Northern District of Ohio
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
USAO Announces Guilty Pleas, Sentencing for Immigration ViolationsRead the Press Release
TOLEDO, Ohio – The United States Attorney’s Office (USAO) has announced immigration enforcement actions in the Northern District of Ohio, Western Division. These are separate cases and not related.
The following individuals have pleaded guilty to illegal reentry (Title 8 U.S. Code 1326), after being found in the Northern District of Ohio without the consent of the U.S. Attorney General or the Secretary for Homeland Security for readmission.
- Ruben Luis-Garcia, 40, a citizen of Guatemala, was previously removed from the United States on at least one occasion with the most recent being Oct. 6, 2017. He was found in Sandusky (Erie County) on Oct. 30, 2025. Sentencing is set for Feb. 5, 2026.
- Ismael Ruiz-Sebastian, 34, a citizen of Mexico, was previously removed from the United States on at least one occasion with the most recent being March 26, 2010. He was found in Sandusky (Erie County) Ohio on Oct. 30, 2025. Sentencing is set for Jan. 27, 2026.
- Erick Ventura-Castellanos, 35, a citizen of Honduras, was previously removed from the United States on at least one occasion with the most recent being June 5, 2018. He was found in Danbury Township (Ottawa County) on Oct. 29, 2025. Sentencing is set for Jan. 27, 2026.
Additionally, Bersain Alvarez-Lopez, 37, a citizen of Mexico, was sentenced to time served after pleading guilty to possession of fraudulent identification documents, misuse of a social security number, and illegal reentry. He was previously removed from the United States on at least three occasions with the most recent being Jan. 15, 2019. He remains in federal custody pending deportation.
The investigations in these cases leading to the indictments were conducted by the U.S. Border Patrol-Sandusky Bay Station.
The cases are being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Gene Crawford, Tracey Tangeman and Ava Rotell Dustin for the Northern District of Ohio.
These cases are part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations, and to protect communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
Ohio Man Sentenced to Prison for Lying About Health Issues to Obtain Government BenefitsRead the Press Release
CLEVELAND – A Portage County man has been sentenced to federal prison for obtaining government assistance by making false and misleading statements regarding his state of health.
Michael W. Honaker, 55, of Windham, Ohio, was sentenced to 31 months in prison by U.S. District Judge David A. Ruiz, after he pleaded guilty in December 2024 to wire fraud and theft of government property. He was also ordered to serve three years of supervised release and pay restitution of $432,254.07 to the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation, $82,400.20 to the Social Security Administration (SSA), and $22,417.00 to the Portage Metropolitan Housing Authority. Judge Ruiz imposed the sentence Dec. 12.
“Mr. Honaker’s deception was truly shameless. He had no problem going to great lengths to hide his deceitful behavior and reap the benefits from programs that are meant for people who truly need them,” said United States Attorney David M. Toepfer for the Northern District of Ohio. “We are thankful to the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation who identified the fraud, and to the Housing and Urban Development and Social Security investigators who were able to put a stop to this waste of taxpayer money.”
According to the indictment, Honaker began to receive workers’ compensation benefits in 1998 due to an on-the-job injury he sustained. The following year, he applied for—and received—Social Security disability benefits in the form of monthly cash payments. Later, he was accepted into a housing program administered through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and began to receive subsidized-housing benefits in March 2012. In 2014, he began to reside at a residence on Greenmeadow Road in Windham. While there, he misrepresented information about himself for the purpose of receiving increased workers’ compensation benefits. In one application submitted, he falsely claimed that “going up and down the stairs several times a day is very painful” and, therefore, needed a lump-sum payment to renovate his home to be handicap-accessible. During a doctor appointment, Honaker pretended to have difficulty walking and dragged his right leg and indicated that he required a wheelchair to maneuver. In another instance, he falsely told an investigator with the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation that he used crutches all day and had a “brain injury.” In all instances, the defendant admitted to knowing that these statements were not truthful.
“Honaker’s selfish actions put HUD’s housing assistance programs at significant risk and jeopardized the amount of available funding to low-income families who rely on these programs,” said Special Agent in Charge Shawn Rice with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Office of Inspector General. “HUD OIG will continue to work with its prosecutorial and law enforcement partners to vigorously pursue those who seek to profit by abusing HUD-funded programs.”
“By falsely portraying himself as disabled and continuing to collect Social Security benefits, Michael Honaker committed a serious fraud that cost taxpayers more than $82,000,” said Special Agent in Charge Stephanie Rodriguez with the Social Security Administration-Office of the Inspector General, Chicago Field Division. “Cases like this demonstrate our continued commitment to identifying, investigating, and holding accountable those who exploit programs designed to help the most vulnerable.”
"Our Special Investigations Department did an exceptional job uncovering and securing the conviction in this complex fraud scheme," said Administrator/CEO Stephanie McCloud of the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation. "Their collaboration with local police and federal agencies was instrumental in saving money for the State Insurance Fund."
Co-defendant Nichole E. Johnson, 42, also of Windham, began to reside at the Greenmeadow Road residence in 2016 without HUD authorization to do so. She was previously sentenced to 24 months of probation for her role in facilitating the scheme, after she pleaded guilty to making a false statement to the SSA regarding Honaker’s state of health. She was also ordered to pay $4,624 in restitution.
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development-Office of Inspector General Cleveland Field Office, the Social Security Administration Office of the Inspector General, the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation, and the Windham Police Department investigated this case.
Special Assistant United States Attorney Jason W. White prosecuted the case for the Northern District of Ohio.
Former Ohio Senate Candidate Pleads Guilty to $4.5M Wire Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
CLEVELAND – A Summit County man has pleaded guilty to wire fraud after defrauding his employer, a police organization, and an online fundraising company out of millions of dollars.
According to court documents, from about March 2022 to November 2024, Jonathan Leissler, 44, of Stow, Ohio, worked at an industrial supply company in Warrensville Heights, Ohio, as its chief financial officer (CFO). This role allowed him access to sensitive data such as payroll, expenditures, accounts payable, and company credit cards. He created fake payroll records to receive unauthorized payments, with amounts ranging from about $5,000 to $20,000 per transaction in addition to his regular salary.
In December 2023, he began his bid for a seat on the Ohio Senate representing District 28. He utilized an online fundraising platform to collect donations toward his election campaign which were deposited into a designated “Leissler for Ohio” bank account. Using his employer’s company credit cards, Leissler proceeded to make unauthorized donations to his own election campaign. Then, he would request a refund of the donation. The refund request would trigger the fundraising platform to withdraw funds from the “Leissler for Ohio” bank account. However, Leissler changed the bank account associated with his campaign to a different, non-existent bank account before the funds could be withdrawn to process the refund.
Leissler also had access to a second source of funds through a local fraternal order of police (FOP). From about December 2021 to November 2024, he was the treasurer for the organization and held a debit card and checkbook for the FOP account, which he used to make numerous unauthorized withdrawals and expenditures. He regularly reported to FOP leadership that the account balance was significantly higher than he knew it to be.
Federal investigators found that Leissler used embezzled funds to charter private planes, travel, provide a down payment for a vacation property in South Carolina, and make mortgage payments for the vacation property as well as his residential home. He also used funds to pay for credit cards, vehicles, cryptocurrency mining equipment, and to start up a side business. He also paid for advertising to encourage voters to support his election to the Ohio Senate.
Leissler’s actions resulted in victims being defrauded of approximately $4.5 million in combined losses.
Leissler was charged by a bill of information on Nov. 12 and pleaded guilty Dec. 17 to three counts of wire fraud. Leissler faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. Sentencing is scheduled for April 8, 2026. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
This investigation was conducted by the FBI Cleveland Division.
Assistant United States Attorney Megan R. Miller is leading the prosecution for the Northern District of Ohio.
Note:
Updated 2-5-26 with sentencing date.
Lorain man sentenced to ten years in federal prison for Controlled Substance OffensesRead the Press Release
CLEVELAND – A 44-year-old Lorain man, Tiawan Taylor, has been sentenced to 10 years in prison and for possession with intent to distribute controlled substances. He previously plead guilty to an indictment alleging that on July 31, 2024, he possessed with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing methamphetamine and another count of possessing with intent to distribute a mixture and substance containing cocaine. After he serves his prison sentence, the court ordered that he be subject to 20 years of federal supervised release. Taylor has a lengthy criminal history with numerous prior convictions for violent offenses, theft offenses, and drug trafficking offenses.
“This kind of behavior is a direct threat to the safety of our communities. Drug dealers bring violence and poison wherever they operate, and we are pleased to see this defendant taken off the streets for the next decade. I commend the efforts of the FBI and Lorain Police Department for their hard work and continued partnership,” said United States Attorney, David Toepfer for the Northern District of Ohio.
This case was investigated by the Lorain Police Department and FBI Cleveland Division.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Scott Zarzycki for the Northern District of Ohio.
Ghanaian National Charged with Running Romance Scams That Took over $8 Million from Elderly VictimsRead the Press Release
CLEVELAND – A federal grand jury has returned a 2-count indictment charging a Ghanaian National with defrauding elderly victims out of over $8 million.
According to a recently unsealed indictment, Frederick Kumi, aka Emmanuel Kojo Baah Obeng, aka Abu Trica, 31, of Swedru, Ghana was part of a criminal network that targeted elderly victims in romance scams across the United States since 2023. Kumi was arrested in Ghana on December 11, 2025.
According to the indictment, perpetrators of this romance scam used Artificial Intelligence software to assume false identities and form close personal relationships with victims. They gained victims’ trust to obtain money and valuables, often targeting individuals through social media and online dating platforms under false pretenses.
Victims were often elderly and engaged in romantic but physically distant relationships with perpetrators. The perpetrators built trust through frequent, intimate conversations by phone, email, and messaging platforms. They then requested money or valuables under false pretenses, such as urgent medical needs, travel expenses, or investment opportunities. Relying on these misrepresentations, victims were persuaded to send funds or valuables, which were then directed to co-conspirators posing as third parties.
The indictment also alleges that after the victims transferred funds, Kumi worked with a network of co-conspirators to distribute the money from Ohio and across the United States to associates in the Republic of Ghana and other locations.
Kumi has been charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud, money laundering conspiracy, and a forfeiture specification, and faces up to 20 years in prison.
If convicted, a defendant’s sentence will be determined by the Court after a review of factors unique to this case, including a defendant’s prior criminal record, if any, his role in the offense, and the characteristics of the violation. In all cases, the sentences will not exceed the statutory maximum, and in most cases, it will be less than the maximum.
An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is entitled to a fair trial in which it is the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
The investigation preceding the indictment was conducted by the FBI Cleveland Division and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian M. McDonough for the Northern District of Ohio.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Ohio would like to acknowledge and thank the Ghana Attorney General’s Office, EOCO – Ghana Economic Organised Crime Office, GPS – Ghana Police Service, Ghana Cyber Security Authority, NACOC – Ghana Narcotics Control Commission, Ghana National Intelligence Bureau, U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration’s Sensitive Investigation Unit, U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Homeland Security Investigations, U.S. Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs, and FBI Legal Attaché Office in Accra for their cooperation with this matter.
The investigation and prosecution of this case is in response to the Elder Justice Initiative Program originating from the Elder Abuse Prevention and Prosecution Act of 2017 (EAPPA). The mission of the EAPPA and Elder Justice Initiative is to support and coordinate the Department of Justice’s enforcement efforts to combat elder abuse, neglect, financial fraud, and scams that target the nation’s elderly population.
To submit a report of suspected elder financial abuse, visit tips.fbi.gov/home or justice.gov/elderjustice/financial-exploitation.
Four Charged in Large-scale Meth and Fentanyl Trafficking Operation in ClevelandRead the Press Release
CLEVELAND – The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Ohio announced the unsealing of a federal indictment Dec. 9 charging four individuals allegedly involved in an international drug trafficking conspiracy.
According to the allegations in the indictment, from about February 2023 to August 2024, Calvin Locke, aka Uncle, aka Tio, 53, sold narcotics to various redistributors throughout the northern Ohio region and then used a business entity, Locke and Goldstein, to launder the proceeds. Co-conspirator Josue Melendez, aka Jay, aka Bananas, 35, facilitated multi-kilogram shipments of methamphetamine from Sonora, Mexico, with Carlos Escareno, aka J, 30, serving as courier to transport the pound quantities of drugs across state lines from Arizona to Ohio. A fourth co-conspirator, Shamese Maddox, 37, was Locke’s fentanyl supplier.
The announcement was made by United States Attorney David M. Toepfer for the Northern District of Ohio and Special Agent in Charge Greg Nelsen of the FBI Cleveland Division.
Calvin Locke, aka Uncle, aka Tio, 53, of Cleveland, is charged with:
- Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.
- Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl.
- Attempted Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.
- Possession with the Intent to Distribute of Fentanyl.
- Money Laundering.
Josue Melendez, aka Jay, aka Bananas, 35, of Yuma, Arizona, is charged with:
- Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.
Carlos Escareno, aka J, 30, of Yuma, Arizona, is charged with:
- Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.
Shamese Maddox, 37, of Akron, Ohio, is charged with:
- Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl.
- Distribution of Fentanyl.
If convicted, each defendant’s sentence will be determined by the Court after review of factors unique to the case, including each defendant’s prior criminal record, if any, their role in the offense, and the characteristics of the violation. In all cases, the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum, and, in most cases, it will be less than the maximum.
The investigations leading to the indictment were conducted by the FBI Cleveland Division and partner members of the Cartel, Gang, Narcotics and Laundering Task Force:
- Cleveland Division of Police
- North Royalton Police Department
- Cuyahoga County Sheriff’s Department
- Brooklyn (Ohio) Police Department
- Ohio State Highway Patrol
- Ottawa County Prosecutors Office
- Ohio Bureau of Crime Investigations
- Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority Police
- IRS-Criminal Investigations
Assistant United States Attorney Elizabeth Crook is leading the prosecution for the Northern District of Ohio. The assistance of the U.S. Marshals is also acknowledged for providing related support for this crime reduction initiative.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Former Corrections Officer Sentenced to Prison for Accepting Bribe to Smuggle ContrabandRead the Press Release
CLEVELAND – A Cleveland man has been sentenced to prison for attempting to smuggle contraband into a prison where he was employed.
James P. Jackson, 40, was sentenced to 30 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Dan Aaron Polster after pleading guilty in July to Hobbs Act extortion under color of official right for accepting money to smuggle two packages into a prison using his capacity as an employee of the facility. Jackson was also ordered to serve three years of supervised release after imprisonment. Judge Polster imposed the sentence on Dec. 4th.
According to court documents, Jackson was employed by the Trumbull Correctional Institution (TCI) in Leavittsburg, from 2022 through 2024, where he served as a corrections officer and later, as a general maintenance worker. His work duties and responsibilities allowed him full access to non-public areas including prison cells where he interacted regularly with inmates. Jackson was found to be communicating with a female associate of a TCI inmate. They eventually agreed to meet so she could give Jackson packages to deliver to the inmate, who was serving a sentence inside the facility. In return, Jackson accepted an initial bribe of $1,000 from her and was promised an additional $1,000 after the contraband was successfully delivered to the intended recipient. Upon attempting to take the packages into TCI, Jackson was intercepted by law enforcement. The investigation revealed that the packages Jackson received−and attempted to smuggle into the prison−contained 97.67 grams of a mixture and substance containing methamphetamine, 207.63 grams of synthetic cannabinoid, 32.85 grams of phencyclidine (aka PCP or angel dust), various other drugs, a cellphone, and SIM cards.
This case was investigated by the FBI Cleveland Division, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Trumbull Correctional Institutions-Office of Investigations, and the Ohio State Highway Patrol-Office of Criminal Investigations Prison Drug Unit, and Investigative Services for the Warren District.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Chelsea S. Rice for the Northern District of Ohio.
Executive Director of In-Home Care Business Sentenced to Prison for Failing to Pay Quarterly Employment TaxesRead the Press Release
AKRON, Ohio – A Lake County man has been sentenced to federal prison for not paying required employment taxes to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).
Michael Roberts, 38, of Mentor, Ohio, was sentenced to 24 months in prison by U.S. District Judge John R. Adams, after a federal jury convicted him in April of failure to account for and pay taxes. He was also ordered to serve three years of supervised release and pay $322,718.56 in restitution. Judge Adams imposed the sentence Dec. 3.
According to court documents, Roberts was the executive director and co-owner of Progressive Alternatives, an in-home care business that served individuals with developmental disabilities throughout Lake and Ashtabula Counties. The business was initially purchased by Roberts’s spouse, Larry Keith Gildersleeve III, 43, also of Mentor, in February 2011.
Federal investigators found that the payroll checks that Roberts issued did reflect the correct withholdings from employees’ wages. The withholdings were also reflected on W-2 forms that the employees received. But upon further investigation, it was discovered that the business never filed W-2 forms for employees, nor did they submit quarterly payments. When an employee was preparing to retire in 2017, she learned that her employer, Progressive Alternatives, had not paid the required payroll taxes over to the IRS.
Gildersleeve was previously sentenced to 24 months in prison for his role, after pleading guilty to eight counts of failure to account for and pay over taxes. He was also ordered to serve three years of supervised release and pay $692,697.50 in restitution.
The IRS-Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) Division investigated this case.
Assistant United States Attorneys Erica D. Barnhill and Brett S. Hammond prosecuted the case for the Northern District of Ohio.
IRS-CI is the law enforcement arm of the IRS, responsible for conducting financial crime investigations, including tax fraud, narcotics trafficking, money laundering, public corruption, healthcare fraud, identity theft and more. IRS-CI special agents are the only federal law enforcement agents with investigative jurisdiction over violations of the Internal Revenue Code, obtaining a 90% federal conviction rate. The agency has 19 field offices located across the U.S. and 14 attaché posts abroad.
Ohio Man to Spend 18 Years in Prison for Violent Crime SpreeRead the Press Release
CLEVELAND – A Cleveland man has been sentenced to 18 years in prison after he terrorized employees at a bank and several local businesses during armed robberies.
Reginald J. Wimberly, Jr., 24, was sentenced to 216 months (18 years) in prison by U.S. District Judge Bridget Meehan Brennan after pleading guilty in August to:
- Four counts of Hobbs Act violations for Interference with Commerce by Robbery.
- Two counts of Using, Carrying, and Brandishing a Firearm During and in Relation to Crime of Violence.
- One count of Bank Robbery.
Wimberly was also ordered to serve three years of supervised release after imprisonment and pay $1,426 in restitution. Judge Brennan imposed the sentence Dec. 4.
According to court documents, Wimberly brazenly entered several places of business in December 2022 and used a firearm to threaten employees and demand money. During one robbery, a frightened bank teller handed over cash after she received a note that read “GIVE ME 20K OR I’M SHOOT THE PERSON NEXT 2 ME.” Wimberly dropped a cellphone and was temporarily trapped by the bank’s security doors but managed to escape and flee.
Wimberly confessed to committing all five robberies during an interview with law enforcement.
Victim businesses that were affected were:
- Dollar General, Broadway Ave., Dec. 27, 2022
- Dollar General, East 116th St., Dec. 27, 2022
- Dollar General, St. Clair Ave., Dec. 27, 2022
- Family Dollar, Miles Ave., Dec. 28, 2022
- Citizens Bank, Broadway Ave., Dec. 30, 2022
This case was investigated by the FBI Cleveland Division and the Cleveland Division of Police.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kristen Rolph for the Northern District of Ohio.
Guatemalan Man Unlawfully in the U.S. and Previously Convicted of Sexual Battery Pleads Guilty to Encouraging and Inducing an Unaccompanied Alien Child and to Fraudulently Obtaining Custody of the ChildRead the Press Release
CLEVELAND — A Guatemalan national unlawfully residing in the United States and previously convicted of sexual battery pleaded guilty today in federal court in Cleveland to encouraging and inducing an unaccompanied alien child (UAC) to illegally enter the United States and to submitting a sponsorship application with false statements to the Department of Health and Human Services’ Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) to gain custody of the UAC.
“This defendant directed a 14-year-old child to commit criminal conduct and then obtained custody of the child by defrauding a government program intended to help vulnerable children,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Through Joint Task Force Alpha, the Criminal Division is fully committed to prosecuting those who take advantage of children and lie to undermine the integrity of government programs. We will strive to end the exploitation of these children and stop the manipulation of government programs by fraudsters, smugglers, and others engaged in serious criminal conduct.”
“Mr. Tiul Xi engaged in layers of deception. Committing one federal crime after another, he showed no regard or respect for this girl’s human dignity,” said U.S. Attorney David M. Toepfer for the Northern District of Ohio. “We greatly appreciate the dedication of the investigative teams with Homeland Security Investigations, Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the Cleveland FBI, to protect minors from being victimized by the likes of these ruthless individuals.”
According to court documents, 26-year-old Juan Tiul Xi helped a 14-year-old female Guatemalan UAC enter the United States illegally with the permission of her family. Tiul Xi helped the UAC and her family find someone from whom the family could borrow money to pay a “coyote” to transport the UAC to the United States. Tiul Xi instructed the UAC to use the name and birth certificate of Tiul Xi’s minor sister to enter the United States so that Tiul Xi could falsely state in his UAC sponsorship application that he was the UAC’s brother. Tiul Xi then made these false representations in an application that he signed under the penalty of perjury. ORR relied on Tiul Xi’s misrepresentations, approved his application to sponsor the UAC, and released the UAC to Tiul Xi’s care in September 2023.
Tiul Xi was indicted on April 17, 2025, and pleaded guilty today to all counts: one count of encouraging or inducing illegal entry for the purpose of financial gain; one count of making a false, fictitious, or fraudulent statement; and one count of aggravated identity theft. Tiul Xi faces a maximum penalty of ten years in prison on the illegal-entry count, up to five years in prison on the false-statement count, and a mandatory consecutive two-year sentence on the aggravated-identity-theft count. Tiul Xi’s sentencing is scheduled to take place March 19, 2026. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The investigation and indictment were coordinated and prosecuted by Joint Task Force Alpha (JTFA), the Department’s lead effort in combating high-impact human smuggling and trafficking committed by cartels and Transnational Criminal Organizations (TCOs). A highly successful partnership between the Department of Justice and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), JTFA investigates and prosecutes human smuggling and trafficking and related immigration crimes that impact public safety and border security. JTFA’s mission is to target the leaders and organizers of Cartels and TCOs involved in human smuggling and trafficking throughout the Americas. The Attorney General has elevated and expanded JTFA to target the most prolific and dangerous human smuggling and trafficking groups operating not only in Mexico and the Northern Triangle countries of Guatemala, El Salvador, and Honduras, but also in Canada, the Caribbean and the maritime border, and elsewhere. Led by the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions (HRSP) Section and supported by the Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section, the Office of International Affairs, and the Office of Enforcement Operations, among others, JTFA has dedicated Assistant United States Attorney-detailees from the Southern District of California; District of Arizona; District of New Mexico; Western and Southern Districts of Texas; Southern District of Florida; Northern District of New York; and District of Vermont. JTFA also partners with other USAOs throughout the country and supports high-priority cases in any district. All JTFA cases rely on substantial law enforcement resources from DHS, including ICE/ HSI and CBP/BP and OFO, as well as FBI and other law enforcement agencies. To date, JTFA’s work has resulted in more than 425 domestic and international arrests of leaders, organizers, and significant facilitators of alien smuggling and/or trafficking; more than 375 U.S. convictions; more than 325 significant jail sentences imposed, and forfeitures of substantial assets.
ICE HSI and FBI Cleveland field offices jointly led the investigation with assistance from HSI’s Attaché team in Guatemala. Additionally, HSI’s Center for Countering Human Trafficking in Washington, D.C., and ORR have provided valuable assistance.
Acting Deputy Chief Christian Levesque of the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section, Joint Task Force Alpha detailee/Trial Attorney Spencer M. Perry of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section, and Assistant U.S. Attorney/Senior Litigation Counsel Carol Skutnik and Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael L. Collyer for the Northern District of Ohio are prosecuting the case, with assistance from HRSP Analyst/Latin America Specialist Joanna Crandall.
Guatemalan Man Unlawfully in the U.S. and Previously Convicted of Sexual Battery Pleads Guilty to Encouraging and Inducing an Unaccompanied Alien Child and to Fraudulently Obtaining Custody of the ChildRead the Press Release
A Guatemalan national unlawfully residing in the United States and previously convicted of sexual battery pleaded guilty today in federal court in Cleveland to encouraging and inducing an unaccompanied alien child (UAC) to illegally enter the United States and to submitting a sponsorship application with false statements to the Department of Health and Human Services’ Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) to gain custody of the UAC.
“This defendant directed a 14-year-old child to commit criminal conduct and then obtained custody of the child by defrauding a government program intended to help vulnerable children,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Through Joint Task Force Alpha, the Criminal Division is fully committed to prosecuting those who take advantage of children and lie to undermine the integrity of government programs. We will strive to end the exploitation of these children and stop the manipulation of government programs by fraudsters, smugglers, and others engaged in serious criminal conduct.”
“Mr. Tiul Xi engaged in layers of deception. Committing one federal crime after another, he showed no regard or respect for this girl’s human dignity,” said U.S. Attorney David M. Toepfer for the Northern District of Ohio. “We greatly appreciate the dedication of the investigative teams with Homeland Security Investigations, Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the Cleveland FBI, to protect minors from being victimized by the likes of these ruthless individuals.”
According to court documents, 26-year-old Juan Tiul Xi helped a 14-year-old female Guatemalan UAC enter the United States illegally with the permission of her family. Tiul Xi helped the UAC and her family find someone from whom the family could borrow money to pay a “coyote” to transport the UAC to the United States. Tiul Xi instructed the UAC to use the name and birth certificate of Tiul Xi’s minor sister to enter the United States so that Tiul Xi could falsely state in his UAC sponsorship application that he was the UAC’s brother. Tiul Xi then made these false representations in an application that he signed under the penalty of perjury. ORR relied on Tiul Xi’s misrepresentations, approved his application to sponsor the UAC, and released the UAC to Tiul Xi’s care in September 2023.
Tiul Xi was indicted on April 17, 2025, and pleaded guilty today to all counts: one count of encouraging or inducing illegal entry for the purpose of financial gain; one count of making a false, fictitious, or fraudulent statement; and one count of aggravated identity theft. Tiul Xi faces a maximum penalty of ten years in prison on the illegal-entry count, up to five years in prison on the false-statement count, and a mandatory consecutive two-year sentence on the aggravated-identity-theft count. Tiul Xi’s sentencing is scheduled to take place on March 19, 2026. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The investigation and indictment were coordinated and prosecuted by Joint Task Force Alpha (JTFA), the Department’s lead effort in combating high-impact human smuggling and trafficking committed by cartels and Transnational Criminal Organizations (TCOs). A highly successful partnership between the Department of Justice and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), JTFA investigates and prosecutes human smuggling and trafficking and related immigration crimes that impact public safety and border security. JTFA’s mission is to target the leaders and organizers of Cartels and TCOs involved in human smuggling and trafficking throughout the Americas. The Attorney General has elevated and expanded JTFA to target the most prolific and dangerous human smuggling and trafficking groups operating not only in Mexico and the Northern Triangle countries of Guatemala, El Salvador, and Honduras, but also in Canada, the Caribbean and the maritime border, and elsewhere. Led by the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section and supported by the Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section, the Office of International Affairs, and the Office of Enforcement Operations, among others, JTFA has dedicated Assistant United States Attorney-detailees from the Southern District of California; District of Arizona; District of New Mexico; Western and Southern Districts of Texas; Southern District of Florida; Northern District of New York; and District of Vermont. JTFA also partners with other USAOs throughout the country and supports high-priority cases in any district. All JTFA cases rely on substantial law enforcement resources from DHS, including ICE/ HSI and CBP/BP and OFO, as well as FBI and other law enforcement agencies. To date, JTFA’s work has resulted in more than 425 domestic and international arrests of leaders, organizers, and significant facilitators of alien smuggling and/or trafficking; more than 375 U.S. convictions; more than 325 significant jail sentences imposed, and forfeitures of substantial assets.
ICE HSI and FBI Cleveland field offices jointly led the investigation with assistance from HSI’s Attaché team in Guatemala. Additionally, HSI’s Center for Countering Human Trafficking in Washington, D.C., and ORR have provided valuable assistance.
Acting Deputy Chief Christian Levesque of the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section, Joint Task Force Alpha detailee/Trial Attorney Spencer M. Perry of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section, and Assistant U.S. Attorney/Senior Litigation Counsel Carol Skutnik and Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael L. Collyer for the Northern District of Ohio are prosecuting the case, with assistance from HRSP Analyst/Latin America Specialist Joanna Crandall.
11 Charged in Multi-state Fentanyl, Meth, and Cocaine Trafficking OperationRead the Press Release
CLEVELAND – The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Ohio announced the unsealing of a federal indictment Dec. 3 charging 11 people allegedly involved in connection with a drug trafficking organization operating in Cuyahoga County.
According to the indictment, from about August 2023 to April 2024, members of the conspiracy are accused of supplying and/or distributing controlled substances that included fentanyl, oxycodone, and alprazolam pills, as well as methamphetamine and cocaine.
Conspiracy members operated throughout Greater Cleveland, with a significant amount of illegal activity taking place at an apartment complex in Euclid. Money and illegal drugs were collected from various individuals and then transported to and from Michigan and Pennsylvania.
The announcement was made by United States Attorney David M. Toepfer for the Northern District of Ohio and Special Agent in Charge Joseph O. Dixon of the DEA Detroit Field Division.
All defendants are from Cleveland unless otherwise noted:
- Dionte Dykes, aka Dots, 31, is charged with:
- Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with Intent to Distribute Controlled Substances
- Distribution of Fentanyl.
- Distribution of Cocaine.
- Felon in Possession of a Firearm; Prior convictions include Aggravated Trafficking in Drugs in 2012, and Delivery/Manufacture of Narcotic or Cocaine in 2018.
- Use of a Communications Facility to Facilitate a Felony Drug Offense.
- Javian Hearns, aka Skeens, 34, is charged with:
- Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with Intent to Distribute Controlled Substances.
- Distribution of Fentanyl.
- Clarence Jackson, aka Cino, 33, is charged with:
- Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with Intent to Distribute Controlled Substances.
- Distribution of Methamphetamine.
- Distribution of Fentanyl.
- Trevaughn Bassett, 26, is charged with:
- Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with Intent to Distribute Controlled Substances.
- Distribution of Fentanyl.
- Michael Chambers, aka Do-Do, 26, is charged with:
- Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with Intent to Distribute Controlled Substances.
- Distribution of Methamphetamine.
- Akia Bailey, aka Ky Free, 32, is charged with:
- Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with Intent to Distribute Controlled Substances.
- Distribution of Fentanyl and Oxycodone.
- Raveona Carter, 30, of Detroit, is charged with:
- Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with Intent to Distribute Controlled Substances.
- Use of a Communications Facility to Facilitate a Felony Drug Offense.
- Keith Dykes, aka Beefy, 29, is charged with:
- Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with Intent to Distribute Controlled Substances.
- Distribution of Cocaine.
- Use of a Communications Facility to Facilitate a Felony Drug Offense.
- Robert Avery, aka Black, 31, is charged with:
- Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with Intent to Distribute Controlled Substances.
- Distribution of Cocaine.
- Use of a Communications Facility to Facilitate a Felony Drug Offense.
- Liam Walsh, 36, is charged with:
- Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with Intent to Distribute Controlled Substances.
- Use of a Communications Facility to Facilitate a Felony Drug Offense.
- Amber Slone, 32, is charged with:
- Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with Intent to Distribute Controlled Substances.
- Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine.
- Use of a Communications Facility to Facilitate a Felony Drug Offense.
If convicted, each defendant’s sentence will be determined by the Court after review of factors unique to the case, including each defendant’s prior criminal record, if any, their role in the offense, and the characteristics of the violation. In all cases, the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum, and, in most cases, it will be less than the maximum.
The investigations leading to the indictments were conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), along with the Euclid Police Department, the Independence Police Department, the Mayfield Heights Department, and SPAN Narcotics.
Assistant United States Attorney Margaret A. Sweeney is leading the prosecution for the Northern District of Ohio.
The assistance of the U.S. Marshals is also acknowledged for providing related support for this crime reduction initiative.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
- Dionte Dykes, aka Dots, 31, is charged with:
Mass Producer of Fentanyl Pills Sentenced to More Than 17 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
CLEVELAND – A Cuyahoga County man has been sentenced to prison for his role in a large-scale drug trafficking operation that mass produced thousands of illegal pills which were then distributed throughout Ohio.
Thomas Taylor, 43, of Cleveland, was sentenced to 210 months (17.5 years) in prison by U.S. District Judge Donald C. Nugent after pleading guilty in July to the following charges as outlined in the second superseding indictment:
- Conspiracy to Distribute and to Possess with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance.
- Distribution of a Controlled Substance.
- Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance.
- Maintaining Drug Premises.
- Felon in Possession of Firearms and Ammunition; prior convictions include Felon in Possession of a Firearm in 2019; and Drug Trafficking in 2013 and 2007.
Taylor was also ordered to serve 10 years of supervised release after imprisonment and pay $10,000 in fines. Judge Nugent imposed the sentence Dec. 3.
According to court documents and evidence presented in court, Taylor led a major drug trafficking operation in northern Ohio. He recruited numerous individuals to help run his manufacturing operation to make fentanyl pills using ingredients he sourced from contacts in Mexico. Taylor maintained pill pressing equipment at several residences throughout the Greater Cleveland area that could make hundreds of thousands of fentanyl pills each day. During the investigation, agents seized several firearms and ammunition, large sums of cash, and drug paraphernalia such as scales and plastic bags. In total, more than 3 kilograms of fentanyl, 2 kilograms of methamphetamine, and ½ kilogram of cocaine was also seized.
Co-defendant Noreece Young, 53, also of Cleveland, previously pleaded guilty to his role in the conspiracy and is currently serving a 180-month (15 year) prison sentence.
This case was investigated by the FBI Cleveland Division and the Southeast Area Law Enforcement Narcotics Task Force.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Payum Doroodian for the Northern District of Ohio.
Trucking Company Operator Sentenced to Prison for Tax EvasionRead the Press Release
CLEVELAND – A trucking company operator from Stark County who hid income from the U.S. government in attempts to not pay taxes has been sentenced to federal prison.
Alice F. Martin, 66, of Louisville, Ohio, was sentenced to 30 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Donald C. Nugent, after pleading guilty in August to Attempt to Evade and Defeat Income Tax, and Attempt to Evade and Defeat Payment of Tax. She was also ordered to serve three years of supervised release after imprisonment and to pay $1,971,660.86 in restitution. Judge Nugent imposed the sentence Dec. 2.
According to court documents, Martin attempted to evade the payment of taxes, penalties, and interest tied to a trucking company that she owned and operated under the name of Martin Logistics. The tax evasion scheme consisted of a plan to phase out the company after it became burdened with tax debt as a strategy to avoid paying taxes to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).
However, Martin intended to continue operating her trucking business through a new company, TSA Transportation. Income that TSA Transportation received was then deposited into a bank account for another business entity that Martin owned and controlled, A.F. Martin. In addition, she placed Martin Logistic’s assets, such as trucks and trailers, under the name of yet another company she established, Martin Global. IRS investigators found that from around 2013 to 2018, Martin directed approximately $18 million in gross receipts from TSA Transportation to be deposited into the bank account of a different company, A.F. Martin. The investigation concluded that she did not report $3.6 million in taxable income and failed to pay approximately $1.2 million in federal taxes due between 2013 and 2018.
IRS Criminal Investigations (IRS-CI) conducted the investigation leading to the indictment.
The prosecution in this case was led by Assistant United States Attorney Edward Brydle for the Northern District of Ohio.
IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) is the law enforcement arm of the IRS, responsible for conducting financial crime investigations, including tax fraud, narcotics trafficking, money laundering, public corruption, healthcare fraud, identity theft and more. IRS-CI special agents are the only federal law enforcement agents with investigative jurisdiction over violations of the Internal Revenue Code, obtaining a 90% federal conviction rate. The agency has 19 field offices located across the U.S. and 14 attaché posts abroad.
Ohio Man Convicted of $1.2M in Pandemic Benefits Fraud Sentenced to 11 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
CLEVELAND – A Portage County man who orchestrated a financial conspiracy to defraud the U.S. government in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic has been sentenced to prison.
Mustafa Ayoub Diab, 42, of Ravenna, Ohio, was sentenced to 132 months (11 years) in prison by U.S. District Judge Solomon Oliver Jr., after a federal jury found him guilty in March on 12 counts of theft of government funds, 12 counts of bank fraud, 11 counts of wire fraud, 6 counts of aggravated identity theft, and 1 count each of conspiracy to commit wire and bank fraud and to launder monetary instruments. Diab was also ordered to serve five years of supervised release after imprisonment and to pay $1,213,860 in restitution. Judge Oliver imposed the sentence Dec. 1.
According to court documents, Diab owned and operated a tax return preparation business in Akron, Ohio, along with co-conspirator, Elizabeth Lorraine Robinson, 34, also of Ravenna. From around June 2020 to August 2021, Diab submitted fraudulent applications for pandemic unemployment benefits and small business assistance for many of his business clients. Without their knowledge, he lied about their employment and their status as small business owners on applications to qualify for pandemic funds and benefits such as the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance Program and the Paycheck Protection Program.
When the pandemic relief funds were deposited into bank accounts that he opened and controlled for his clients without their knowledge, he immediately withdrew the funds in cash for his personal use. Diab bought real estate, cars and took international trips. Among the evidence presented at the nearly week-long trial, were fraudulent applications that he submitted using the names of nearly 80 victims. These applications caused the federal government to pay out more than $1.2 million in pandemic benefits that were deposited into the various bank accounts that Diab controlled.
Co-defendant Robinson previously pleaded guilty to her role in the conspiracy and was sentenced to nine months in prison and ordered to serve three years of supervised release thereafter. She was also ordered to pay $183,450 in restitution both joint and severally with Diab.
The investigation preceding the indictment was conducted by the FBI Akron Field Office.
The prosecution in this case was led by Assistant United States Attorneys Vanessa V. Healy and Brenna L. Fasko.
Ohio Missionary Indicted for Child Exploitation Crimes in HaitiRead the Press Release
A federal grand jury in the Northern District of Ohio returned an indictment today charging an Ohio man with four counts of engaging in illicit sexual conduct with minors in Haiti.
According to court documents, Jeriah Mast, 44, of Millersburg, Ohio, traveled from the United States to Haiti on multiple occasions between 2002 and 2019, including with the organization Christian Aid Ministries (CAM), and sexually abused minors in that country. During the course of the investigation, law enforcement obtained flight records showing that Mast had taken over 30 flights from the United States to Haiti between November 2002 and August 2018. Each count of the indictment is premised on his sexual abuse of a different minor in Haiti.
“As alleged, this defendant traveled abroad to commit heinous, unspeakable crimes against vulnerable children living in an impoverished nation,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Despite the fact that the defendant’s alleged crimes occurred abroad, our law enforcement partners and prosecutors will continue to relentlessly seek justice on behalf of the minor victims. Wherever the Criminal Division has jurisdiction, we are committed to investigating and prosecuting those who engage in the intolerable crime of abusing and exploiting children.”
“Crimes against children, like those mentioned in these allegations, are reprehensible. Such appalling and morally corrupt behavior will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law,” said U.S. Attorney David M. Toepfer for the Northern District of Ohio. “We commend the work of Homeland Security Investigations and the Holmes County Sheriff’s Office, whose thorough work led to these federal charges being filed today.”
“This case highlights the vital role HSI plays in identifying and investigating individuals — especially those in positions of trust — who exploit children, regardless of where these heinous crimes occur,” said HSI Detroit acting Special Agent in Charge Matthew Stentz. “HSI Cleveland, in collaboration with the Holmes County Sheriff’s Office and the Department of Justice, worked diligently to ensure that those who prey on children abroad are held accountable here in the United States. We remain steadfast in our commitment to pursuing justice for victims and ensuring that predators face the full weight of the law wherever our investigations lead.”
HSI Cleveland is investigating the case and received substantial assistance from the Holmes County (Ohio) Sheriff’s Office.
Trial Attorney Jessica L. Urban of the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS) and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Margaret Kane and Jennifer King for the Northern District of Ohio are prosecuting the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, visit www.justice.gov/psc.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Ohio Man Charged with Sexual Abuse of Children in the CaribbeanRead the Press Release
CLEVELAND – A Holmes County man who traveled internationally to sexually abuse children abroad now faces federal charges.
On Dec. 2, a federal grand jury returned a four-count indictment charging Jeriah Mast, 44, of Millersburg, Ohio, with attempted and actual engaging in illicit sexual conduct in a foreign place.
The indictment alleges that on at least four separate occasions—2004, 2007, and twice in 2011— Mast embarked on trips to the Caribbean and sexually abused minors.
As outlined in the original federal criminal complaint filed Nov. 4, 2025, Mast repeatedly traveled to Haiti, during which time he both attempted and engaged in illicit sexual conduct with minors. Foreign travel records obtained by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) show that Mast took more than 30 flights from the United States to Haiti.
Mast faces a penalty of up to 30 years in prison and $250,000 in fines per count if convicted. He also faces up to a lifetime of supervised release after imprisonment. His sentence will be determined by the Court after a review of factors unique to the case, including the defendant’s prior criminal record, his role in the offense, and the characteristics of the violation.
“As alleged, this defendant traveled abroad to commit heinous, unspeakable crimes against vulnerable children living in an impoverished nation,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Despite the fact that the defendant’s alleged crimes occurred abroad, our law enforcement partners and prosecutors will continue to relentlessly seek justice on behalf of the minor victims. Wherever the Criminal Division has jurisdiction, we are committed to investigating and prosecuting those who engage in the intolerable crime of abusing and exploiting children.”
“Crimes against children, like those mentioned in these allegations, are reprehensible. Such appalling and morally corrupt behavior will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law,” said United States Attorney David M. Toepfer for the Northern District of Ohio. “We commend the work of Homeland Security Investigations and the Holmes County Sheriff’s Office, whose thorough work led to these federal charges being filed today.”
“This case highlights the vital role HSI plays in identifying and investigating individuals—especially those in positions of trust—who exploit children, regardless of where these heinous crimes occur,” said HSI Detroit acting Special Agent in Charge Matthew Stentz. “HSI Cleveland, in collaboration with the Holmes County Sheriff’s Office and the Department of Justice, worked diligently to ensure that those who prey on children abroad are held accountable here in the United States. We remain steadfast in our commitment to pursuing justice for victims and ensuring that predators face the full weight of the law wherever our investigations lead.”
An indictment is merely an allegation. The defendant is presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial in which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
The investigation preceding the indictment was conducted by HSI and the Holmes County Sheriff’s Office.
Assistant United States Attorneys Margaret Kane and Jennifer King are leading the prosecution for the Northern District of Ohio, with assistance from Trial Attorney Jessica Urban of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS).
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Anyone with knowledge and information about this case may call the HSI tip line at 1-877-4-HSI-TIP or visit report.cybertip.org.
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Ohio Man Sentenced to 30 Years in Prison for Luring Minor Girls into Sending Him Sexually Explicit ContentRead the Press Release
CLEVELAND – A Lorain County man who pretended to own a modeling agency has been sentenced to prison for grooming children into sending him sexually explicit images through the social media platform, Snapchat.
Joshua R. Glover, 36, of Elyria, Ohio, has been sentenced to 30 years in prison by U.S. District Judge Dan Aaron Polster after pleading guilty in July to receipt and distribution of visual depictions of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct, and to possession of child pornography, which is also known as child sexual abuse material (CSAM). Glover was also ordered to serve 10 years of supervised release after imprisonment and to pay $2,000 in assessments toward a monetary reserve for victims of CSAM. Judge Polster imposed the sentence Nov. 25, 2025.
“Glover’s vile and despicable manipulation of underage girls has come to an end. He will no longer commit these heinous and horrendous crimes against vulnerable children,” said United States Attorney David M. Toepfer for the Northern District of Ohio. “We are immensely grateful to the FBI Cleveland for the thorough investigation that led to Glover’s three-decades-long sentence to keep him behind bars where he cannot continue this predatory behavior.”
According to court documents, from January 2022 to January 2024, Glover used Snapchat to engage with hundreds of minor girls under the guise of owning a modeling agency. His typical victims ranged in age from 12-15 years old and were located throughout the country. Investigators found that Glover repeatedly sent requests for sexually explicit photos and videos to young girls with the lure of joining his modeling agency and receiving payment for their images and videos. Glover initiated over 18,000 chats and conversed with some victims for years—building relationships where he directed the type of sexual activity the minors engaged in and offered to meet with them in person to engage in sex.
“Contacting, coercing, and preying on young girls through social media to gain their trust and elicit inappropriate behavior is cold and callous,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Greg Nelsen. “This sentence underscores the commitment of not only the FBI, but also our federal, state, and local partners who will ensure a full and thorough investigation that leads to taking predators like Glover offline and out of our neighborhoods. The FBI will continue to work collaboratively to combine resources and share expertise to identify those who commit these appalling crimes and find justice for the victims.”
Federal search warrants of Glover’s digital devices and online accounts revealed Glover possessed approximately 100 files of CSAM. By his own admission, Glover estimated he received images and videos of CSAM from over 90 different minors.
The investigation preceding the indictment was conducted by the FBI Cleveland Division.
The prosecution in this case was led by Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer King.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. The initiative is led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices throughout the country and marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC.
To report child exploitation, please visit cybertipline.org, or call 1-800-843-5678, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
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Canadian National Sentenced to Prison After Being Caught with 90 Pounds of MDMARead the Press Release
TOLEDO, Ohio – A Canadian citizen has been sentenced to prison after admitting to having possession of 90 pounds of methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), or ecstasy, a Schedule I controlled substance that is typically used as a party drug and intended for distribution.
Dontavius Forbes, 27, was sentenced to 36 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Jeffrey J. Helmick after pleading guilty in June to possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance. Judge Helmick imposed the sentence Nov. 21. Forbes will be deported to Canada upon completion of his prison sentence.
According to court documents, on Aug. 7, 2024, a U.S. Border Patrol agent observed a compact sport utility vehicle with Canadian license plates parked in a service plaza parking lot near the interstate 80/90 Ohio turnpike in Sandusky County. After further investigation, the agent proceeded to have an encounter with Forbes who was the driver of the vehicle. During a consensual search of the SUV, agents observed what appeared to be modifications to a section of the cargo area. Agents discovered two hidden compartments packed with vacuum sealed packages of suspected illegal drugs. A field test of one of the packages tested positive for MDMA. Agents also seized nearly $3,000 in U.S. currency from the vehicle.
The remaining packages recovered from the vehicle were submitted to a forensic laboratory for analysis which confirmed the accuracy of the field test indicating the presence of MDMA.
This investigation was conducted by the U.S. Border Patrol-Sandusky Bay Station and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). Assistant United States Attorney Frank H. Spryszak prosecuted the case for the Northern District of Ohio.
Ohio Man Sentenced to Prison for Mailing Drug-laced Books to InmatesRead the Press Release
CLEVELAND – A Lucas County man has been sentenced to more than a decade in prison for his role in soaking the pages of books in illegal drugs to ship to inmates at a local prison.
Austin Siebert, 30, of Maumee, Ohio, was sentenced to 140 months (approximately 11 years) in prison by U.S. District Judge Donald C. Nugent after pleading guilty in August to the following charges as outlined in the indictment:
- Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition; prior convictions include Aggravated Trafficking in Drugs in 2018 and Robbery in 2021.
- Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.
Siebert was also ordered to serve four years of supervised release after imprisonment. Judge Nugent imposed the sentence Nov. 18.
According to court documents, prison officials at the Grafton Correctional Institution in Lorain County discovered that Siebert was in regular communication with several inmates and mailing books to them. Prison investigators seized suspicious book packages which were then sent to a forensic lab for analysis. The seized contraband tested positive for the presence of synthetic cannabinoids such as 5-Fluoro-ADB and MDMB-4en-PINACA. Subsequently, a federal search warrant was executed at Siebert’s residence in Maumee where agents seized a paperback book suspected of being soaked with narcotics; a loaded Bersa Thunder, .380 semiautomatic pistol; several bags containing suspected drugs in pill and powder forms; a book binding machine; and package mailing labels.
This case was investigated by Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), with assistance from the Ohio State Highway Patrol and the Grafton Correctional Institution.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Segev Phillips for the Northern District of Ohio.
Cleveland Drug Dealer to Spend More Than 14 Years in Federal Prison for Trafficking and Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
CLEVELAND – A Cleveland man with a history of violence and drug crimes has been sentenced to prison for his role in running an illegal drug trafficking scheme.
Clarence Payne, 40, was sentenced to 170 months (14 years and 2 months) in prison by U.S. District Judge Pamela A. Barker after a federal jury found him guilty of the following charges:
- Distribution of Cocaine.
- Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime.
- Felon in Possession of a Firearm; prior convictions include Drug Trafficking in 2005, 2006, 2008, and 2011, and Aggravated Assault and Drug Possession in 2011.
- Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine.
- Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin and Fentanyl.
Payne was also ordered to serve five years of supervised release after imprisonment. Judge Barker imposed the sentence Nov. 18.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, during the summer of 2023, Payne regularly supplied co-conspirator Harold Pearl, 41, of Cleveland, with cocaine that Pearl sold on the west side of Cleveland. Pearl arranged deals with buyers before he met with Payne to secure the drug amounts needed. Once he sold the drugs, Pearl returned to Payne’s home with the drug proceeds. Payne supplied Pearl with cocaine which was sold to undercover agents six separate times in June, July, and August 2023. Payne was arrested at his home, where multiple bags of cocaine, heroin, and fentanyl were located. Law enforcement also seized a firearm and drug paraphernalia from the home.
Co-defendant Pearl pleaded guilty to his role in the drug trafficking. In January 2025, he was sentenced to 46 months in prison and ordered to serve three years of supervised release.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), with assistance from the Cleveland Division of Police and numerous regional and federal agencies as part of a summer violent crime reduction effort in 2023.
Assistant United States Attorneys Adam J. Joines and Jennifer King led the prosecution for the Northern District of Ohio.
Ohio Man Indicted on Attempted Murder of a Federal AgentRead the Press Release
CLEVELAND – An Ohio man now faces additional charges—including attempted murder of a federal officer—in connection with an Oct. 15 incident that resulted as federal officers attempted to serve an arrest warrant.
On Oct. 29, a federal grand jury in Cleveland returned a four-count indictment charging Larry Leon Dwight Wiley, 55, of Cleveland, with:
- Count 1 - Attempted Murder of a Federal Officer
- Count 2 - Assault on Federal Officers with a Deadly Weapon
- Count 3 – Using, Carrying, and Discharging a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence
- Count 4 - Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition, for prior convictions that include Felonious Assault in 2010; Domestic Violence in 2009; Aggravated Robbery with Firearm Specification in 2000; Burglary in 1999; and Assault on a Police Officer in 1998.
According to the criminal complaint affidavit, on Oct. 15, members of the U.S. Marshals Service Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force went to an apartment unit in Cleveland to execute an arrest warrant on Wiley, who was wanted for felonious assault. Officers announced their presence as law enforcement and breached the door of the unit. Wiley, who was inside, allegedly fired a handgun in the direction of the officers, striking a deputy U.S. Marshal in the arm with a .380 caliber round. The deputy U.S. Marshal was immediately rushed to a nearby hospital where he received treatment for his injuries. Wiley then barricaded himself in the apartment, leading to a standoff that lasted several hours until he surrendered and was taken into custody.
If convicted, Wiley faces up to 20 years in prison for Counts 1 and 2; up to life in prison for Count 3; and up to 15 years in prison on Count 4. The defendant’s sentence will be determined by the Court after a review of factors unique to the case, including prior criminal record, role in the offense, and characteristics of the violation.
This case is being investigated by the FBI Cleveland Division, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), and the Cleveland Division of Police. The Cuyahoga County Sheriff’s Office also provided valuable assistance. The prosecution is being led by Assistant United States Attorneys Margaret A. Sweeney, Scott Zarzycki, and James P. Lewis for the Northern District of Ohio.
An indictment is merely an allegation. The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Meth and Cocaine Trafficker Sentenced to 20 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
CLEVELAND – A Summit County man has been sentenced to prison for his role as a supplier of illegal substances in Summit and Portage counties and the surrounding region.
Leverne Eugene Fortson, 51, of Akron, was sentenced to 210 months (17.5 years) in prison by U.S. District Judge John R. Adams after a federal jury found him guilty in August of the following charges:
- Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine and Cocaine.
- Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.
Fortson was also ordered to serve 10 years of supervised release after imprisonment. In addition, the court ordered that he serve an additional 30 months for a supervised release violation, bringing the total to 240 months (20 years) in federal prison. Judge Adams imposed the sentence Oct. 28.
Court documents show that from about January to July 2024, Fortson and co-conspirator Jeffery Scott Goldbach, 54, of Mantua, Ohio, operated a drug trafficking scheme that distributed methamphetamine and cocaine throughout Summit and Portage counties and the surrounding region. Search warrants were executed at each of their homes. At Fortson’s home in Akron, investigators seized 54.7 grams of pure methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia, and several mason jars containing fake urine. At Goldbach’s residence, agents seized a semi-automatic rifle, 22 grams of cocaine, approximately 55.5 grams of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia.
Co-conspirator Goldbach pleaded guilty in August to his role in the conspiracy and was sentenced to 78 months in prison and 10 years of supervised release.
This drug trafficking organization was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), with assistance from the Portage County Sheriff’s Office, and Akron Police Department.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Joseph P. Dangelo and Yasmine Makridis for the Northern District of Ohio.
Ohio Man Faces Federal Charges for Shooting Deputy U.S. Marshal in Barricade IncidentRead the Press Release
An Ohio man was taken into custody and charged with assaulting a federal officer who was engaged in the performance of official duties.
According to the criminal complaint, on Oct. 15, Larry Leon Dwight Wiley, 55, of Cleveland, barricaded himself in his apartment for several hours after members of the Cleveland U.S. Marshals Service arrived to execute an arrest warrant for a previous federal law violation. Wiley took aim at the federal officers and began firing as they entered the unit. One deputy U.S. Marshal was struck in the arm with a .380 caliber round and was transported to a nearby hospital to receive treatment for his injuries. Wiley made his initial appearance Oct. 16 before U.S. Magistrate Judge Jennifer Dowdell Armstrong. He was ordered to remain in custody while the matter is pending, following a motion made in court by U.S. Attorney David M. Toepfer for the Northern District of Ohio.
“Law enforcement officers risk everything to protect us, and this case is a stark reminder of the dangers they face in the line of duty,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “I am grateful that our deputy U.S. Marshal will make a full recovery and I will ensure that this heinous crime is prosecuted and punished to the fullest extent of the law. Any attack on law enforcement is an attack on our society itself.”
“An assault on federal law enforcement is an assault against society. We will aggressively prosecute anyone who harms a federal law enforcement officer who is pursuing the mission of protecting the public,” said U.S. Attorney Toepfer. “I would like to thank the Cleveland Police Department, FBI, and ATF for their rapid response to this situation. I also commend the officers on scene who quickly rendered first aid to their wounded colleague.”
“The swift and decisive actions by the United States Marshal’s Service, Cleveland Division of Police, ATF, and the Cuyahoga County Sheriff’s Office to prevent additional harm to the people in the community underscores the collaboration and partnership among our local, state, and federal agencies,” said FBI Cleveland Special Agent in Charge Greg Nelsen. “We are united in our resolve to take the most dangerous criminals and repeat offenders off the streets and keep our neighborhoods safe places to live and work. The FBI will conduct a thorough investigation into the assault of a federal officer and ensure justice is served.”
Wiley is charged with assault on a federal officer with a deadly or dangerous weapon and faces up to 20 years in prison. If convicted, the defendant’s sentence will be determined by the Court after a review of factors unique to the case, including prior criminal record, role in the offense, and characteristics of the violation.
This case is being investigated by the FBI Cleveland Division, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), and the Cleveland Division of Police. The Cuyahoga County Sheriff’s Office also provided valuable assistance. The prosecution is being led by Assistant United States Attorneys Margaret A. Sweeney, Scott Zarzycki, and James P. Lewis for the Northern District of Ohio.
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Ohio Man Faces Federal Charges for Shooting Deputy U.S. Marshal in Barricade IncidentRead the Press Release
CLEVELAND – An Ohio man was taken into custody and charged with assaulting a federal officer who was engaged in the performance of official duties.
According to the criminal complaint, on Oct. 15, Larry Leon Dwight Wiley, 55, of Cleveland, barricaded himself in his apartment for several hours after members of the Cleveland U.S. Marshals Service arrived to execute an arrest warrant for a previous federal law violation. Wiley took aim at the federal officers and began firing as they entered the unit. One deputy U.S. Marshal was struck in the arm with a .380 caliber round and was transported to a nearby hospital to receive treatment for his injuries. Wiley made his initial appearance Oct. 16 before U.S. Magistrate Judge Jennifer Dowdell Armstrong. He was ordered to remain in custody while the matter is pending, following a motion made in court by United States Attorney David M. Toepfer for the Northern District of Ohio.
“Law enforcement officers risk everything to protect us, and this case is a stark reminder of the dangers they face in the line of duty,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “I am grateful that our deputy U.S. Marshal will make a full recovery and I will ensure that this heinous crime is prosecuted and punished to the fullest extent of the law. Any attack on law enforcement is an attack on our society itself.”
“An assault on federal law enforcement is an assault against society. We will aggressively prosecute anyone who harms a federal law enforcement officer who is pursuing the mission of protecting the public,” said U.S. Attorney Toepfer. “I would like to thank the Cleveland Police Department, FBI, and ATF for their rapid response to this situation. I also commend the officers on scene who quickly rendered first aid to their wounded colleague.”
“The swift and decisive actions by the United States Marshals Service, Cleveland Division of Police, ATF, and the Cuyahoga County Sheriff’s Office to prevent additional harm to the people in the community underscores the collaboration and partnership among our local, state, and federal agencies,” said FBI Cleveland Special Agent in Charge Greg Nelsen. “We are united in our resolve to take the most dangerous criminals and repeat offenders off the streets and keep our neighborhoods safe places to live and work. The FBI will conduct a thorough investigation into the assault of a federal officer and ensure justice is served.”
Wiley is charged with assault on a federal officer with a deadly or dangerous weapon and faces up to 20 years in prison. If convicted, the defendant’s sentence will be determined by the Court after a review of factors unique to the case, including prior criminal record, role in the offense, and characteristics of the violation.
This case is being investigated by the FBI Cleveland Division, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), and the Cleveland Division of Police. The Cuyahoga County Sheriff’s Office also provided valuable assistance. The prosecution is being led by Assistant United States Attorneys Margaret A. Sweeney, Scott Zarzycki, and James P. Lewis for the Northern District of Ohio.
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Ohio Man Sentenced to 23 Years in Prison for Attempting to Distribute 7,000 Fentanyl Pills and 10 Pounds of MethRead the Press Release
CLEVELAND – A Summit County man has been sentenced to prison for his role in a drug trafficking conspiracy involving approximately 7,000 fentanyl pills and 10 pounds of methamphetamine.
Terrance Rucker, 43, of Akron, Ohio, was sentenced to 276 months (23 years) in prison by U.S. District Judge Bridget Meehan Brennan after a federal jury found him guilty in April of the following charges as outlined in the indictment:
- Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute Controlled Substances
- Attempted Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine
- Attempted Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl
- Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl
Rucker was also ordered to serve five years of supervised release after imprisonment. Judge Brennan imposed the sentence Oct. 9.
According to the original criminal complaint, underlying affidavit and evidence presented in court, in November 2023, postal inspectors intercepted a suspicious package mailed from Phoenix, Arizona, that was destined for a home in Summit County. The residence was found to be associated with Rucker’s co-defendant, David R. Collins, 44, of Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, who was known to law enforcement for having a history of drug violations.
Federal law enforcement agents with the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) obtained a warrant to search the package in question. In it, they found 10 plastic bags filled with an off-white crystalline material. Inspectors also found a second vacuum packed bag containing blue pills marked with “M” on one side and “30” on the other. The package contents were submitted to a forensic lab for analysis and tests confirmed that the white substance was approximately 10 pounds of methamphetamine. The blue tablets were confirmed to be 2.5 pounds of pressed fentanyl which were made to look like pharmaceutical-grade oxycodone hydrochloride pills. After the discovery of the narcotics in the package, agents searched the home that it was destined for and located Rucker with the package that once contained the narcotic substances, as well as a loaded revolver, three cellphones, a box cutter used to open the package, and anti-surveillance equipment.
Collins was previously sentenced to 36 months in prison. A third co-defendant, Javay Cox, 37, of Phoenix, Arizona, was previously sentenced to 70 months in prison. Both Collins and Cox were also ordered to serve three years of supervised release each.
The investigation was conducted by the USPIS, DEA, HSI, and the Summit County Drug Unit, with assistance from the Ohio Narcotics Intelligence Center.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Segev Phillips and Stephanie Wojtasik and for the Northern District of Ohio.
USPIS is the law enforcement branch of the United States Postal Service. To report mail theft or other crimes committed through, or towards, the United States Postal Service, call the USPIS at 1-877-876-2455 or visit uspis.gov/report.
Ivorian National Extradited to the United States to Face Firearms Trafficking Conspiracy ChargesRead the Press Release
CLEVELAND – An Ivorian national has been extradited to the United States for his role in a conspiracy to smuggle goods out of the United States, involving dozens of firearms allegedly headed for Africa.
Bile Jean Philippe Assemian, 49, a citizen of Côte d’Ivoire, made his first appearance in U.S. District Court Sept. 26. He was arrested in Kenya June 26, by Kenyan authorities at the request of the United States and surrendered to the United States pursuant to an extradition request.
His alleged co-conspirator Koffi Andrea Versaint Taregue, 45, an Ivorian national with permanent resident status, remains at large.
According to the superseding indictment, from November 2018 to October 2020, the men obtained at least 58 firearms in Northern Ohio and elsewhere by coordinating with others to buy on their behalf or by purchasing themselves. The firearms were allegedly packaged and concealed in household goods. The defendants utilized an export company to deliver the items out of the country but did not disclose that the pre-packaged shipments in fact contained firearms and related parts, such as suppressors. The defendants did not have the required written approvals or licenses from the U.S. Department of Commerce or U.S. Department of State to export the items.
The announcement was made by United States Attorney David M. Toepfer for the Northern District of Ohio and Special Agent in Charge Greg Nelsen of the FBI Cleveland Division.
Assemian is charged with conspiracy to smuggle goods from the United States and faces a maximum of up to five years in prison.
Taregue is charged with conspiracy to smuggle goods from the United States, six counts of smuggling goods from the United States, six counts of control of arms exports and imports, and one count each of unlicensed dealing in firearms, making a false statement to the FBI, and making a false statement during the purchase of a firearm. He faces a combined maximum of up to 205 years in prison.
If convicted, each defendant’s sentence will be determined by the Court after a review of factors unique to the case, including each defendant’s prior criminal record, their role in the offense, and the characteristics of the violation.
The investigation leading to the indictment was conducted by the Cleveland Joint Terrorism Task Force, including agents from the FBI Cleveland Division, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). Agents from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement-Homeland Security Investigations also provided assistance.
Assistant United States Attorney Segev Phillips for the Northern District of Ohio is leading the prosecution with substantial assistance provided by Trial Attorney Yifei Zheng of the U.S. Department of Justice National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section.
The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs provided substantial assistance in securing Assemian’s arrest and extradition from Kenya. His extradition was possible due to an extensive coordinated effort between the United States and the Republic of Kenya. Kenyan agencies that provided valuable assistance include the Kenya Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions and its Directorate of Criminal Investigations; Kenya Directorate of Immigration Services; Kenya Aviation Authority; and the Kenya Police Service as well as the FBI’s Legal Attaché Office in Nairobi.
An indictment is merely an allegation. Defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Akron Drug Dealer Sentenced to 35 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
AKRON, Ohio – An Akron-area career criminal has been sentenced to prison for his role in distributing controlled substances throughout Northeast Ohio.
Antoine D. Cook, 46, of Akron, was sentenced to 420 months (35 years) in prison by U.S. District Judge Donald C. Nugent after a federal jury found him guilty in June of the following charges as outlined in the indictment:
- One count of Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine,
- One count of Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine,
- One count of Felon in Possession of Ammunition; prior convictions include Domestic Violence in 1996, 2010, 2012, and 2014; Distribution of a Controlled Substance in 2002; Aggravated Assault in 2012 and 2015; and Felonious Assault in 2018.
Cook was also ordered to serve eight years of supervised release after imprisonment.
According to court documents, on May 1, 2024, Cook knowingly possessed and intended to distribute two Schedule II controlled substances. He was found with approximately 25 grams of methamphetamine as well as three grams of cocaine, all packaged for sale. Cook also unlawfully possessed more than 80 rounds of ammunition. Because Cook was previously convicted of a number of serious drug and violent felonies, he received a significant sentencing enhancement as a career offender and an armed career criminal.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), with assistance from the Ohio Adult Parole Authority.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Peter E. Daly for the Northern District of Ohio.
U.S. Attorney Announces Immigration Enforcement ActionsRead the Press Release
TOLEDO, Ohio – The United States Attorney’s Office (USAO) has announced immigration enforcement actions in the Northern District of Ohio, Western Division. These are separate cases and not related.
The following individuals have been sentenced to time served by U.S. District Court Judge Jeffrey J. Helmick after each previously pleaded guilty to illegal reentry (Title 8 U.S. Code 1326), after being found in the Northern District of Ohio without the consent of the U.S. Attorney General or the Secretary for Homeland Security for readmission. They remain detained pending deportation from the United States.
- Gonzalo Diaz-Resendiz, 29, a citizen of Mexico, was previously removed from the United States on at least one occasion with the most recent being Sept. 6, 2013. He was found in Putnam County, Ottawa, Ohio.
- Edin Oneil Carrillos-Rodriguez, 36, a citizen of Honduras, was previously removed from the United States on at least two occasions with the most recent being Dec. 11, 2014. He was found in Sandusky County, Clyde, Ohio.
- Raul Samano-Fuerte, 49, a citizen of Mexico, was previously removed from the United States on at least four occasions with the most recent being March 10, 2009. He was found in Huron County, Norwalk, Ohio.
Additionally, a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Jaime Sanchez-Tlehuactle, 43, a citizen of Mexico, with illegal reentry. He has previously been removed from the United States with the most recent being April 21, 2021. He was found in Wood County, Bowling Green, Ohio.
The investigations in these cases were conducted by U.S. Border Patrol-Sandusky Bay Station.
These cases are being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Gene Crawford, Matthew Simko, and Ava Rotell Dustin for Northern District of Ohio.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
These cases are part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations, and protect communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
Ohio Man Sentenced to Prison for Using Company Funds for Personal UseRead the Press Release
TOLEDO, Ohio – A Wood County man has been sentenced to prison for defrauding a computer technology support company of hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Blake Underwood, 45, of Perrysburg, Ohio, was sentenced to 24 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Jack Zouhary after pleading guilty in May to wire fraud. Underwood was also ordered to serve three years of supervised release after imprisonment.
According to court documents and evidence presented in court, Underwood was employed by Nemsys, LLC, a Toledo-based information technology company. After the Nemsys business owners relocated to Florida to focus their efforts on a second company, Underwood became the CEO and ran the business on behalf of the owners. Court documents show that Underwood devised a scheme to defraud the company from December 2019 until April 2023. Even though he was not permitted to do so, Underwood used Nemsys funds intended for the revitalization of a historic Toledo property to purchase building supplies for his personal home. In 2023, the owners examined why Nemsys was underperforming financially and discovered that Underwood was using company funds to pay his personal credit cards, purchase personal vehicles, golf club memberships, jewelry, and more.
This investigation was conducted by the FBI Toledo Field Office prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Robert N. Melching for the Northern District of Ohio.
Former Ohio Deputy Sentenced to More Than Nine Years in Prison for Sexually Abusing an InmateRead the Press Release
CLEVELAND – A former Ohio deputy employed at a detention facility has been sentenced to prison for sexually abusing a female inmate in his custody.
Damon K. Perry, 53, of Youngstown, was sentenced to 112 months (approximately 9.3 years) in prison by U.S. District Judge Donald C. Nugent after he pleaded guilty in May to two counts of sexual abuse of a detainee and two counts of sexual abuse.
“Mr. Perry’s abusive and appalling actions against a detainee were a violation of her basic human rights. Using his power of authority to deliberately take advantage of a woman, who he was charged with supervising, is dishonorable and despicable,” said U.S. Attorney David M. Toepfer for the Northern District of Ohio. “We thank the DOJ’s Office of the Inspector General for investigating this matter.”
According to the plea agreement, Perry admitted to engaging in a sexual act with a female inmate under federal detention at the Mahoning County Jail on two dates in November 2023. The correctional facility, located in Youngstown, Ohio, serves under contract with a federal law enforcement agency to house detainees at their direction as needed.
The first sexual act committed without the victim’s consent occurred Nov. 9, 2023, when the inmate was under Perry’s supervision while she was being held in custody. A second incident occurred Nov. 30, 2023, when Perry again engaged in a non-consensual sexual act with the same federal detainee placed under his authority.
The investigation preceding the indictment was conducted by the U.S. Department of Justice’s Office of the Inspector General.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Yasmine Makridis for the Northern District of Ohio.
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Venezuelan National Pleads Guilty to Lying on Immigration and Firearms FormsRead the Press Release
TOLEDO, Ohio – A 24-year-old Venezuelan man residing unlawfully in Perrysburg, Ohio, and who was enrolled as a student at a local high school has pleaded guilty to lying on immigration forms and on applications to purchase a firearm.
In June, a federal grand jury returned a four-count indictment charging Anthony Emmanuel Labrador-Sierra, a Venezuelan national, with possession of a firearm by an alien unlawfully in the United States, making a false statement during the purchase of a firearm, and two counts of making or using false writings or documents. The defendant pleaded guilty to all charges Sept. 22 before U.S. District Judge James R. Knepp.
According to the indictment, the defendant submitted a false date of birth to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services on federal applications for Temporary Protective Status and Employment Authorization Documents in 2024 and 2025.
In the original criminal complaint and underlying affidavit filed in May, investigators found that Perrysburg Schools reported to the Perrysburg Police Department that they received information that Labrador-Sierra, a student attending Perrysburg High School, was not a minor, but was instead a 24-year-old man who had enrolled under false pretenses.
If convicted, Labrador-Sierra faces up to 15 years in prison for possession of a firearm by an alien; up to 10 years in prison for making a false statement during the purchase of a firearm; and up to five years in prison for using false documents. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing is scheduled for Jan. 23, 2026.
This case is being investigated by the City of Perrysburg Police Department, U.S. Customs and Border Protection−Sandusky Bay Station, the FBI Toledo Field Office, the ATF, with assistance from the Wood County Prosecutor’s Office.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Robert Melching and Tracey Tangeman for the Northern District of Ohio.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations, and protect communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
Ohio Man Sentenced to Prison for Robbing Postal EmployeeRead the Press Release
A Lucas County man has been sentenced to prison for robbing and threatening a U.S. postal carrier with violence while the carrier was on an official delivery route at an apartment complex.
Damere Wilson, 21, of Toledo, was sentenced to 20 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Jack Zouhary after pleading guilty in June to robbery of mail, money, or other property of the United States, stealing mail collection box keys, and mail theft. Wilson was also ordered to serve three years of supervised release after imprisonment.
According to court documents, Wilson drove an unidentified individual to the Piccadilly Apartments in Oregon, Ohio on March 12, 2024. The unidentified individual approached a United States Postal Service letter carrier who was on a delivery route, pushed a hard object into the letter carrier’s back and demanded the key for the mailboxes. Under the threat of violence, the letter carrier provided the key to this unidentified individual, who then quickly fled the scene. Wilson drove the unidentified individual away from the Piccadilly Apartments after the robbery was committed.
During a search warrant execution of Wilson’s residence in Toledo, investigators found the postal key that was stolen from the letter carrier during the robbery, as well as more than 200 checks totaling thousands of dollars from more than 100 mail theft victims throughout northern Ohio.
The investigation preceding the indictment was a collaborative effort conducted by the United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), and the City of Oregon Police Division.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Frank H. Spryszak for the Northern District of Ohio.
To report mail theft or other crimes committed through, or towards, the United States Postal Service, call the USPIS at 1-877-876-2455 or visit https://www.uspis.gov/report
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Ohio Man Charged with Receipt, Distribution, and Possession of Child Sexual Abuse MaterialsRead the Press Release
CLEVELAND – A Lorain County man has been charged by criminal complaint with receipt and distribution of visual depictions of real minors engaged in sexually explicit activity, and possession of child pornography, also known as child sexual abuse materials (CSAM).
According to the criminal complaint and underlying affidavit, Michael Neville, 46, of Elyria, Ohio, was engaging in sexually explicit communications with an undercover agent purporting to be the father of a 9-year-old girl using a social media messaging application. The conversations centered around the defendant’s sexual interest in children. During the investigation, federal agents found that Neville’s electronic device contained CSAM of pre-pubescent children, and that he had sent CSAM material involving the sadistic abuse of an infant.
If convicted Neville faces up to 20 years in prison for receipt and distribution of visual depictions of real minors engaged in sexually explicit activity, and up to 20 years in prison for possession of child pornography.
This case is being investigated by the FBI Cleveland Division and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Margaret A. Kane for the Northern District of Ohio.
Anyone with knowledge and information about this matter, please call the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force at 216-698-3151.
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Ohio Man Found Asleep at the Wheel with a Loaded Gun Sentenced to 12.5 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – A Mahoning County man who was prohibited from possessing a firearm has been sentenced to prison after police officers found him unresponsive in his vehicle with a loaded gun.
Jermaine C. Bunn, 49, of Youngstown, was sentenced to 150 months (12.5 years) in prison by U.S. District Judge John R. Adams after a federal jury found him guilty in May of being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. His previous convictions include assault in 1997 and possession of cocaine in 2010 and 2021. Bunn was also ordered to serve three years of supervised release after imprisonment.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, on Oct. 25, 2024, Youngstown police officers responded to a 911 call about a driver reportedly passed out in a vehicle. When officers arrived on scene, they found the car running and the defendant asleep at the wheel in the driver’s seat. An officer noticed a black handgun was sitting near the door handle. Officers also noted that there was an alcoholic beverage in the cup holder. The firearm possessed by Bunn was a loaded Springfield Armory Model XDE-9, 9 mm, semi-automatic pistol. As a felon, Bunn is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition.
The investigation was conducted by the FBI Youngstown Field Office, the Mahoning Valley Violent Crime Task Force, and the Youngstown Police Department.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Yasmine Makridis and Joseph P. Dangelo for the Northern District of Ohio.
More Than 30 Charged in Akron Firearms and Drug CrackdownRead the Press Release
AKRON, Ohio – The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Ohio today announced the unsealing of 17 federal indictments charging more than 30 people allegedly involved in connection with firearms offenses and illegal drug violations. Ten additional defendants will face state charges.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), with assistance from numerous federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, led the investigation and apprehension of defendants in a series of coordinated arrests that concluded this morning. One federal defendant remains at large.
The law enforcement initiative was conducted over a 60-day period and focused on Akron’s most violent areas. During the investigation, law enforcement seized 32 pistols, one revolver, six rifles, two suppressors, and one machinegun conversion device. Illegal substances seized included 417.6 grams of powdered cocaine, 376 grams of cocaine base (crack), 94 grams of heroin, 4663.4 grams of methamphetamine, 443.5 grams of marijuana, and 134.6 grams of fentanyl.
The announcement was made by U.S. Attorney David M. Toepfer for the Northern District of Ohio; Acting Special Agent in Charge John G. Smerglia for the ATF Columbus Field Division; and Chief Brian J. Harding of the Akron Police Department.
The charges filed today coincide with the ATF announcement of a new Akron Crime Gun Intelligence Center (CGIC). The CGIC will serve as an intelligence hub and coordination center for local, state and federal response to crimes involving firearms. CGICs use cutting-edge forensic science and evidence to support the investigation and prosecution of violent criminals.
These returned indictments are separate and not related. All defendants are from Akron unless otherwise noted:
Case Number (CN) 5:25CR430
- Robert Hazel, 40, of Tallmadge, is charged with Engaging in the Business of Manufacturing and Dealing Firearms without a License and Possession of Unregistered Firearms.
CN 5:25CR431
- Charles Klein, 49, of Tallmadge, is charged with Distribution of Methamphetamine.
CN 5:25CR432:
- Michael Czerpak, 45, and Jennifer Schaeffer, 37, are charged with Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine and Distribution of Methamphetamine.
CN 5:25CR433:
- David Felix, 33, is charged with Distribution of Cocaine.
CN 5:25CR434
- Gary Robinson, 26, is charged with Distribution of Marijuana, Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime, and Trafficking in Firearms.
- Walter Hicks, 23, is charged with Trafficking in Firearms.
- Alonzo Brewer, 22, Lily Palmer, 23, Madison Schreckengost, 23, and Diamond Taylor, 25, are all charged with making False Statements during Purchase of Firearms and Straw Purchase of a Firearm.
CN 5:25CR435
- Terrance Bivens-Boyd, 19, is charged with Distribution of Cocaine, Trafficking in Firearms, Illegal Possession of a Machinegun, and making False Statements During Purchase of a Firearm.
- Elijah Hawkins, 28, is charged with Trafficking in Firearms.
- Ellis Bloodworth II, 25, is charged with making False Statements During Purchase of Firearm and Straw Purchase of Firearm.
CN 5:25CR436
- Anthony Maurice Mims, 32, is charged with being a Felon in Possession of a Firearm; previous convictions include burglary in 2012; and domestic violence in 2020.
CN 5:25CR440
- Davante Neal, 31, and Larry Vaughan, 67, are both charged with Distribution of Cocaine.
CN 5:25CR441
- Jaelyn Barnhart, 26, and Traci Howard, 26, are both charged with Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.
CN 5:25CR442
- Devontae Simmons, 32, is charged with Distribution of Methamphetamine and Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime.
CN 5:25CR443
- Brandon Travis, 38, is charged with being a Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition; prior convictions for involuntary manslaughter in 2008; and robbery in 2022. He is also charged with Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime, Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl, and Distribution of Methamphetamine.
CN 5:25CR448
- Antonio Guice, 42, and Wathen Milliner, 40, are both charged with Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine. Troy Miller, 54, Guice, and Milliner are all charged with Distribution of Methamphetamine.
CN 5:25CR456
- Devant’tair Brown, 25, and Davone Smith, 33, are charged with Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute Cocaine and Distribution of Cocaine.
CN 5:25CR458
- Dazzmond Lenoir-Pratt, 24, and Darren Tibbets, 31, are both charged with Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute Heroin and Fentanyl and Distribution of Heroin and Fentanyl.
CN 5:25CR459
- Jermaine Baker, 42, is charged with Distribution of Cocaine.
CN 5:25CR460
- Teon Brown, 22, of Medina, and Jaylyn Blackmon, 20, are both charged with Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine and Distribution of Methamphetamine.
CN 5:25CR473
- Damon McKinney, 53, of Shaker Heights, is charged with Distribution of Fentanyl and Methamphetamine.
If convicted, each defendant’s sentence will be determined by the Court after review of factors unique to the case, including each defendant’s prior criminal record, if any, their role in the offense, and the characteristics of the violation. In all cases, the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum, and, in most cases, it will be less than the maximum.
The investigations leading to the indictments were conducted by the ATF Columbus Division’s Cleveland Field Office, Akron Police Department, Summit County Sheriff’s Office, Portage County Sheriff’s Office, Barberton Police Department, University of Akron Police Department, and the Ohio Adult Parole Authority.
These cases are being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Peter E. Daly, Toni Beth Schnellinger Feisthamel, Yasmine Makridis, Margaret A. Sweeney, Stephanie A. Wojtasik, Brett S. Hammond, Brenna L. Fasko and Joseph H. Walsh for the Northern District of Ohio, with valuable assistance from the Summit County Prosecutor’s Office.
The assistance of the U.S. Marshals is also acknowledged for providing related support for this crime reduction initiative.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Third Defendant Charged on Firearms Violations in Connection with Convenience Store ShootingRead the Press Release
YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – A third Trumbull County man has been charged in connection with a convenience store shooting Aug. 3, in Warren, Ohio, that left one person dead.
A federal grand jury has returned an indictment charging Sean King, 37, with being a felon in possession of ammunition. He was previously convicted of conspiracy to distribute cocaine base (crack), fentanyl, fentanyl analogues and heroin; and distribution of heroin and fentanyl in 2022.
The grand jury also returned indictments for two individuals previously charged via criminal complaint in connection to the Aug. 3 shooting:
- Jumal Ellis Rowe, 32, charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition; he was previously convicted of trafficking cocaine in 2013 and possession of cocaine in 2020.
- Rayjon Ray McElroy, 25, charged with possession of a firearm and ammunition by a prohibited person; he was previously convicted of domestic violence in 2022.
All defendants are from Warren, Ohio.
According to court documents, on Aug. 3, the Warren Police Department and the Trumbull County Sheriff’s Office responded to reports of gunshots and of an individual who was shot at a Convenient Food Mart in Warren. Investigators reviewing the store’s surveillance footage found that around 5 a.m., several individuals were loitering and playing a dice game on the walkway just outside the main door. A fight broke out shortly thereafter and then escalated into a mass shooting incident in the parking lot between multiple individuals. One individual was later pronounced dead and another injured as a result.
If convicted, the defendants face up to 15 years in federal prison. Each defendant’s sentence will be determined by the court after review of factors unique to this case, including each defendant’s prior criminal record, if any, the defendant’s role in the offense and the characteristics of the violation.
The investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) Youngstown Field Office, Warren Police Department, and the Trumbull County Sheriff’s Office.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Yasmine Makridis and Kevin E. Bringman for the Northern District of Ohio.
An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. Defendants are entitled to a fair trial in which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Federal Grand Jury Charges Three Men with Illegal ReentryRead the Press Release
TOLEDO, Ohio – A federal grand jury has returned indictments charging three individuals with allegedly residing in the United States without the consent of the U.S. Attorney General or the Secretary for Homeland Security for readmission, in violation of Title 8 U.S. Code 1326, illegal reentry of a removed alien.
These individuals are charged in separate cases and not related:
- Gabriel Raymundo-Bernal, 28, a citizen of Guatemala, was previously removed from the United States on at least one occasion, with the most recent being April 4, 2019. On Aug. 25, 2025, he was found in Wood County, Bowling Green, Ohio.
- Hitai Perez-Jeronimo, 27, a citizen of Mexico, was previously removed from the United States on at least one occasion, with the most recent being July 29, 2016. On Aug. 7, 2025, the defendant was found in Putnam County, Ottawa, Ohio.
- Rosendo Gomez-Santiz, 35, a citizen of Mexico, was previously removed from the United States on at least one occasion, with the most recent being July 16, 2017. On Aug. 24, 2025, he was found in Williams County, Stryker, Ohio.
The investigations leading to these indictments were conducted by U.S. Border Patrol-Sandusky Bay Station. These cases are being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Sara Al-Sorghali and Frank H. Spryszak.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
These cases are part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations, and protect communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
Last of Eight Defendants Sentenced in Transnational Money Laundering “Phantom Hacker” ConspiracyRead the Press Release
TOLEDO, Ohio – The last of eight defendants who participated in a vast transnational money laundering conspiracy, that robbed victims in Ohio, Michigan, Illinois and Indiana of their life savings, has been sentenced to prison.
Victims in Ohio resided in Lima (Allen County), Sunbury (Delaware County), Goshen (Clermont County), and Zanesville (Muskingum County).
Kishan Vinayak Patel, 26, an Indian national, was sentenced today to 46 months (3.8 years) in prison after a federal jury convicted him of participating in a large-scale money laundering conspiracy that sought to promote an international fraud scheme. Co-defendant Pranay Kumar Mamidi, 27, also of India, was found guilty of money laundering conspiracy by a federal jury and previously sentenced to 60 (5 years) months in prison. Patel and Mamidi, along with six other defendants in the case, were also ordered to pay nearly $4 million in restitution, both joint and severally.
The following defendants, all Indian nationals, were previously sentenced after pleading guilty to money laundering charges:
- Dileep Kumar Sakineni, age 26, 72 months (6 years) in prison;
- Balaji Rakesh Mulpuri, age 26, 27 months (2.25 years) in prison;
- Avi Jitendrakumar Patel, age 22, 33 months (2.75 years) in prison;
- Sai Hruthik Thodeti, age 25, 24 months (2 years) in prison; and
- Srinivas Ravi Valluru, age 31, 60 months (5 years) in prison.
In addition, Hiren Jagdishbhai Patel, age 33, of Columbus, Ohio, was sentenced to 39 months (3.25 years) in prison after also pleading guilty to money laundering charges.
“These individuals stopped at nothing to purposely confuse their victims and used scare tactics to bully and coerce them into unknowingly handing over their life savings. This coordinated effort to steal from hardworking Americans is over,” said United States Attorney David M. Toepfer for the Northern District of Ohio. “To those who take advantage of others—and then launder their money on behalf of transnational criminal organizations—know that your callous actions will have consequences. We thank our partners with FBI Cleveland who conducted the investigation as their role was vital in bringing these individuals to justice.”
“Targeting victims and knowingly siphoning their life savings is reprehensible,” said FBI Cleveland Special Agent in Charge Greg Nelsen. “The FBI is focused on defending the homeland and protecting the American public from conniving criminals, such as Kishan Patel and his associates, who preyed on their victims through coercion and scare tactics. The FBI will continue to aggressively identify and investigate those who engage in money laundering schemes, whether domestically or globally, with an intent to harm Americans.”
According to court documents, from about May to November 2023, the defendants engaged in a multi-layered plan to launder proceeds derived from a fraud scheme known as a “phantom hacker” scam. The scam typically involves a fraudster contacting a victim and falsely claiming that the victim’s legitimate bank or company account has been compromised. Then, the victim is contacted by another person claiming to be a law enforcement agent who informs them that their accounts are facing imminent seizure due to purported involvement in criminal activity. In some cases, the victim is threatened with arrest. After the victim is sufficiently misled by the fake agent, he or she is then manipulated into transferring their savings for the supposed purpose of keeping the funds safe. In reality, and unbeknownst to the victim, they transferred their funds to members of a money laundering conspiracy to distribute and enrich other members of the scheme.
In one common example, elderly victims are informed of supposed suspicious activity on their Amazon account and are then contacted by someone pretending to be an Amazon employee. Next, the victim is contacted by another person who claims to be from the U.S. Federal Trade Commission and informs the victim that their identity was stolen. The victim is then transferred to another individual who claims to be a Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) special agent. The fake DEA special agent claims that the account in question is being investigated for facilitating drug offenses or for the production of child pornography, and as a result, that the victim will be arrested. Fearing arrest or seizure, the victim follows the scammer’s instructions to withdraw savings from their bank account and convert the funds into cash or gold bars, so that the agent can keep the funds safe on the victim’s behalf. The victim is further instructed to give a purported law enforcement official cash and/or gold bars at either the victim’s home, or a designated drop-off point, such as a gas station or fast-food restaurant. After the drop, the victim is then sent a receipt which appears to be from the U.S. Department of the Treasury. Members of the money laundering scheme then distribute the cash and/or gold bars to scheme participants.
According to court documents, the defendants in this case served as money launderers for other co-conspirators throughout the world who participated in phantom hacker schemes operating out of India. The U.S.-based money laundering infrastructure allowed funds illegally taken from victims to be distributed throughout the world. Investigators estimate that the total amount of money laundered is in the tens of millions of dollars.
The investigation was conducted by the FBI Cleveland Division and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Robert Melching and Dexter L. Phillips for the Northern District of Ohio.
The investigation and prosecution of this case is in response to the Elder Justice Initiative Program originating from the Elder Abuse Prevention and Prosecution Act of 2017 (EAPPA). The mission of the EAPPA and Elder Justice Initiative is to support and coordinate the Department of Justice’s enforcement efforts to combat elder abuse, neglect, financial fraud, and scams that target the nation’s elderly population.
If you suspect fraudulent conduct involving an older adult, please contact the dedicated National Elder Fraud Hotline at 1-833-FRAUD-11 or 1-833-372-8311 and visit the FBI’s IC3 Elder Fraud Complaint Center at IC3.gov to report it.
Ohio Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Robbing Federal Investigation InformantRead the Press Release
CLEVELAND – A Cuyahoga County man has been sentenced to prison for robbing a confidential informant who was working with a federal agency in a firearms’ investigation.
Carl P. Lewis, 28, of Cleveland, was sentenced to 120 months (10 years) in prison by U.S. District Judge Pamela A. Barker after pleading guilty in May to the following charges:
- Robbery of Mail, Money or other Property of the United States
- Using or Carrying, and Brandishing a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence
- Felon in Possession of a Firearm; previous convictions for robbery in 2016.
Lewis was also ordered to serve five years of supervised release after imprisonment.
According to court documents, in October 2024, a confidential informant with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) was exchanging text messages with Lewis about the sale of several firearms. The two men agreed to meet at a pre-determined location to conduct the transaction. When the informant arrived, Lewis met with him and demanded $2,500 cash to purchase the firearms. The informant asked to see the firearms before handing over the money. Lewis then retrieved the firearms from inside the home but became agitated and threated the informant with violence. As the two men began to struggle for control of the firearms, a second male from inside the residence emerged and pointed a pistol with an attached laser beam at the informant. Lewis forcibly took the $2,500 cash from the victim against his will. The incident was recorded on video. Lewis was later arrested on a federal criminal complaint and found in possession of a rifle and two pistols.
This case was investigated by the ATF and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kelly L. Galvin.
Woman Who Committed Murder at an Ohio National Park to Spend More Than 22 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
CLEVELAND – An Alexandria, Virginia woman has been sentenced to prison after admitting that she drove more than 300 miles across state lines to meet with a 31-year-old man whom she shot and killed at a national park in Northern Ohio.
Chelsea Perkins, 35, was sentenced to 270 months (22.5 years) in prison by U.S. District Judge Solomon Oliver Jr. after pleading guilty in May to murder in the second degree and using or carrying and discharging a firearm during, and in relation to, a crime of violence on federal property. She was also ordered to serve five years of supervised release after imprisonment. Restitution is to be determined at a later date.
Court documents show that in March 2021, Perkins drove her husband’s Smart car from Virginia to Ohio to meet with the victim, Matthew Dunmire, whom she knew. After she picked him up, they spent the night at a vacation rental home. On the morning of March 6, Perkins drove Dunmire to the Cuyahoga Valley National Park in Valley View, Ohio. They hiked past a cemetery, across deep ravines, and off-trail into a wooded area. While on those federal park grounds, Perkins used a loaded firearm she brought with her and shot Dunmire in the back of the head, killing him. She then left the scene and drove to Michigan to get a tattoo of a noose on her forearm before driving back to Virginia.
During the investigation, evidence linked Perkins to the shooting. Federal agents executed a search warrant at her home in Virginia and found three 9mm pistols, including one inside a woman’s purse that also contained Perkins’ photo identification. The firearm later tested positive for Perkins’ DNA. Investigators also found a deleted note on Perkins’ cellphone that appeared to be a fake suicide note purportedly written by Dunmire that Perkins created around the time that Dunmire’s body was found. Dunmire’s body was found by hikers several days after the shooting.
This investigation was conducted by the FBI Cleveland Division, Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation, National Park Service Investigative Branch, Valley View Police Department, and Cuyahoga Valley National Park Police Department.
The prosecution was led by Assistant United States Attorneys Scott Zarzycki, Margaret A. Kane, and Adam J. Joines for the Northern District of Ohio.
Ohio Man Sentenced to 12 Years in Prison for Distributing Child Pornography on Social Media PlatformRead the Press Release
CLEVELAND – A Summit County man has been sentenced to prison for receiving and distributing sexually explicit photos of children through a social media platform.
Adam Kline, 23, of Mogadore, Ohio, has been sentenced to 144 months (12 years) in prison by U.S. District Judge Bridget Meehan Brennan after pleading guilty in May to receipt and distribution of visual depictions of real minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct, and to possession of child pornography, also known as child sexual abuse materials (CSAM). Kline was also ordered to serve 15 years of supervised release after imprisonment, pay $23,000 in special assessments, and pay $3,000 in restitution to one identified victim.
According to court documents, from on or about Jan. 9-May 21, 2024, Kline, knowingly distributed computer files that contained visual depictions of real minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct. At least one image involved a prepubescent minor who had not yet attained 12 years of age.
Federal agents discovered several accounts on a popular social media platform that were associated with Kline, where he was distributing child pornography. Investigators determined that approximately 675 sadistic and masochistic CSAM images were in Kline’s possession.
The investigation preceding the indictment was conducted by the FBI Akron Field Office.
The prosecution was led by Assistant United States Attorney Joseph P. Dangelo.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. The initiative is led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices throughout the country and marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC.
To report child exploitation, please visit cybertipline.org, or call 1-800-843-5678, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Cleveland Man Sentenced to Nearly 14 Years in Prison for Conspiracy to Sell Fentanyl and MethRead the Press Release
CLEVELAND – A Cleveland man has been sentenced to prison for taking part in a drug conspiracy that distributed fentanyl and methamphetamine throughout Northeast Ohio.
Davion Shepherd, 31, was sentenced to 167 months (approximately 14 years) in prison by U.S. District Judge Christopher A. Boyko after pleading guilty to the following charges:
- One count of Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with Intent to Distribute Controlled Substances
- Three counts of Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance
Shepherd was also ordered to serve four years of supervised release after imprisonment.
According to court documents, from about Jan. 3-Feb 16, 2023, Shepherd and others intentionally conspired to distribute 10 grams or more of a mixture containing fluorofentanyl, a Schedule I controlled substance and 40 grams or more of a mixture containing fentanyl, a Schedule II controlled substance. Among the items that federal agents seized during a search warrant execution in Shepherd’s residence were 608.95 grams of a fentanyl analogue and 34.13 grams of methamphetamine.
Co-defendant Jerome A. Brown, 31, of Twinsburg, Ohio, pleaded guilty to his lesser role in the conspiracy and was sentenced to 27 months in prison and ordered to serve four years of supervised release after imprisonment.
This case was investigated by the Southeast Area Law Enforcement Task Force and the FBI Cleveland Division.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Payum Doroodian for the Northern District of Ohio.
Meth and Fentanyl Supplier Sentenced to 10 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
AKRON, Ohio – A fourth defendant in a drug conspiracy case has been sentenced to prison for his role as being a supplier of methamphetamine and fentanyl throughout Summit County.
Ernest Shropshire, 38, of Akron, Ohio, was sentenced to 121 months (approximately 10 years) in prison by U.S. District Judge John R. Adams after pleading guilty in January to the following charges as outlined in the indictment:
- Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine and Fentanyl
- Distribution of Methamphetamine and Fentanyl
- Distribution of Fentanyl
Shropshire was also ordered to serve five years of supervised release after imprisonment.
According to court documents, from about April 1 through Aug. 28, 2023, Shropshire served as a supplier of methamphetamine and fentanyl to Calvin Roberts, 42. Shropshire would place the illicit drugs in a garbage can in the backyard of his house and then tell Roberts, and other buyers, where to retrieve them. In turn, Roberts would sell drugs to his neighbor, Andrew Corbin, 36, who lived only a short distance away from him. During the investigation, agents learned that the two neighbors would regularly sell the drugs—supplied by Shropshire—out of their homes. Using a network of co-conspirators, the methamphetamine and fentanyl supply was further distributed to customers in and around the Summit County area.
Roberts, Corbin, and Phillip August, age 57, all of Akron, were previously sentenced after pleading guilty to their roles in the drug conspiracy.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF).
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Joseph P. Dangelo for the Northern District of Ohio.
Ohio Man on Parole Sentenced to 15 Years in Prison for Possession and Distribution of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
CLEVELAND – A Cuyahoga County man has been sentenced to prison for receiving and distributing sexually explicit photos of children while he was out on parole for an unrelated offense.
Christopher Galaszewski, 27, of Cleveland, has been sentenced to 184 months (approximately 15 years) in prison by U.S. District Judge Donald C. Nugent after pleading guilty in May to distribution of visual depictions of real minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct, and to possession of child pornography, also known as child sexual abuse materials (CSAM). Galaszewski was also ordered to serve 15 years of supervised release after imprisonment and to pay $10,000 in Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act (JVTA) assessments. After imprisonment, he will be required to register as a sex offender pursuant to the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act (SORNA).
According to court documents, from on or about June 23 to July 6, 2023, Galaszewski, while out on parole for an unrelated offense, knowingly distributed computer files that contained visual depictions of real minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct. At least one image involved a prepubescent minor who had not yet attained 12 years of age.
During the investigation, federal agents received a report that the defendant was sharing CSAM files through a popular social media platform. While on a check-in call with his parole officer, he indicated that he suspected that his email account had been hacked because it contained child pornography. The following day, Galaszewski’s parole officer seized his cellphone and laptop as permitted under the terms of parole. During the execution of a federal search warrant of defendant’s digital devices and online accounts, investigators found that they contained nearly 200 images and videos of CSAM.
The investigation preceding the indictment was conducted by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Investigations.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Margaret A. Kane.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. The initiative is led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices throughout the country and marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC.
To report child exploitation, please visit cybertipline.org, or call 1-800-843-5678, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Cleveland Drug Dealer Sentenced to 10 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
CLEVELAND – A Cuyahoga County man has been sentenced to prison for his role in a drug conspiracy to sell fentanyl, methamphetamine and crack cocaine throughout the Greater Cleveland region.
Murray Foster, 39, of Cleveland, Ohio, was sentenced to 120 months (10 years) in prison by U.S. District Judge Pamela A. Barker after pleading guilty in April to the following charges:
- Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with Intent to Distribute Controlled Substances
- Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance
Foster was also ordered to serve four years of supervised release after imprisonment.
According to court documents, from about April 1 to July 12, 2023, Foster and a co-conspirator intentionally conspired to distribute 100 grams or more of a fentanyl analogue, 400 grams or more of a mixture containing fentanyl, 500 grams or more of a substance containing methamphetamine, and 500 grams or more of a mixture containing cocaine base (crack).
Among the items that federal agents seized during a search warrant execution of several residences related to the conspiracy were more than 500 fentanyl pills, five pounds of methamphetamine, one kilogram of fentanyl analogues, one kilogram of cocaine, 28 grams of crack cocaine, five handguns, a rifle, a shotgun, more than $19,000 in cash, and a motorcycle. Miscellaneous packaging, drug paraphernalia, and cutting agents were also seized.
Co-defendant Deion Thompson, 29, of Cleveland, Ohio, pleaded guilty to his role in the conspiracy in July and is scheduled to be sentenced Jan. 5, 2026.
This case was investigated by the Southeast Area Law Enforcement Task Force and the FBI Cleveland Division.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Payum Doroodian for the Northern District of Ohio.
Youngstown Drug Dealer Sentenced to 23 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – A Mahoning County man has been sentenced to prison for his role in selling controlled substances including fentanyl, methamphetamine and cocaine, throughout the Youngstown-area region.
Rayshawn Hall, 24, of Youngstown, Ohio, was sentenced to 276 months (23 years) in prison by U.S. District Judge Christopher A. Boyko after pleading guilty in April to the following charges as outlined in the indictment:
- One count of Distribution of Fentanyl
- Three counts of Distribution of Methamphetamine
- One count of Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine
- One count of Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine
- One count of Attempted Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine
- One count of Attempted Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl
Hall was also ordered to serve three years of supervised release after imprisonment. The sentence was imposed by Judge Boyko Sept. 3, 2025.
According to court documents, from about Aug. 11 to Oct. 17, 2023, investigators conducted multiple controlled drug buys from Hall that included fentanyl, methamphetamine, and cocaine. Upon obtaining a search warrant for his residence, agents seized more than $56,000 in cash and other items consistent with illegal drug activity. Federal agents also discovered a box with a FedEx shipping label from Spring Valley, California, in a black Chrysler vehicle that was located on the premises. The box was suspected to contain controlled substances. A forensic laboratory analysis later confirmed that the box contained 9,810.8 grams (Approximately 21 pounds) of 90.4% pure methamphetamine, and 989.7 grams (approximately two pounds) of fentanyl. In total, at least 90,000 kilograms of converted drug weight were attributable to Hall’s actions.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Investigations and the Mahoning County Law Enforcement Task Force.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Yasmine Makridis for the Northern District of Ohio.
Leader of Akron Drug Trafficking Conspiracy Sentenced to 35 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
CLEVELAND – An Akron man has been sentenced to 35 years in prison for leading and conspiring with others to traffic methamphetamine, fentanyl, and other illegal substances throughout Northeast Ohio.
Terrance D.N. McCormick, aka TNasty, 41, of Akron, was sentenced to 420 months (35 years) in prison by U.S. District Judge Donald C. Nugent after pleading guilty in May to the following charges as outlined in the indictment:
- Conspiracy to Distribute and to Possess with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine and Fentanyl.
- Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl.
- Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition; previous convictions for aggravated burglary in 2003; domestic violence in 2009 and 2013; and aggravated trafficking in drugs in 2018.
- Possession of Firearms in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Offense.
McCormick was also ordered to serve five years of supervised release after imprisonment and to forfeit $8,560 in cash, a Rolex watch, a Chevrolet Corvette, and all firearms seized by federal agents.
According to court documents, McCormick was the leader of an Akron-area drug trafficking organization dealing methamphetamine, fentanyl, and cocaine in 2023-2024. He admitted to his involvement with several co-conspirators to distribute methamphetamine, fentanyl, and cocaine to customers throughout Northeast Ohio. The conspiracy maintained and used residences and commercial buildings in Akron to store and distribute controlled substances. Members of the conspiracy also allegedly possessed firearms to further their drug enterprise and protect their illegal inventory.
Investigators recovered methamphetamine, fentanyl, cocaine, and three loaded firearms during the execution of federal search warrants at McCormick’s homes in 2023 and 2024.
This wiretap case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Cleveland Field Office.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Peter E. Daly for the Northern District of Ohio.
Ohio Man Sentenced to More Than 17 Years in Prison on Firearms Violations and Child Pornography ChargesRead the Press Release
CLEVELAND – A Summit County man has been sentenced to more than 17 years in prison for manufacturing firearms and machine gun conversion devices from his home using a 3D printer and selling them through a popular social media platform.
Alexander Beattie, 34, of Barberton, Ohio, was sentenced to 210 months (17.5 years) in prison by U.S. District Judge John R. Adams after pleading guilty in May to the following charges:
- Engaging in the Business of Dealing Firearms Without a License
- Engaging in the Business of Manufacturing and Dealing Firearms Without a License
- Manufacturing a Firearm Without a License
- Felon in Possession of Ammunition; previous convictions for burglary in 2011 and domestic violence in 2018.
- Possession of Child Pornography
Beattie was also ordered to serve three years of supervised release after imprisonment and to pay $54,500 in restitution and $5,000 in Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act (JVTA) assessments. The sentence was imposed by Judge Adams Aug. 28, 2025.
According to court documents, from about Feb. 1 – Nov. 4, 2024, Beattie used a 3D printer to manufacture illegal firearms, parts, and suppressors in his house. These firearms without serial numbers, are untraceable, and typically manufactured at home, are known as “ghost guns.” “Ghost guns” are unable to be tracked or traced since they do not have serial numbers or other record of being manufactured or sold. Beattie used a popular social media platform to market his manufacturing services and find paying customers by sharing photos and videos that highlighted the quality of his illegal products.
U.S. Attorney's OfficeDuring the investigation, agents also found that Beattie’s electronic devices contained child pornography, also known as child sexual abuse materials (CSAM), that included children who were under the age of 12.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF).
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Toni Schnellinger Feisthamel for the Northern District of Ohio.
Last Defendant in Drug Conspiracy Case Sentenced to PrisonRead the Press Release
CLEVELAND – A Cuyahoga County man has been sentenced to prison on drug conspiracy-related charges for trafficking fentanyl throughout Northeast Ohio.
Andree L. Padgett, 35, of Euclid, Ohio, was sentenced to 120 months (10 years) in prison by U.S. District Judge Dan Aaron Polster after pleading guilty in April to the following charges:
- Conspiracy to Distribute Controlled Substances
- Distribution of A Controlled Substance
- Felon in Possession of a Firearm; previous convictions for drug trafficking in 2016 and 2023
Padgett was also ordered to serve four years of supervised release after imprisonment. The sentence was imposed by Judge Polster on Aug. 28, 2025.
According to court documents, from about June 27 to about July 13, 2023, Padgett, along with two other co-conspirators, knowingly participated in selling illegal substances containing fentanyl throughout Northeast Ohio.
In total, the members of this conspiracy sold over 300 grams of fentanyl. Additionally, on two separate occasions, Padgett sold a total of six firearms along with the fentanyl.
Because of the defendant’s significant criminal history, he was designated a career offender.
Co-defendant Ambray N. Underwood, 27, of Cleveland, was previously sentenced to 108 months (nine years) in prison and ordered to serve three years of supervised release. Co-defendant Tashaun N. Bell, 24, of Maple Heights, was previously sentenced to 46 months (3.8 years) in prison and ordered to serve three years of supervised release. Both co-defendants pleaded guilty to their respective roles in the conspiracy.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Brian S. Deckert and Matthew W. Shepherd for the Northern District of Ohio.