Eastern District of Oklahoma
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Illegal Alien Sentenced for Unlawful ReentryRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Adan Cruz-Castillo, a/k/a Adan Cruz-Castillo, a/k/a Adan Cruz, a/k/a Adam Cruz, 33, a Mexican national unlawfully present in McIntosh County, Oklahoma, was sentenced to time served for one count of Unlawful Reentry of Removed Alien.
The charge arose from an investigation by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Immigration and Customs Enforcement Division and the Checotah Police Department.
On July 29, 2026, Cruz-Castillo pleaded guilty to the charge. According to investigators, on June 18, 2026, Cruz-Castillo, an alien, was found in the United States without obtaining the express consent of the Secretary of Homeland Security to reapply for admission to the United States after having been previously removed on June 23, 2022, and January 12, 2018.
The Honorable Ronald A. White, Senior Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, presided over the hearing.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kristin Knutson represented the United States.
Illegal Alien Pleads Guilty to Unlawful Possession of Firearm and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Martin Aranda Zavala, a/k/a Martin Misael Aranda Zavala, age 29, a Mexican national unlawfully present in Okmulgee, Oklahoma, pleaded guilty to one count of Illegal Alien in Possession of Firearm and Ammunition, punishable by imprisonment for up to 15 years and a $250,000 fine.
The Indictment alleged that on May 6, 2026, Zavala, an alien, was found in possession of one semi-automatic pistol and 15 rounds of ammunition, knowing that he was an alien illegally and unlawfully in the United States.
The charge arose from an investigation by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Immigration and Customs Enforcement Division and the Okmulgee County Sheriff’s Office.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
The Honorable Jason A. Robertson, Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.
A U.S. District Court Judge will determine the sentence to be imposed after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Zavala will remain in the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending sentencing.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Chuck Sullivan represented the United States.
Illegal Alien Pleads Guilty to Unlawful ReentryRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that OSNI AYALA AVELAR, a/k/a Hosni Hernandez, a/k/a Hosni Ayala Avelar, a/k/a Hosni Aldair Hernandez-Avelar, a/k/a Hosni A. Ayala, a/k/a Osni Aldair Ayala-Avelar, a/k/a Osni Ayala, a/k/a Hosni Hernandez-Avelor, a/k/a Hosni Hernandez-Avelar, age 35, a Salvadoran national unlawfully present in Pittsburg County, Oklahoma, pleaded guilty to one count of Unlawful Reentry of Removed Alien, punishable by a term of imprisonment of not more than two years, and a fine of not more than $250,000.00.
The charge arose from an investigation by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Immigration and Customs Enforcement Division.
The Indictment alleged that on June 12, 2026, Avelar, an alien, was found in the United States without obtaining the express consent of the Secretary of Homeland Security to reapply for admission to the United States after having been previously removed on July 26, 2017, January 28, 2011, and May 26, 2009.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
The Honorable Jason A. Robertson, Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.
A U.S. District Court Judge will determine the sentence to be imposed after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Avelar will remain in the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending sentencing.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kristin Knutson represented the United States.
Muskogee Resident Pleads Guilty to Second Degree MurderRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Robert William Rainford, age 51, of Muskogee, Oklahoma, entered a guilty plea to one count of Second-Degree Murder in Indian Country, punishable by imprisonment for a period of any term of years and up to life, and a $250,000 fine.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Muskogee County Sheriff’s Office.
On May 5, 2023, Rainford was found guilty at trial by a federal jury for one count of First-Degree Murder in Indian Country in the shooting death of Rainford’s Muskogee neighbor. Rainford appealed that conviction to the United States Court of Appeals for the Tenth Circuit, arguing that the jury instructions given in his case limited the ability of jurors to evaluate the defenses he offered at trial. The Tenth Circuit agreed, reversing the conviction and remanding Rainford’s case to district court for a new trial.
During the plea hearing, Rainford agreed that at trial, the Government could prove beyond a reasonable doubt that on December 12, 2021, in Muskogee County, within the boundaries of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation Reservation, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, Rainford unlawfully shot and killed his neighbor, an enrolled member of the Cherokee Nation, with malice aforethought. As part of the written plea agreement, the parties agreed that a sentence of 120 months imprisonment is an appropriate disposition of the case.
The Honorable Gerald L. Jackson, Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.
A U.S. District Court Judge will determine the sentence to be imposed after considering the parties’ recommendation, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, and other statutory factors.
Rainford will remain in the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending sentencing.
Assistant United States Attorney Ryan Conway represented the United States at the hearing.
Federal Jury Convicts Cherokee County Resident of Murder in 2022 Tahlequah ShootingRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced today that BILLIE RENEE VANN, 41, of Welling, Oklahoma, was found guilty by a federal jury of one count of Murder in Indian Country –Second Degree, one count of Child Neglect in Indian Country, and one count of Use, Carry, and Brandish of a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence.
The jury trial began with testimony on August 4, 2026, and concluded on August 6, 2026, with the guilty verdicts.
During the trial, the United States presented evidence that on September 5, 2022, Vann:
- failed to shield her son, then a teenager and minor in her care, from exposure to illegal activity while charged with the duty of his care and welfare;
- aided and abetted her teenage son to commit murder; and
- armed herself with a handgun and purposefully brandished it during the commission of the murder.
On July 1, 2026, Vann’s co-defendants each pleaded guilty in federal district court to charges relating to the shooting. Jermyn Damon Vann Jr., 21, of Welling, Oklahoma, pleaded guilty to two counts of Assault with a Dangerous Weapon with Intent to Do Bodily Harm in Indian Country, and one count of Causing the Death of a Person in the Course of a Violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c). Jermyn Damon Vann Sr., 41, of Welling, Oklahoma, pleaded guilty to one count of Child Neglect in Indian Country.
The crimes occurred in Cherokee County, within the boundaries of the Cherokee Nation Reservation of Oklahoma, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma.
The guilty verdicts were the result of investigations by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation, the Tahlequah Police Department, and the Cherokee Nation Marshal Service.
The Honorable Ronald A. White, Senior Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, presided over the trial and ordered the completion of a presentence report. Sentencing will be scheduled following completion of the report.
The defendants will remain in the custody of the United States Marshals until sentencing.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Gregory Dean Burris and Olivia Staubus represented the United States.
Illegal Alien Pleads Guilty to Unlawful ReentryRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Rodanim Castellanos-Julian, a/k/a Rodanim Castellanos, age 27, a Mexican national unlawfully present in Haskell County, Oklahoma, pleaded guilty to one count of Unlawful Reentry of Removed Alien, punishable by a term of imprisonment of not more than two years, and a fine of not more than $250,000.00.
The charge arose from an investigation by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Immigration and Customs Enforcement Division.
The Indictment alleged that on July 3, 2026, Castellanos-Julian, an alien, was found in the United States without obtaining the express consent of the Secretary of Homeland Security to reapply for admission to the United States after having been previously removed on December 5, 2024.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
The Honorable Gerald L. Jackson, Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.
A U.S. District Court Judge will determine the sentence to be imposed after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Castellanos-Julian will remain in the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending sentencing.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kristin Knutson represented the United States.
Illegal Alien Pleads Guilty to Unlawful ReentryRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that ARNULFO FERNANDEZ SOLIS, a/k/a Carlos Fernandez Soliz, a/k/a Carlos Alberto Solis, a/k/a Carlos Alberto Alimaranon, a/k/a Juan Garcia Paramo, a/k/a Juan Garciap, a/k/a Carlos Albert Solis, a/k/a Samuel Santana, a/k/a Carlos Soliz, a/k/a Carlos F. Soliz, a/k/a Carlos A. Solis, a/k/a Juan Paramo, a/k/a Carlos Slismaranon, a/k/a Arnulfo Fernandez, a/k/a Carlos Albert Soliz, a/k/a Arnulfo Solis Fernandez, a Mexican national unlawfully present in Okmulgee County, Oklahoma, pleaded guilty to one count of Unlawful Reentry of Removed Alien, punishable by a term of imprisonment of not more than two years, and a fine of not more than $250,000.00.
The charge arose from an investigation by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Immigration and Customs Enforcement Division.
The Indictment alleged that on April 24, 2026, Solis, an alien, was found in the United States without obtaining the express consent of the Secretary of Homeland Security to reapply for admission to the United States after having been previously removed on May 2, 2005, June 28, 2001, and January 29, 1998.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
The Honorable Gerald L. Jackson, Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.
A U.S. District Court Judge will determine the sentence to be imposed after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Solis will remain in the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending sentencing.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Chuck Sullivan represented the United States.
Bryan County Resident Pleads Guilty to Illegally Possessing Firearm and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Michael Dee Jamison, a/k/a Michael Holt, 54, of Durant, Oklahoma, entered a guilty plea to one count of Felon in Possession of Firearm and Ammunition, punishable by up to 15 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
The Indictment charged Jamison with knowingly possessing one .22 long rifle caliber, bolt-action rifle and 54 rounds of .22 long rifle caliber ammunition on April 9, 2026, after having been previously convicted of a crime punishable by more than one year imprisonment.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Bryan County Sheriff’s Office.
The Honorable D. Edward Snow, Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.
A U.S. District Court Judge will determine the sentence to be imposed after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Jamison will remain in the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending sentencing.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Chuck Sullivan represented the United States.
McAlester Resident Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug and Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Justin Leon Westbrook, 43, of McAlester, Oklahoma, entered a guilty plea to one count of Distribution of Methamphetamine, punishable by a minimum of five years and a maximum of 40 years in prison and a $5,000,000 fine, and one count of Felon in Possession of Firearm, punishable by up to 15 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
The Indictment charged Westbrook with knowingly and intentionally distributing 5 grams or more of methamphetamine (actual), a Schedule II controlled substance, on July 23, 2025.
The Indictment also charged Westbrook with knowingly possessing one semi-automatic pistol, serial number obliterated, on July 29, 2025, after having been previously convicted of a crime punishable by more than one year imprisonment.
The charges arose from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Drug Enforcement Administration.
The Honorable D. Edward Snow, Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.
A U.S. District Court Judge will determine the sentence to be imposed after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Westbrook will remain in the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending sentencing.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Chuck Sullivan represented the United States.
Illegal Alien Pleads Guilty to Unlawful ReentryRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Adan Cruz Castillo, a/k/a Adan Cruz-Castillo, a/k/a Adan Cruz, a/k/a Adam Cruz, 33, a Mexican national unlawfully present in McIntosh County, Oklahoma, plead guilty to one count of Unlawful Reentry of Removed Alien, punishable by a term of imprisonment of not more than two years, and a fine of not more than $250,000.00.
The charge arose from an investigation by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Immigration and Customs Enforcement Division and the Checotah Police Department.
The Indictment alleged that on June 18, 2026, Cruz Castillo, an alien, was found in the United States without obtaining the express consent of the Secretary of Homeland Security to reapply for admission to the United States after having been previously removed on June 23, 2022, and January 12, 2018.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
The Honorable D. Edward Snow, Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.
A U.S. District Court Judge will determine the sentence to be imposed after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Cruz Castillo will remain in the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending sentencing.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kristin Knutson represented the United States.
Illegal Alien Pleads Guilty to Unlawfully Possessing Firearm and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Angel Roberto Chavez-Nunez, a/k/a Angel Roberto Chavez Nunez, 33, a Cuban national unlawfully present in Okmulgee, Oklahoma, pleaded guilty to one count of Illegal Alien in Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition, punishable by a term of imprisonment of not more than 15 years, and a fine of not more than $250,000.00.
The charge arose from an investigation by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Immigration and Customs Enforcement Division, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Okmulgee County District Attorney’s Office.
The Indictment alleged that on November 4, 2025, Chavez-Nunez, an alien illegally and unlawfully present in the United States and knowing of such status, knowingly possessed six rounds of ammunition and one semi-automatic rifle shipped in interstate commerce.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
The Honorable Jason A. Robertson, Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.
A U.S. District Court Judge will determine the sentence to be imposed after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Chavez-Nunez will remain in the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending sentencing.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan E. Soverly represented the United States.
Co-Defendants Sentenced for Federal Firearms CrimesRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Tyson Gene Williams, 46, of Muskogee, and Tyson Gene Goins, 21, of Wagoner, were sentenced today in federal district court.
Williams was sentenced to 57 months for one count of Felon in Possession of Firearm and Ammunition. Williams pleaded guilty to the charge on October 6, 2025.
Goins was sentenced to 51 months for one count of Possession of a Stolen Firearm, and to 51 months for one count of Illegal Receipt of a Firearm by a Person Under Indictment or Information. The Court ordered the terms to be served concurrently. Goins pleaded guilty to the charges on September 10, 2025.
The charges arose from an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Checotah Police Department.
According to investigators, on April 19, 2025, an officer initiating a routine traffic stop on Williams’ and Goins’ vehicle discovered Williams in possession of two semi-automatic pistols and 27 rounds of ammunition after having been previously convicted of a crime punishable by more than one year imprisonment.
During the stop, Goins was discovered in possession of two semi-automatic pistols, knowing that the firearms were stolen. At the time of the traffic stop, Goins was under Indictment for a felony criminal case in McIntosh County District Court.
Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. As a key component of Operation Take Back America, PSN serves a central role in the Department’s commitment to make our country safe. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities.
The Honorable Ronald A. White, Senior Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, presided over the hearing. The defendants will remain in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending transportation to a designated United States Bureau of Prisons facility to serve a non-paroleable sentence of incarceration.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan E. Soverly represented the United States.
Murray County Resident Sentenced for Illegally Possessing FirearmRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Leran Ortiz Pittman, 42, of Davis, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 15 months in prison for one count of Felon in Possession of Firearm.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Davis Police Department.
On October 21, 2025, Pittman pleaded guilty to the charge. According to investigators, Pittman knowingly possessed a semi-automatic pistol on January 7, 2025, after having been previously convicted of a crime punishable by more than one year imprisonment.
Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. As a key component of Operation Take Back America, PSN serves a central role in the Department’s commitment to make our country safe. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities.
The Honorable Ronald A. White, Senior Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, presided over the hearing. Pittman will remain in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending transportation to a designated United States Bureau of Prisons facility to serve a non-paroleable sentence of incarceration.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lewis M. Reagan represented the United States.
Eufaula Resident Sentenced for Distributing MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Frank William Shouse, 69, of Eufaula, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 70 months in prison for one count of Distribution of Methamphetamine, and 70 months in prison for one count of Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine. The Court ordered the terms to be served concurrently.
The charges arose from an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics, the Pittsburg County Sheriff’s Office, the McIntosh County Sheriff’s Office, and the District 18 District Attorney’s Office.
On October 21, 2025, Shouse pleaded guilty to the charges in federal district court. According to investigators, on August 21, 2025, Shouse knowingly and intentionally distributed approximately an ounce of a substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance, from his Eufaula residence. On August 29, 2025, agents executed a search warrant at Shouse’s residence and discovered approximately two and one-half ounces of a substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine packaged for distribution in multiple small baggies.
The Honorable Ronald A. White, Senior Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, presided over the hearing. Shouse will remain in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending transportation to a designated United States Bureau of Prisons facility to serve a non-paroleable sentence of incarceration.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Rob Wallace represented the United States.
Five Members of Drug Trafficking Organization Plead GuiltyRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that five co-defendants pleaded guilty to federal drug offenses and related charges.
On May 18, 2026, Anthony Wayne Schoggins, 40, of McAlester, Oklahoma, pleaded guilty to one count of Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl, and one count of Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine, each punishable by a term in prison of at least 5 years and up to 40 years, and a $5,000,000 fine.
Three co-defendants entered guilty pleas to one count of Drug Conspiracy, punishable by ten years to life in prison and a $10,000,000 fine:
- Gerardo Cisneros Jr., 49, of McAlester, Oklahoma, pleaded guilty on February 19, 2026;
- Gabrielle Ralene Dawn Brown, 31, of McAlester, Oklahoma, pleaded guilty on February 19, 2026; and
- John Douglas Renkes, 38, of Tulsa, Oklahoma, pleaded guilty on March 11, 2026.
On July 20, 2026, Charlie Dawn Edwards, 45, of McAlester, Oklahoma, pleaded guilty to a one-count Information of Misprision of Felony, punishable by up to 3 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
The Indictment alleged that on June 1, 2025, Schoggins knowingly and intentionally possessed with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl, and 5 grams or more of methamphetamine (actual), Schedule II controlled substances.
The Indictment further alleged that beginning in or about March 2025, and continuing through September 2025, Brown, Renkes, Cisneros, and others knowingly and voluntarily conspired to possess with the intent to distribute 400 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl and at least 5 grams of methamphetamine (actual), Schedule II controlled substances.
The Information alleged that on June 9, 2025, Edwards, having knowledge of the actual commission of a felony by Schoggins, cognizable by a court of the United States, to wit, Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl, did conceal the same, and did not, as soon as possible, make known the same to some judge or other person in civil or military authority.
The charges arose from an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration-McAlester Resident Office, the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics, the McAlester Police Department, and the District 18 Drug Task Force.
The Honorable Jason A. Robertson, Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, accepted the pleas and ordered the completion of presentence investigation reports.
A U.S. District Court Judge will determine the sentence to be imposed on each defendant after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Schoggins, Cisneros, Brown, and Renkes will remain in the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending sentencing. Edwards will remain released on bond with conditions pending sentencing.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Conway represented the United States.
Illegal Alien from Honduras Sentenced to 27 Months in Prison for 2023 Bank Fraud ConspiracyRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Carlos Banegas-Contreras, age 47, an illegal alien from Honduras, was sentenced to 27 months in prison for one count of Conspiracy to Commit Bank Fraud.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Homeland Security Investigations, the United States Secret Service, the Indiana State Police, the Benton County, Indiana Sheriff’s Department, the Benton County, Indiana Prosecutor’s Office, the Poteau, Oklahoma Police Department, and the Houston, Texas Police Department.
On October 6, 2025, Banegas-Contreras pleaded guilty to the charge in federal district court.
According to investigators, in June of 2023, Banegas-Contreras and others conspired to use fake identification cards to cash 178 fraudulent paychecks totaling $299,474.00 at three check-cashing businesses and at five branches of a local bank. The fraudulent paychecks were designed to look like they had been issued by a building materials supply company in the Eastern District of Oklahoma.
The Honorable John F. Heil, III, Chief Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, presided over the hearing. Banegas-Contreras will remain in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending transportation to a designated United States Bureau of Prisons facility to serve a non-paroleable sentence of incarceration.
Assistant U.S. Attorney T. Cameron McEwen represented the United States.
Hugo Resident Pleads Guilty to Illegally Possessing Firearms and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Calvin Ray Westfield, age 68, of Hugo, Oklahoma, entered a guilty plea to one count of Felon in Possession of Firearm and Ammunition, punishable by up to 15 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
The Indictment charged Westfield with knowingly possessing one .22 caliber, semi-automatic pistol, one 12-gauge pump action shotgun, 11 rounds of .22 caliber ammunition, and 3 rounds of 12-gauge ammunition on August 28, 2025, after having been previously convicted of a crime punishable by more than one year imprisonment.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Hugo Police Department.
The Honorable Gerald L. Jackson, Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.
A U.S. District Court Judge will determine the sentence to be imposed after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Westfield was remanded into the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending sentencing.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jonathan E. Soverly and Lewis M. Reagan represented the United States.
Hartshorne Resident Sentenced for Unlawful Possession of Firearms, Ammunition and ExplosivesRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Kelly Von Morck, age 36, of Hartshorne, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 46 months in prison for one count of Unlawful User of Controlled Substance in Possession of a Firearm, 46 months for one count of Unlawful User of Controlled Substance in Possession of Ammunition, and 46 months for one count of User of a Controlled Substance in Possession of Explosives. The Court ordered the terms to be served concurrently.
The charges arose from an investigation by the Hartshorne Police Department, the Pittsburg County Sheriff’s Office, the Oklahoma Highway Patrol Bomb Squad, the U.S. Secret Service, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
On August 19, 2025, Morck pleaded guilty to the charges in federal district court. According to investigators, on October 20, 2024, Hartshorne Police officers, Pittsburg County deputies, ATF task force officers and special agents, and the OHP bomb squad responded to an explosion in a Hartshorne neighborhood originating from Morck’s residence.
Upon arriving on the scene, law enforcement discovered property damage indicating a large explosion and Morck suffering from third degree burns. Morck was life-flighted to a Tulsa hospital for care, where he tested positive for amphetamines, cocaine, cannabinoids, and fentanyl. A lab for making homemade explosives was discovered within the residence, and outbuildings on the property were found to contain bulk quantities of ingredients and precursors for manufacturing explosives, as well as improvised explosive devices, destructive devices, multiple firearms, and ammunition. Investigators securing the crime scene also recovered quantities of methamphetamine, marijuana, LSD, MDMA, steroids, and psychedelic mushrooms.
In June of 2025, ATF returned to Morck’s residence with search warrants and discovered Morck, an unlawful user addicted to a controlled substance, in possession of narcotics, a firearm, ammunition, and additional suspected explosives and destructive devices.
“The defendant posed a significant and uniquely dangerous threat to himself and his community,” said U.S. Attorney Christopher J. Wilson. “I applaud law enforcement, especially ATF, for their actions to prevent other potential injuries and hold the defendant accountable for his crimes.”
ATF Dallas Field Division Special Agent in Charge Brian Garner had this to say about Morck’s sentencing: “Homemade explosives present an inherent and significant threat to public safety. The serious injuries sustained by Mr. Morck underscore the extreme dangers associated with manufacturing and handling these devices. Despite those injuries, he continued his efforts to manufacture homemade explosive materials and destructive devices, further increasing the risk to himself and the community.
The coordinated response of our task force officers, special agents, and certified explosives specialists was critical in safely processing and mitigating multiple hazardous scenes, preventing additional harm and protecting the public from further danger.
Today’s sentence reflects the seriousness of these offenses and reinforces our commitment to protecting the community. It demonstrates that individuals who endanger public safety through the unlawful manufacture of destructive devices and homemade explosives will be held accountable and that justice will be served.”
Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. As a key component of Operation Take Back America, PSN serves a central role in the Department’s commitment to make our country safe. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities.
The Honorable John F. Heil, III, Chief Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, presided over the hearing. Morck will remain in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending transportation to a designated United States Bureau of Prisons facility to serve a non-paroleable sentence of incarceration.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan E. Soverly represented the United States.
Texas Resident Sentenced for Possessing Methamphetamine with Intent to DistributeRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Ronald James Yates, age 61, of Tyler, Texas, was sentenced to 123 months in prison for one count of Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Hugo Police Department, the Texas Department of Public Safety (TDPS), the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration Regional Laboratory.
On October 6, 2025, Yates pleaded guilty to the charge. According to investigators, on February 24, 2025, Hugo officers received a tip from TDPS that Yates, who was wanted for a federal probation violation, had crossed from Texas into Oklahoma. Officers apprehended Yates at a Hugo business, and upon arresting Yates on the warrant, discovered Yates in possession of 148.6 grams of methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance. At the time of arrest, Yates was serving a term of supervised release after having been previously convicted of one count of Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine in the Eastern District of Texas.
“The investigation, arrest, and prosecution of the defendant is a textbook example of state, local, and federal law enforcement working together to combat illegal drug trafficking,” said United States Attorney Christopher J. Wilson. “I commend all the agencies that assisted in taking a repeat drug offender off the streets.”
The Honorable John F. Heil, III, Chief Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, presided over the hearing. Yates will remain in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending transportation to a designated United States Bureau of Prisons facility to serve a non-paroleable sentence of incarceration.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Olivia Staubus represented the United States.
Mexican National Sentenced for Federal Drug CrimeRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Jorge Luis Mejia-Mejia, 40, of Mexico, was sentenced to 57 months in prison for one count of Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Oklahoma Highway Patrol.
According to investigators, on March 29, 2025, an Oklahoma Highway Patrol trooper conducting a routine traffic stop on Interstate 40 near Sallisaw arrested Mejia-Mejia after discovering over 878 grams of fentanyl, a Schedule II controlled substance, concealed in an airbag panel of the vehicle.
The Honorable John F. Heil, III, Chief Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, presided over the hearing. Mejia-Mejia will remain in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending transportation to a designated United States Bureau of Prisons facility to serve a non-paroleable sentence of incarceration.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Edith A. Singer represented the United States.
Seminole County Resident Pleads Guilty to Illegally Possessing Firearm and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Jeffery Ryan Black, age 29, of Wewoka, Oklahoma, entered a guilty plea to one count of Felon in Possession of Firearm and Ammunition, punishable by up to 15 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
The Indictment charged Black with knowingly possessing one semi-automatic rifle, 65 rounds of ammunition, and three cartridge casings on January 23, 2026, after having been previously convicted of a crime punishable by more than one year imprisonment.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Muscogee (Creek) Nation Lighthorse Tribal Police Department.
The Honorable Gerald L. Jackson, Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.
A U.S. District Court Judge will determine the sentence to be imposed after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Black will remain in the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending sentencing.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lewis M. Reagan represented the United States.
Seminole County Marijuana Farm Employees Indicted on Federal Charges Relating to Illegal Foreign PesticidesRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced the unsealing of a federal indictment against two employees of a state-registered Seminole County marijuana farm on charges relating to illegal foreign pesticides.
The Indictment charges Jin Zhao Chi, a/k/a/ a Chi LU, a/k/a A Chi, age 44, with one count of Conspiracy to Smuggle Goods into the United States, one count of Smuggling Goods into the United States, and one count of Unlawful Distribution and Sale of Pesticides—Misdemeanor.
The Indictment also charges Dian Lin Jiang, a/k/a Dianlin Jiang, age 65, with one count of Unlawful Distribution and Sale of Pesticides—Misdemeanor.
The Indictment alleges that while employed at the marijuana growing operation:
- On February 25, 2025, and continuing to on or about March 19, 2025, Chi willfully and knowingly conspired to import unregistered and misbranded pesticides from Hong Kong into the United States, knowing that the importation was contrary to law;
- On February 25, 2025, and continuing to on or about March 19, 2025, Chi fraudulently and knowingly imported merchandise contrary to law, to wit, unregistered and misbranded pesticides, and did receive, conceal, buy, sell, and in any manner facilitate the transportation, concealment, and sale of such merchandise after importation, knowing it to have been brought into the United States contrary to law;
- Beginning in or about June 2022, and continuing to in or about February 2025, Chi knowingly distributed, sold, offered for sale, held for distribution, held for sale, held for shipment, shipped, delivered for shipment, released for shipment, and received, delivered, and offered to deliver an unregistered pesticide; and
- Beginning on or about April 27, 2022, and continuing to on or about May 8, 2023, Jiang distributed, sold, offered for sale, held for distribution, held for sale, held for shipment, shipped, delivered for shipment, released for shipment, and received, delivered, and offered to deliver an unregistered pesticide.
The charges arose from a joint investigation led by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the U.S. Customs and Border Patrol, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, and Homeland Security Investigations.
A grand jury Indictment does not constitute evidence of guilt. A grand jury Indictment is a method of bringing formal charges against the defendant. All defendants are presumed innocent of the charges and may not be found guilty unless evidence establishes guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Assistant U.S. Attorney T. Cameron McEwen is prosecuting this case on behalf of the United States.
- On February 25, 2025, and continuing to on or about March 19, 2025, Chi willfully and knowingly conspired to import unregistered and misbranded pesticides from Hong Kong into the United States, knowing that the importation was contrary to law;
Pittsburg County Resident Sentenced for Illegally Possessing Firearm and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Russell Jeremy Doctor, age 37, of Longtown, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 13 months in prison for one count of Felon in Possession of Firearm and Ammunition.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Choctaw Nation Lighthorse Police, the Pittsburg County Sheriff’s Office, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
On October 15, 2025, Doctor pleaded guilty to the charge in federal district court. According to investigators, on May 4, 2025, Doctor knowingly possessed a semi-automatic rifle and eight rounds of ammunition after having been previously convicted of a crime punishable by more than one year imprisonment.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
The Honorable Ronald A. White, Senior Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, presided over the hearing. On August 10, 2026, Doctor will self-report to a designated United States Bureau of Prisons facility to serve a non-paroleable sentence of incarceration.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Morgan Muzljakovich represented the United States.
Pittsburg County Resident Sentenced for Failing to Register as A Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Sammy Monroe Ebarb, Jr., age 41, of Longtown, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 24 months in prison for one count of Failure to Register as Sex Offender.
The charge arose from an investigation by the U.S. Marshals Violent Crimes Fugitive Task Force and the Pittsburg County Sheriff’s Office.
On October 8, 2025, Ebarb pleaded guilty to the charge in federal district court. According to investigators, Ebarb was convicted of First Degree Rape in the District Court of Latimer County, Oklahoma, on May 20, 2003, and was required to register as a sex offender, and that from November 2024 to February 2025, Ebarb failed to register and update his registration despite entering, leaving, or residing in Indian country, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma.
The Honorable Ronald A. White, Senior Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, presided over the hearing. Ebarb will remain in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending transportation to a designated United States Bureau of Prisons facility to serve a non-paroleable sentence of incarceration.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Morgan Muzljakovich represented the United States.
Muskogee Resident Pleads Guilty to Failure to Register as Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Steven Ray Quigley, a/k/a Steven Woods, age 38, of Muskogee, Oklahoma, entered a guilty plea to one count of Failure to Register as Sex Offender, punishable by up to 10 years in prison.
The Indictment alleged that Quigley was convicted by the State of Oklahoma of Lewd or Indecent Acts to Child Under 16 in Mayes County on October 11, 2012, and was required to register as a sex offender, and that from May 2022 until May 22, 2026, Quigley failed to register and update his registration despite entering, leaving, or residing in Indian country, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma.
The charge arose from an investigation by the U.S. Marshals Service Violent Crimes Fugitive Task Force.
The Honorable Gerald L. Jackson, Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.
A U.S. District Court Judge will determine the sentence to be imposed after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Quigley will remain in the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending sentencing.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Morgan Muzljakovich and Sarah McAmis represented the United States.
Moore Resident Sentenced for Burglary in Indian CountryRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Nariah Demournay Jones, age 23, of Moore, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 10 months in prison for one count of Burglary in the Second Degree in Indian Country.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Seminole Nation Lighthorse Police, and the Seminole County Sheriff’s Office.
On March 18, 2026, Jones pleaded guilty to the charge in federal district court. According to investigators, on April 2, 2024, Jones and two co-defendants, Demontrae Davion Rogers, 20, of Wewoka, Oklahoma, and Damarion Hiawatha Nichols, 21, of Moore, Oklahoma, forcibly entered a detached residential garage in Wewoka intending to commit a felony. Once inside, Rogers and Nichols held four individuals at gunpoint and proceeded to strike one with their weapons, causing lacerations and abrasions to the victim.
On April 1, 2026, Rogers was sentenced to 21 months in prison for one count of Assault with a Dangerous Weapon with Intent to do Bodily Harm in Indian Country, to be served consecutively to 84 months in prison for one count of Use, Carry, and Brandish of a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence. Rogers was also sentenced to 12 months in prison for Possession of a Firearm with an Obliterated Serial Number, to be served concurrently to the assault charge.
On March 5, 2026, Nichols was sentenced to 46 months in prison for four counts of Assault with a Dangerous Weapon with Intent to do Bodily Harm in Indian Country.
The crime occurred in Seminole County, within the boundaries of the Seminole Nation Reservation, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma.
The Honorable Ronald A. White, Senior Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, presided over the hearing. Jones will self-report on August 10, 2026, to a designated United States Bureau of Prisons facility to serve a non-paroleable sentence of incarceration.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jonathan E. Soverly and Lewis M. Reagan represented the United States.
Illegal Alien Sentenced for Unlawful ReentryRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Luis Virgilio Hilario, a/k/a Virgilio Luis Hilario, a/k/a Virgilio Hilario, a/k/a Agustin Santiagocordovas, a/k/a Liuis Virgiliohilario, a/k/a Luis Hilario Virgilio, a/k/a Luis Hilario-Virgilio, a/k/a Luis Virgilio-Hilario, age 35, a Mexican national unlawfully present in Atoka County, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 15 months in prison for one count of Unlawful Reentry of Removed Alien.
The charge arose from an investigation by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Immigration and Customs Enforcement Division and the Stringtown Police Department.
On May 5, 2026, Hilario pleaded guilty to the charge in federal district court. According to investigators, on March 27, 2026, Hilario, an alien, was found in the United States without obtaining the express consent of the Secretary of Homeland Security to reapply for admission to the United States after having been previously removed on November 2, 2018, and July 20, 2018, and after previously being convicted of a felony.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
The Honorable Ronald A. White, Senior Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, presided over the hearing. Hilario will remain in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending transportation to a designated United States Bureau of Prisons facility to serve a non-paroleable sentence of incarceration.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Olivia Staubus represented the United States.
Illegal Alien Sentenced for Unlawful ReentryRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Raciel Osorio Lopez, a/k/a Raciel Osoriolopez, a/k/a Raciel Osorio-Lopez, age 33, a Mexican national unlawfully present in Atoka, Oklahoma, was sentenced to time served for one count of Unlawful Reentry of Removed Alien.
The charge arose from an investigation by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Immigration and Customs Enforcement Division and the Stringtown Police Department.
On April 28, 2026, Osorio Lopez pleaded guilty in federal district court. According to investigators, on March 27, 2026, Osario Lopez, an alien, was found in the United States without obtaining the express consent of the Secretary of Homeland Security to reapply for admission to the United States after having been previously removed on April 28, 2015, August 19, 2015, and March 9, 2017.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
The Honorable Ronald A. White, Senior Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, presided over the hearing.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Olivia Staubus represented the United States.
Henryetta Resident Sentenced for Making Threatening Interstate CommunicationsRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Jason Mance Van Orsdol, a/k/a Jason Mance VanOrsdol, age 47, of Henryetta, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 15 months in prison for one count of Interstate Transmission of Threatening Communications.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
On March 4, 2026, Van Orsdol pleaded guilty to the charge. According to investigators, on September 24, 2025, while on a phone call with an ATF agent, Van Orsdol threatened to kill the agent.
“Threats against law enforcement officers will never be taken lightly,” said ATF Dallas Field Division Special Agent in Charge Brian Garner. “Every ATF special agent puts themselves in harm’s way to protect our communities, and those who threaten violence against them will be investigated and held accountable. This sentence demonstrates our unwavering commitment to protecting our personnel and ensuring that anyone who attempts to intimidate or threaten federal law enforcement faces the full weight of the justice system.”
“Policing is difficult and dangerous work, and threats against the dedicated agents, investigators, and officers who serve is reprehensible and cannot be tolerated,” said U.S. Attorney Christopher J. Wilson. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office stands firm in its commitment to support law enforcement partners who risk their lives daily securing the rights and safety of the public.”
The Honorable Ronald A. White, Senior Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, presided over the hearing. Van Orsdol will remain in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending transportation to a designated facility to serve a non-paroleable sentence of incarceration.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan E. Soverly represented the United States.
Former McCurtain County Jail Shift Supervisor Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy Against Rights and Deprivation of Rights Under Color of LawRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Joseph Nelson Ebert, 35, a former shift supervisor at the McCurtain County Jail in Idabel, Oklahoma, entered a guilty plea to a one count Information of Conspiracy Against Rights, punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a $250,000.00 fine, and to a one-count Information of Deprivation of Rights Under Color of Law, also punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a $250,000.00 fine.
An Information filed against Ebert on July 2, 2026, alleged that on or about September 15, 2021, Ebert, while acting pursuant to his authority as a shift supervisor at the McCurtain County Jail, knowingly and willfully conspired with others to injure, oppress, threaten, and intimidate an arrestee in the free exercise and enjoyment of the right, protected by the Constitution and laws of the United States, to be free from unreasonable seizure, which includes the right to be free from the use of unreasonable force by a person acting under color of law.
A second Information filed against Ebert on July 2, 2026, alleged that on or about January 4, 2022, while acting under color of law as a shift supervisor in the McCurtain County Jail, Ebert willfully deprived a pretrial detainee of the right, secured and protected by the Constitution and laws of the United States, not to be deprived of liberty without due process of law, which includes the right to be free from the use of unreasonable force by a correctional officer. Ebert physically assaulted the detainee, who was restrained and not posing a threat to anyone. The assault resulted in bodily injury to the detainee.
The charges arose from an investigation by the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
The Honorable Gerald L. Jackson, Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.
A U.S. District Court Judge will determine the sentence to be imposed after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Ebert will remain free on bond with conditions pending sentencing.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicole Paladino represented the United States.
Defendant Sentenced for Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily InjuryRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Christopher Bradley Gonzales, a/k/a Christopher Bradley Robison, 32, was sentenced to 46 months in prison for one count of Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury in Indian Country.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Ada Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
On April 13, 2026, Gonzales pleaded guilty to the charge. According to investigators, on June 21, 2025, Gonzales attacked the victim from behind, stabbing the victim multiple times with a knife. Gonzales fled on foot but was quickly apprehended by officers. The victim sustained multiple injuries and was life-flighted for emergency medical care.
The crime occurred in Pontotoc County, within the boundaries of the Chickasaw Nation Reservation, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma.
The Honorable Ronald A. White, Senior Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, presided over the hearing. Gonzles will remain in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending transportation to a designated United States Bureau of Prisons facility to serve a non-paroleable sentence of incarceration.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lewis M. Reagan represented the United States.
Checotah Resident Sentenced for Methamphetamine DistributionRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Jason Duane Henrichs, age 47, of Checotah, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 70 months in prison for one count of Distribution of Methamphetamine.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics.
On October 9, 2025, Henrichs pleaded guilty to the charge in federal district court. According to investigators, on November 22, 2022, Henrichs distributed 111.9 grams of methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance.
The Honorable Ronald A. White, Senior Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, presided over the hearing. Henrichs will remain in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending transportation to a designated United States Bureau of Prisons facility to serve a non-paroleable sentence of incarceration.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Rob Wallace represented the United States.
Adair County Resident Sentenced for Armed Felony AssaultRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Runningbear Pettit, 24, of Bunch, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 21 months in prison for one count of Assault with a Dangerous Weapon with Intent to Do Bodily Harm, and to 120 months in prison for one count of Use, Carry, Brandish, and Discharge of Firearm During A Crime of Violence. The court ordered the terms to be served consecutively.
The charges arose from an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Cherokee Nation Marshal Service, and the Stilwell Police Department.
On June 9, 2025, Pettit pleaded guilty to the charges in federal district court. According to investigators, on January 30, 2025, Stilwell officers responded to an emergency call of shots fired at a Stilwell residence. Witnesses reported that Pettit opened fire on the residence with a semi-automatic rifle. The bullets penetrated the exterior of the building, striking and injuring an occupant. Law enforcement arrested Pettit a short time later, and Pettit confessed to the shooting.
The crimes occurred in Adair County, within the boundaries of the Cherokee Nation Reservation, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
The Honorable Ronald A. White, Senior Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, presided over the hearing. Pettit will remain in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending transportation to a designated United States Bureau of Prisons facility to serve a non-paroleable sentence of incarceration.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lewis M. Reagan and Edith A. Singer represented the United States.
Cherokee County Residents Plead Guilty to Federal Charges Stemming from September 2022 Tahlequah MurderRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Jermyn Damon Vann, Jr., 21, and Jermyn Damon Vann, Sr., 41, of Welling, Oklahoma, entered guilty pleas in federal district court on Wednesday.
Vann, Jr., pleaded guilty to two counts of Assault with a Dangerous Weapon with Intent to Do Bodily Harm in Indian Country, each punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine, and to one count of Causing the Death of a Person in the Course of a Violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c), punishable by any term of years to life in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Vann, Sr., pleaded guilty to one count of Child Neglect in Indian Country, punishable by any term of years to life in prison, and a $5,000 fine.
The Indictment alleged that on September 5, 2022, Vann, Jr. assaulted two individuals with a dangerous weapon with intent to do bodily harm. The Indictment further alleged that on September 5, 2022, Vann, Jr. knowingly discharged a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence for which they may be prosecuted in a court of the United States, that is, Murder in Indian Country and Murder in Perpetration of Burglary in Indian Country, and that in the course of this violation, Vann, Jr., caused the death of a person through the use of said firearm, which killing is a murder, in that Vann, Jr. murdered and unlawfully killed the victim with a firearm.
The Indictment also alleged that on September 5, 2022, Vann, Sr., willfully and maliciously failed and omitted to protect a child under the age of eighteen from exposure to illegal activity, all while responsible for the health, safety, and welfare of that child.
The crimes occurred in Cherokee County, within the boundaries of the Cherokee Nation Reservation, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma.
The charges arose from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation, and the Tahlequah Police Department.
The Honorable Gerald L. Jackson, Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.
A U.S. District Court Judge will determine the sentence to be imposed after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Both defendants will remain in the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending sentencing.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys T. Cameron McEwen, Olivia Staubus, and Gregory Dean Burris represented the United States.
Sequoyah County Resident Pleads Guilty to Two Counts of Aggravated Sexual Abuse in Indian CountryRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Joshua Leon Brown, age 35, of Muldrow, Oklahoma, entered a guilty plea to two counts of Aggravated Sexual Abuse in Indian Country, each punishable by a period of 30 years to life in prison and a fine of $250,000.
The Indictment alleged that beginning in March 2023, and continuing until in or about November 2025, Brown knowingly engaged in sexual acts with a victim who had not attained the age of 12 years.
The crimes occurred in Sequoyah County, within the boundaries of the Cherokee Nation Reservation, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma.
The charges arose from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
The Honorable Jason A. Robertson, Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.
A U.S. District Court Judge will determine the sentence to be imposed after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Brown will remain in the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending sentencing.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Morgan Muzljakovich and Nicole Paladino represented the United States.
McCurtain County Resident Pleads Guilty to Assault and Federal Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Kyle Wayne Hudgins, age 40, of Broken Bow, Oklahoma, entered a guilty plea in federal district court to one count of Assault with Intent to Commit a Felony in Indian Country, punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine, and one count of Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime, punishable by a minimum of 5 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
The Superseding Indictment alleged that on November 18, 2024, Hudgins assaulted the victim with the intent to commit a robbery, and that Hudgins knowingly possessed two semi-automatic pistols in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime for which he may be prosecuted in a court of the United States, that is, Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.
The crimes occurred in McCurtain County, within the boundaries of the Choctaw Nation Reservation, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma.
The charges arose from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Indian Affairs, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Oklahoma Highway Patrol.
The Honorable Gerald L. Jackson, Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.
A U.S. District Court Judge will determine the sentence to be imposed after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Hudgins will remain in the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending sentencing.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jarrod Leaman and Jessie K. Pippin represented the United States.
Choctaw County Resident Pleads Guilty to Felony AssaultRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Andrea Dawn Cooper, age 34, of Sawyer, Oklahoma, entered a guilty plea to one count of Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury in Indian Country, punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
The Indictment alleged that on November 2, 2020, Cooper assaulted the victim, resulting in serious bodily injury.
The crime occurred in Choctaw County, within the boundaries of the Choctaw Nation Reservation, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Sawyer Police Department.
The Honorable Jason A. Robertson, Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.
A U.S. District Court Judge will determine the sentence to be imposed after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Cooper was released on bond with conditions pending sentencing.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lewis M. Reagan represented the United States.
Bryan County Resident Pleads Guilty to Assault ChargesRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Devin Kyle Wain Dollar, age 36, of Durant, Oklahoma, entered a guilty plea to one count of Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury in Indian Country, one count of Assault with a Dangerous Weapon with Intent do Bodily Harm in Indian Country, and one count of Assault of a Spouse, Intimate Partner, and Dating Partner by Strangling and Attempting to Strangle in Indian Country, each punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
The Indictment alleged that on June 15, 2024, Dollar assaulted one victim, resulting in serious bodily injury.
The Indictment also alleged that on that same date, Dollar assaulted a second victim with a dangerous weapon, with intent to do bodily harm.
The Indictment further alleged that on February 8, 2025, Dollar assaulted a third victim by strangling and attempting to strangle his intimate dating partner.
The crimes occurred in Bryan County, within the boundaries of the Choctaw Nation Reservation, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma.
The charges arose from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Choctaw Nation Lighthorse Police Department, the Durant Police Department, and the Bryan County Sheriff’s Office.
The Honorable Jason A. Robertson, Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.
A U.S. District Court Judge will determine the sentence to be imposed after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Dollar will remain in the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending sentencing.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Edith A. Singer represented the United States.
Sequoyah County Resident Pleads Guilty to Two Counts of Sexual Abuse of A MinorRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Samuel Alexander Sevenstar, age 33, of Roland, Oklahoma, entered a guilty plea to two counts of Sexual Abuse of a Minor in Indian Country, each punishable by up to 15 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
The Indictment alleged that beginning in or about June 2019 and continuing until in or about April 2020, Sevenstar knowingly engaged in sexual acts with a victim who had attained the age of 12 years but had not attained the age of 16 years, and who was at least four years younger than Sevenstar.
The crimes occurred in Sequoyah County, within the boundaries of the Cherokee Nation Reservation, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma.
The charges arose from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Sequoyah County Sheriff’s Office, and the Cherokee Nation Marshal Service.
The Honorable D. Edward Snow, Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.
A U.S. District Court Judge will determine the sentence to be imposed after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Sevenstar was remanded into the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending sentencing.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Emily Wittlinger represented the United States.
Inmate Sentenced for Armed Assault on Correctional Officer in Indian CountryRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Zavius Alexander Burgess, age 23, of Stillwater, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 71 months in prison for one count of Assault with a Dangerous Weapon with Intent to Do Bodily Harm in Indian Country. The Court ordered the term to be served consecutive to any undischarged term of imprisonment imposed in Kay County District Court case CF-2020-00049. Burgess is currently incarcerated on two concurrent life sentences on that case for convictions of one count of Murder in the First Degree-Deliberate Intent, and one count of Conspiracy.
The assault charge arose from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Hughes County Sheriff’s Office.
According to investigators, on January 7, 2025, while housed within the maximum-security unit of the Allen Gamble Correctional Center in Holdenville, Oklahoma, Burgess stabbed a correctional officer with a homemade knife. On August 28, 2025, Burgess, a registered tribal member, pleaded guilty to the charge in federal district court.
The crime occurred in Hughes County, within the boundaries of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation Reservation, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma.
The Honorable John F. Heil, III, Chief Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, presided over the hearing.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jarrod Leaman represented the United States at the sentencing hearing.
Ada Resident Pleads Guilty to Distribution of Fentanyl Resulting in DeathRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Donyaeh King McDowell, a/k/a/ Donyaeh Akeen McDowell, age 22, of Ada, Oklahoma, entered a guilty plea to one count of Distribution of Fentanyl Resulting in Death, punishable by twenty years to life in prison and a $1,000,000 fine.
The Indictment alleged that on March 2, 2024, McDowell knowingly and intentionally distributed a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl, a Schedule II controlled substance, resulting in the death of the Victim from the use of the fentanyl.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the District 22 Drug Task Force, the Ada Police Department, and the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation.
The Honorable D. Edward Snow, Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.
A U.S. District Court Judge will determine the sentence to be imposed after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
McDowell will remain in the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending sentencing.
Assistant U.S. Attorney T. Cameron McEwen represented the United States.
McAlester Resident Pleads Guilty to Illegally Possessing Firearm and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that John Edward Peasha, II, a/k/a John Edward Peasha, Jr., age 44, of McAlester, Oklahoma, entered a guilty plea to one count of Felon in Possession of Firearm and Ammunition, punishable by up to 15 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
The Indictment charged Peasha with knowingly possessing one 9mm semi-automatic pistol and 11 rounds of ammunition on February 6, 2026, after having been previously convicted of a crime punishable by more than one year imprisonment.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the McAlester Police Department, and the Pittsburg County Sheriff’s Office.
The Honorable Gerald L. Jackson, Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.
A U.S. District Court Judge will determine the sentence to be imposed after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Peasha will remain in the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending sentencing.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kristin Knutson represented the United States.
Broken Arrow Resident Pleads Guilty to Illegally Possessing Firearm and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Justin Michael Hunter, age 38, of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, entered a guilty plea to one count of Felon in Possession of Firearm and Ammunition, punishable by up to fifteen years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
The Indictment charged Hunter with knowingly possessing one 9mm semi-automatic pistol and 35 rounds of 9mm ammunition on June 18, 2025, after having been convicted of a crime punishable by more than one year imprisonment.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Broken Arrow Police Department.
The Honorable D. Eward Snow, Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.
A U.S. District Court Judge will determine the sentence to be imposed after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Hunter was remanded into the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending sentencing.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lewis M. Reagan represented the United States.
Shreveport Resident Pleads Guilty to Failure to Register as Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Robert Thomas Richardson, age 43, of Shreveport, Louisiana, entered a guilty plea to one count of Failure to Register as Sex Offender, punishable by up to 10 years in prison.
The Indictment alleged that Richardson was convicted of Rape by Instrumentation, in Rogers County on September 30, 2004, and Rape in the Second Degree, in Rogers County on December 21, 2010, and was required to register as a sex offender, and that from September 18, 2024, until January 17, 2026, Richardson failed to register and update his registration despite traveling in interstate commerce and entering, leaving, or residing in Indian country, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma.
The charge arose from an investigation by the United States Marshals Service.
The Honorable D. Edward Snow, Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.
A U.S. District Court Judge will determine the sentence to be imposed after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Richardson will remain in the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending sentencing.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Morgan Muzljakovich represented the United States.
Eleven Members of Southeast Oklahoma Drug Trafficking Organization Plead Guilty to Drug Conspiracy and Related ChargesRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that eleven co-defendants pleaded guilty to drug conspiracy and related charges arising from a Homeland Security Task Force Investigation.
On June 1, 2026, JERRY LEE GRIST, age 66, of Atoka, Oklahoma, entered a guilty plea to one count of Drug Conspiracy, punishable by ten years to life in prison and a $10,000,000 fine.
The following defendants previously entered guilty pleas to one Count of Drug Conspiracy, punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a $10,000,000 fine:
- MEAGON RASHEL BOX, age 39, of Atoka, Oklahoma;
- LESLIE GALE BELLETTINI, age 67, of Coalgate, Oklahoma;
- SHAWNDA LA DAWN RUSSELL, age 56, of Ada, Oklahoma;
- DEAN DEWAYNE HENSLEE, age 52, of Idabel, Oklahoma;
- ANGIE EULALIA NUNEZ a/k/a Angie Farrell, age 51, of Durant, Oklahoma;
- RAYMOND ERWIN WELCH, age 58, of Dallas, Texas; and
- WILLA MARGARETTE WEAR, age 47, of Atoka, Oklahoma.
The following defendants previously entered guilty pleas on related charges:
- GLENN ROGER HYDE, age 65, of Ada, Oklahoma, pleaded guilty to one count of Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine, punishable by a period of up to 20 years in prison and a $1,000,000 fine;
- DAVID GEORGE NUNEZ, age 56, of Durant, Oklahoma pleaded guilty to one count of Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine, punishable by up to 20 years in prison and a $1,000,000 fine;
- TOMMY BLAKE McCARY, age 74, of Wright City, Oklahoma, pleaded guilty to one count of Felon in Possession of Firearm, punishable by up to 15 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
According to investigators, beginning in or about June 2024 and continuing until on or about October 15, 2025, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma and elsewhere, the defendants willfully and knowingly combined, conspired, confederated, and agreed together, and with others known and unknown to the Grand Jury, to commit offenses against the United States, namely the possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of 550 or more grams of methamphetamine.
The charges arose from a joint investigation led by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Indian Affairs, the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics, the Quapaw Nation Marshals, the Miami, Oklahoma Police Department, the Wyandotte Nation Police Department, the Oklahoma Highway Patrol, the LeFlore County Sheriff’s Department, the Atoka County Sheriff’s Department, the McCurtain County Sheriff’s Department, the Oklahoma District 16 Drug Task Force, the Oklahoma District 18 Drug Task Force, the Oklahoma District 22 Drug Task Force, the Durant Police Department, the Internal Revenue Service—Criminal Investigations Division, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
These prosecutions are part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF Oklahoma City comprises agents and officers from the FBI, HSI, DEA, ATF, USMS, IRS, Oklahoma Highway Patrol and Oklahoma City Police Department, with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma.
Assistant United States Attorneys Ryan Conway, Jordan Howanitz, and Olivia Staubus are prosecuting this case on behalf of the United States.
Tulsa Resident Pleads Guilty to Illegally Possessing Firearm and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Dwight Lowaine McGee, age 48, of Tulsa, Oklahoma, entered a guilty plea to one count of Felon in Possession of Firearm and Ammunition, punishable by up to 15 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
The Indictment charged McGee with knowingly possessing one semi-automatic pistol and 8 rounds of ammunition on December 4, 2025, after having been previously convicted of a crime punishable by more than one year imprisonment.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Wagoner County Sheriff’s Office.
The Honorable Gerald L. Jackson, Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.
A U.S. District Court Judge will determine the sentence to be imposed after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
McGee will remain in the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending sentencing.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Edith A. Singer represented the United States.
Mounds Resident Sentenced to Ten Years for Sexual Abuse of A MinorRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Ned Elmer Johnson, age 37, of Mounds, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 120 months in prison for one count of Sexual Abuse of a Minor in Indian country.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Muscogee (Creek) Nation Lighthorse Tribal Police Department.
On August 12, 2025, Johnson pleaded guilty to the charge. According to investigators, from April 2021 until April 2023, Johnson knowingly engaged in a sexual act with a person who had attained the age of 12 years but not yet attained the age of 16 years, and who was at least four years younger than Johnson.
The crime occurred in Okmulgee County, within the boundaries of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation Reservation, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma.
The Honorable Ronald A. White, Senior Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, presided over the hearing. Johnson will remain in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending transportation to a designated United States Bureau of Prisons facility to serve a non-paroleable sentence of incarceration.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicole Paladino represented the United States.
Tulsa Resident Sentenced for Theft in Indian CountryRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Tommy Allen Winkler, age 38, of Tulsa, Oklahoma, was sentenced to twelve months and one day in prison for one count of Theft in Indian Country.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
On May 15, 2025, Winkler pleaded guilty to the charge. According to investigators, Winkler was appointed guardian to manage the victims’ property and assets. Between November 16, 2022, and June 14, 2024, Winkler unlawfully transferred funds from the victims’ bank accounts into his personal bank account and spent the money for his own benefit.
The crime occurred in Muskogee County, within the boundaries of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation Reservation, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma.
The Honorable Ronald A. White, Senior Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, presided over the hearing. On June 18, 2026, Winkler will self-report to serve a non-paroleable sentence of incarceration at a designated United States Bureau of Prisons facility.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Erin Cornell and T. Cameron McEwen represented the United States.
U.S. Attorney Celebrates Hometown Hero for Contribution to Oklahoma Children in Foster CareRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – Christopher J. Wilson, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, gathered with members of staff, community leaders, and the media today at the Muskogee non-profit, Fostering Hope, to honor Executive Director Annie Czaruk for her work with Oklahoma children and to award her the U.S. Department of Justice’s Hometown Hero Award for the Eastern District of Oklahoma.
Czaruk, a Muskogee native, co-founded Fostering Hope in 2016 after encountering the stark gaps in funding and resources for children entering foster care. Seeing the need, Czaruk rose to fill those gaps with resources and care. In the ensuing ten years, what began with donation drives for emergency supplies has grown into something much greater, serving children in foster care across 58 counties in Oklahoma.
Today, Fostering Hope runs programs to meet the needs of foster children at all stages of care. Staff members work with teams of volunteers to assemble backpacks that equip a child with all the essentials they might need for the first two weeks at their new placement before state funds begin to cover their care. Backpacks might include a week’s worth of appropriately sized clothing and shoes, essential toiletries, baby blankets, formula, baby bottles, wipes, diapers, and toys.
Because Czaruk recognized another need in the foster care community, in 2020, Fostering Hope opened Hope House in Muskogee, offering a safe place for children and infants entering foster care. There, children can regain their footing in a safe, warm, and welcoming environment while awaiting placement into foster homes.
And because life’s challenges don’t stop after placement, Czaruk and her team at Fostering Hope also serve as a training ground where teens in foster care learn and practice life skills. A Teen Ambassador Board, chartered in 2021, teaches youth to interact with each other and with their community, modeling compassion, leadership, community involvement, and service for others. The Kind Society Social Club, launching this summer in partnership with Green Country Behavioral Health, will teach life skills in a fun community environment while preparing youth for adulthood and life beyond foster care.
“Through Fostering Hope of Muskogee, Annie serves as a continuing example of the good that multiplies from stepping in to meet a need,” said United States Attorney Christopher J. Wilson. “Because of her vision and commitment to making a difference for children, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma is proud to recognize Annie Czaruk as our Hometown Hero.”
The Hometown Hero Award was created by the Department of Justice to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States of America. Presented by U.S. Attorneys within their districts, the award recognizes local leaders who exemplify the qualities of Liberty, Service, and Civic Responsibility—the enduring ideals upon which our Nation was founded.
To learn more about the work Annie Czaruk, Fostering Hope, and Hope House are doing in Oklahoma, visit https://www.fosteringhopemuskogee.org/.
Tahlequah Resident Sentenced for Unlawful Possession of Firearm and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Jonathon Roy Philpott, age 45, of Tahlequah, Oklahoma, was sentenced to fourteen months in prison for one count of Unlawful User of Controlled Substance in Possession of Firearms and Ammunition.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
On July 9, 2025, Philpott pleaded guilty to the charge. According to investigators, on February 4, 2025, knowing that he was an unlawful user of a controlled substance, Philpott knowingly possessed a semi-automatic rifle, a semi-automatic pistol, and 39 rounds of ammunition.
The Honorable Ronald A. White, Senior Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, presided over the hearing. Philpott will remain in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending transportation to a designated United States Bureau of Prisons facility to serve a non-paroleable sentence of incarceration.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lewis M. Reagan represented the United States.