury trial of narcotics conspiracy, discharge of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and discharge of firearm causing death. In addition, Lavon Parks was also convicted of attempting to possess, with intent to distribute, 500 grams or more of cocaine, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
Assistant U.S. Attorney P. Richard Antoine, who handled the prosecution of the case, stated that between May 2017, and March 2019, the defendants were part of a conspiracy to sell cocaine in the Niagara Falls and Buffalo, NY areas. On the afternoon of January 21, 2018, Kevin Turner was murdered in a shooting in front of a Niagara Street residence in Niagara Falls. Turner was an alleged crack cocaine dealer who had recently moved from Buffalo to Niagara Falls, where, the night before the shooting, he was staying just a few blocks from the scene of the shooting. The afternoon of the shooting, Turner went to the Niagara Street residence to sell crack cocaine. After exiting the residence, Turner was shot and killed. Evidence was presented by the Government that Lavon Parks and James Parks were driving around the area in a truck immediately before the shooting, apparently looking for someone. Video evidence placed a truck registered to Lavon Parks’ then-girlfriend in the immediate area of the shooting both before and after the murder. Ballistics recovered from the scene of the shooting matched a firearm that was recovered approximately two weeks later from an individual in Niagara Falls who was not near the scene at the time of Turner’s death. The firearm, however, was one of several firearms that were illegally trafficked from Pittsburgh, PA, by an individual who testified that he sold this type of firearm, along with at least seven others, to Lavon Parks in exchange for drugs.
The investigation included a series of controlled buys and payments involving defendant Lavon Parks. Investigators seized approximately 8.5 kilograms of cocaine and $52,000 in U.S. currency from postal parcels shipped from Puerto Rico to various locations in the Western District of New York, Florida, Alaska, Georgia, and Pennsylvania using the United States Postal Service. The shipments were made to co-conspirators. Additionally, the investigation identified $55,700 in U.S. currency and/or money orders shipped in parcels from co-conspirators to Puerto Rico as payment to the source of supply for the cocaine.
The sentencings are the result of an investigation by the Niagara Falls Police Department, under the direction of Superintendent Nicholas Ligammari; the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Farhana Islam, New York Field Division; the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Philip Tejera; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Bryan DiGirolamo, New York Field Division; and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, under the direction of Acting Inspector-in-Charge Nicholas J. Bucciarelli, Boston Division.
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Postal carrier pleads guilty to stealing gift cardsRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Matthew Hurlburt, 25, of Pavilion, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo to theft of mail by an officer or employee of the United States Postal Service, which carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison and a fine of $250,000.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kimberly Irvin Jefferson, who is handling the case, stated that Hurlburt was employed by the United States Postal Service as a city carrier assigned to the Perry Post Office, in Perry, NY. In July 2025, an individual mailed a birthday card that included a $100 Visa gift card to Perry, but it never arrived. Subsequent investigation determined that the gift card was utilized multiple times at a gas station and a restaurant by Hurlburt. In August 2025, investigators placed an integrity test envelope containing a $25.00 Visa gift card in Hurlburt’s assigned mail delivery tray. The envelope was labeled with an insufficient/no such number destinating address and should have been returned to the Post Office by Hurlburt at the end of his shift. Hurlburt did not return the envelope, instead he utilized the gift card at two different gas stations.
The plea is the result of an investigation by U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General, under the direction of Matthew Modafferi, Special Agent-in-Charge Northeast Field Office.
Sentencing is scheduled for June 12, 2026, before Judge Vilardo.
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Java Center man charged with possession of child pornographyRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Patrick Kerwin, 43, of Java Center, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with possession of child pornography, which carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a fine of $250,000.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Maeve E. Huggins, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, on January 2, 2026, the FBI was alerted by the New York State Police (NYSP) regarding an investigation of Kerwin for suspected possession of child pornography, which began in 2022 based on a CyberTip Report from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. In November 2025, the NYSP also learned that the Lancaster Police Department arrested and charged Kerwin with violations of New York State Penal Law.
The arrest stemmed from a tip received from a civilian child safety advocacy group that indicated a group member communicated with Kerwin. Based upon the information provided by the group, Kerwin purportedly believed that he communicated with a minor to meet her for sex. On November 19, 2025, Lancaster Police encountered Kerwin at a local restaurant, at which time he was arrested, and his cell phone was seized. A preliminary review of the cell phone recovered several sexually explicit images and videos of underage females.
The complaint is the result of an investigation by the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Amie Feroleto, the Lancaster Police Department, under the direction of Chief William Gummo, 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.
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Texas man pleads guilty for his role in narcotics conspiracyRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Norman Patillo, 45, of Houston, 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.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael J. Adler, Donna Duncan, and Jeffrey E. Intravatola, who are handling the case, stated that between April 2023, and February 20, 2025, Patillo conspired with others to sell cocaine. Patillo primarily transported cocaine to bulk cocaine customers around the U.S., including to co-conspirators in Buffalo, NY. The cocaine, which came from Mexico, was collected by Patillo for transportation in Texas. Patillo would also pick up narcotics proceeds in Buffalo, and elsewhere, to be returned to Texas. Patillo personally made numerous trips to Buffalo to drop bulk cocaine or collect narcotics proceeds.
Patillo 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., Ian Dyer, and Shannell Gosine. Patillo is the first to be convicted. On May 7, 2024, the Ontario County, NY Sheriff’s Office seized more than nine kilograms of cocaine and 3,528 grams of pure methamphetamine from Marlon Holt during a traffic stop.
This case is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF Buffalo/Rochester comprises agents and officers from HSI and the FBI with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of New York.
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 August 14, 2026, at 9:30 a.m. before Judge Vilardo.
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Buffalo man pleads guilty to possession of a machinegunRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Luis Mercado a/k/a Yvng Fabii, 24, of Buffalo, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge H. Kenneth Schroeder, Jr. to possession of a machinegun, which carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joshua A. Violanti, Louis M. Testani, Jeffrey E. Intravatola, and Katerina F. Powers, who are handling the case, stated that on February 9, 2024, police officers stopped Mercado, a local rapper with the stage name “Yvng Fabii,” as he was fleeing a fight that occurred at a Buffalo State University basketball game. While officers were attempting to stop him, Mercado raised his arms and stated, “I got the thing on me.” When officers asked what he was referring to, he responded, “I got the joint on me.” Officers recovered a loaded defaced pistol, equipped with a machinegun conversion device and extended magazine, from Mercado’s waistband.
The plea is the result of an investigation by 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, and the Buffalo State University Police, under the direction of Chief Amy Pedlow.
Sentencing will be scheduled at a later date.
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Grand jury indicts Buffalo man for attacking postal carrierRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. -- U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that a federal grand jury has returned an indictment charging Jacob D. Ortiz, 34, of Buffalo, NY, with assaulting a federal employee, which carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Colleen M. McCarthy, who is handling the case, stated that according to the indictment and a previously filed complaint, on September 9, 2025, a United States Postal Service (USPS) Letter Carrier, dressed in full uniform, approached the mailbox of a residence on Columbus Avenue in South Buffalo. Ortiz exited the residence. The Letter Carrier believed he was a resident coming to get his mail. However, without warning or provocation, Ortiz lunged toward the Letter Carrier and began punching him in the face and head with his fists. The Letter Carrier suffered cuts, bumps and bruises to his face, behind his left ear, on the back of his head, on his left elbow and below his right knee.
The indictment is the result of an investigation by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service Boston Division, under the direction of Acting Inspector-in-Charge Nicholas J. Bucciarelli.
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.
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Rochester man pleads guilty to 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, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Meredith A. Vacca to attempted enticement of a minor, which carries a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years in prison, a maximum of life, and a fine of $250,000.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Melissa M. Marangola, who is handling the case, stated that 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 plea 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 Special Agent-in-Charge Philip Tejera.
Sentencing is scheduled for May 28, 2026, at 10 a.m. before Judge Vacca.
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Buffalo woman pleads guilty to meth chargeRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. -- U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Stephanie Kroh, 40, of Buffalo, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge Jeremiah J. McCarthy to possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, which carries a minimum penalty of 10 years in prison, a maximum of life, and a fine of $10,000,000.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Donna Duncan, who is handling the case, stated that in April 2023, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Kroh’s residence on Edson Street, recovering 232 grams of methamphetamine and 91 grams of fentanyl. In November 2023, Kroh traveled to the Fishkill Correctional Facility in Beacon, NY, with two packages, which she concealed with the intent of distributing them to an inmate in the correctional facility. The first package contained approximately 24 grams of marijuana, and the second contained approximately 10 grams of an unknown crystal white substance.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Farhana Islam, New York Enforcement Division and the Buffalo Police Department, under the direction of Acting Commissioner Craig Macy.
Sentencing will be scheduled at a later date.
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Buffalo man going to prison on fentanyl chargeRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. -- U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Alexis Perez, Jr., 22, of Buffalo, NY, who was convicted of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, was sentenced to serve 40 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Donna Duncan, who is handling the case, stated that on November 6, 2024, law enforcement officers conducted a traffic stop of Perez’s vehicle and executed a search warrant, seizing a shotgun and ammunition. Investigators then searched his Cambridge Avenue residence, recovering 28 grams of fentanyl, 89 grams of a mixture of fentanyl and cocaine, and 24 grams of cocaine.
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 Enforcement Division, and the Cheektowaga Police Department, under the direction of Chief Brian Coons.
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Syracuse area man pleads guilty to operating kickback scheme involving Medicare and MedicaidRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. – U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Timothy Klein, 49, of Fayetteville, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo to conspiracy to pay and receive health care kickbacks, which carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Franz M. Wright and Paul E. Bonanno, who are handling the case, stated that between February 2017, and September 2018, Klein conspired with others to defraud Medicare and Medicare drug plan sponsors. Klein, who operated JRS Group, LLC, and his co-conspirators enriched themselves by, among other things, submitting prescription drug claims to Medicare and Medicare drug plan sponsors for items that were medically unnecessary and procured through kickbacks and bribes, and diverting fraud proceeds for their own personal use and benefit. As part of the conspiracy:
- Klein through his company, JRS, recruited insurance brokers to contact Medicare beneficiaries and offer them prescription medicines at no cost, without regard to any actual medical necessity. Klein paid kickbacks and bribes to the insurance brokers, for Medicare prescriptions paid for through the beneficiaries' Part D plan, a federal funded program.
- Klein paid an individual and their company, Advanced Telehealth, to provide doctors to perform telemedicine visits with the beneficiaries recruited by insurance brokers. Following the telemedicine visits, the doctors would sign prescriptions for the beneficiaries, which prescriptions had been preselected and/or filled out by Klein.
- Klein entered into agreements with ProRX and SunRise Pharmacy, whereby the pharmacies paid Klein a sum of money for each filled prescription. For instance, on or about September 17, 2018, the defendant received a check totaling $95,479.05 from ProRx representing payments for prescriptions referred to ProRx.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Philip Tejera, 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 U.S. Postal Inspection Service Boston Division, under the direction of Acting Inspector-in-Charge Nicholas J. Bucciarelli.
Sentencing is scheduled for June 2, 2026, before Judge Vilardo.
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Convicted felon pleads guilty to new child pornography chargeRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Brett Bedford, 41, of Rochester, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Charles J. Siragusa to possession of child pornography by a person having a prior conviction relating to the possession of child pornography, which carries a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years in prison, a maximum of 20 years, and a fine of $250,000.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Colleen M. McCarthy, who is handling the case, stated in November 2020, Bedford was convicted in New York State Court of Possessing Obscene Sexual Performance by a Child Less Than 16, and sentenced to serve six months in prison, followed by 10 years of probation. On January 27, 2025, a Monroe County Probation Officer conducted a home inspection at Bedford’s Penfield residence, during which the probation officer found, among other things, an unauthorized cell phone and SIM cards. A review of the phone recovered over 450 images of child pornography, including images of children engaged in sexual acts with adults. Some of the images depicted violence against children.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Philip Tejera.
Sentencing is scheduled for May 28, 2026, before Judge Siragusa.
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Rochester man arrested on multiple child pornography chargesRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Rashad Rabah, 33, of Rochester, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with the production, receipt, 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.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kyle P. Rossi, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, Rabah came to the attention of the United States Postal Inspection Service when he attempted to collect a package containing a large amount of fentanyl from the Jefferson Road Processing and Distribution Center in Henrietta, NY, which was shipped from Arizona. The Postal Inspection Service intercepted the package and staged a controlled delivery to Rabah in August 2025. He received the package, at which time investigators took possession of his cellular phone. Search warrants executed on the phone uncovered Rabah’s involvement in illegal activity, to include child pornography and child exploitation crimes involving minors in the Rochester, NY area.
The FBI’s Child Exploitation Task Force conducted further analysis of Rabah’s phones and executed multiple search warrants of his online accounts and home. According to the complaint, between April 2022, and August 7, 2025, Rabah engaged in sexually explicit online and text conversations with a Minor Victim, a child in the Rochester area. During these conversations, Rabah solicited the Minor Victim to create and send him sexually explicit images and videos. In addition, Rabah paid the Minor Victim to engage in this conduct and solicited other minors in the Rochester area. Rabah was also part of an online forum on a particular social media platform that was dedicated to the abuse and exploitation of minors.
The defendant made an initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Colleen D. Holland and was held pending a detention hearing on January 28, 2026, at 11:00 a.m.
The criminal complaint is the result of an investigation by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, under the direction of Boston Division Acting Inspector-in-Charge Nicholas J. Bucciarelli, 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.
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Niagara Falls man going to prison for selling methRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Asaad Rivers, 38, of Niagara Falls, NY, who was convicted of distribution of methamphetamine, was sentenced to serve 84 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey E. Intravatola, who handled the case, stated that on March 7 and March 12, 2024, investigators conducted controlled purchases of methamphetamine from Rivers in Niagara Falls. On March 26, 2024, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Rivers residence, during which they seized a .22 caliber rifle and .22 caliber ammunition, and approximately 12 ounces of suspected methamphetamine and eight grams of suspected crack cocaine.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Erin Keegan, and the Niagara County Drug Task Force, under the direction of Sheriff Michael Filicetti.
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Israeli man pleads guilty to, sentenced on immigration chargeRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. -- U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Elazar Wigdorowitz, 33, a citizen of Israel, pleaded guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael J. Roemer to improper entry by an alien. He was then sentenced to time served and turned over to Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Brendan W. Fitzgerald, who handled the case, stated that in the early morning hours of January 08, 2026, during the secondary inspection of a vehicle at the Rainbow Bridge Port of Entry, officers noticed multiple pieces of luggage in the back of the vehicle. As an officer began removing the luggage, she noticed what appeared to be a person’s back. The remaining luggage was removed and officers discovered defendant Wigdorowitz. Subsequent investigation discovered that Wigdorowitz had obtained a visa in 2010, which was revoked in 2017 due to his criminal history in Israel. Wigdorowitz’s visa was then refused in 2023 because of his criminal history in Israel, which includes convictions for conspiracy to commit a felony, assault, extortion, threats, false imprisonment, and malicious damage to a vehicle. In addition, pending charges include receipt of an item by deceit, conspiracy to defraud, forgery with intent, use of a forged document, fabricating evidence, and obstruction of justice. On January 5, 2026, Wigdorowitz attempted to apply for Electronic System for Travel Authorization but was denied. Wigdorowitz stated to officers that he was in the back of the vehicle because he wanted to visit his rabbi’s grave in the United States.
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 plea and sentencing are 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.
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Buffalo man pleads guilty to his role in narcotics conspiracyRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.–U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Ernest Brown, a/k/a Wayne Perry, a/k/a Wayne Brown, 43, Buffalo, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge John L. Sinatra, Jr to narcotics conspiracy, which carries a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years in prison and a maximum of life.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joshua A. Violanti and Louis A. Testani, who are handling the case, stated that during the conspiracy, Brown was a source of supply for Joseph Zaso. Zaso met Brown through co-defendant James Jackson, a middleman for narcotics transactions. Brown met his co-conspirators at various locations in Buffalo, including Zaso’s and Jackson’s residences. At times, Jackson delivered fentanyl to Zaso on behalf of Brown. Joseph Zaso was previously charged and convicted and is awaiting sentencing. Charges remain pending against James Jackson.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the Jamestown Police Department, under the direction of Chief Timothy Jackson, the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Farhana Islam, New York Enforcement Division, and the Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff James Quattrone.
Sentencing is scheduled for May 26, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. before Judge Sinatra.
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Amherst man going to prison for selling cocaine and fentanyl that resulted in serious bodily injury to two individualsRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. – U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Lloyd Smith, 26, of Amherst, NY, who was convicted of distribution of cocaine and fentanyl, was sentenced to serve 108 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Donna Duncan, who handled the case, stated on May 27 and 28, 2023, Smith communicated by Snapchat and text message with an individual identified as K.W about purchasing narcotics. On May 28, 2023, Smith met K.W., and another individual identified as J.D., to sell them narcotics. After using the narcotics, J.D. lost consciousness. Smith carried J.D. out of his vehicle to J.D.’s vehicle, where he left J.D. K.W. also lost consciousness at the time. After receiving a 911 call from a good Samaritan, Amherst Police responded to the scene of the overdose, finding K.W. and J.D. unconscious and unresponsive in a vehicle. Both individuals survived. Amherst Police found two baggies in K.W.’s pocket, which both tested positive for cocaine and fentanyl. The baggies were purchased from Smith.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Amherst Police Department, under the direction of Chief Scott Chamberlin and the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Farhana Islam, New York Enforcement Division.
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Retired DEA agent going to prison for 5 years for conspiracy to defraud the United States and conspiracy to distribute controlled substancesRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that retired Drug Enforcement Administration Special Agent Joseph Bongiovanni, 61, of Tonawanda, NY, who was convicted of one count of conspiracy to defraud the United States, one count of conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance, four counts of obstruction of justice, and one count of false statement to law enforcement, was sentenced to serve 60 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joseph M. Tripi, Nicholas T Cooper, and Casey L. Chalbeck, who handled the prosecution of the case, stated that between 1998 and February 1, 2019, Bongiovanni served as a Special Agent with the Drug Enforcement Administration. From 2001 until his retirement, he was assigned to the Buffalo Resident Office. Bongiovanni used his position as a DEA special agent to defraud the DEA, an agency that is a part of the Department of Justice and the Executive Branch of the United States government, by violating his oath to the United States Constitution and duty to enforce the drug laws of the United States. As a part of his agreement to defraud the United States in violation of his oath and duty, and as part of his agreement to accept bribes, Bongiovanni protected his friends, associates, and individuals he believed were members or associates of Italian Organized Crime in Buffalo, from investigation, arrest, and prosecution. Bongiovanni provided Michael Masecchia, a former Buffalo School teacher with connections to Italian Organized Crime, and others involved in the distribution of substantial quantities of marijuana, cocaine, and fentanyl pills, by providing law enforcement sensitive information about the existence of investigations, the identities of informants, and about sensitive law enforcement techniques and tactics. As part of his protection and in furtherance of his conspiracy to defraud the DEA, Bongiovanni opened a case file within the DEA, which he then used to obtain to ensure that other state and local law enforcement agencies, and federal agents, would defer the investigation of the individuals that the defendant was protecting to the defendant. Bongiovanni also used the DEA case file to enter information pertaining to drug traffickers he was protecting into deconfliction databases in order to alert himself if any other members of law enforcement were investigating coconspirators Bongiovanni was protecting.
Relatedly, Bongiovanni was convicted of obstruction of justice and making materially false statements to an agent of the United States for preparing false and fraudulent official DEA memoranda, and making false statements to agents investigating Bongiovanni, to conceal his relationship with Peter Gerace Jr., an individual who was under investigation by the DEA, and others for drug trafficking and related offenses.
“As a member of law enforcement, this defendant was in a position of trust in the eyes of the public,” stated U.S. Attorney DiGiacomo. “However, his criminal actions over the course of 10-plus years eroded that public trust and tarnished the reputation of the men and women in law enforcement who uphold justice with honesty and integrity every day.”
“Law enforcement officers are entrusted with significant authority and violating that trust will not be tolerated. Today’s sentencing affirms that no one is above the law,” said Philip Tejera, Special Agent-in-Charge of the FBI’s Buffalo Field Office. “Bongiovanni’s actions, however, do not represent the vast majority of law enforcement officers who protect their communities with integrity and honor. The FBI, and our law enforcement partners, remain committed to accountability and protecting the integrity of the criminal justice system.”
“Bongiovanni flagrantly betrayed his oath, and the trust placed in him by the American people. Instead of upholding the law, he became the very criminal he was sworn to pursue,” said Erin Keegan, HSI Buffalo Special-Agent-in Charge. “Bongiovanni thought he was above the law, but today’s sentence proves otherwise. We are proud to work alongside our law enforcement partners to ensure those who abuse positions of power are held accountable.”
“The Department of Justice Office of the Inspector General is committed to ensuring the integrity of the Department’s law enforcement personnel by investigating alleged misconduct and supporting criminal prosecution when warranted by the evidence,” stated OIG Special Agent-in-Charge Ryan Geach. “The jury’s verdict in this case and today’s sentencing affirm the OIG’s mission.”
“The sentencing today of retired DEA Special Agent Joseph Bongiovanni sends a powerful message that those who betray their badge will be held accountable to the fullest extent of the law,” stated DEA Northeast Associate Chief of Operations Frank Tarentino. “Any abuse of authority is a breach of trust that not only undermines public confidence but also erodes the foundation of integrity upon which society relies.”
Michael Masecchia was previously convicted and sentenced to serve seven years in prison. Peter Gerace Jr. was convicted by a federal jury and is awaiting sentencing.
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 Department of Justice Office of the Inspector General New York Field Office Special Agent-in-Charge Ryan Geach. The Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Frank A. Tarantino, III, New York Field Division, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Bryan DiGirolamo, New York Field Division, the Erie County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff John Garcia, and the Niagara County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Michael Filicetti also assisted in the investigation.
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Rapids Theatre owner and co-defendant sentenced for defrauding COVID programs out of more than $1.8 millionRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that John L. Hutchins, 72, of Lewiston, NY, and Roberto Soliman, 45, of Niagara Falls, NY, who were convicted of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and bank fraud, were sentenced by Judge Meredith A. Vacca. Hutchins was sentenced to serve 14 months in prison, while Soliman was sentenced to serve 20 months. Both defendants were also ordered to pay full restitution to the Small Business Administration and the victim banks.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Paul E. Bonanno and Douglas A. C. Penrose, who handled the case, stated that between March 2020, and March 2024, Hutchins and Soliman conspired with others to file fraudulent loan applications to obtain money through Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL), the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), and the Shuttered Venue Operators Grant (SVOG). The loans available for these programs were designed to provide emergency financial assistance pursuant to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES Act). Hutchins and Soliman applied for loans under the following companies, which were owned by Hutchins:
• Rapids Theatre Niagara Falls, USA, Inc.
• 1711 Main, LLC
• Bear Creek Entertainment, LLC
• Hutch Enterprises, LLC
• The Hutchins Agency, LLC
• CWE Entertainment, Corp. (owned by defendant Soliman)
Between March and August 2020, Hutchins and Soliman received Economic Injury Disaster Loans totaling $779,500.00, SVOG loans totaling $989,905.05 and PPP loans totaling $115,978. In support of each of the loans, Hutchins and Soliman submitted false revenue and expense figures for the businesses on the loan applications.
“These defendants conspired with others to take advantage of government programs designed to assist struggling businesses during the COVID 19 epidemic,” stated U.S. Attorney DiGiacomo. “By submitting false and fraudulent applications, Hutchins and Soliman lined their own pockets, thereby depriving struggling businesses that were actually eligible for this money.
“Hutchins and Soliman abused a system of benefits put in place specifically for businesses experiencing hardships. Instead of using the money legitimately, the pair stole nearly $2 million from the program while others still waited in line. Today’s sentencing means that each of these fraudsters will now face the punishment of their illicit, greedy behavior,” said Harry T. Chavis, Jr., Special Agent-in-Charge of IRS-CI New York.
The sentencings are the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Philip Tejera, the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Harry Chavis, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, under the direction of Rose Brophy, Director of Field Operations, and the New York State Office of Professional Discipline.
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Lockport man going to prison for more than 10 years on fentanyl charge involving death of a toddlerRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Javonte Holloway, 24, of Lockport, NY, who was convicted of possession with intent to distribute, and to distribute, acetyl fentanyl and fentanyl, was sentenced to serve 128 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua A. Violanti, who handled the case, stated that Holloway sold large quantities of heroin, fentanyl and acetyl fentanyl in the Lockport area. Typically, Holloway sold these substances in the form of counterfeit hydrocodone pills known as “percs” or “M-30s.” Between July and December 2022, Holloway regularly sold counterfeit pills to a Lockport couple, who had a small child. In the early morning hours of December 2, 2022, Lockport Police responded to an apartment, where they found the couple’s young child unresponsive. The child was taken to Eastern Niagara Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. Law enforcement seized several straws with residue and four blue pills with markings “M” and “30,” from a bedroom where the small child was found unresponsive. Testing determined that the straws and pills contained fentanyl and acetyl fentanyl. On February 1, 2023, law enforcement seized 27 round blue pills marked “M-30,” from Holloway’s residence, which were tested and confirmed to contain fentanyl.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Frank A. Tarentino, III, New York Field Division, the Niagara County Sheriff’s Office, and the Niagara County Drug Task Force, under the direction of Sheriff Michael Filicetti, and the Lockport Police Department, under the direction of Chief Steven Abbott.
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Former postal employee sentenced for stealing gift cards and money from the mailRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Anita D. Miller, 42, of Jamestown, NY, who was convicted of theft of mail by a postal employee and delay of mail by a postal employee, was sentenced to serve three years’ probation and 100 community service by U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Franz M. Wright, who handled the case, stated that on six occasions in February and March 2022, Miller, while employed by the U.S. Postal Service, stole gift cards and cash from mailed envelopes. In addition, one two occasions in March 2022, Miller delayed delivery of mailed envelopes.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General, under the direction of Matthew Modafferi, Special Agent-in-Charge Northeast Field Office.
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Lackawanna father going to prison for 17 years for his role in kidnapping conspiracy attempting to force his daughter to marry in YemenRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Khaled Abughanem, 53, of Lackawanna, NY, who was convicted by a federal jury of conspiracy to kidnap a person in a foreign country, kidnapping conspiracy, and threatening to retaliate against a victim, was sentenced to serve 204 months in prison by U.S. District Judge John L. Sinatra, Jr.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Charles M. Kruly and Maeve E. Huggins, who handled the prosecution of the case, stated that on September 8, 2021, Khaled and his son, co-defendant Adham Abughanem, flew from Buffalo, NY, to Guadalajara, Mexico to kidnap the Victim, who is the daughter of Khaled and the sister of Adham. Between September 10, 2021, and April 6, 2023, Khaled and Adham Abughanem conspired to transport the Victim from the Western District of New York to Cairo, Egypt, and then to Sanaa, Yemen, where they confined the Victim for approximately 16 months with the purpose of marrying her to a man not of her choosing. In addition, on March 14, 2023, Khaled Abughanem threatened to “slaughter[]” the Victim in retaliation for information she gave to a law enforcement officer relating to the commission of a federal offense.
Khaled and Adham Abughanem were previously convicted by a federal jury at trial. Adham Abughanem is awaiting sentencing. Another co-defendant, Waleed Abughanem, also a brother of the Victim, was previously convicted following a guilty plea to misprision of felony and sentenced to serve 36 months in prison.
“Khaled Abughanem, along with his sons and other family members, traveled internationally in an attempt to force his daughter and their sister into a forced marriage in Yemen,” stated U.S. Attorney DiGiacomo. “What this defendant and the others failed to recognize was holding someone against their will, so they can enter into a forced marriage, is a crime in the United States. Today’s sentencing reflects the seriousness of the defendant’s conduct as he will now spend a significant period of time in prison.”
“Today’s sentencing sends a clear message that the FBI will aggressively pursue those who exploit family ties to commit violent crimes and deprive victims of their freedom,” said Philip Tejera, Special Agent-in-Charge of the FBI’s Buffalo Field Office. “The FBI remains committed to protecting victims and working with our law enforcement partners to pursue justice for crimes that cross international borders.”
“The Diplomatic Security Service welcomes today’s sentencing of Khaled Abughanem for conspiring to kidnap his own daughter in New York and attempting to force her to marry in Yemen,” said DSS Protective Intelligence Investigations Director Greg Anderson. “Justice was served thanks to the unshakable courage of the victim in this case as well as the close collaboration between DSS, the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Western District of New York, the FBI, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, and the Lackawanna Police Department,”
Khaled Abughanem’s sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Philip Tejera, and the U.S. Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service, under the direction of Protective Intelligence Investigations Director Greg Anderson. Additional assistance was provided by the Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs, the Lackawanna Police Department, under the direction of Chief Mark Packard, Customs and Border Protection, under the direction of Director of Field Operations Rose Brophy, and CPB in Boston, Massachusetts.
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Former Steuben County Sheriff’s deputy going to prison on child pornography chargesRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, NY—U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Stuart J. McHenry, 35, of Hornellsville, NY, who was convicted of possession of child pornography involving a prepubescent minor, was sentenced to serve 108 months in prison and 10 years supervised release by U.S. District Judge Charles J. Siragusa.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Katelyn M. Hartford, who handled the case, stated that McHenry knowingly possessed digital images of child pornography. At least one of the images depicted prepubescent minors under 12-years-old. The investigation began when the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) received a CyberTip from the instant messaging application Kik, which stated that Kik user “acman990,” uploaded approximately 24 files of suspected child pornography. A review found that approximately 22 of the files constituted child pornography. Subsequent investigation traced the account to the defendant and revealed messages between the defendant and other users in which the defendant sought, received, and distributed child pornography. Some of the videos and images possessed by McHenry contained violent conduct, and one of the images depicted the sexual exploitation of an infant. At the time of the offense, McHenry was working as a deputy for Steuben County Sheriff’s Office.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Kevin Sucher, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Philip Tejera, and the Steuben County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Jim Allard.
Two Israeli men arrested in separate complaints on immigration chargesRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. -- U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Elazar Wigdorowitz, 33, and Israel Enden, 46, both citizens of Israel, were arrested and charged in separate complaints. Wigdorowitz is charged with improper entry by alien, which carries a maximum penalty of six months in prison. Enden is charged with bringing in and harboring certain aliens, which carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison.
Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Brendan W. Fitzgerald, who is handling the case, stated according to the complaints, in the early morning hours of January 08, 2026, defendant Enden stated to Customs and Border Protection officers, at the Rainbow Bridge Port of Entry, that he was a United States citizen residing in Israel and was traveling to New York City to visit friends and family. He also stated that the vehicle he was driving was rented by a friend, but he did not have a rental agreement. Asked is he had anything to declare, Enden said no. He was then referred to secondary inspection. During the secondary inspection, officers noticed multiple pieces of luggage in the back of the vehicle. As an officer began removing the luggage, she noticed what appeared to be a person’s back. The remaining luggage was removed and officers discovered defendant Wigdorowitz.
During secondary inspection, officers discovered that Wigdorowitz had obtained a visa in 2010, which was revoked in 2017 due to his criminal history in Israel. Wigdorowitz’s visa was then refused in 2023 because of his criminal history in Israel, which includes convictions for conspiracy to commit a felony, assault, extortion, threats, false imprisonment, and malicious damage to a vehicle. In addition, pending charges include receipt of an item by deceit, conspiracy to defraud, forgery with intent, use of a forged document, fabricating evidence, and obstruction of justice. On January 5, 2026, Wigdorowitz attempted to apply for Electronic System for Travel Authorization but was denied. The complaint further states that according to Wigdorowitz, he in the back of the vehicle because he wanted to visit his rabbi’s grave in the United States. Ended stated that he didn’t know Wigdorowitz was in the vehicle.
Wigdorowitz and Enden made initial appearances before U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael J. Roemer and were detained.
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 complaints are 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.
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.
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Southern Tier man pleads guilty to distribution of child pornographyRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that David J. Johnston, 56, of Olean, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo to distribution of child pornography, which carries a mandatory minimum penalty of five years in prison, a maximum of 20 years, and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron J. Mango, who is handling the case, stated that prior to February 19, 2024, Johnston was in a relationship with co-defendant Kayla R. Kio. During the relationship, he requested that Kio take naked videos of a 5-year-old child that they both had access to. On February 19, 2024, Kio took a sexually explicit video of the minor victim using her cell phone and then sent it to Johnston via text message. He took a screen shot from the video, which constituted child pornography, and sent it back to Kio and to other individuals. During this time, Johnson also sent Kio a different image of child pornography via text message. On March 13, 2024, during the execution of a search warrant at Johnston’s residence, law enforcement seized three cell telephones. A review of the cell phones recovered approximately 11 images and one video of child pornography.
Kio was previously convicted of possession of child pornography involving a prepubescent minor and is awaiting sentencing.
The plea is the result of an investigation by 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, and the Cattaraugus County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Eric Butler.
Sentencing is scheduled for May 26, 2026, at 1:30 p.m. before Judge Vilardo.
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Prior felon sentenced on new child pornography chargeRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Marcobrien S. Volcy, 28, of Rochester, NY, who was convicted of possession of child pornography following a prior conviction under the laws of New York State relating to the possession of child pornography, was sentenced to serve 10 years in prison by Chief U.S. District Judge Elizabeth A. Wolford.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Katelyn M. Hartford, who handled the case, stated that in August 2023, Volcy pleaded guilty in Monroe County Court to Possessing a Sexual Performance by a Child Less Than 16 Years of Age and was sentenced to one to three years in prison. On January 19, 2024, while on New York State probation for his 2023 conviction, Volcy possessed a cell phone that contained images and videos of child pornography. In total, Volcy possessed more than 650 images and videos of child pornography, some of which depicted prepubescent children.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Philip Tejera.
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