Western District of Oklahoma
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Norman Man Sentenced to Serve 25 Years in Federal Prison for Production of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – JACOB EDWARD KAMOLZ, 39, of Norman, has been sentenced to serve 300 months in federal prison for production of child pornography, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
On September 17, 2024, a federal Grand Jury returned a four-count Indictment against Kamolz, charging him with production, attempted production, possession, and distribution of child pornography. According to public record, in August 2024, Kamolz connected with an FBI Online Covert Employee (OCE) who purported to be a juvenile on a social media messaging application. Over the course of several days, Kamolz sent child sexual abuse material (CSAM) to the OCE and requested that they send CSAM in return. Public record further reflects that, after his arrest, the FBI determined Kamolz produced CSAM with a child using his cell phone.
On December 17, 2024, Kamolz pleaded guilty and admitted he used a minor to produce CSAM.
At the sentencing hearing on May 20, 2025, U.S. District Judge Joe Heaton sentenced Kamolz to serve 300 months in federal prison, followed by supervised release for life. In announcing his sentence, Judge Heaton emphasized the nature and circumstances of the offense.
This case is the result of an investigation by the FBI Oklahoma City Field Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jordan Ganz prosecuted the case.
This case is also part of Project Safe Childhood (PSC), a nationwide initiative by the Department of Justice (DOJ) to combat child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the DOJ Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, PSC marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about PSC, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Lawton Couple Pleads Guilty for their Roles in Child Sex Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – NIA HALL, 30, and JACKIE DUNCAN, 35, both of Lawton, have pleaded guilty for conspiring to commit sex trafficking, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
On January 21, 2025, a federal Grand Jury returned a three-count Indictment against Hall and Duncan, charging them with sex trafficking of children, sex trafficking by force, fraud, or coercion, and conspiracy to commit sex trafficking. According to public record, in May 2024, two juveniles ran away from a juvenile group home in Lawton, Oklahoma, and were entered into law enforcement databases as missing juveniles. One of the juveniles was located by officers with the Plano Police Department on July 16, 2024, at a motel in Collin County, Texas, where she disclosed that she and the other missing juvenile had been sex-trafficked. The juvenile told officers that after she and the other juvenile had fled the group home, they were approached by two people, later identified as Hall and Duncan, at a gas station. The juveniles began living with Hall and Duncan, who soon after transported the juveniles to various cities in Texas, where they performed sex acts for money, which Hall and Duncan kept. In return, the juveniles were provided food and shelter. The juvenile told authorities she had recently escaped Hall and Duncan’s car in the Dallas area. On September 30, 2024, the second juvenile was found and recovered in San Antonio, Texas. She recounted a similar story of being sex-trafficked by Hall and Duncan in exchange for food and shelter. During the investigation, local and federal law enforcement reviewed sex advertisements associated with Hall. These advertisements contained photos of the juveniles. Hall and Duncan were arrested on December 16, 2024.
On May 19, 2025, Hall pleaded guilty to Count 3 of the Indictment, and admitted she knowingly worked with Duncan to recruit and transport the juveniles for purposes of commercial sex acts, and that she knew the victims were under the age of 18. Duncan pleaded guilty to Count 1 of the Indictment on April 30, 2025, and admitted he knowingly recruited two minors under the age of 18 to cause them to engage in commercial sex acts, and that he aided and abetted Hall to do the same.
At sentencing, Hall and Duncan face up to life in federal prison, Duncan faces at least 10 years in federal prison, and both face fines of up to $250,000.
This case is the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, FBI, Lawton Police Department, Choctaw Nation Lighthorse Police Department, Oklahoma Highway Patrol, Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics & Dangerous Drugs Control, Fort Smith Police Department, Arkansas State Police, San Antonio Police Department, Plano Police Department, and Fort Worth Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jordan Ganz and Brandon Hale are prosecuting the case.
This case is also the result of an investigation by the Tornado Alley Child Exploitation Task Force, which is led by HSI. The Tornado Alley Child Exploitation Task Force is an implementation of Project Safe Childhood (PSC), a nationwide initiative by the Department of Justice (DOJ) to combat child sexual exploitation and abuse. PSC marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about PSC, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Oklahoma City Doctor Surrenders Dispensing Authority and Pays $130,000 to Settle Civil Penalty Claims Stemming from Allegations of Recordkeeping ViolationsRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – Richard Swenson, M.D. (“Dr. Swenson”), paid $130,000 to settle civil penalty claims stemming from allegations that he violated the Comprehensive Drug Abuse Prevention and Control Act of 1970 (“Act”) and its regulations, announced United States Attorney Robert J. Troester. Dr. Swenson also agreed to permanently cease dispensing and administering controlled substances as of April 3, 2025.
Recordkeeping is a vital part of managing controlled substances. A registrant who purchases controlled substances must comply with the purchase record requirements contained in the regulations implementing the Act. Maintaining complete and accurate records help avoid diversions and losses of controlled drugs. Failure to do so subjects the registrant to civil monetary penalties.
During the relevant time, Dr. Swenson practiced medicine at Accident Care and Treatment Center, Inc. in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. The United States alleges that from April 2022, through April 2024, Dr. Swenson failed to maintain DEA Forms 222 for certain purchases of Hydrocodone/Acetaminophen, which is an opioid and a Schedule II controlled substance. During this time period, the United States further alleges that Dr. Swenson also failed to maintain records for certain purchases of Schedule III and Schedule IV controlled substances. To resolve these allegations, Dr. Swenson agreed to pay $130,000 to the United States and to permanently refrain from dispensing and administering controlled substances. Dr. Swenson is still permitted to prescribe controlled substances consistent with his DEA Registration.
In reaching this settlement, Dr. Swenson did not admit liability, and the government did not make any concessions about the legitimacy of the claims. The agreement allows the parties to avoid the delay, expense, inconvenience, and uncertainty involved in litigating the case.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Office of Diversion Control. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Amanda R. Johnson and Ronald R. Gallegos prosecuted the case.
Illegal Firearm Possession Lands Oklahoma City Man in Federal Prison for Six Years Following Domestic Calls to Law EnforcementRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – AARON JOELRAYEL TURNER, 27, of Oklahoma City, has been sentenced to serve 72 months in federal prison for illegal possession of firearms after a previous felony conviction, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
On February 25, 2025, Turner was charged by Superseding Information with three counts of being a felon in possession of a firearm. According to public record, in 2024, Turner had three separate interactions with the Oklahoma City Police Department (OCPD). During the first incident on June 19, 2024, OCPD officers responded to a home on reports of a domestic dispute. Once at the home, the victim told police Turner gained entry into her residence despite a recent emergency VPO issued against Turner, and that Turner had struck her in the face before leaving the house. OCPD located and arrested Turner shortly after and discovered a firearm in his pocket. The second encounter with OCPD took place on August 23, 2024, after OCPD officers encountered Turner again at the same residence and seized two more pistols possessed by Turner.
The third encounter with OCPD took place on October 23, 2024, after officers responded to another home on a welfare check. The calling party advised OCPD that Turner was in the home with a firearm, and that Turner had been having domestic issues with the calling party’s granddaughter. OCPD officers received consent to search the home, and seized two firearms and several live rounds of ammunition possessed by Turner.
On February 25, 2025, Turner pleaded guilty to the Superseding Information and admitted he possessed a firearm on the three instances noted above, despite his previous felony convictions.
On May 19, 2025, U.S. District Judge Bernard M. Jones sentenced Turner to serve 72 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release. In announcing his sentence, Judge Jones noted Turner’s history of illegal firearm possession as well as his extensive criminal history. Public record reflects that Turner has previous felony convictions in Oklahoma County District Court that include two counts of being a felon in possession of a firearm in case numbers CF-2020-1985 and CF-2017-5873.
This case is the result of an investigation by the FBI Oklahoma City Field Office and the Oklahoma City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mary E. Walters prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a Department of Justice program to reduce violent crime. This case is also part of “Operation 922,” the Western District of Oklahoma’s implementation of PSN, which prioritizes prosecution of federal crimes connected to domestic violence. For more information about PSN, please visit https://justice.gov/psn and https://justice.gov/usao-wdok.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Guthrie Woman Pleads Guilty to Embezzling More Than $377,000 from Nursing HomeRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – JESSICA DAWN BURTON, 53, of Guthrie, has pleaded guilty to conspiring to commit wire fraud while employed as a bookkeeper for a nursing home in Hydro, Oklahoma, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
On May 14, 2025, Burton was charged by Information with conspiracy to commit wire fraud. According to the Information, from August 2022 through November 2023, Burton was employed as a bookkeeper for a nursing home in Hydro. The Information alleges that Burton used her position to issue checks from the company’s bank account to enrich herself and three other conspirators, utilizing the owner’s signature on the checks without the knowledge or consent of her supervisor or the owner. In all, Burton issued 223 unauthorized checks totaling $377,443.45.
Burton pleaded guilty to the Information on May 19, 2025, and admitted she used her position to write checks from her employer’s bank account without permission, and that she knew she was stealing the money from the nursing home. At sentencing, Burton faces up to 20 years in federal prison and a fine of up to $250,000.
This case is the result of an investigation by the FBI Oklahoma City Field Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jackson D. Eldridge is prosecuting the case.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Dover Man Pleads Guilty to Defrauding BankRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – Today, TIMOTHY ABERCROMBIE, 42, of Dover, Oklahoma, pleaded guilty to committing bank fraud, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
On April 1, 2025, Abercrombie was charged by Information with bank fraud. According to the Information, from May 2019 through February 2024, Abercrombie was employed as a vice president and loan officer at InterBank in Kingfisher, Oklahoma. During that period, Abercrombie used personal information from the bank’s customers to prepare loan applications, and once approved, deposit said loans into checking accounts opened with the customer’s information, all without the customer’s knowledge or consent. Abercrombie’s scheme defrauded InterBank out of approximately $883,075.66.
Abercrombie pleaded guilty to the Information today, and admitted he executed a scheme to defraud InterBank. At sentencing he faces up to 30 years in federal prison, and a fine of up to $1,000,000.00.
This case is the result of an investigation by the FBI Oklahoma City Field Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles Brown is prosecuting the case.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Indictment Unsealed in Bank Fraud Conspiracy Involving Hundreds of Forged Checks Stolen from the MailRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – A federal Indictment has been unsealed, charging DERRY LEE DAVIS, 23, ANTAJAUN MONZELLE BROWN, JR., 24, AMAURION RAMONE NORMENT, 21, OLIVERNAESHA OLIEAH WOODS, 21, LORENZO JONES IV, 23, and MATEI LEANN BASS, 22, all of Oklahoma City, DAZJUAN JERAE DEMOND MATTHEWS, 21, of Kansas, and AMARION ADRIONE WHITESIDE, 21, of Texas, for their roles in a conspiracy to steal mail from mail deposit boxes across the Oklahoma City metro area using a stolen United States Postal Service (USPS) arrow key and forge checks found in the stolen mail to obtain cash from financial institutions. The announcement was made by U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
On April 16, 2025, a federal Grand Jury returned a 19-count Indictment against the defendants, charging them for their roles in the conspiracy. According to the Indictment, beginning in 2022, Davis possessed a stolen USPS arrow key, which he and other conspirators used to access and steal mail from mail deposit boxes across the Oklahoma City area in search of checks. Davis, Brown, and Norment would then alter information on stolen checks, so that they could be deposited into the bank accounts of other conspirators who agreed to participate in the scheme. In order to find people willing to join the scheme, the indictment alleges that Davis, Brown, and others advertised the scheme on social media urging those interested to contact them. The Indictment further alleges that Matthews, Whiteside, Woods, Jones, Bass, and others agreed to join the conspiracy and deposited or allowed forged checks to be deposited into their bank accounts in exchange for a portion of the check proceeds.
The defendants have all been charged with conspiracy to commit bank fraud, for which they face up to 30 years in federal prison if found guilty. In addition to conspiracy to commit bank fraud:
- Davis has been charged with bank fraud, possession of a forged security, possession of a stolen USPS key, and possession of stolen mail. Davis faces up to 30 years in federal prison if found guilty of bank fraud and faces up to 25 years if found guilty of the remaining counts;
- Brown, Jr. has been charged with four counts of bank fraud, possession of a forged security, and possession of stolen mail. Brown faces up to 30 in federal prison if found guilty for each count of bank fraud and faces up to 15 years if found guilty of the remaining counts; and
- Norment has been charged with seven counts of bank fraud and possession of a forged security. Norment faces up to 30 years in federal prison if found guilty for each count of bank fraud and faces up to 10 years if found guilty of the remaining count.
The public is reminded these charges are merely allegations, and that the defendants are innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case is the result of an investigation by the United States Postal Inspection Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jackson D. Eldridge is prosecuting the case.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Pauls Valley Man Sentenced to Serve Nearly Three Years in Federal Prison after Receiving Almost $300,000 for Classic Cars He Never DeliveredRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – ANDY WAYNE ALEXANDER, 48, of Pauls Valley, has been sentenced to serve 33 months in federal prison for wire fraud, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
On December 19, 2024, Alexander was charged by Information with wire fraud. According to the Information, from July 2020 through May 2022, Alexander used Facebook Marketplace to post and advertise classic cars for sale, some of which he did not own or possess at the time he posted. The Information alleges that during the relevant period, at least seven buyers wired Alexander money, approximately $290,925 total, for vehicles he did not intend to deliver. The money was wired into a bank account controlled by Alexander, and despite his reassurances, the money was never refunded. One victim, a New Zealand citizen, traveled to Oklahoma to confront Alexander after a failed vehicle purchase and discovered Alexander did not have the vehicle he purported to sell in his possession, despite his Facebook postings.
On January 13, 2025, Alexander pleaded guilty, and admitted he caused “a number of people” to send him money by wire transfer to purchase vehicles which he did not deliver, and that he did not refund the money to those victims.
At the sentencing hearing on April 29, 2025, U.S. District Judge Joe Heaton sentenced Alexander to serve 33 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered Alexander to pay $303,620.00 in restitution. In announcing his sentence, Judge Heaton noted the seriousness of the offense.
This case is the result of an investigation by the FBI Oklahoma City Field Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Danielle London and Cole McFerren prosecuted the case.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Oklahoma City Man Sentenced to Serve More Than Four Years in Federal Prison for Illegal Ammunition Possession after Attacking Woman at Club and Her HomeRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – ALEX DAVON HARDIMON, 32, of Oklahoma City, has been sentenced to serve 51 months in federal prison for illegal possession of ammunition after a previous felony conviction, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
According to public record, on July 22, 2024, officers with the Oklahoma City Police Department (OCPD) responded to a 911 call on a reported shooting in Oklahoma City. OCPD officers spoke with a victim, who claimed he was driving down Southwest 32nd Street when a man shot at his vehicle with rifle, and officers determined the description of the suspect matched Hardimon. Soon after, OCPD received a second call that an assault victim was in the emergency room of a nearby hospital. Officers spoke with the victim, who claimed Hardimon attacked her at a club the night before. The victim said after she went home from the club, she awoke to find Hardimon standing over her with a rifle, and claimed Hardimon struck her face and head several times with a closed fist before she was able to escape to the hospital with her child. OCPD located Hardimon’s vehicle, initiated a traffic stop, and arrested him for assault and domestic violence charges. In his pocket, officers found two rounds of live ammunition. On August 20, 2024, a federal Grand Jury charged Hardimon with being a felon in possession of ammunition.
On November 19, 2024, Hardimon pleaded guilty to the Indictment and admitted he knowingly possessed two rounds of ammunition despite his previous felony convictions.
At the sentencing hearing on April 30, 2025, U.S. District Judge Patrick R. Wyrick sentenced Hardimon to serve 51 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release. In announcing his sentence, Judge Wyrick noted Hardimon’s extensive record, and observed that the defendant clearly had not learned his lesson through his experiences in the state criminal justice system. Public record reflects that Hardimon has previous felony convictions that include joyriding, speeding, and driving under suspension in Logan County District Court case number CF-2011-172, and first-degree robbery and leaving the scene of an accident with property damage in Oklahoma County District Court case number CF-2012-653.
This case is the result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations and OCPD. Assistant U.S. Attorney David Nichols, Jr. prosecuted the case.
This case is part of “Operation 922” and Operation “Shots Fired,” the Western District of Oklahoma’s implementation of Project Safe Neighborhoods, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. “Operation 922” prioritizes prosecution of federal firearms violations connected to domestic violence. “Shots Fired” targets cases involving individuals who discharge firearms as part of their criminal activity, such as drive-by shootings or when shots are fired during robberies, domestic disputes, or other incidents. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit https://justice.gov/psn and https://justice.gov/usao-wdok.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Investigation into Black-Market Marijuana Operation Leads to 10 Defendants being Sentenced to Serve More Than 38 Years Collectively in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Approximately 3,500 Pounds of Marijuana and More than $400,000 Seized During Investigation
OKLAHOMA CITY – NAIQING LIN, 37, a Chinese national living in New York, has been sentenced to serve 37 months in federal prison for his role in a conspiracy to possess and distribute 1,000 kilograms or more of marijuana and 1,000 or more marijuana plants, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
The sentencing is the culmination of a four year-long investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, involving ten defendants sentenced to serve 463 months collectively in federal prison.
On July 5, 2023, a federal Grand Jury returned a 47-count Indictment against Naiqing and several co-defendants, charging them for their roles in a major black-market marijuana drug trafficking organization (DTO). According to public record, from January 2019 through May 10, 2023, co-conspirators FEI XIE, 36, and NAIGANG LIN, 38, operated as business partners who directed the DTO, of which Naiqing worked as one of the marijuana distributors. The DTO originally operated out of Michigan, where it specialized in the cultivation, brokering, and distribution of black-market marijuana across the country, and relied on a network of individuals, black-market marijuana grows, and stash houses for its operation. In early 2022, after several law enforcement actions in Michigan, the DTO relocated to the Western District of Oklahoma and established a black-market marijuana grow in Ada, Oklahoma. Just as in Michigan, the DTO relied on a network of stash houses in Oklahoma City to store bulk amounts of marijuana prior to it being transported to customers out of state. During the period of the conspiracy, the DTO used a variety of monetary instruments and financial transactions in an effort to launder their criminally derived proceeds, including wire transfers, funnel and straw bank accounts, vehicle purchases, and the purchase of cashier’s checks and real estate.
All told, during the investigation, law enforcement seized:
- approximately 3,500 pounds of marijuana;
- approximately 5,000 marijuana plants;
- $409,883.04 in U.S. currency;
- $4,669,671.64 in real property (10 properties); and
- 10 vehicles.
On August 23, 2024, following a three-day trial, a federal jury found both Naiqing and Xie guilty of drug conspiracy.
At the sentencing hearing on April 29, 2025, U.S. District Judge Joe Heaton sentenced Naiqing to serve 37 months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release. In announcing his sentence, Judge Heaton noted that the Defendant played an active role in what was a significant drug trafficking operation.
“This criminal organization exploited Oklahoma to expand their illicit large-scale black-market marijuana and money laundering operation across the country,” said United States Attorney Robert J. Troester. “The closure of this case is yet another example of law enforcement’s persistent, coordinated efforts by investigators and prosecutors and demonstrates the government’s continued, relentless pursuit of these criminal enterprises.”
“Defendants like these who attempt to run illegal drug trafficking organizations will eventually account for their criminal activity,“ said ICE Homeland Security Investigations Dallas Special Agent in Charge Travis Pickard. “The collective sentences imposed should serve as a stern reminder that money laundering and drug trafficking schemes will be thoroughly investigated by HSI and our law enforcement partners.”
“This sentencing marks the end of a years-long investigation that dismantled a sophisticated black-market drug and money laundering operation,” said ICE Homeland Security Investigations Detroit acting Special Agent in Charge Jared Murphey. “HSI special agents, working closely with partners across multiple states, exposed an illicit network that exploited communities and abused financial systems to fuel their criminal enterprise.”
The other defendants charged in this case have been sentenced as follows:
- Naigang Lin, of Oklahoma City, was sentenced to serve 120 months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, for drug conspiracy and monetary transaction in criminally derived property;
- Naiyang Lin, 36, of Oklahoma City, was sentenced to serve 32 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, for drug conspiracy and money laundering conspiracy;
- Fei Xie, 36, of Kirkland, Washington, was sentenced to serve 120 months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, for drug conspiracy;
- Li Jin Yang, 60, a Chinese national living in Oklahoma City, was sentenced to serve six months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release for drug conspiracy;
- Chang-Hui Chen, 46, a Chinese national living in Michigan, was sentenced to serve 37 months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, for drug conspiracy;
- Meiyan Xiao, 34, a Chinese national living in New York, was sentenced to serve 16 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, for drug conspiracy;
- Daniel Walsh, 35, of Savannah, Georgia, was sentenced to serve four months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, for drug conspiracy;
- Terrance Jamahl Allen, 43, of Grand Rapids, Michigan, was sentenced to serve 46 months in federal prison for drug conspiracy;
- Ahmed Salim Harrold, 46, of Wyoming, Michigan, was sentenced to serve 22 months in federal prison, followed by four years of supervised release, for drug conspiracy; and
- Juan Lyu, 35, a Chinese national living in Oklahoma City, was sentenced to serve 60 months of supervised release for money laundering conspiracy.
This case is the result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations. It is also a part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Nick Coffey, Travis Leverett, Danielle M. Connolly, and Thomas Snyder prosecuted the case.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Edmond Man Pleads Guilty to Sexual Exploitation of a ChildRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – KENNETH LYNCH, 45, of Edmond, has pleaded guilty to sexual exploitation of a child, announced U.S Attorney Robert J. Troester.
On February 20, 2025, a federal Grand Jury returned a three-count Indictment, charging Lynch with sexual exploitation of a child, transportation of child pornography, and possession of and accessing with intent to view material containing child pornography. According to public record, in October 2024, agents with Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) discovered images depicting child sexual abuse material (CSAM) that were shared in a chat site on the darkweb, a computer network within the internet that is restricted and cannot be accessed by the general public using a standard search engine. In the course of their investigation, HSI identified the minor victim in the photo, and spoke with her on November 12, 2024. The victim told agents Lynch sexually abused her on multiple occasions and captured the images in question. Edmond police arrested Lynch at his home on January 15, 2025, after executing a search warrant. On Lynch’s phone, law enforcement found some of the CSAM images that started the investigation.
On May 7, 2025, Lynch pleaded guilty to Count 1 of the Indictment, and admitted he used a minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing a picture of that conduct. At sentencing, Lynch faces at least 15 years and up to 30 years in federal prison, and a fine of up to $250,000.
This case is the result of an investigation by HSI and the Edmond Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jordan Ganz is prosecuting the case.
This case is the result of an investigation by the Tornado Alley Child Exploitation Task Force, which is led by HSI. The Tornado Alley Child Exploitation Task Force is an implementation of Project Safe Childhood (PSC), a nationwide initiative by the Department of Justice (DOJ) to combat child sexual exploitation and abuse. PSC marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about PSC, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Armed Robbery of Marijuana Stash House in Oklahoma City Lands Four Men in Federal Prison for 25 Years CollectivelyRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – WILLIAM LEWIS DANIELS, 26, of Texas, has been sentenced to serve 96 months in federal prison for interference with commerce by robbery, possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, and being a drug user in possession of a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
On July 31, 2024, Daniels was charged by Superseding Information with interference with commerce by robbery, possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, and being a drug user in possession of a firearm. According to public record, on February 8, 2024, officers with the Oklahoma City Police Department (OCPD) responded to a reported armed robbery at a metro home. Victims in the home told authorities that three men, later identified as Daniels and codefendants JORDON ISAIH WATSON, 26, and KELDON SHERROD WILLIAMS, 27, both of Texas, entered the home and ordered the victims onto the floor where their hands were restrained with zip-ties. The victims told police that one of the defendants, later identified as Daniels, had a firearm and held them at gunpoint. The defendants then ransacked the house and stole more than $36,000 in cash, more than 600 pounds of marijuana stuffed into trash bags, and other items. OCPD officers quickly determined the residence was a black-market marijuana stash house. Security footage from an adjacent property showed four vehicles leaving the stash house after the robbery, including a getaway car driven by codefendant BRANDON MICHAEL NORMAN, 26, of Florida, and a car that Daniels stole from the victims. The stolen car was later located by OCPD officers in a nearby business parking lot, where the perpetrators met and swapped out vehicles.
Authorities pulled over two of the suspect vehicles shortly thereafter without incident, and arrested Watson, Williams, and Norman. Daniels, however, led authorities on a high-speed chase in his personal vehicle down Interstate 235 during rush hour traffic, wrecked his vehicle, and fled briefly on foot before he was arrested. Between the three vehicles, OCPD recovered 690 pounds of marijuana, $40,710.00 in cash, and one firearm.
On August 7, 2024, Daniels pleaded guilty to the Superseding Information, and admitted he took cash and marijuana from the victims, possessed marijuana which he intended to distribute to others, and possessed a firearm despite knowing he was an unlawful user of a controlled dangerous substance.
At the sentencing hearing on May 1, 2025, U.S. District Judge Bernard M. Jones sentenced Daniels to serve 96 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release. In announcing his sentence, Judge Jones noted the serious and violent nature of the offenses, the need to protect the public, and the need to adequately deter others from engaging in similar criminal conduct which endangers the community.
Watson, Williams, and Norman have each been sentenced after pleading guilty to interference with commerce by robbery and possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, with Watson sentenced to serve 96 months, Williams sentenced to serve 60 months, and Norman sentenced to serve 48 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release for each defendant.
This case is the result of an investigation by the FBI Oklahoma City Field Office and the Oklahoma City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Drew E. Davis prosecuted the case.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Justice Department Announces Results of Operation Restore JusticeRead the Press Release
205 Child Sex Abuse Offenders Arrested in FBI-led Nationwide Crackdown, Including Two in the Western District of Oklahoma
OKLAHOMA CITY – Today, the Department of Justice announced the results of Operation Restore Justice, a coordinated enforcement effort to identify, track and arrest child sex predators. The operation resulted in the rescue of 115 children and the arrests of 205 child sexual abuse offenders in the nationwide crackdown. The coordinated effort was executed over the course of five days by all 55 FBI field offices, the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section in the Department’s Criminal Division, and United States Attorney’s Offices around the country.
“The Department of Justice will never stop fighting to protect victims — especially child victims — and we will not rest until we hunt down, arrest, and prosecute every child predator who preys on the most vulnerable among us,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “I am grateful to the FBI and their state and local partners for their incredible work in Operation Restore Justice and have directed my prosecutors not to negotiate.”
“Every child deserves to grow up free from fear and exploitation, and the FBI will continue to be relentless in our pursuit of those who exploit the most vulnerable among us,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “Operation Restore Justice proves that no predator is out of reach and no child will be forgotten. By leveraging the strength of all our field offices and our federal, state and local partners, we’re sending a clear message: there is no place to hide for those who prey on children.”
“Those who prey upon children leave a horrific trail of lives damaged and futures destroyed,” said United States Attorney Robert J. Troester. “My office is proud to join with our partners at the FBI and U.S. Attorney’s Offices across the country to prioritize the safety of children and bringing justice to those who seek to harm them.”
“Operation Restore Justice is not just about upholding the rule of law – it’s about standing up as a society for the safety of children and showing predators that we will not allow them to rob kids of their innocence,” said FBI Oklahoma City Special Agent in Charge Doug Goodwater. “The FBI is proud to collaborate with our law enforcement partners every single day to ensure anyone involved in criminal behavior against a child is brought to justice.”
Defendants in the Western District of Oklahoma have been charged as follows:
- COLT TRAVIS GLADDING, SR., 41, of Coyle, Oklahoma, has been charged by Complaint with sexual exploitation of a child and possession of material containing child pornography. According to the Complaint, on July 15, 2024, officers with the Troy Police Department (TPD) in Troy, New Hampshire, received a report regarding the sexual abuse of a minor. The minor reported that between the ages of 14 and 16, she lived in Coyle, Oklahoma, where she was sexually abused by Gladding several times over two years. Gladding also coerced the victim to send him photos that were sexual in nature. If found guilty, Gladding faces not less than 15 years and up to 50 years in federal prison, and fines of up to $500,000.
- DALTON CUNNINGHAM, 31, of Alva, Oklahoma, has been charged by Complaint with possession of and/or access with intent to view child pornography. According to the Complaint, the FBI obtained a federal search warrant for Cunningham’s phone and found videos and images of child sexual abuse material, including files depicting prepubescent children. If found guilty, Cunningham faces up to 20 years in federal prison and a fine of up to $250,000.
*The public is reminded that these charges are merely allegations, and that the defendants are innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Others arrested around the country are alleged to have committed various crimes including the production, distribution, and possession of child sexual abuse material, online enticement and transportation of minors, and child sex trafficking. In Minneapolis, for example, a state trooper and Army Reservist was arrested for allegedly producing child sexual abuse material while wearing his uniforms. In Norfolk, VA, an illegal alien from Mexico is accused of transporting a minor across state lines for sex. In Washington, D.C., a former Metropolitan Police Department Police Officer was arrested for allegedly trafficking minor victims.
In many cases, parental vigilance and community outreach efforts played a critical role in bringing these offenders to justice. For example, a California man was arrested about eight hours after a young victim bravely came forward and disclosed their abuse to FBI agents after an online safety presentation at a school near Albany, N.Y.
This effort follows the Department’s observance of National Child Abuse Prevention Month in April, and underscores the Department’s unwavering commitment to protecting children and raising awareness about the dangers they face. While the Department, including the FBI, investigates and prosecutes these crimes every day, April serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of preventing these crimes, seeking justice for victims, and raising awareness through community education.
The Justice Department is committed to combating child sexual exploitation. These cases were brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, visit www.justice.gov/psc.
The Department partners with and oversees funding grants for the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), which receives and shares tips about possible child sexual exploitation received through its 24/7 hotline at 1-800-THE-LOST and on missingkids.org.
The Department urges the public to remain vigilant and report suspected exploitation of a child through the FBI’s tipline at 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324), tips.fbi.gov, or by calling your local FBI field office.
Other online resources:
Electronic Press Kit
Violent Crimes Against Children
How we can help you: Parents and caregivers protecting your kids
An indictment is merely an allegation. The defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Government Seeks Death Penalty for Federal Inmate Charged with First Degree MurderRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – Yesterday, a federal grand jury in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, returned a three-count indictment charging Jasper Reed, 27, a federal prison inmate, with first degree murder, attempted murder, and assault resulting in serious bodily injury.
According to court documents, Reed entered the federal prison system on Dec. 27, 2023, to serve a 51-month sentence after a firearms conviction. On April 19, 2024, he was sent to the prison system’s Federal Transfer Center (FTC) in Oklahoma City. It is alleged that, on April 27, 2024, a correctional officer found Reed strangling his cellmate. The officer attempted to stop Reed by spraying him with oleoresin capsicum, commonly referred to as “pepper spray.” The pepper spray had no impact on Reed, and multiple officers had to restrain him. Reed was evaluated in a medical examination room and was cleared with no injuries. However, the victim was rushed to a local hospital and was diagnosed with several fractures to his nasal bone, orbital bone, maxillary sinus anterior wall, maxillary sinus lateral wall, and hyoid bone.
It is further alleged that, on May 8, 2024, Reed murdered a different FTC cellmate. Correctional officers found this victim lying on the cell floor housed by only the victim and Reed. After an autopsy was performed, a medical examiner determined the cause of death to be homicide by manual strangulation. This victim suffered fractured thyroid and hyoid bones and severe hemorrhaging to the chest.
The maximum penalty for the first-degree murder charge is death and Attorney General Pamela Bondi has authorized the United States Attorney for the Western District of Oklahoma to pursue capital punishment in this case. Consistent with that authorization, the U.S. Attorney filed a notice of intent to seek the death penalty against Reed.
Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, and Robert J. Troester, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Oklahoma, made the announcement.
The FBI’s Oklahoma City Field Office investigated the case with assistance from the Bureau of Prisons Special Investigative Services.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Tiffany Edgmon and Brandon Hale for the Western District of Oklahoma are prosecuting the case with assistance from the Criminal Division’s Capital Case Section.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Texas Man Sentenced to Serve More Than 17 Years in Federal Prison after Traveling to Oklahoma to Engage in Sexual Acts with a MinorRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – BRYAN DEVIN CRUZ, 25, of Texas, has been sentenced to serve 210 months in federal prison for interstate travel with intent to engage in a sexual act with a minor, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
Public record reflects that, in April 2024, an officer with the Moore Police Department (MPD) was dispatched to a home on reports of a stranger peeking into the window of a 13-year-old girl. MPD then deployed a thermal imaging drone to survey the area and located the suspect, later identified as Cruz, moving away from the property. Cruz was arrested shortly after. The minor’s parents consented to the search of a laptop used by the teenager. Investigators learned the teen and Cruz met online through an online application, and that Cruz told the minor he was a high school student and claimed to be 17 years old. Eventually, Cruz expressed interest in meeting the minor, and traveled from Dallas, Texas, to the minor’s residence on April 5, 2024, with the purpose of engaging in illicit activity.
On May 7, 2024, a federal Grand Jury returned a two-count Indictment against Cruz, charging him with coercion and enticement of a minor and interstate travel with intent to engage in a sexual act with a minor. On September 12, 2024, Cruz pleaded guilty to Count 2 of the Indictment, and admitted he traveled from Dallas, Texas, to Moore, Oklahoma, for the purpose of engaging in illicit sexual conduct with a minor.
At the sentencing hearing on May 1, 2025, U.S. District Judge Patrick R. Wyrick sentenced Cruz to serve 210 months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release. In announcing his sentence, Judge Wyrick noted the need to protect the public from further crime and the nature and circumstances of the offense, indicating that Cruz’s conduct was pervasive, rather than isolated.
This case is the result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations and the Moore Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tiffany Edgmon prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Childhood (PSC), a nationwide initiative by the Department of Justice (DOJ) to combat child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the DOJ Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, PSC marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about PSC, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Midwest City Woman Pleads Guilty to Defrauding Property Management CompanyRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – SHERRIE BILLINGS, 53, of Midwest City, has pleaded guilty to wire fraud and making and subscribing a false tax return, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
According to public record, in January 2017, Billings worked as a regional property manager for Manhattan Management Company, LLC (“MMC”), out of New York. MMC owned four apartment complexes in Oklahoma City. Her duties included maintaining daily upkeep, maintenance, and inspections of the properties, and she had access to an MMC bank account and credit card for such maintenance. Court documents allege that from January 2017 through July 2022, Billings defrauded MMC by issuing unauthorized checks from MMC’s bank account and utilizing the company credit card, both for her own personal use. During this time period, Billings issued approximately 385 unauthorized checks, illegally withdrawing approximately $1,660,238.00 from MMC’s account. To conceal her scheme, Billings manufactured fraudulent payment vouchers to legitimate vendors and emailed the fraudulent vouchers to MMC’s bookkeeper to be added to the company ledger. Billings also used the MMC credit card for personal expenses, which defrauded the company out of approximately $49,798.00. Public record further alleges that on April 14, 2022, Billings filled out a federal income tax return form on which she reported income that was substantially lower than the actual income she received as a result of the criminal behavior described above.
On April 2, 2025, Billings was charged by Information with wire fraud and making and subscribing a false tax return. On May 2, 2025, Billings pleaded guilty to the two-count Information, and admitted she knowingly devised a scheme to defraud MMC, and that she knowingly filed a federal income tax return form on which she reported an income amount she knew was substantially lower than what she received for the year.
At sentencing, Billings faces up to 20 years in federal prison for the wire fraud charge and up to three years in prison for the tax charge, as well as a fine of up to $250,000 per count.
This case is the result of an investigation by the IRS Criminal Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles Brown is prosecuting the case.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Duncan Man Pleads Guilty after Fatal Shooting in Indian CountryRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – JESSE WAYNE JAMES KEENAN, 18, of Duncan, has pleaded guilty to voluntary manslaughter and discharging a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
According to public record, on July 19, 2024, officers with the Duncan Police Department (“DPD”) responded to a Duncan apartment complex on a reported shooting. At the apartment, DPD located a male victim who had been shot and attempted to provide medical care, but the victim died on scene. Witnesses at the complex identified Keenan as the person who shot the weapon. He was located and arrested a short time later. After speaking with Keenan, FBI agents learned Keenan went to the apartment complex after an argument between Keenan and his girlfriend. After Keenan arrived, a fist fight ensued between Keenan and the victim. During the altercation, Keenan shot the victim with a pistol and fled from the scene. The pistol was later recovered by the FBI.
On April 7, 2025, Keenan was charged by Superseding Information with voluntary manslaughter and discharging a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence.
On May 1, 2025, Keenan pleaded guilty to the Superseding Information, and admitted that during a quarrel, he intentionally and unlawfully shot the victim, while intending to cause serious bodily injury, which resulted in the victim’s death. At sentencing, he faces no less than 10 years and up to life in federal prison, and a fine of up to $500,000.
This case is in federal court because Keenan is a member of the Choctaw Nation, and the crime occurred within the boundaries of the Chickasaw Nation.
This case is the result of an investigation by the FBI Oklahoma City Field Office and the Duncan Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Tiffany Edgmon and Bow Bottomly are prosecuting the case.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Justice Department Addresses Religious Discrimination in Lawsuit for Former Teacher Denied Exemption from Vaccine MandateRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY — The Justice Department today announced that a federal judge has approved a consent decree that settles its lawsuit against the Advanced Science and Technology Education Charter Schools (“ASTEC”) in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. The lawsuit alleges ASTEC discriminated against Marcus Rethwill, a former teacher at the school, on the basis of religion, in violation of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, when it terminated him after denying his request for a religious exemption from ASTEC’s vaccine mandate for employees because he could not provide a clergy letter supporting his request. Title VII is a federal statute that prohibits employment discrimination on the basis of sex, race, color, national origin or religion.
“When employees’ religious principles conflict with work rules, they should not be forced to choose between practicing their religion and keeping their jobs if a reasonable accommodation can be made,” said Harmeet K. Dhillon, Assistant Attorney General for the Civil Rights Division. “Employer policies that rigidly restrict how employees can demonstrate the sincerity of their religious beliefs for religious accommodations are inconsistent with the breadth of Title VII’s protection against religious discrimination.”
“No employee should be forced to violate their religious beliefs just to keep their job,” said Robert J. Troester, United States Attorney for the Western District of Oklahoma. “Employers must take care not to craft or apply policies that require employees to forfeit their religious beliefs or impose unreasonable conditions that question the sincerity of those beliefs.”
Under the consent decree, ASTEC will pay Rethwill $95,000 in monetary damages, revise its anti-religious discrimination policy, and provide mandatory training on the policy to personnel.
The Oklahoma City Area Office of the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) investigated and attempted to resolve Rethwill’s charge of discrimination before referring it to the Department of Justice for litigation. More information about the EEOC is available on its website at www.eeoc.gov.
The full and fair enforcement of Title VII is a top priority of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. Additional information about the Civil Rights Division is available on its website at www.justice.gov/crt/.
Civil Division Chief Scott Maule of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Oklahoma and Senior Trial Attorney Louis Whitsett of the Civil Rights Division’s Employment Litigation Section handled this case.
Justice Department Addresses Religious Discrimination in Lawsuit for Former Teacher Denied Exemption from Vaccine MandateRead the Press Release
The Justice Department today announced that a federal judge has approved a consent decree that settles its lawsuit against the Advanced Science and Technology Education Charter Schools (ASTEC) in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. The lawsuit alleges ASTEC discriminated against Marcus Rethwill, a former teacher at the school, on the basis of religion, in violation of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, when it terminated him after denying his request for a religious exemption from ASTEC’s vaccine mandate for employees because he could not provide a clergy letter supporting his request. Title VII is a federal statute that prohibits employment discrimination on the basis of sex, race, color, national origin or religion.
“When employees’ religious principles conflict with work rules, they should not be forced to choose between practicing their religion and keeping their jobs if a reasonable accommodation can be made,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “Employer policies that rigidly restrict how employees can demonstrate the sincerity of their religious beliefs for religious accommodations are inconsistent with the breadth of Title VII’s protection against religious discrimination.”
“No employee should be forced to violate their religious beliefs just to keep their job,” said U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester for the Western District of Oklahoma. “Employers must take care not to craft or apply policies that require employees to forfeit their religious beliefs or impose unreasonable conditions that question the sincerity of those beliefs.”
Under the consent decree, ASTEC will pay Rethwill $95,000 in monetary damages, revise its anti-religious discrimination policy, and provide mandatory training on the policy to personnel.
The Oklahoma City Area Office of the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) investigated and attempted to resolve Rethwill’s charge of discrimination before referring it to the Justice Department for litigation. More information about the EEOC is available on its website at www.eeoc.gov.
The full and fair enforcement of Title VII is a top priority of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. Additional information about the Civil Rights Division is available at www.justice.gov/crt/.
Guatemalan National Responsible for Vehicle Crash Causing Six Deaths Pleads Guilty to Illegal Reentry into the United States After DeportationRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – JOSE PAXTOR-OXLAJ, 45, of Guatemala, has pleaded guilty to illegally reentering after removal from the United States, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
On September 17, 2024, a federal Grand Jury charged Paxtor-Oxlaj with illegal reentry after previous deportation. According to an affidavit filed in support of a criminal complaint, on November 21, 2023, Paxtor-Oxlaj was the driver of a vehicle involved in an accident near Elk City, Oklahoma, in which his six passengers—including five children—died, and a seventh passenger was critically injured. An investigation by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and Immigration Customs Enforcement (ICE) revealed Paxtor-Oxlaj was ordered to be removed by an Immigration Judge on June 29, 2010, and he had been removed from the United States to Guatemala on July 9, 2010. According to investigators, Paxtor-Oxlaj did not have permission to reenter the United States after his prior deportation.
“Six individuals would be alive today, including five children, and another would not have been critically injured, if this defendant did not illegally reenter the United States after his deportation,” said U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester. “His failure to comply with our immigration laws has resulted in horrific and tragic consequences which can never be undone. I applaud the federal and state law enforcement officials and prosecutors for their efforts with this case.”
On March 21, 2025, Paxtor-Oxlaj pleaded guilty, and admitted he was knowingly in the United States without having obtained the consent of the Attorney General or the Secretary of Homeland Security to reapply for admission into the United States. Sentencing will take place in federal court in approximately 60 to 90 days.
In Beckham County District Court, Paxtor-Oxlaj was convicted of six counts of first-degree manslaughter and one count of causing accident with great bodily injury without a valid driver’s license in case number CF-2023-257. He was sentenced to serve four years in state prison.
This case is the result of an investigation by the HSI, ICE, and the Oklahoma Highway Patrol. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brandon Hale and Elizabeth Joynes.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Machinegun Conversion Device Found in Baby Crib Lands Oklahoma City Man in Federal Prison for Nearly Two YearsRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – GENESIS NYRELL YOUNG, 21, of Oklahoma City, has been sentenced to serve 22 months in federal prison for unlawful possession of a machinegun, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
On September 4, 2024, a federal Grand Jury charged Young with unlawful possession of a machinegun. According to public record, on April 24, 2024, officers with the Oklahoma City Police Department (OCPD) executed a search warrant on Young’s home, during which they found a machinegun conversion device (MCD) inside a baby’s crib. Commonly referred to as switches, MCDs convert semi-automatic weapons into fully automatic machineguns. Possession of an MCD violates federal law. A pistol and an extended magazine were also located lying next to the crib.
On January 9, 2025, Young pleaded guilty, and admitted he knowingly possessed the MCD.
At the sentencing hearing on April 23, 2025, U.S. District Judge Jodi W. Dishman sentenced Young to serve 22 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release. In announcing her sentence, Judge Dishman noted the serious nature and circumstances of the offense.
This case is the result of an investigation by the FBI Oklahoma City Field Office and OCPD. Assistant U.S. Attorney David Nichols, Jr. prosecuted the case.
This case is also part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. This case is also part of “Project Switch Off,” the Western District of Oklahoma’s local implementation of PSN. “Project Switch Off” targets illegal machinegun conversion devices to address the significant danger these illegal devices present and to remove them from our streets. For more information about PSN and “Project Switch Off,” please visit https://justice.gov/psn and https://justice.gov/usao-wdok.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Illegal Possession of Firearms and Machinegun Conversion Devices Lands Oklahoma City Man in Federal Prison for Four YearsRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – Today, THAO DUC HA, 41, of Oklahoma City, was sentenced to serve 48 months in federal prison for receiving trafficked firearms and unlawful possession of machineguns, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
On June 26, 2024, Ha was charged by Superseding Information with receiving trafficked firearms and unlawful possession of machineguns. According to public record, on February 5, 2024, officers with the Oklahoma City Police Department (OCPD) and agents with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) executed a search warrant on Ha’s home. As officers approached the home, Ha fled the residence while holding a box. Ha was commanded to stop and drop the box, and he complied. Inside the box, law enforcement located multiple firearms, including firearms that had been modified with machinegun conversion devices (MCDs). When installed, MCDs convert semi-automatic weapons into fully automatic machineguns. Possession of MCDs violates federal law.
On July 3, 2024, Ha pleaded guilty to the Superseding Information, and admitted he knowingly received firearms despite being a convicted felon, and that he possessed four MCDs, one of which was fitted to a Glock pistol.
At the sentencing hearing today, U.S. District Judge David L. Russell sentenced Ha to serve 48 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release. In announcing his sentence, Judge Russell noted the level of harm that could be caused by the quantity of firearms and MCDs Ha possessed. Judge Russell also noted Ha’s criminal history. Public record further reflects that Ha has a previous felony conviction in Oklahoma County District Court for possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, possession of a weapon while committing a felony, and possession of stolen property in case number CF-2008-7014.
This case is the result of an investigation by the ATF and OCPD. Assistant U.S. Attorney Drew E. Davis prosecuted the case.
This case is also part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. This case is also part of “Project Switch Off,” the Western District of Oklahoma’s local implementation of PSN. “Project Switch Off” targets illegal machinegun conversion devices to address the significant danger these illegal devices present and to remove them from our streets. For more information about PSN and “Project Switch Off,” please visit https://justice.gov/psn and https://justice.gov/usao-wdok.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Oklahoma City Man Sentenced to Serve Six Years in Federal Prison after Domestic Violence Call Leads to Illegal Firearm and Ammunition Possession ConvictionRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – TRAYVEON RAMON CALDWELL, 34, of Oklahoma City, has been sentenced to serve 72 months in federal prison for illegal possession of ammunition and a firearm after a previous felony conviction, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
On July 2, 2024, a federal Grand Jury returned a three-count Indictment against Caldwell, charging him with two counts of being a felon in possession of ammunition and one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. According to public record, on August 28, 2023, officers with the Oklahoma City Police Department responded to Caldwell’s home on a reported domestic violence incident. The victim told OCPD Caldwell threatened to kill her, attempted to choke her, struck her head, and fired a gun near her head inside the home. Officers searched the home, found a spent shell casing on Caldwell’s bed, and arrested Caldwell on domestic abuse allegations. That same day, OCPD executed a search warrant on Caldwell’s home following two controlled purchases of crack cocaine from the house. During the search, OCPD seized a handgun and several live rounds of ammunition.
On December 12, 2024, Caldwell pleaded guilty to the Indictment, and admitted he possessed a firearm, spent shell casing, and other live rounds of ammunition despite his previous felony convictions.
At the sentencing hearing on April 23, 2025, U.S. District Judge Scott L. Palk sentenced Caldwell to serve 72 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release. In announcing the sentence, the Court noted the violent circumstances surrounding the offense and Caldwell’s criminal history. Public record reflects that Caldwell has felony convictions in Oklahoma County District Court for possession of crack cocaine with intent to distribute, possession of drug proceeds, and possession of an offensive weapon while committing a felony in case number CF-2011-331, and possession of a controlled dangerous substance in case number CF-2012-4320.
This case is the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and OCPD. Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel Gridley prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a Department of Justice program to reduce violent crime. In October 2017, the Department announced the reinvigoration of PSN and directed U.S. Attorney’s Offices to develop crime-reduction strategies that incorporate lessons federal law enforcement have learned since the program’s launch in 2001. This case is also part of “Operation 922,” the Western District of Oklahoma’s implementation of PSN, which prioritizes prosecution of federal crimes connected to domestic violence. For more information about PSN, please visit https://justice.gov/psn and https://justice.gov/usao-wdok.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Federal Jury Convicts Five in Drug Trafficking Conspiracy that Used Semi-Trucks to Transport Liquid Meth from Mexico to OklahomaRead the Press Release
18 Now Convicted as Part of Drug Trafficking Organization Responsible for Approximately 16,000 Kilos of Methamphetamine with Estimated Street Value of $64,000,000
OKLAHOMA CITY – A federal jury has convicted JUAN HERNANDEZ, 49, a Mexican-national living in Oklahoma City, JESSICA MUNIZ, 32, of Oklahoma City, and DENIS LEAL GUTIERREZ, 59, CESAR AZAMAR, 52, and ADRIAN NARVAEZ, 58, of Texas, for their roles in a drug trafficking organization (DTO) that specialized in transporting liquid methamphetamine by semi-truck from Mexico, through Texas, to Oklahoma City, and laundering the subsequent drug proceeds, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
“Coordinating their drug trafficking scheme across international borders and state lines, these defendants flooded our state with methamphetamine worth millions of dollars,” said U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester. “I praise the exceptional work of the federal and state law enforcement, and the federal prosecutors, for untangling and disrupting this major drug operation and for stopping its flow of lethal drugs into our communities.”
“This multi-year collaboration among the FBI, DEA, IRS, Oklahoma City Police Department, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office has effectively dismantled a major drug trafficking organization that had been poisoning our community with deadly narcotics for years,” said FBI Oklahoma City Special Agent in Charge Doug Goodwater. “Together, we will continue to ensure those who participate in these dangerous criminal networks face the full weight of the American justice system.”
On December 17, 2024, a federal Grand Jury returned a 16-count Second Superseding Indictment, charging the defendants for their respective roles in the DTO. The Second Superseding Indictment charged Gutierrez, Azamar, and Narvaez with drug conspiracy, Muniz with money laundering conspiracy, two counts of domestic money laundering, and five counts of international money laundering, and Hernandez with money laundering conspiracy, three counts of domestic money laundering, and three counts of international money laundering.
On April 18, 2025, following a nine-day trial, a federal jury convicted the defendants on all counts.
According to evidence presented at trial, the defendants and other co-conspirators worked with high-ranking members of a Mexico-based DTO to import liquid methamphetamine into the U.S. hidden in the gas tanks of semi-trucks. Gutierrez’s trucking company, DGC Express Co., had been responsible for transporting shipments of liquid methamphetamine to Oklahoma as far back as February 2021. Another trucking company owned by Gutierrez, Dare Express Co., assumed responsibility for transporting the liquid methamphetamine to Oklahoma and Georgia starting in at least May of 2023. Evidence at trial further showed that Azamar was responsible for facilitating the transfer of the liquid methamphetamine from the Mexico-based semi-truck into the Dare Express semi-truck, which first occurred at a property rented by Gutierrez in Alamo, Texas, and later at the main business location of Dare Express in Edinburg, Texas. The Dare Express semi-truck used throughout 2023 to deliver liquid methamphetamine to Oklahoma and Georgia was registered under Narvaez’s name, and both Gutierrez and Narvaez instructed the truck drivers to deliver this liquid methamphetamine to Oklahoma and elsewhere.
At trial, evidence also established that law enforcement seized significant amounts of methamphetamine during the investigation, including:
- 907 kilograms on March 3, 2021, in Tecumseh, Oklahoma;
- 92 kilograms on September 6, 2023, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma;
- 615 kilograms on December 8, 2023, in Wellston, Oklahoma;
- 42 kilograms on April 1, 2024, in Tecumseh, Oklahoma; and
- 86 kilograms on April 2, 2024, in Newalla, Oklahoma.
There was also evidence presented at trial about the DTO’s money laundering activities. A high-ranking member of this DTO in Mexico directed family members in Oklahoma, specifically his brother, Hernandez, and his niece, Muniz, to launder drug proceeds on his behalf. Testimony and other evidence, including court documents, CashApp records, international wire remitter service records, and records from the Federal Bureau of Prisons and Oklahoma Department of Corrections, also established that this DTO supplied Oklahoma prison gangs with methamphetamine, specifically the Irish Mob Gang, the Universal Aryan Brotherhood, and the Sureños. These gang members or their associates then sent payments for methamphetamine disguised as CashApp payments to Hernandez and Muniz, who then wired the money to close associates of the DTO’s head in Mexico.
At sentencing, Gutierrez, Azamar, and Narvaez each face up to life in federal prison and a fine of up to $10,000,000. Following their convictions for money laundering conspiracy, domestic money laundering, and international money laundering, Hernandez and Muniz face up to 20 years in federal prison and fines of up to $500,000 per charge.
As part of the overall investigation and prosecution of this DTO, two additional defendants have previously been sentenced and 11 additional codefendants have already pleaded guilty for their roles in the conspiracy. In total, law enforcement has attributed responsibility to this DTO for bringing approximately 16,000 kilograms of methamphetamine into the U.S. from Mexico at an estimated street value of $64,000,000.
In November 2024:
- EVER ALONSO PANDO, 47, of Oklahoma City, was sentenced to serve 96 months in federal prison, and three years of supervised release, for two counts of maintaining a drug-involved premises, and
- HECTOR REYES, 43, of Oklahoma City, was sentenced to serve 90 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, for possessing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine with intent to distribute.
The remaining defendants have pleaded guilty as follows:
- ADAN GARCIA MIRANDA, 29, of Texas, pleaded guilty to conspiring to possess 50 grams or more of methamphetamine with intent to distribute. At sentencing, Miranda faces up to 40 years in prison, and a fine of up to $5,000,000;
- JORGE RAUL VEGA GARCIA, 30, of Mexico, pleaded guilty to possession of 500 grams or more of methamphetamine with intent to distribute. At sentencing, Garcia faces up to life in federal prison, and a fine of up to $10,000,000;
- LUIS ALBERTO ROJAS PRECIADO, 28, of Illinois, pleaded guilty to conspiring to possess 500 grams or more of methamphetamine with intent to distribute. At sentencing, Preciado faces up to life in federal prison, and a fine of up to $10,000,000;
- JOSE ALFREDO EQUIHUA, 39, of Mexico, pleaded guilty to conspiring to possess 500 grams or more of methamphetamine with intent to distribute. At sentencing, Equihua faces up to life in federal prison, and a fine of up to $10,000,000;
- EDGAR RODRIGUEZ ONTIVEROS, 32, of Mexico, pleaded guilty to conspiring to possess 500 grams or more of methamphetamine with intent to distribute. At sentencing, Ontiveros faces up to life in federal prison, and a fine of up to $10,000,000;
- ADRIAN PEREZ, 39, of Oklahoma City, pleaded guilty to conspiring to possess 500 grams or more of methamphetamine with intent to distribute and being a felon in possession of a firearm. Public record shows that Perez has previous felony convictions that include being a felon in possession of a firearm in Oklahoma County District Court case number CF-2022-4831 and using a vehicle to facilitate the intentional discharge of a firearm in Oklahoma County District Court case number CF-2003-1656. At sentencing, Perez faces up to life in federal prison, and a fine of up to $10,250,000;
- PHILLIP RAY HOWARD, 53, of Newalla, Oklahoma, pleaded guilty to conspiring to possess 50 grams or more of methamphetamine with intent to distribute and being a felon in possession of a firearm. Public record shows that Howard has previous felony convictions that include possession of cocaine with intent to distribute in Oklahoma County District Court case number CF-2005-878. At sentencing, Howard faces up to 40 years in prison for the conspiracy charge, 15 years in prison for the firearm possession charge, and fines of up to $5,250,000;
- RAY DAVID LARA, JR., 44, of Oklahoma City, pleaded guilty to possession of 500 grams or more of methamphetamine with intent to distribute. At sentencing, Perez faces up to life in federal prison and a fine of up to $10,250,000;
- HERIBERTO DONAN OCHOA, 33, of Mexico, pleaded guilty to possession of 500 grams or more of methamphetamine with intent to distribute. At sentencing, Ochoa faces up to life in federal prison, and a fine of up to $10,000,000;
- BRAULIO PADILLA, 50, of Oklahoma City, pleaded guilty to conspiring to possess 500 grams or more of methamphetamine with intent to distribute and being a felon in possession of a firearm. Public record reflects that Howard has several felony convictions, including for possession of a controlled dangerous substance in the presence of a child under 12 and possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute in Oklahoma County District Court case numbers CF-2010-4880 and CF-2019-155, respectively. At sentencing, Padilla faces up to life in federal prison, and a fine of up to $10,250,000; and
- MICHAEL J. ESTRADA, 36, of Chicago, pleaded guilty to possession of 500 grams or more of methamphetamine with intent to distribute. At sentencing, Estrada faces up to life in federal prison, and a fine of up to $10,000,000.
This case is the result of an investigation by the FBI Oklahoma City Field Office, with assistance from the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation, and the Oklahoma City Police Department. This case is also 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. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Lawton-Area Trio Sentenced to Serve More Than 12 Years Collectively in Federal Prison for Health Care FraudRead the Press Release
Defendants Ordered to Pay Nearly $2.7 Million in Restitution Collectively
OKLAHOMA CITY – JIMMIE MATHEWS, 41, NATHAN MATHEWS, 42, and AMBER DELGER, 55, all of the Lawton area, have been sentenced for their roles in a conspiracy to commit health care fraud, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
The defendants were each charged in May 2024, with Delger being charged by Information with conspiring to commit health care fraud, and both Jimmie and Nathan charged by a 16-count federal grand jury Indictment with conspiring to commit health care fraud and fifteen counts of health care fraud. Beginning in 2016, Nathan owned Emerald Lane Therapy Services (Emerald Lane) in Lawton, a massage therapy provider. Delger was a subsequent co-owner of the company. Nathan and Jimmie also owned a separate massage therapy provider, Stars & Stripes Therapy (Stars & Stripes), which opened its doors in Lawton in January 2020. Both businesses purportedly treated TRICARE beneficiaries, submitted claims to the Defense Health Agency (DHA), and received payments from DHA for those services.
According to public record, beginning in January 2018, the defendants conspired together to submit false and fraudulent claims to TRICARE for services that were never rendered. Court documents allege that after TRICARE beneficiaries visited either of the businesses, the defendants would schedule multiple appointments for the beneficiaries many months in advance. If the beneficiary couldn’t make the appointments, or stopped coming altogether, the defendants would nonetheless continue to bill TRICARE as if the beneficiaries had received care. Additionally, Emerald Lane billed TRICARE using the National Provider Identity (NPI) number of an occupational therapist long after the therapist had stopped working for the business. In total, Emerald Lane and Stars & Stripes billed more than $7 million to TRICARE and received nearly $3 million in reimbursement.
In October 2024, Jimmie and Nathan pleaded guilty to conspiring to commit health care fraud. Previously, on June 17, 2024, Delger pleaded guilty to the same.
“Through their fraudulent conduct, these defendants exploited programs intended to provide critical benefits to our nation’s military, veterans, and their families” said U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester. “Through vigorous investigation and prosecution, we will continue to protect taxpayer funded institutions and ensure that TRICARE dollars are protected and properly allocated to help those who serve.”
“The Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS) is committed to ensuring TRICARE, the U.S. Military healthcare program, is not subjected to fraudulent schemes that expose beneficiaries to harm and waste valuable tax dollars,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Chad Gosch of the Department of Defense Office of Inspector General, DCIS Southwest Field Office. “These sentencings demonstrate our tireless pursuit to investigate individuals that seek to enrich themselves at the expense of this valuable program.”
Last week, U.S. District Judge Jodi W. Dishman sentenced both Nathan and Jimmie. Nathan was sentenced to serve 87 months in federal prison, followed by two years of supervised release, and ordered to pay $1,410,255.66 in restitution. Jimmie was sentenced to serve 42 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay $632,026.43 in restitution. Delger was previously sentenced on January 31, 2025, to serve 26 months in federal prison, followed by two years of supervised release, and ordered to pay $653,269.00. In announcing the sentences, Judge Dishman described the fraud scheme as egregious and far reaching in its scope, duration, and impact. Judge Dishman further noted that the public needs to know that health care fraud is not acceptable, will not be tolerated, and will result in prosecution and punishment.
This case is the result of an investigation by the Defense Criminal Investigative Service of the United States Department of Defense. Assistant U.S. Attorney D.H. Dilbeck prosecuted the case.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Garvin County Woman Sentenced to Serve 15 Years in Federal Prison for Sexually Assaulting Child in Indian CountryRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – AMANDA STOWERS, 40, of Garvin County, has been sentenced to serve 180 months in federal prison for sexually abusing a minor, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
On May 4, 2021, a federal Grand Jury returned a three-count Indictment against Stowers, charging her with three counts of sexual abuse of a minor. According to public record, in April of 2020, officers with the Stratford Police Department began investigating a possible sexual assault involving a minor victim. The investigation, conducted by the FBI and Stratford Police Department, determined that Stowers had sexually assaulted the victim between April 20, 2017, and April 19, 2020.
This case is in federal court because the victim is a member of the Chickasaw Nation and the crimes took place within the boundaries of the Chickasaw Nation.
On September 10, 2024, Stowers pleaded guilty, and admitted she sexually assaulted the minor victim between the dates referenced.
At the sentencing hearing on April 15, 2025, U.S. District Judge Jodi W. Dishman sentenced Stowers to serve 180 months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release. In announcing the sentence, Judge Dishman noted that the lengthy term of incarceration was warranted due to the serious nature of the offense.
This case is the result of an investigation by the FBI Oklahoma City Field Office and the Stratford Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Arvo Mikkanen prosecuted the case.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Afghan National Pleads Guilty to Obtaining Firearms in Connection with Plot to Conduct ISIS-Inspired Election Day Terrorist AttackRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – Abdullah Haji Zada, 18, a native and citizen of Afghanistan and U.S. lawful permanent resident, pleaded guilty today to a criminal information charging him with knowingly receiving, attempting to receive, and conspiring to receive a firearm and ammunition to be used to commit a federal crime of terrorism.
According to court documents, Zada and a co-conspirator received two AK-47-style rifles and 500 rounds of ammunition, knowing that the firearms and ammunition would be used in connection with a terrorist attack on Election Day in November 2024 on behalf the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham (ISIS), a designated foreign terrorist organization. Zada was arrested with co-conspirator Nasir Ahmad Tawhedi, 27, also a citizen of Afghanistan, in October 2024.
Zada, who was 17 at the time of his arrest, entered his guilty plea as an adult and will be sentenced as an adult. At sentencing, Zada faces up to 15 years in federal prison and a $250,000 fine.
As part of the plea agreement, Zada stipulated to the entry of a judicial order of removal from the United States to Afghanistan following his term of incarceration. Zada acknowledged that the order of removal would terminate his lawful permanent resident status. Zada also waived his right to appeal the conviction except in limited circumstances or seek any form of appeal or relief from his removal and deportation, including but not limited to, seeking asylum.
Tawhedi is currently awaiting trial for conspiring and attempting to provide material support to ISIS, which carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, and receiving, attempting to receive, or conspiring to receive a firearm to be used to commit a felony or a federal crime of terrorism, which carries a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison, if convicted. An indictment is merely an allegation and Tawhedi is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Sue J. Bai, head of the Justice Department’s National Security Division, U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester for the Western District of Oklahoma, and Assistant Director David J. Scott of the FBI's Counterterrorism Division made the announcement
The FBI Oklahoma City Field Office’s Joint Terrorism Task Force, which includes Homeland Security Investigations, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, U.S. Marshals Service, Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation, the Edmond Police Department, the Moore Police Department, the Oklahoma City Police Department, the Oklahoma City Community College Police Department, and the Oklahoma City University Police Department, is investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jessica L. Perry and Matt Dillon for the Western District of Oklahoma, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Everett McMillian and Trial Attorney Jennifer Levy of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section are prosecuting the case.
Afghan National Pleads Guilty to Obtaining Firearms in Connection with Plot to Conduct ISIS-Inspired Election Day Terrorist AttackRead the Press Release
Abdullah Haji Zada, 18, a native and citizen of Afghanistan and U.S. lawful permanent resident, pleaded guilty today to a criminal information charging him with knowingly receiving, attempting to receive, and conspiring to receive a firearm and ammunition to be used to commit a federal crime of terrorism.
According to court documents, Zada and a co-conspirator received two AK-47-style rifles and 500 rounds of ammunition, knowing that the firearms and ammunition would be used in connection with a terrorist attack on Election Day in November 2024 on behalf the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham (ISIS), a designated foreign terrorist organization. Zada was arrested with co-conspirator Nasir Ahmad Tawhedi, 27, also a citizen of Afghanistan, in October 2024.
Zada, who was 17 at the time of his arrest, entered his guilty plea as an adult and will be sentenced as an adult. At sentencing, Zada faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in federal prison and a $250,000 fine.
As part of the plea agreement, Zada stipulated to the entry of a judicial order of removal from the United States to Afghanistan following his term of incarceration. Zada acknowledged that the order of removal would terminate his lawful permanent resident status. Zada also waived his right to appeal the conviction except in limited circumstances or seek any form of appeal or relief from his removal and deportation, including but not limited to, seeking asylum.
Tawhedi is currently awaiting trial for conspiring and attempting to provide material support to ISIS, which carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, and receiving, attempting to receive, or conspiring to receive a firearm to be used to commit a felony or a federal crime of terrorism, which carries a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison, if convicted. An indictment is merely an allegation and Tawhedi is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Sue J. Bai, head of the Justice Department’s National Security Division, U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester for the Western District of Oklahoma, and Assistant Director David J. Scott of the FBI’s Counterterrorism Division made the announcement.
The FBI Oklahoma City Field Office’s Joint Terrorism Task Force, which includes Homeland Security Investigations, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, U.S. Marshals Service, Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation, the Edmond Police Department, the Moore Police Department, the Oklahoma City Police Department, the Oklahoma City Community College Police Department, and the Oklahoma City University Police Department, is investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jessica L. Perry and Matt Dillon for the Western District of Oklahoma, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Everett McMillian and Trial Attorney Jennifer Levy of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section are prosecuting the case.
Oklahoma City Trio Pleads Guilty to Conspiring to Commit Child Sex Trafficking and Witness TamperingRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – ANTWON MONTRELL JACKSON, 43, and SARAH LARAYNA HOLLAND, 39, both of Oklahoma City, have pleaded guilty to conspiring to commit child sex trafficking, and SHANIKKA NICOLE JACKSON, 46, of Las Vegas, Nevada, has pleaded guilty to witness tampering, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
On February 20, 2025, a federal Grand Jury charged Antwon Jackson and Holland by Second Superseding Indictment with conspiracy to commit child sex trafficking and child sex trafficking. According to the public record, in July 2024, Antwon Jackson was Holland’s pimp, and the two worked together to set up commercial sex acts for both Holland and a minor female, using online advertisements to attract customers. Between July 20, 2024, and July 25, 2024, Holland and the minor engaged in commercial sex dates in multiple cities in the Western District of Oklahoma. Customers would pay for the sex act utilizing CashApp, and the majority of the money went to Antwon Jackson.
On April 4, 2025, Shanikka Jackson, Antwon Jackson’s sister, was charged by Superseding Information with witness tampering. According to public record, between September 17, 2024, and December 5, 2024, Shanikka Jackson attempted to influence the minor to prevent her from testifying in the pending federal trial of Antwon Jackson.
Last week, Antwon Jackson and Holland pleaded guilty to Count 1 of the Second Superseding Indictment, and admitted they conspired to sex traffic a minor, set up commercial sex dates for the minor, benefited financially from those dates, and that they knew when they trafficked the minor, she was under 18 years old. Holland admitted she posted the online ads and transported the minor to commercial sex dates. Antwon Jackson admitted he directed Holland to post the ads and communicated with potential customers who had responded to the ads for the minor in an effort to set up dates.
Today, Shanikka Jackson pleaded guilty to the Superseding Information, and admitted she attempted to pass a message from Antwon Jackson to the victim, to try and influence the victim not to testify against her brother.
At sentencing, both Antwon Jackson and Holland face up to life in federal prison and fines of up to $250,000 each. Shanikka Jackson faces up to three years in federal prison, and a fine of up to $250,000.
This case is the result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, the Warr Acres Police Department, and the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Bow Bottomly and Elizabeth Joynes are prosecuting the case.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Oklahoma City Man Sentenced to Serve More Than Seven Years in Federal Prison for Mail Theft and Witness TamperingRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – DONALD EUGENE COOKS, 50, of Oklahoma City, has been sentenced to serve 92 months in federal prison for conspiracy to commit mail theft, possession of stolen mail, and witness tampering, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
On October 3, 2023, a federal Grand Jury returned a four-count Second Superseding Indictment against Cooks, charging him with conspiracy to commit mail theft, two counts of being in possession of stolen mail, and witness tampering. On March 28, 2024, after a three-day trial, a federal jury found Cooks guilty on all counts.
According to evidence presented at trial, in July of 2022, Cooks and co-defendant IRVIN HERBERT SAWYER, 41, of Norman, conspired together to steal mail from an Oklahoma City Post Office. At the time, Sawyer was employed as a rural carrier associate and knew the access code to enter the Post Office, which he shared with Cooks. The jury heard testimony that on July 19, 2022, on at least two occasions, Cooks entered the Post Office after hours using the code given by Sawyer. On the first occasion he successfully stole mail, which he took back to his motel room. Returning for more, Cooks and another person attempted to steal a large amount of mail, which they loaded into the bed of Cooks’ truck. However, while still loading the mail, the alarm was tripped and the Oklahoma City Police arrived before the mail could be taken from the parking lot. Cooks fled the scene but was soon detained and arrested. The investigation quickly led to Cooks’ motel, where Oklahoma City Police found several items of stolen mail in his room and empty mail packaging in the dumpster. The jury heard further testimony that in July of 2023, while in jail, Cooks had a message passed to a government witness attempting to intimidate the witness and keep them from testifying at his trial. On July 18, 2023, Sawyer pleaded guilty to conspiring with Cooks to commit mail theft.
At the sentencing hearing on March 26, 2025, Chief U.S. District Judge Timothy D. DeGiusti sentenced Cooks to serve 92 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release. Sawyer was sentenced to 36 months of probation on April 15, 2024. In announcing the sentences, Judge DeGiusti noted the need to deter future criminal conduct and to protect the public. As to Cooks’ sentence, in particular, Judge DeGiusti noted that the sentence was warranted by Cooks’ continued criminal activity while in custody, as well as the fact that Cooks has a long history of serious criminal conduct.
Public record reflects that Cooks has previous felony convictions that include:
- possession of a stolen vehicle in Oklahoma County District Court case number CF-1992-4493;
- bail jumping in Oklahoma County District Court case number CF-1992-5649;
- concealing stolen property and second-degree forgery in Oklahoma County District Court case number CF-1994-2676;
- second-degree burglary in Oklahoma County District Court case number CF-2000-5249;
- escape from penal institution in Okfuskee County District Court case number CF-1996-84; and
- escape from the Department of Corrections in Comanche County District Court case number CF-1997-108.
This case is the result of an investigation by the United States Postal Inspection Service and the Oklahoma City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Bow Bottomly and Charles Brown prosecuted the case.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
North Carolina Man Sentenced to Serve Seven Years in Federal Prison after Police Find Meth and Cocaine Worth More Than $350,000 Disguised as "Christmas Presents" in VehicleRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – JOHN CALVIN MOORE, 58, of North Carolina, has been sentenced to serve 84 months in federal prison for possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute and illegal possession of a firearm after a previous felony conviction, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
According to public record, on December 22, 2023, Moore was pulled over by an officer with the Oklahoma City Police Department (OCPD) for speeding while driving eastbound on I-40. During the stop, the officer noticed what appeared to be several gift-wrapped Christmas presents in the trunk of the vehicle. Moore told the officer he was traveling to North Carolina from California. During the stop, OCPD learned Moore’s vehicle was a rental, and was due to be returned to Ontario, California, on December 23, 2023, the day following the stop. OCPD called in a K-9 unit, which alerted to the presence of drugs in the vehicle. OCPD officers then searched the vehicle and found more than 42 pounds of methamphetamine and more than 38 pounds of cocaine inside heat-sealed bags, hidden within the Christmas presents in the trunk. Law enforcement estimates the street value of the drugs to be more than $350,000.
Moore was charged by Superseding Information on August 30, 2024, with possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute and being a felon in possession of a firearm. He pled guilty to the Superseding Information on September 26, 2024, and admitted he possessed meth, which he intended to distribute, and that he possessed a firearm despite his previous felony conviction. Public record reflects that Moore has a previous felony conviction in New Jersey for possessing weapons for an unlawful purpose.
At the sentencing hearing on March 28, 2025, U.S. District Judge Charles Goodwin sentenced Moore to serve 84 months in federal prison, followed by four years of supervised release. In announcing the sentence, the Court noted the seriousness of the crime—that Moore acted as a courier to transport controlled substances across the country—and Moore’s criminal history.
This case is the result of an investigation by the FBI Oklahoma City Field Office, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Criminal Interdiction Team of Central Oklahoma, and the Oklahoma City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Drew E. Davis prosecuted the case.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Illegal Firearm Possession Lands Oklahoma City Man in Federal Prison for Seven YearsRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – DANGELO MAURICE WINDHAM, 26, of Oklahoma City, has been sentenced to serve 84 months in federal prison for possession of a firearm in furtherance of trafficking cocaine base and, separately, illegal possession of a firearm after a previous felony conviction, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
On May 21, 2024, a federal Grand Jury returned a four-count Indictment against Windham, charging him with possession of cocaine base with intent to distribute, two counts of being a felon in possession of a firearm, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug-trafficking crime, all stemming from two separate contacts with law enforcement in 2023. According to public record, on March 8, 2023, an Oklahoma City Police Department (OCPD) officer attempted to perform a traffic stop on a vehicle after he observed the driver – later identified as Windham – commit a traffic violation. When the officer attempted to stop Windham, he failed to comply, continuing to drive before jumping out and running away. Windham was apprehended after a brief foot pursuit and found to have been transporting a distribution amount of crack cocaine in his vehicle and a firearm in a backpack that he threw as he fled from officers. Later that year, on December 23, 2023, OCPD officers recovered another firearm from Windham during a subsequent traffic stop.
On October 7, 2024, Windham pleaded guilty, and admitted he possessed a firearm in furtherance of a drug-trafficking offense and that on another occasion he possessed a firearm despite his status as a convicted felon.
At the sentencing hearing on March 25, 2025, U.S. District Judge Patrick R. Wyrick sentenced Windham to serve 84 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release. In announcing the sentence, the Court noted the need to deter further criminal conduct, promote respect for the law, and Windham’s history and characteristics, including his repeated acquisition of firearms despite his felony conviction and prior prosecutions. Public record reflects that Windham was previously convicted in Oklahoma County District Court of attempted third-degree burglary in case number CF-2019-1635.
This case is the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and OCPD. Assistant U.S. Attorney Danielle M. Connolly prosecuted the case.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Four Oklahoma City Men Plead Guilty to Maiming in Aid of RacketeeringRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – ADAM ROUSE, 32, BRENDAN SHANE HOLDER, 32, DAMION BLAIR BRADLEY GEORGE, 30, and KRISTOPHER HAUSER, 32, all of Oklahoma City, have pleaded guilty to maiming in aid of racketeering, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
On November 19, 2024, a federal Grand Jury returned a two-count Indictment against the defendants, charging them with maiming in aid of the racketeering activities of the Irish Mob Gang. According to the Indictment, the Irish Mob Gang is an enterprise engaged in, among other things, the distribution of controlled substances, firearms trafficking, and acts of violence. To further these day-to-day operations, the Irish Mob Gang depended on a robust enforcement group to ensure compliance with the organization’s orders, which included directing and permitting other members and associates to carry out acts in furtherance of the enterprise.
Specially, the Indictment alleges that, for purposes of gaining entrance to and maintaining and increasing their position within the Irish Mob Gang, Rouse and Holder severed a victim’s right pinkie finger with a hatchet, while Holder, George, and Hauser all participated in the burning of a gang tattoo off the back of a victim’s head with a heated machete.
As of April 1, 2025, each defendant has pleaded guilty to maiming in aid of racketeering. At sentencing, the defendants each face up to 30 years in federal prison and fines of up to $250,000.
This case is the result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations and the Norman Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Stephen Hoch and David McCrary are prosecuting the case.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Illegal Possession and Firearms Sales Land Oklahoma City Men in Federal Prison for More Than 19 Years CollectivelyRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – AUSTIN GAGE OSBORN, 24, of Oklahoma City, has been sentenced to serve 68 months in federal prison for engaging in the business of dealing firearms without a license and being a drug user in possession of firearms, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
According to public record, beginning in July 2024, undercover agents with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) began purchasing firearms from Osborn and codefendant JOSE ADRIAN HERMOSILLO, 22, of Oklahoma City. Agents identified Hermosillo as a convicted felon who was prohibited from possessing firearms. Between July 17, 2024, and August 9, 2024, ATF agents met with Osborn and Hermosillo on several occasions purchasing approximately 20 firearms. In one specific transaction on July 29, 2024, undercover agents told Osborn and Hermosillo that the guns the agents were purchasing would be transported out of the United States and into Mexico. Despite having reason to believe that the firearms would be trafficked across the border, Osborn and Hermosillo continued to sell firearms to undercover agents for profit, without a federal firearms license, in violation of federal law.
On November 26, 2024, Osborn was charged by Superseding Information with engaging in the business of dealing firearms without a license and with being a drug user in possession of firearms. On December 5, 2024, Osborn pleaded guilty to the Superseding Information, and admitted he possessed 19 firearms while being a regular user of marijuana, and that he was illegally dealing firearms as a business without a license to do so. At the sentencing hearing on March 26, 2025, U.S. District Judge Scott L. Palk sentenced Osborn to serve 68 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release.
Hermosillo pleaded guilty on November 26, 2024, to trafficking firearms, and admitted he willingly transferred firearms to another person with reasonable cause to believe that the use, carrying, or possession of the firearms by the recipient would constitute a felony. Hermosillo was sentenced on March 24, 2025, to serve 168 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release.
In announcing the sentences for Osborn and Hermosillo, Judge Palk noted the seriousness of these offenses, the need for the sentences to deter others in the public who may consider engaging in similar behavior, and the history and characteristics of the defendants. Public record further reflects that Hermosillo has previous felony convictions in Oklahoma County that include attempted burglary in case number CF-2021-2066 and possession of a firearm after juvenile adjudication in case number CF-2022-3560.
This case is the result of an investigation by the ATF and the Oklahoma City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Drew E. Davis and Mary E. Walters prosecuted the case.
This case is also part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a Department of Justice program to reduce violent crime. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit https://justice.gov/psn and https://justice.gov/usao-wdok.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Two Woodward County Residents Resolve Allegations of Submitting a False Claim for COVID Funded Emergency Rental Assistance to the Cheyenne and Arapaho Housing AuthorityRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – BREANNA PARADA and MONICA MONTES of Woodward, Oklahoma, have agreed to resolutions to resolve civil claims stemming from allegations that Parada submitted a false claim for COVID funded Emergency Rental Assistance to the Cheyenne and Arapaho Housing Authority, announced United States Attorney Robert J. Troester.
In a Consent Judgment entered by the United States District Court for the Western District of Oklahoma (United States v. Parada, Case No. CIV-25-00136-JD), Parada admitted that she submitted an application for COVID funded Emergency Rental Assistance to the Cheyenne and Arapaho Housing Authority in which she falsely represented she was renting a home when she in fact owned it. In support of her application, she submitted a fraudulent lease agreement signed by her and Montes, fraudulent eviction notices related to the same home, and delinquent utility payment notices for the same home. Based on the submission of the false claim, Parada received $5,564.84, and Montes received $200.00, in Emergency Rental Assistance funds to which they were not entitled. To resolve the claims, Parada agreed to the entry of a Consent Judgment against her in the amount of $19,025.00, and Montes settled the claims against her by paying the United States $1,000.00. By entering into a Settlement Agreement, Montes did not admit liability, and the United States did not make any concessions about the legitimacy of the claims.
The Consent Judgment and Settlement Agreement allows the parties to avoid the delay, expense, inconvenience, and uncertainty involved in litigating the case.
Investigative assistance was provided by the U.S. Department of the Treasury, Office of Inspector General, and Office of Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ronald R. Gallegos prosecuted the case.
Justice Department to Surge Resources to Indian Country to Investigate Unresolved Violent CrimesRead the Press Release
Operation Not Forgotten Will Surge 60 FBI Personnel to 10 FBI Field Offices to Support Investigations of Indian Country Violent Crimes
OKLAHOMA CITY – The Justice Department today announced that it will surge FBI assets across the country to address unresolved violent crimes in Indian Country, including crimes relating to missing and murdered indigenous persons.
FBI will send 60 personnel, rotating in 90-day temporary duty assignments over a six-month period. This operation is the longest and most intense national deployment of FBI resources to address Indian Country crime to date. FBI personnel will support field offices in Albuquerque; Denver; Detroit; Jackson, Miss.; Minneapolis; Oklahoma City; Phoenix; Portland, Oreg.; Seattle; and Salt Lake City. The FBI will work in partnership with the Bureau of Indian Affairs and Tribal law enforcement agencies across jurisdictions.
FBI personnel will be assisted by the Bureau of Indian Affairs Missing and Murdered Unit, and they will use the latest forensic evidence processing tools to solve cases and hold perpetrators accountable. U.S. Attorney’s Offices will aggressively prosecute case referrals.
“Crime rates in American Indian and Alaska Native communities are unacceptably high. By surging FBI resources and collaborating closely with US Attorneys and Tribal law enforcement to prosecute cases, the Department of Justice will help deliver the accountability that these communities deserve,” said Attorney General Pam Bondi.
“The FBI will manhunt violent criminals on all lands – and Operation Not Forgotten ensures a surge in resources to locate violent offenders on tribal lands and find those who have gone missing,” said FBI Director Kash Patel.
“Today’s announcement provides necessary additional resources to seek justice for victims of violent crime and families of missing loved ones in Indian Country,” said United States Attorney Robert J. Troester.
“Whether it’s a family mourning a murder victim, or a community searching for a missing friend or neighbor, there have been countless lives touched by violent crime in Indian Country. FBI Oklahoma City is proud to continue our collaboration with our Tribal law enforcement partners, BIA, OSBI, OHP, Tulsa PD, and other state and local agencies, in addition to the US Attorney’s Offices to investigate Indian country matters, and to find sustainable solutions that will improve public safety for our tribal communities.” said FBI Oklahoma City Special Agent in Charge Doug Goodwater.
Indian Country faces persistent levels of crime and victimization. At the beginning of Fiscal Year 2025, FBI’s Indian Country program had approximately 4,300 open investigations, including over 900 death investigations, 1,000 child abuse investigations, and more than 500 domestic violence and adult sexual abuse investigations.
Operation Not Forgotten renews efforts begun during President Trump’s first term under E.O. 13898, Establishing the Task Force on Missing and Murdered American Indians and Alaska Natives. This is the third deployment under Operation Not Forgotten, which has provided investigative support to over 500 cases in the past two years. Combined, these operations resulted in the recovery of 10 child victims, 52 arrests, and 25 indictments or judicial complaints.
Operation Not Forgotten also expands upon the resources deployed in recent years to address cases of missing and murdered indigenous people. The effort will be supported by the Department’s MMIP Regional Outreach Program, which places attorneys and coordinators in U.S. Attorneys’ Offices across the United States to help prevent and respond to cases of missing or murdered indigenous people.
Oklahoma Man Sentenced to Serve 45 Years in Federal Prison for Sexual Exploitation of ChildrenRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – An Oklahoma man was sentenced in a federal court in Midland, Texas, on March 27, 2025, to 540 months in prison for charges related to sexual exploitation of children.
According to court documents, on Jan. 30, 2024, JONATHON CHASE RUSSELL, 36, of Elk City, posted in a messaging app 15 images that depicted two minor females engaging in sexually explicit conduct. The next day, Russell sent three of the images to an undercover federal investigator, stating that the two minors were three and 11 years old. Further investigation led FBI agents to identify Russell’s IP addresses and locate him at a hotel in Midland. On Feb. 8, 2024, agents executed a warrant on his hotel room, where they discovered pairs of children’s underwear and a green tactical backpack that contained sexual devices. Agents also discovered a smartphone, which had been hidden underneath a refrigerator and which forensic examination revealed contained a substantial collection of images depicting sexual abuse of minor children.
The Western District of Texas filed a three-count indictment on Feb. 28, 2024, charging Russell with possession of child pornography, distribution of child pornography, and travel with intent to engage in illicit sexual conduct. Russell was also indicted in the Western District of Oklahoma on April 3, 2024, for one count of production of visual depictions of a minor engaging in sexually explicit conduct. His Oklahoma case was transferred to Midland, and on Aug. 19, 2024, Russell pleaded guilty to the count charged in the Western District of Oklahoma indictment and to all three counts charged in the Western District of Texas via a superseding indictment.
“This defendant’s abhorrent behavior has been put to an end thanks to cooperation between federal prosecutors and law enforcement across the country,” said U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester for the Western District of Oklahoma. “The lengthy sentence imposed is yet another example of the Department’s focus on protecting children and serving justice to those who seek to target the most vulnerable in our communities.”
“The lengthy sentence imposed in this case reflects the immense damage this individual inflicted on multiple children, who will be plagued by these experiences for the rest of their lives,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Margaret Leachman for the Western District of Texas. “Along with our law enforcement partners and, when necessary, across districts, we will continue to hold accountable the predators who harm the lives of children through illicit sexual crimes.”
“The significant sentence imposed on Jonathan Chase Russell sends a clear message that there are serious consequences for those individuals who exploit children. Russell will serve the next 45 years in federal prison for his incomprehensible acts,” said John Morales, FBI El Paso Special Agent in Charge. “We remain committed in working with our law enforcement partners to aggressively pursue those who victimize the most vulnerable members of our society, our children, from infants to toddlers to young children to teenagers, we will hunt you down and serve justice for these horrendous crimes.”
The FBI El Paso and Oklahoma City field offices investigated the case with assistance from the Elk City Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jordan Ganz prosecuted the case for the Western District of Oklahoma, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Heather Haywood prosecuted the case for the Western District of Texas.
This case is part of Project Safe Childhood (PSC), a nationwide initiative by the Department of Justice (DOJ) to combat child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the DOJ Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, PSC marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about PSC, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Oklahoma City Father and Son Sentenced to Serve 14 Years Collectively in Federal Prison for Illegal Firearms PossessionRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – NICOIS MEGALE SMITH, 40, of Oklahoma City, has been sentenced to serve 84 months in federal prison for illegally possessing a firearm after a previous felony conviction, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
On August 16, 2023, a federal grand jury returned a three-count Indictment, charging Nicois with two counts of being a felon in possession of a firearm, and his father, ALBERT SMITH, JR., 62, with one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. On June 10, 2024, Albert pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm in early May 2023, and admitted to possessing a pistol that he had reason to believe had been stolen. Two days later, on June 12, 2024, a federal jury found Nicois guilty on one of his two counts following trial.
Evidence at trial established that on May 21, 2023, officers with the Oklahoma City Police Department were investigating a crime which happened near Nicois’s home. During their investigation, officers searched Nicois’s home pursuant to a search warrant and found a loaded pistol in the bedroom. Evidence presented at trial connected Nicois to that pistol.
Public record reflects that Nicois and Albert both have lengthy criminal records. Nicois has previous convictions in Oklahoma County District Court that include:
- Possession of a controlled dangerous substance with intent to distribute and carrying a weapon in case number CF-2002-4842;
- four counts of burglary and possession of cocaine with intent to distribute in case number CF-2003-3046; and
- felon in possession of a firearm in case number CF-2019-2922.
- Larceny of merchandise from a retailer in case number CF-1995-393;
- assault and battery with a dangerous weapon in case number CF-1999-2290;
- possession of cocaine base in case number CF-2005-107;
- first-degree arson in case number CF-2011-122; and
- assault and battery with a dangerous weapon in case number CF-2014-3866.
Albert has previous felony convictions in Oklahoma County District Court that include:
At the sentencing hearing on March 24, 2025, U.S. District Judge Joe Heaton sentenced Nicois to serve 84 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release. Albert had previously been sentenced on October 31, 2024, to 84 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release. In announcing the sentences, the Court noted Nicois’s and Albert’s extensive criminal history.
This case is the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Oklahoma City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Daniel Gridley, Elizabeth M. Bagwell, and Travis Leverett prosecuted the case.
This case is also part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a Department of Justice program to reduce violent crime. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit https://justice.gov/psn and https://justice.gov/usao-wdok.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Indian-National Sentenced to Serve 35 Years in Federal Prison for Sexually Extorting Minors through Social MediaRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – SAI KUMAR KURREMULA, 31, an Indian-national living in Edmond on an immigrant visa, has been sentenced to serve 420 months in federal prison for sexual exploitation of three children and transportation of child pornography, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
On April 22, 2024, Kurremula was charged by Information with sexual exploitation of children and transportation of child pornography. According to an affidavit filed in support of a criminal complaint, in October 2023, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) began investigating an account on the social media messaging app, Snapchat, involving a user who was sexually exploiting minor girls. The Internet Protocol address used to create the account led federal authorities to Kurremula. Public documents and evidence at the sentencing hearing allege Kurremula had sexually exploited at least 19 minors through Snapchat, often posing as a 13- to 15-year-old boy to gain the trust of his victims. When the victims refused his requests, Kurremula would manipulate, threaten, and extort his victims to produce even more child pornography.
On June 18, 2020, Kurremula pleaded guilty and admitted to sexually exploiting three minor victims and to knowingly transporting images of child pornography. Specifically, Kurremula admitted that, to ensure the minor victims complied, he: threatened Jane Doe #1 that he would drive to her house and show her parents sexually explicit images of her; threatened Jane Doe #2 that he would come to her house and shoot her family; and threatened Jane Doe #3 that he would publicly post sexually explicit images and videos of her.
“The appalling exploitation, manipulation, and coercion of multiple children by this defendant justly warranted the 35-year sentence imposed by the Court,” said United States Attorney Robert J. Troester. “This case serves as a clear warning to others that the strongest of penalties await those who exploit and victimize our children. I applaud the work done by federal prosecutors and law enforcement for stopping Kurremula from harming any other children and holding him accountable.”
“This defendant manipulated children into sending him explicit images for his own perverse gratification. These disgusting actions robbed the victims of their innocence and caused unthinkable harm,” said FBI Oklahoma City Special Agent in Charge Doug Goodwater. “The dedicated men and women of FBI Oklahoma City will relentlessly pursue those who prey upon children in our communities. Thank you to our partners at the US Attorney’s Office for their efforts in holding this defendant accountable. The sentence imposed in this case will serve as a reminder of what is waiting for those who victimize children.”
At the sentencing hearing on March 27, 2025, U.S. District Judge Charles Goodwin sentenced Kurremula to serve 420 months in federal prison, followed by a lifetime term of supervised release. In announcing his sentence, Judge Goodwin noted that these offenses are among those that society considers the most serious because they involve such vulnerable victims. Judge Goodwin further highlighted that Kurremula inflicted trauma on his victims that will echo throughout their lives and their families’ lives, and his lengthy sentence of imprisonment reflects that trauma.
This case is the result of an investigation by the FBI Oklahoma City Field Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth Joynes prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Childhood (PSC), a nationwide initiative by the Department of Justice (DOJ) to combat child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the DOJ Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, PSC marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about PSC, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Federal and State Violent Crime Initiative in Oklahoma City Receives National AwardRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – On March 27, 2025, the National High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA) Program recognized a local joint law enforcement initiative with an award for “Investigation Involving a Violent Organization” at the National HIDTA Awards in Tysons Corner, Virginia.
Last September, federal and local law enforcement combined forces in a two-month targeted initiative called “Operation Sonic Boom,” which was aimed at reducing violent crime in Oklahoma City. The operation resulted in 50 people being charged in federal and state court with various firearms and drug-related offenses. In addition to the arrests, law enforcement recovered from the streets:
- 193 firearms, including:
- 81 Pistols
- 4 Revolvers
- 10 Rifles
- 6 Shotguns
- 9 Machineguns, and
- 83 Machinegun conversion devices (MCDs), including 30 partially completed MCDs
- Two 3-D printers (used to print MCDs)
- More than 63 kilograms of drugs, with an approximate street value of almost $750,000, including:
- 53 kilograms of methamphetamine
- 1.5 kilograms of fentanyl
- 5.2 kilograms of cocaine, and
- 3.8 kilograms of marijuana
Operation Sonic Boom was led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Oklahoma and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Other critical partners included the U.S. Marshals Service, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Oklahoma County District Attorney’s Office, the Oklahoma City Police Department, the Oklahoma Department of Public Safety, the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotic and Dangerous Drugs, and the Texoma HIDTA.
“National recognition of this important initiative is yet another example of our commitment to promote public safety in the Western District of Oklahoma, and the ongoing, collaborative efforts by federal and state prosecutors and law enforcement at every level,” said United States Attorney Robert J. Troester. “The success of Operation Sonic Boom is the result of the dedicated and coordinated efforts of federal, state, and local law enforcement to reducing violent crime in Oklahoma.”
“I could not be prouder of the men and women who participated in Operation Sonic Boom for winning this prestigious National HIDTA Award. However, as they would each tell you, they did not do this for recognition or honors; they did it to help keep Oklahoma safer from violent criminals plaguing our streets,” said ATF Dallas Special Agent in Charge Jeffrey C. Boshek II. “As I said in September, ATF, the United States Attorney’s Office, and HIDTA have doubled down in Oklahoma City. This award is merely the beginning of the work that is yet to be done. Bandits and gangsters beware; we are still here!”
“The High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas program exists to build law enforcement partnerships and provide critical funding for important public safety efforts, and the successful outcome of Operation Sonic Boom is a clear example of the value of HIDTA,” said Keith Brown, Executive Director of the Texoma HIDTA. “I am proud the Office of National Drug Control Policy is recognizing the incredible efforts of the ATF agents and other law enforcement personnel involved in Operation Sonic Boom.”
Operation Sonic Boom was funded by the Texoma HIDTA, which is made up of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies in North Texas and Oklahoma. HIDTA fosters and supports intra-agency cooperation strategies to target the region's drug-related and violent crime threats to public safety by using funding provided by the Office of National Drug Control Policy, out of the Executive Office of the President of the United States.
- 193 firearms, including:
Federal Inmate Sentenced to Serve 15 Years in Federal Prison for Assault with Prohibited ObjectRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – JERRY EARNEST BALLARD, 41, of South Carolina, has been sentenced to serve 180 months in federal prison for committing assault with a dangerous weapon and possession of a prohibited object at the Federal Bureau of Prisons’ Federal Transfer Center (FTC) in Oklahoma City, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
On February 20, 2024, a federal Grand Jury returned a two-count Indictment against Ballard, charging him with assault with a dangerous weapon and possession of a prohibited object. According to public record, on August 10, 2023, Ballard—an inmate at the FTC serving a 336-month federal sentence for four counts of robbery affecting interstate commerce and one count of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence and drug trafficking offense—assaulted another inmate with a sharpened object—a shank. The victim sustained injuries but recovered.
On July 17, 2024, Ballard pleaded guilty, and admitted he assaulted another inmate at the FTC with a prohibited object.
At the sentencing hearing on March 21, 2025, U.S. District Judge Scott L. Palk sentenced Ballard to serve 180 months in federal prison, to run consecutive to his existing sentence. In announcing his sentence, Judge Palk noted Ballard’s history of assaultive behavior and the need for just punishment.
This case is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Prisons’ Special Investigative Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tiffany Edgmon prosecuted the case.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Road Rage Shooting Lands Oklahoma County Man in Federal Prison for More Than Seven Years for Illegal Firearm PossessionRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – JESUS FLORES, 42, of Oklahoma County, has been sentenced to serve 92 months in federal prison for illegal possession of a firearm after a previous felony conviction, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
According to public record, on May 30, 2024, officers with the Oklahoma City Police Department responded to a reported assault. Officers learned a driver, later identified as Flores, had been cut off on the highway while driving. Flores chased down the car that cut him off and shot the driver in the head, though the victim recovered from their injuries. Officers later recovered two firearms in Flores’s child’s diaper bag. On September 5, 2024, a federal Grand Jury charged Flores with being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Public record further reflects that Flores has a lengthy criminal history, with previous felony charges in the California Superior Court that include carrying a concealed weapon in a vehicle, being a felon in possession of a firearm, and inflicting corporal injury on an intimate partner.
On December 17, 2024, Flores pleaded guilty and admitted he knowingly possessed two firearms despite his criminal record.
At the sentencing hearing on March 17, 2025, U.S. District Judge David L. Russell sentenced Flores to serve 92 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release. In announcing his sentence, Judge Russell noted the need to protect the public from further crimes by Flores.
This case is the result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations and the Oklahoma City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jacquelyn M. Hutzell prosecuted the case.
This case is part of “Operation 922” and Operation “Shots Fired,” the Western District of Oklahoma’s implementation of Project Safe Neighborhoods, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. “Operation 922” prioritizes prosecution of federal firearms violations connected to domestic violence. “Shots Fired” targets cases involving individuals who discharge firearms as part of their criminal activity, such as drive-by shootings or when shots are fired during robberies, domestic disputes, or other incidents. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit https://justice.gov/psn and https://justice.gov/usao-wdok.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Norman Man Sentenced to Serve 18 Months in Federal Prison after Tossing Molotov Cocktail at Norman BusinessRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – Today, TIM RIXT BRENS, 31, of Norman, was sentenced to serve 18 months in federal prison for possession of an illegal Molotov cocktail, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
On October 1, 2024, a federal Grand Jury charged Brens with possession of an unregistered destructive device, a Molotov cocktail. According to public record, on May 16, 2024, a crew with the Norman Fire Department (NFD) responded to a reported grass fire in the city. On scene, NFD observed a grass fire that had partially burned a building belonging to a towing and recovery business. NFD crews extinguished the fire and located evidence that indicated the fire was started by a Molotov cocktail. NFD reviewed surveillance footage taken from a business across the street, and observed an individual arrive in a black sports car, get out of the vehicle, and toss a Molotov cocktail at the building before fleeing in the car. An investigation into the vehicle led authorities to Brens. NFD authorities learned that Brens had another vehicle which had recently been towed to the business, that Brens was angry at the amount of money the business required to retrieve his vehicle, and that the vehicle had been sold by the towing company.
On November 26, 2024, Brens pleaded guilty and admitted to possessing the illegal Molotov cocktail.
At the sentencing hearing today, U.S. District Judge David L. Russell sentenced Brens to serve 18 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release. In announcing his sentence, Judge Russell noted that the circumstances of the crime were dangerous and could have resulted in far more extensive damage than was ultimately caused. The judge then emphasized the need to promote deterrence to those who might engage in similar activity and highlighted the need to promote respect for the rule of law.
This case is the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Norman Fire Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Stan J. West and Daniel Gridley prosecuted the case.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Federal Inmate Convicted of Committing Sexual Assault in Federal Transfer CenterRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – A federal jury has convicted JOSEPH FRANCIS BUTLER, 34, of Illinois, of committing aggravated sexual abuse at the Federal Transfer Center (FTC) in Oklahoma City, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
On July 17, 2024, a federal Grand Jury charged Butler with aggravated sexual abuse. On March 14, 2025, after a 4 day-trial, a federal Jury found Butler guilty of the charge. According to evidence presented at trial, on June 4, 2023, Butler, an inmate at the FTC, entered the cell of another inmate and sexually assaulted him. During the sexual assault, Butler held a shank to the victim’s neck and side. The victim soon after reported the assault to a corrections officer.
At sentencing, Butler faces up to life in federal prison, and a fine of up to $250,000.
This case is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Prisons’ Special Investigative Service. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Tiffany Edgmon and Brandon Hale are prosecuting the case.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Arkansas Man Convicted of Armed Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – A federal jury has convicted BRIAN KEITH MAYS, 58, of Arkansas, of committing armed bank robbery and brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
On January 21, 2025, a federal Grand Jury returned a two-count Superseding Indictment, charging Mays with armed bank robbery and brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence. On March 13, 2025, after a three-day trial, a federal jury found Mays guilty of both counts.
According to evidence presented at trial, on July 5, 2024, Mays brandished a pistol at the FNB Community Bank in Harrah, Oklahoma, and demanded money from the tellers. The tellers complied, and Mays left the bank with $12,123.00. Agents with the FBI reviewed surveillance footage from the bank and an adjoining store, where they viewed Mays flee the scene. An eyewitness was able to obtain the tag number of the get-away vehicle, and an investigation into that car led authorities to Mays. Location data from Mays’s cell phone showed that Mays was in the area of the bank at the time of the robbery and visited a Walmart shortly after the robbery. While at Walmart, Mays transferred approximately $3,000.00 dollars to a person in Arkansas and could be seen on surveillance video pulling a large amount of cash from his pocket to pay for an item.
At sentencing, Mays faces up to life in federal prison and fines of up to $500,000.00.
This case is the result of an investigation by the FBI Oklahoma City and Fort Smith Field Offices, Harrah Police Department, Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office, and the Oklahoma City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Daniel Gridley and Drew E. Davis are prosecuting the case.
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. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Edmond Man Sentenced to Serve 18 Months in Federal Prison after Machinegun Conversion Devices are Intercepted from Packages Destined for OklahomaRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – EMANUEL LOPEZ, 21, of Edmond, has been sentenced to serve 18 months in federal prison for transporting machineguns without a license, announced Robert J. Troester, United States Attorney for the Western District of Oklahoma.
According to public record, in May and June 2024, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents in Los Angeles, California, intercepted four packages shipped from China. These packages were destined for Lopez at his home in Edmond and contained machinegun conversion devices (MCDs), commonly known as “switches.” The packages were mislabeled as “auto parts,” “hardware accessories,” and “decorative ornaments” on the shipping manifest. When installed, MCDs convert semi-automatic weapons into fully automatic machineguns, and transporting and possessing these devices violates federal law. Lopez was charged by a federal Grand Jury with transporting machineguns without a license on July 2, 2024.
On November 25, 2024, Lopez pleaded guilty, and admitted he knowingly transported machineguns and that he was not licensed to do so.
At the sentencing hearing on March 5, 2025, U.S. District Judge Bernard M. Jones sentenced Lopez to serve 18 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release. In announcing his sentence, Judge Jones noted the seriousness of the offense.
This case is a result of an investigation by CBP, Homeland Security Investigations, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Oklahoma City Police Department, and the Edmond Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Drew E. Davis prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. This case is also part of “Project Switch Off,” the Western District of Oklahoma’s local implementation of PSN. “Project Switch Off” targets illegal machinegun conversion devices to address the significant danger these illegal devices present and to remove them from our streets. For more information about PSN and “Project Switch Off,” please visit https://justice.gov/psn and https://justice.gov/usao-wdok.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Apartment Burglary Lands Oklahoma City Man in Federal Prison for 10 Years for Illegal Possession of AmmunitionRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – MICHAEL JOSEPH DIAS, 33, of Oklahoma City, has been sentenced to serve 120 months in federal prison for illegal possession of ammunition after a previous felony conviction, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
On May 7, 2024, a federal Grand Jury charged Dias with being a felon in possession of ammunition. On October 24, 2024, after a two-day trial, a federal jury found Dias guilty of the charge.
According to evidence presented at trial, on April 2, 2024, officers with the Oklahoma City Police Department (OCPD) responded to an apartment complex following a reported burglary. The victim told officers he found his front door ajar, and attempted to enter his residence, but was stopped by a subject on the other side of the door. The victim eventually gained entry to his apartment, and followed the suspect, later identified as Dias, out into the parking lot of the complex. The victim told officers Dias brandished a firearm from his waistband, and as the victim fled, a gunshot rang out. Officers recovered a spent shell-casing from the parking lot. Dias was located and arrested by OCPD a short time later after a foot pursuit.
Public record reflects that Dias has a lengthy criminal history, with previous felony convictions that include:
- attempted second-degree burglary in Comanche County District Court case number CF-2009-438;
- second-degree burglary in Comanche County District Court case number CF-2009-576;
- attempted first-degree burglary in Oklahoma County District Court case number CF-2014-6249;
- indecent exposure in Oklahoma County District Court case number CF-2018-4626;
- second-degree burglary in Oklahoma County District Court case number CF-2019-1883; and
- felon in possession of a firearm in Oklahoma County District Court case number CF-2019-2104.
At the sentencing hearing on March 4, 2025, U.S. District Judge Joe Heaton sentenced Dias to serve 120 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release. In announcing the sentence, the Court noted the dangerous nature of the offense and Dias’s significant criminal history.
This case is the result of an investigation by OCPD and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Daniel Gridley and Travis Leverett prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. This case is also part of “Operation Shots Fired.” Operation Shots Fired targets cases involving individuals who discharge firearms as part of their criminal activity, such as drive-by shootings or when shots are fired during robberies, domestic disputes, or other incidents. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit https://justice.gov/psn and https://justice.gov/usao-wdok.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Illegal Possession of Ammunition Following Reported Assault Lands Oklahoma City Man in Federal Prison for Three YearsRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – FRANCISCO JERARD HOUSE, SR., a/k/a Cisco, 45, of Oklahoma City, has been sentenced to serve 36 months in federal prison for illegal possession of ammunition following a previous felony conviction, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
On September 17, 2024, a federal Grand Jury returned a two-count Superseding Indictment against House, charging him with being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. According to public record, in March 2024, officers with the Oklahoma City Police Department (OCPD) received a report that House sexually assaulted a woman with a firearm present. On March 27, 2024, OCPD officers executed a search warrant at House’s address and recovered a firearm and several rounds of ammunition.
On November 21, 2024, House pleaded guilty and admitted he possessed ammunition despite his criminal record.
At the sentencing hearing on February 27, 2025, U.S. District Judge Jodi W. Dishman sentenced House to serve 36 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release. In announcing her sentence, Judge Dishman cited the need to protect the public and promote respect for the law. She also noted House’s previous criminal history, including charges of domestic violence, and allegations contained in the protective orders previously issued against him. Public record reflects that House has a previous felony conviction in Oklahoma County District Court case number CF-2007-507 for assault and battery with a dangerous weapon and larceny of a motor vehicle.
This case is the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and OCPD. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mary E. Walters prosecuted the case.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Mexican National with 12 Prior Occasions of Illegal Reentry into the United States and Three Prior Federal Convictions is Sentenced to Serve Four Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – GERONIMO ESTRADA-VILLA, 46, a Mexican citizen, has been sentenced to serve 48 months in federal prison for illegally entering the United States after deportation, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
According to public record, on October 5, 2024, a police officer with the Oklahoma City Police Department conducted a traffic stop of Estrada-Villa, the driver of the vehicle. Estrada-Villa did not possess a valid driver’s license and had an active state felony warrant. Public records reflect the warrant stemmed from Estrada-Villa allegedly violating the terms and conditions of a deferred sentence for possession of marijuana with intent to distribute and possession of drug paraphernalia in Oklahoma County District Court Case CF-2004-3202. The officer arrested Estrada-Villa and booked him in Oklahoma County jail, where Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers later took him into custody and determined that he was a Mexican citizen.
On October 15, 2024, a federal Grand Jury returned an Indictment against Estrada-Villa, charging him with reentry of a removed alien. On November 19, 2024, Estrada-Villa pleaded guilty to the charge before U.S. District Court Judge Jodi W. Dishman.
At the sentencing hearing on February 20, 2025, Judge Dishman sentenced Estrada-Villa to serve 48 months in federal prison. In announcing her sentence, the court noted the nature and circumstances of the offense, Estrada-Villa’s criminal history, and the need to deter him from illegally reentering the U.S. On at least 12 prior occasions, Estrada-Villa had illegally entered the U.S., voluntarily agreeing return to Mexico on seven of those occasions and being formally deported on five of those occasions. Judge Dishman also noted Estrada-Villa’s three prior convictions in federal court for illegal reentry into the U.S., which had resulted in federal prison sentences of 27 months, 37 months, and 40 months.
This case is the result of an investigation by U.S. Immigration Customs and Enforcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon Hale prosecuted the case.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Lawton Man Pleads Guilty to Possessing Machinegun Conversion DeviceRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – JEREMIAH ALEXANDER DEARING, 20, of Lawton, has pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of a machinegun, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
On December 3, 2024, a federal Grand Jury returned a two-count Indictment against Dearing, charging him with being a drug user in possession of firearms and with unlawful possession of a machinegun. According to an affidavit filed in support of a criminal Complaint, on October 9, 2024, Dearing participated in a recorded video jail call with an inmate at the Grady County Jail. During that call, officers with the Lawton Police Department (LPD) observed Dearing display an AK47-style pistol and flash multiple gang signs. As Dearing’s age prohibited him from legally carrying a firearm under Oklahoma state law, LPD detectives sought and obtained a search warrant for his residence. Upon execution of the warrant, law enforcement discovered five firearms in Dearing’s bedroom, including a privately manufactured firearm that did not have a serial number. All of the firearms were chamber-loaded and equipped with high-capacity magazines. Officers also seized a machinegun conversion device (MCD). When installed, the MCD converts a semi-automatic weapon into a fully automatic machinegun. Law enforcement also recovered approximately 92 fentanyl pills from the residence.
Dearing pleaded guilty on February 11, 2025, and admitted he unlawfully possessed a machinegun. At sentencing, he faces up to 10 years in federal prison and a fine of up to $250,000.
This case is the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Lawton Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Danielle M. Connolly is prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. This case is also part of “Project Switch Off,” the Western District of Oklahoma’s local implementation of PSN. “Project Switch Off” targets illegal machinegun conversion devices to address the significant danger these illegal devices present and to remove them from our streets. For more information about PSN, please visit https://justice.gov/psn and https://justice.gov/usao-wdok.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.