Eastern District of Texas
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Mexican national, unlawfully living in Longview, indicted for being an illegal alien in possession of a firearmRead the Press Release
TYLER, Texas – A Mexican national, unlawfully living in Longview, has been charged with being an illegal alien in possession of a firearm in the Eastern District of Texas, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.
Humberto Hernandez-Fornue, 43, was named in an indictment returned by a federal grand jury this week in the Eastern District of Texas charging him with being an illegal alien in possession of a firearm.
The indictment alleges that on August 14, 2025, Hernandez-Fornue was found illegally in the Eastern District of Texas and in possession of a firearm.
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).
If convicted, Hernandez-Fornue faces up to 15 years in federal prison.
This case is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; the Drug Enforcement Administration; Homeland Security Investigations; and the Tyler Police Department. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Dustin Farahnak.
A federal indictment is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Mexican national, illegally living in Jacksonville, indicted for unlawfully returning to the United StatesRead the Press Release
TYLER, Texas – A Mexican national, illegally living in Jacksonville, has been charged with unlawfully returning to the United States, announced Eastern District of Texas Acting U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.
Omar Galvan-Rodriguez, 41, was named in an indictment returned by a federal grand jury this week in the Eastern District of Texas charging him with illegal reentry by a previously deported alien.
The indictment alleges that on May 9, 2025, Galvan-Rodriguez was found in the Eastern District of Texas after having been previously deported.
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).
If convicted, Galvan-Rodriguez faces up to 10 years in federal prison and deportation.
This case is being investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jim Noble.
A federal indictment is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Mexican national, illegally living in Hallsville, indicted for unlawfully returning to the United StatesRead the Press Release
TYLER, Texas – A Mexican national, illegally living in Hallsville, has been charged with unlawfully returning to the United States, announced Eastern District of Texas Acting U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.
Jorge Martinez-Abundis, 38, was named in an indictment returned by a federal grand jury this week in the Eastern District of Texas charging him with illegal reentry by a previously deported alien.
The indictment alleges that on February 14, 2025, Martinez-Abundis was found in the Eastern District of Texas after having been deported on at least four previous occasions.
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).
If convicted, Martinez-Abundis faces up to 20 years in federal prison and deportation.
This case is being investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren Richards.
A federal indictment is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Jacksonville felon charged with federal firearms violationRead the Press Release
TYLER, Texas – A Jacksonville convicted felon has been charged with a federal firearms violation in the Eastern District of Texas, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.
Cody Nerren, 34, was named in an indictment returned by a federal grand jury this week in the Eastern District of Texas charging him with being a felon in possession of a firearm.
The indictment alleges that on April 24, 2025, Nerren was found in possession of a firearm in Cherokee County. Further investigation revealed Nerren had been previously convicted of several felonies and prohibited from owning or possessing firearms.
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).
If convicted, Nerren faces up to 15 years in federal prison.
This case is being investigated by the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office and the Department of Homeland Security. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jim Noble.
A federal indictment is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Indian citizen living in McKinney, charged with federal tax violation in the Eastern District of TexasRead the Press Release
TYLER, Texas – An Indian citizen living in McKinney has been charged with a federal tax violation in the Eastern District of Texas, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.
Anil Surabhi, 43, an Indian citizen with permanent resident status in the United States, was named in an indictment returned by a federal grand jury this week in the Eastern District of Texas charging him with attempting to evade taxes.
The indictment alleges that Surabhi, while controlling an IT services company headquartered in Georgia, used funds from the company to fund his private personal investments, pay personal expenses, and make investments in real estate. Surabhi did not report those funds as income on his individual income tax returns.
If convicted, Surabhi faces up to 5 years in federal prison.
This case is being investigated by the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Alan Jackson.
A federal indictment is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Honduran national, illegally living in Canton, indicted for unlawfully returning to the United StatesRead the Press Release
TYLER, Texas – A Mexican national, illegally living in Canton, has been charged with unlawfully returning to the United States, announced Eastern District of Texas Acting U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.
Jefferson Funes-Mejia, 32, was named in an indictment returned by a federal grand jury this week in the Eastern District of Texas charging him with illegal reentry by a previously deported alien.
The indictment alleges that on April 16, 2025, Funes-Majia was found in the Eastern District of Texas after having been previously deported.
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).
If convicted, Funes-Mejia faces up to 10 years in federal prison and deportation.
This case is being investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jim Noble.
A federal indictment is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Mexican national previously deported five times, sentenced to federal prison for unlawfully returning to the United StatesRead the Press Release
TYLER, Texas –A Mexican national illegally living in Longview, has been sentenced for unlawfully returning to the United States, announced Eastern District of Texas Acting U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.
Jose Refugio Jara-Palafox, 45, pleaded guilty to illegal reentry following removal and was sentenced to 16 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge J. Campbell Barker on August 21, 2025. Jara-Palafox will be deported once he has served his sentence.
According to information presented in court, on August 13, 2024, Jara-Palafox was arrested in Gregg County. Following the arrest, it was determined that he had been deported on five prior occasions and has multiple convictions including two DWIs, indecent exposure, leaving the scene of an accident, and presenting false documentation at a port of entry.
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).
This case was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security-Immigration and Customs Enforcement and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jim Noble.
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Cherokee County career criminal sentenced to federal prison for firearms violationRead the Press Release
TYLER, Texas –A Jacksonville convicted felon has been sentenced to federal prison for a firearms violation in the Eastern District of Texas, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.
Eric Pryor, 52, pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm and was sentenced to 42 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge J. Campbell Barker on August 21, 2025.
According to information presented in court, on November 17, 2023, local law enforcement responded to a call regarding reckless driving. When they arrived at the location, they were shown doorbell security camera footage of an individual later identified as Pryor, stepping out of a car and firing four shots at a truck. The truck went through the front yard of the residence to avoid the shots. The two vehicles were soon located on Highway 135 and Pryor admitted to firing the handgun at the truck. Further investigation revealed Pryor had several prior felony convictions, including burglary of a building, possession of a controlled substance, theft of a firearm, evading arrest with a vehicle, and felon in possession of a firearm. As a convicted felon, Pryor is prohibited by federal law from owning or possessing firearms.
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).
This case was investigated by the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jim Noble.
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Angelina County felon guilty of federal firearms violationRead the Press Release
BEAUMONT, Texas – A Lufkin felon has pleaded guilty to a federal firearms violation in the Eastern District of Texas, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.
Preston Allen, 58, pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm before U.S. Magistrate Judge Christine L. Stetson on August 19, 2025.
According to information presented in court, on February 3, 2025, Allen was arrested at his Lufkin home after law enforcement officers arrived to execute a warrant. Upon arrival, deputies found Allen standing outside the home with an AR-15 style rifle. Allen was ordered to put the rifle on the ground and was taken into custody. Further investigation revealed Allen is a convicted felon and prohibited from owning or possessing firearms.
Allen was indicted by a federal grand jury on April 2, 2025, and faces up to 15 years in federal prison at sentencing. The maximum sentence prescribed by Congress is provided here for information purposes, as the sentencing will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the U.S. Probation Office.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
This case is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Angelina County Sheriff’s Office and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Donald S. Carter.
Jefferson County man sentenced to federal prison for trafficking fentanylRead the Press Release
BEAUMONT, Texas – A Beaumont man has been sentenced to federal prison for trafficking fentanyl in the Eastern District of Texas, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.
Marsel Brejon Davis, 33, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and was sentenced to 27 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Michael Truncale on August 19, 2025.
According to information presented in court, on August 31, 2023, a search of Davis’s residence was conducted after he was observed selling narcotics to another person. During the search, officers located 31.16 grams of fentanyl. Davis admitted to possessing the fentanyl for the purpose of distributing it to others. Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid commonly used as an analgesic or anesthetic that is 100 times more potent than morphine and 50 times more potent than heroin, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH).
This case was investigated by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration and the Beaumont Police Department and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Rachel Grove.
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McKinney felon sentenced to federal prison for firearms violation at Plano businessRead the Press Release
SHERMAN, Texas –A McKinney convicted felon has been sentenced to over 11 years in federal prison for firearms violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.
Joe Anthony Plascencia, 32, pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition and was sentenced to 137 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Amos L. Mazzant, III, on August 14, 2025.
According to information presented in court, Plascencia was arrested after local law enforcement responded to a concerned 911 call from a Plano business. Upon arrival, officers located several firearms, including a pistol and a hunting rifle, as well as a large camo bag, ammunition, and body armor. Further investigation revealed Plascencia was a convicted felon and prohibited by federal law from owning or possessing firearms or ammunition.
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).
This case was investigated by the Plano Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Chalana A. Oliver.
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Mexican national, illegally living in Grand Prairie, indicted for unlawfully returning to the United StatesRead the Press Release
SHERMAN, Texas – A Mexican national, illegally living in Grand Prairie, has been charged with unlawfully returning to the United States, announced Eastern District of Texas Acting U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.
Joel Calzada-Macias, 46, was named in an indictment returned by a federal grand jury this week in the Eastern District of Texas charging him with illegal reentry by a previously deported alien.
The indictment alleges that on October 10, 2024, Calzada-Macias was found in the Eastern District of Texas after having been previously deported.
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).
If convicted, Calzada-Macias faces up to 2 years in federal prison and deportation.
This case is being investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Stevan Buys.
A federal indictment is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Mexican national, illegally living in Denton County, indicted for unlawfully returning to the United StatesRead the Press Release
SHERMAN, Texas – A Mexican national, illegally living in Denton County, has been charged with unlawfully returning to the United States, announced Eastern District of Texas Acting U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.
Jose Luis Piedra-Sosa, 51, was named in an indictment returned by a federal grand jury this week in the Eastern District of Texas charging him with illegal reentry by a previously deported alien.
The indictment alleges that on June 23, 2025, Piedra-Sosa was found in the Eastern District of Texas after having been previously deported.
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).
If convicted, Piedra-Sosa faces up to 2 years in federal prison and deportation.
This case is being investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Stevan Buys.
A federal indictment is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Lufkin felon guilty of federal firearms violationRead the Press Release
BEAUMONT, Texas – A Lufkin felon has pleaded guilty to a federal firearms violation in the Eastern District of Texas, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.
Michael Antoine Lovelady, 53, pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm before U.S. Magistrate Judge Christine L. Stetson on August 14, 2025.
According to information presented in court, on March 14, 2025, Lovelady was arrested during a traffic stop for outstanding warrants. During the arrest, Lovelady attempted to flee and was apprehended, and a firearm was discovered in his waistband. Further investigation revealed Lovelady was a convicted felon and prohibited from owning or possessing firearms.
Lovelady was indicted by a federal grand jury on May 15, 2025, and faces up to 15 years in federal prison at sentencing. The maximum sentence prescribed by Congress is provided here for information purposes, as the sentencing will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the U.S. Probation Office.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
This case is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Lufkin Police Department and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Donald S. Carter.
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El Salvadoran national, illegally living in Carrollton, indicted for unlawfully returning to the United StatesRead the Press Release
SHERMAN, Texas – An El Salvadoran national, illegally living in Carrollton, has been charged with unlawfully returning to the United States, announced Eastern District of Texas Acting U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.
David Antonio Lopez-Hernandez, 43, was named in an indictment returned by a federal grand jury this week in the Eastern District of Texas charging him with illegal reentry by a previously deported alien.
The indictment alleges that on April 18, 2025, Lopez-Hernandez was found in the Eastern District of Texas after having been previously deported.
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).
If convicted, Lopez-Hernandez faces up to 2 years in federal prison and deportation.
This case is being investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Stevan Buys.
A federal indictment is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Mexican national, illegally living in Collin County, indicted for unlawfully returning to the United StatesRead the Press Release
SHERMAN, Texas – A Mexican national, illegally living in Collin County, has been charged with unlawfully returning to the United States, announced Eastern District of Texas Acting U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.
Vicente Marquez-Gonzales, 49, was named in an indictment returned by a federal grand jury this week in the Eastern District of Texas charging him with illegal reentry by a previously deported alien.
The indictment alleges that on June 3, 2025, Marquez-Gonzales was found in the Eastern District of Texas after having been previously deported.
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).
If convicted, Marquez-Gonzales faces up to 2 years in federal prison and deportation.
This case is being investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Chalana Oliver.
A federal indictment is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Guatemalan national, illegally living in Collin County, indicted for unlawfully returning to the United StatesRead the Press Release
SHERMAN, Texas – A Guatemalan national, illegally living in Collin County, has been charged with unlawfully returning to the United States, announced Eastern District of Texas Acting U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.
Anibal Gonzalez-Corado, 54, was named in an indictment returned by a federal grand jury this week in the Eastern District of Texas charging him with illegal reentry by a previously deported alien.
The indictment alleges that on February 1, 2025, Gonzalez-Corado was found in the Eastern District of Texas after having been previously deported.
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).
If convicted, Gonzalez-Corado faces up to 2 years in federal prison and deportation.
This case is being investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Chalana Oliver.
A federal indictment is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Grayson County felon indicted for possessing machine gunRead the Press Release
SHERMAN, Texas – A Grayson County convicted felon has been charged with unlawfully possessing a machine gun in the Eastern District of Texas, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.
Xavier Donnell Porter, 32, was named in an indictment returned by a federal grand jury this week in the Eastern District of Texas charging him with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, possession of ammunition and possession of a machine gun.
The indictment alleges that on December 5, 2024, Porter was found in possession of a machine gun. Further investigation revealed he is a convicted felon and prohibited by federal law from owning or possessing firearms or ammunition.
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).
If convicted, Porter faces up to 15 years in federal prison.
This case is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Chalana Oliver.
A federal indictment is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Career criminal sentenced to 10 years in federal prison for firearms violationRead the Press Release
BEAUMONT, Texas –A career criminal, with at least 10 felony convictions in Jefferson County, has been sentenced to federal prison for a firearms violation in the Eastern District of Texas, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.
Kendrick Malbrough, 29, of Humble, pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm and was sentenced to 120 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Marcia A. Crone on August 14, 2025.
According to information presented in court, on October 30, 2024, law enforcement officers observed a vehicle commit traffic violations and attempted to initiate a traffic stop at the intersection of Concord and Steelton in Beaumont. The driver, Malbrough, eventually exited the vehicle while it was still rolling and attempted to flee on foot, discarding a pistol in the process. During his arrest, Malbrough was found in possession of $1,990 cash and he had attempted to hide almost 5 grams of crack cocaine in a baggie in his mouth. Further investigation revealed Malbrough had at least 10 felony convictions in Jefferson County beginning in 2014. As a convicted felon, Malbrough is prohibited by federal law from owning or possessing firearms.
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).
This case was investigated by the Beaumont Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Matt Quinn.
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Mexican national, illegally living in Angelina County, guilty of unlawfully returning to the United StatesRead the Press Release
BEAUMONT, Texas –A Mexican national, illegally living in Diboll, has pleaded guilty to unlawfully returning to the United States, announced Eastern District of Texas Acting U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.
Eduardo Barajas-Macias, 32, pleaded guilty to illegal reentry by a previously deported alien before U.S. Magistrate Judge Christine L. Stetson on August 13, 2025.
According to information presented in court, Barajas-Macias was located in Diboll on March 26, 2024, after an investigation revealed he had been previously deported from the United States to Mexico in 2023.
Barajas-Macias faces up to 2 years in federal prison and deportation at sentencing. The maximum statutory sentence prescribed by Congress is provided here for information purposes, as the sentencing will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the U.S. Probation Office.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; FBI; and Angelina County Sheriff’s Office. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Donald Carter.
Mexican national, illegally living in Pollock, indicted on immigration violationRead the Press Release
BEAUMONT, Texas – A Mexican national, illegally living in Pollock, has been charged with an immigration violation in the Eastern District of Texas, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.
Jose de Jesus Pineda-Torres, 43, was named in an indictment returned by a federal grand jury this week in the Eastern District of Texas charging him with illegal reentry by a previously deported alien.
The indictment alleges that on July 11, 2025, Pineda-Torres was found in the Eastern District of Texas after having been previously deported three times.
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).
If convicted, Pineda-Torres faces up to 10 years in federal prison and deportation.
This case is being investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and Immigration and Customs Enforcement. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Chris Jackson.
A federal indictment is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Mexican national, illegally living in Beaumont, indicted on immigration violationRead the Press Release
BEAUMONT, Texas – A Mexican national, illegally living in Beaumont, has been charged with an immigration violation in the Eastern District of Texas, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.
Enrique Guevara-Camargo, 51, was named in an indictment returned by a federal grand jury this week in the Eastern District of Texas charging him with illegal reentry by a previously deported alien.
The indictment alleges that on July 2, 2025, Guevara-Camargo was found in the Eastern District of Texas after having been previously deported.
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).
If convicted, Guevara-Camargo faces up to 2 years in federal prison and deportation.
This case is being investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and Immigration & Customs Enforcement. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Chris Jackson.
A federal indictment is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Jasper County man indicted on federal drug trafficking violationsRead the Press Release
BEAUMONT, Texas – A Jasper man has been charged with federal drug trafficking violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.
Steven Wade Earle, 30, was named in a two-count indictment returned by a federal grand jury this week in the Eastern District of Texas charging him with possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
The indictment alleges that on January 2, 2025, Earle was found in possession of more than 50 grams of methamphetamine. Then again on February 25, 2025, Earle was found in possession of at least another 50 grams of methamphetamine.
If convicted, Earle faces up to life in federal prison.
This case is being investigated by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration; Jasper County Sheriff’s Office; Texas Department of Public Safety-Criminal Investigations Division; Texas DPS-Highway Patrol; and U.S. Marshals Service. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan C. Lee.
A federal indictment is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Hardin County felon charged with carjacking, firearms violationsRead the Press Release
BEAUMONT, Texas – A Silsbee convicted felon has been charged with carjacking and firearms violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.
Justin Keith Colley, 37, was named in a three-count indictment returned by a federal grand jury this week in the Eastern District of Texas charging him with carjacking, brandishing a firearm during a violent crime, and being a felon in possession of a firearm.
The indictment alleges that on June 20, 2025, Colley used a firearm to forcefully commit carjacking. Further investigation revealed Colley had been previously convicted of a felony and prohibited from owning or possessing firearms.
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).
If convicted, Colley faces up to life in federal prison.
This case is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Silsbee Police Department, and the Jasper County Sheriff’s Office and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Reynaldo P. Morin.
A federal indictment is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Dallas man convicted in federal drug trafficking conspiracyRead the Press Release
SHERMAN, Texas – A Dallas man has been found guilty of federal drug trafficking violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.
Deldrick Damond Lewis, 40, was found guilty by a jury of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine following a three-day trial before U.S. District Judge Amos L. Mazzant III on August 6, 2025.
According to information presented in court, Lewis was identified as a methamphetamine supplier during an investigation of drug trafficking activities in the Grayson County area. Lewis sold approximately 490 grams of methamphetamine during a drug trafficking transaction. Additionally, prosecutors presented evidence at trial that included Lewis’ social media accounts, text messages, and other evidence from his cellular phones.
At sentencing, Lewis faces up to life in federal prison. The statutory maximum sentence prescribed by Congress is provided here for information purposes, as the sentencing will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the U.S. Probation Office.
This case was investigated by the FBI, Texoma Narcotics and Violent Crime Task Force, Grayson County Sheriff’s Office, Sherman Police Department and the Dallas Police Department SWAT Team. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Maureen Smith and Stevan Buys.
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Beaumont man and woman charged with federal carjacking violationRead the Press Release
BEAUMONT, Texas – A Beaumont man and woman have been charged with federal violations related to a June 2025 carjacking in the Eastern District of Texas, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.
Jason Lee Smith, 28, and Joanna Kyle Glover, 33, were named in a two-count indictment returned by a federal grand jury this week in the Eastern District of Texas.
The indictment alleges that on June 28, 2025, Smith, armed with a firearm, and Glover forcefully took a vehicle from another person. Smith and Glover were both charged with carjacking and Smith was also charged with brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence.
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).
If convicted, the defendants face up to 15 years in federal prison for the carjacking violation. Smith also faces up to life in federal prison for the firearms charge.
This case is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Beaumont Police Department and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Reynaldo P. Morin.
A federal indictment is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Beaumont felon charged with federal firearms violationsRead the Press Release
BEAUMONT, Texas – A Beaumont convicted felon has been charged with federal violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.
Charles Terrance Leaven, 39, was named in a two-count indictment returned by a federal grand jury this week in the Eastern District of Texas charging him with being a felon in possession of a firearm and possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking crime.
The indictment alleges that on March 11, 2024, Leaven was found in possession of a firearm in Beaumont. Further investigation revealed Leaven had been previously convicted of a felony and prohibited from owning or possessing firearms.
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).
If convicted, Leaven faces up to life in federal prison.
This case is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; the Beaumont Police Department; and the Jefferson County District Attorney’s Office. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John B. Ross.
A federal indictment is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Armed alien, illegally living in Nacogdoches, indicted on federal firearms violationRead the Press Release
BEAUMONT, Texas – A Mexican national, illegally living in Nacogdoches, has been charged with a federal firearms violation in the Eastern District of Texas, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.
Antonio Hernandez-Perez, 47, was named in an indictment returned by a federal grand jury this week in the Eastern District of Texas charging him with being an illegal alien in possession of a firearm.
The indictment alleges that on January 30, 2025, Hernandez-Perez possessed a firearm while being an alien illegally in the United States.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
If convicted, Hernandez-Perez faces up to 15 years in federal prison and deportation.
This case is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; Homeland Security Investigations; and the Nacogdoches County Sheriff’s Office. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Donald Carter.
A federal indictment is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Smith County man sentenced to 30 years in federal prison for child exploitation violationsRead the Press Release
TYLER, Texas – A Tyler man has been sentenced to federal prison for child exploitation violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.
Enrique Adrian Gomez, 29, pleaded guilty to production of child pornography and was sentenced to 360 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Jeremy D. Kernodle on July 30, 2025.
According to information presented in court, Gomez met two minor victims online in September 2021 and continued communicating with them through November 2021. Both minors were less than 13 years old at the time. Gomez communicated with the victims through text messaging and social media applications. During these real-time online conversations, the victims were persuaded to engage in prohibited sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing visual depictions of such conduct.
“The ease with which Gomez was able to communicate with the minor victims here is a reminder of the constant threat that social media applications can pose to children,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs. “Under the guise of online friendship, Gomez persuaded these children to engage in adult acts that no child should be doing, let alone be doing online. Our office is committed to stopping criminals like Gomez in their tracks, but the most important tool to stop online predators is an active and engaged parent. Nothing protects children better than a parent who sets and enforces limits on a child’s online activities and actively monitors their social media presence.”
This case is part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
This case was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security—Homeland Security Investigations and the Ilion, New York Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert Austin Wells.
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Gregg County man sentenced to 30 years in federal prison for trafficking fentanylRead the Press Release
TYLER, Texas – A Longview man who sold fake prescription drugs has been sentenced to 30 years in federal prison for trafficking fentanyl in the Eastern District of Texas, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.
Kym Andrew Wallace, also known as Trigga, 28, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute fentanyl resulting in death and was sentenced to 360 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Jeremy D. Kernodle on July 30, 2025.
According to information presented in court, Wallace admitted to selling what were supposed to be prescription pills, which a 17-year-old juvenile consumed them and died from a fentanyl overdose on May 29, 2024. Following the overdose of the juvenile victim, investigators analyzed pills purchased from Wallace and determined they contained fentanyl. Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid commonly used as an analgesic or anesthetic that is 100 times more potent than morphine and 50 times more potent than heroin, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH). The pills purchased from Wallace were round and light blue, bearing the markings “M” and “30,” which are the same manufacturer’s markings for 30 milligram tablets of generic oxycodone.
“Thirty years in a federal prison cannot compare to the lifetime sentence of grief that the victim’s family faces as the result of Wallace’s actions,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs. “Wallace deserves every day of this 360-month sentence. Our office, and our law enforcement partners, will continue to aggressively work to protect our communities from drug traffickers like Wallace.”
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).
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration; Gregg County Sheriff’s Office; and Longview Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lucas Machicek.
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Grayson County man sentenced to 20 years in federal prison for trafficking methamphetamineRead the Press Release
SHERMAN, Texas – A Sherman man has been sentenced to 20 years in federal prison for drug trafficking violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.
Ryan Deshaun Edd, 37, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and was sentenced to 240 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Amos L. Mazzant, III, on July 30, 2025.
According to information presented in court, in November 2022, law enforcement received information that Edd was trafficking large quantities of methamphetamine in the Grayson County area. On November 16, 2022, Edd’s vehicle was stopped for traffic violations on U.S. Highway 75 in Sherman. Zacheriah Alexander, of Denison, was driving the vehicle and Edd was a backseat passenger. During a search of the vehicle, law enforcement officers located a large plastic bag containing 1.22 kilograms of methamphetamine and a loaded revolver. Further investigation revealed that Alexander had been working with Edd to sell methamphetamine for approximately six months before being arrested. Alexander was previously sentenced by Judge Mazzant to 135 months in federal prison for his role in the offense. Edd will begin serving his federal prison sentence after he completes a 45-year state sentence for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon committed in Sherman in January of 2023.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, the Grayson County Sheriff’s Office, and the Sherman Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew T. Johnson.
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Galveston man sentenced to federal prison for trafficking drugs through the Eastern District of TexasRead the Press Release
BEAUMONT, Texas – A Galveston man has been sentenced to federal prison for drug trafficking violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.
Alan Anthony Gomez, 29, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute cocaine and was sentenced to 87 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Marcia A. Crone on July 30, 2025.
According to information presented in court, in November 2022, Gomez was the passenger in a vehicle stopped for a traffic violation in Liberty County. There was an odor of marijuana coming from the vehicle and the driver and passenger gave conflicting stories of where they had been. A search of the vehicle revealed marijuana, air fresheners, and bundles containing nine kilograms of powder cocaine. Gomez told law enforcement the bundles were cocaine and not fentanyl.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration and the Liberty County Sheriff’s Office. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Rachel Grove.
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Floridians sentenced to federal prison in the Eastern District of Texas for conspiring to defraud military retail exchanges across the nationRead the Press Release
SHERMAN, Texas – Two Floridians have been sentenced to federal prison in a fraud scheme targeting military retail exchanges, announced Eastern District of Texas Acting U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.
Gilda Rosenberg, 60, of Golden Beach, Florida, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud and was sentenced to 30 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Amos L. Mazzant on July 30, 2025. Judge Mazzant also ordered Rosenberg to pay restitution of over $1.6 million.
Amit Biegun, 46, of Aventura, Florida, was also sentenced to 30 months in federal prison by Judge Mazzant on June 24, 2025.
According to information presented in court, Rosenberg was the president and owner of Gilly USA, Inc., GBR Enterprises, Inc., and Gilly Vending, Inc., and Biegun was the chief financial officer of Gilly Vending.
The Army and Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES) is a government entity under the Department of Defense (DoD), responsible for operating stores located on U.S. Army bases, known as Post Exchanges (PX), and U.S. Air Force bases, known as Base Exchanges (BX). These stores provide retail services to military service members, veterans, and their families. AAFES is self-funded, operating mostly through the revenue of its sales of goods and services. AAFES stores and locations typically host a variety of vendors, also called concessionaires.
Beginning in 2016, AAFES awarded Gilly Vending over 20 contracts to provide vending services, snack contracts, beverage contracts, and micro-markets at military installations in California, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Maryland, North Dakota, Oklahoma, and Texas. Depending on the size and location, these individual contracts generated anywhere from $24,000 to $1 million annually. As part of the contracts, Gilly Vending paid commissions to AAFES based on those sales. Rosenberg and Biegun conspired to defraud AAFES by significantly underreporting sales figures resulting in a loss of commissions fees to AAFES.
“The Army and Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES) is an integral part of the Department of Defense, providing vital services to our military service members, veterans, and their families,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs. “By stealing from AAFES, the defendants have stolen from the United States taxpayer and those who served their country with honor and distinction. This sentence sends a strong message that this kind of fraud and abuse will not be tolerated.”
“The Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS) and our law enforcement partners will methodically investigate allegations of fraud and corruption that impact the DoD and America’s warfighters,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Chad Gosch, Department of Defense Office of Inspector General, DCIS Southwest Field Office. “Today’s outcome reflects our unwavering commitment to ensuring the integrity of the DoD contracting process and holding accountable those who illegally enrich themselves at the taxpayer’s expense.”
“Today’s sentencing should serve as a stark reminder that our agents, and those of our partner law enforcement agencies, are relentless in their pursuit of those who choose to defraud the government,” said Special Agent in Charge John McCabe of the Department of the Army Criminal Investigation Division’s Mid-Central Field Office. “Army CID remains committed to protecting the resources that support our service members and their families.”
“The Department of the Air Force Office of Special Investigations (OSI) is undeterred from hunting down fraud impacting the goods and services supporting our military community worldwide” said Special Agent in Charge Nicholas J. Groesbeck, OSI Procurement Fraud Detachment 3, San Antonio, TX. “We appreciate the efforts of our joint partners who ensure those violating the law are held accountable.”
This case was investigated by the Department of Defense (DoD); Defense Criminal Investigative Services (DCIS); the Department of the Army Criminal Investigation Division (DACID); the U.S. Air Force Office of Special Investigations (AFOSI); and Army Air Force Exchange Services – Office of General Counsel. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew T. Johnson.
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Dallas County man sentenced to 20 years in federal prison for money laundering and ordered to pay over $14 million in restitutionRead the Press Release
SHERMAN, Texas – A Dallas man has been sentenced to 20 years in federal prison and ordered to pay restitution for defrauding numerous individuals out of more than $14 million in the Eastern District of Texas, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.
Rahool Amin Makani, 32, pleaded guilty to money laundering and was sentenced to 240 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Amos Mazzant on July 30, 2025. Judge Mazzant also ordered Makani to pay restitution in the amount of $14,732,023.31.
According to information presented in court, Makani was identified as a multi-million-dollar money launderer who conned victims into investing large amounts of cash into fictitious businesses. Further investigation revealed that Makani used a variety of schemes to defraud numerous investors. Makani used the money he fraudulently obtained to maintain a lavish lifestyle, including leasing private jets, purchasing numerous Rolex watches, purchasing luxury cars including an Aston Martin, a Lamborghini, a Maserati, a Rolls Royce, a McLaren, and a Ferrari. Makani also frequently traveled to Las Vegas to gamble thousands of dollars of the investors’ money.
As part of his plea agreement, Makani admitted he defrauded multiple individuals by his schemes and further admitted that the amount of restitution owed was over $14 million dollars.
This case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Tracey Batson.
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Collin County felon sentenced to 19 years in federal prison for drug trafficking and firearms violationsRead the Press Release
SHERMAN, Texas – A Princeton man has been sentenced to 19 years in federal prison for drug trafficking and firearms violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.
Larry Wayne Culverhouse, 39, pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime; felon in possession of a firearm; and possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute and was sentenced to 228 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Amos L. Mazzant, III, on July 30, 2025.
According to information presented in court, on August 30, 2023, Culverhouse was found in possession of 504.3 grams of methamphetamine and a firearm. Further investigation revealed Culver was a convicted felon and prohibited from owning or possessing firearms.
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).
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and prosecuted by Acting U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.
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Jefferson County drug dealer sentenced to federal prison for firearms violationRead the Press Release
BEAUMONT, Texas –A Beaumont drug dealer has been sentenced to federal prison for a firearms violation in the Eastern District of Texas, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.
Sterling Van Johnson, 43, pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime and was sentenced to 60 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Marcia A. Crone on July 29, 2025.
According to information presented in court, while investigating drug trafficking activity in Beaumont, several controlled purchases of narcotics were made with Johnson. In September 2024, a search warrant was executed at a Beaumont residence Johnson was selling drugs from and officers recovered various narcotics and two firearms. Johnson admitted to possessing the drugs for distribution and possessing the firearm as part of that activity.
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).
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Beaumont Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Russell James.
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Jefferson County couple sentenced to federal prison for Hobbs Act robbery of Nederland convenience storeRead the Press Release
BEAUMONT, Texas – A Jefferson County couple have been sentenced to federal prison for attempting to rob a convenience store in the Eastern District of Texas, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.
Cole Ethan Schroeder, 21, of Beaumont pleaded guilty to Hobbs Act robbery and brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence and was sentenced to a total of 114 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Marcia A. Crone on May 21, 2025.
Carley Melana Fowler, 21, of Nederland, pleaded guilty to Hobbs Act robbery and was sentenced to 63 months in federal prison by Judge Crone on July 29, 2025.
According to information presented in court, on September 2, 2024, Schroeder and Fowler were captured on surveillance video entering a Citgo Food Mart convenience store/gas station in Nederland wearing face masks. Fowler, who was carrying a bag, positioned an object in the doorway that prevented the door from closing completely. She stood next to Schroeder with the bag held open as Schroeder brandished an AR-style rifle and ordered a store employee to put money in the bag Fowler was holding. A physical struggle began between the store employee and the defendants, resulting in Schroeder striking the employee several times with the rifle, causing injuries. Schroeder and Fowler fled without obtaining any money from the convenience store and were located by law enforcement and arrested at a nearby RV park.
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).
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office and the Nederland Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Tommy Coleman.
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Beaumont parolee sentenced to 20 years in federal prison for possessing child pornography at halfway houseRead the Press Release
BEAUMONT, Texas – A Beaumont parolee has been sentenced to 20 years in federal prison for possessing child pornography in the Eastern District of Texas, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.
James Richard Rollins, 39, pleaded guilty to possession of child pornography and was sentenced to 240 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Marcia A. Crone on July 29, 2025.
According to information presented in court, on October 27, 2023, law enforcement authorities were dispatched in reference to a parole supervisor who was in possession of a parolee’s cellular phone, which contained videos and images of child pornography. Officers spoke with the unit supervisor for the Beaumont halfway house who reported that Rollins, a parolee and resident of the halfway house, was observed by another resident watching child pornography on his cell phone.
Further investigation revealed Rollins’ phone contained numerous photos and videos depicting minors in sexually explicit situations, including having sex acts performed on them by adults. Many of those images depicted prepubescent children. Rollins admitted to downloading and viewing images of child pornography on his phone. Based on the investigation, Rollins is responsible for possessing 3,680 images containing child pornography.
This case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
This case was investigated by the FBI and the Beaumont Police Department and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney and Rachel Grove.
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Collin County man sentenced to over 24 years in federal prison for COVID- fraud conspiracyRead the Press Release
SHERMAN, Texas – A McKinney man has been sentenced to over 24 years in federal prison in a COVID - fraud conspiracy in the Eastern District of Texas, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.
Olamide Olatayo Bello was found guilty at trial to conspiracy to commit wire fraud and conspiracy to commit money laundering and was sentenced to 293 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Amos L. Mazzant on July 24, 2025. Judge Mazzant sentenced Bello to the statutory maximum allowed by federal guidelines.
According to information presented in court, Bello devised and orchestrated a conspiracy to defraud the United States of millions of dollars during the COVID-19 pandemic. Bello fraudulently acquired government loans, which were designed to provide financial assistance to legitimate small businesses in need, and recruited others in an elaborate scheme. In so doing, Bello took advantage of government programs and used those funds for his personal gain and enrichment.
In March 2020, Congress passed the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, Economic Security (CARES) Act, which was designed to provide emergency financial assistance to millions of Americans who suffered due to the COVID-19 pandemic. These included the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and Economic Injury Disaster Loan Program (EIDL). The EIDL program provided low-interest financing to small businesses, renters, and homeowners in regions affected by declared disasters. Bello assisted and/or completed and submitted materially false applications for COVID government program benefits for himself and his co-defendants. The defendant received proceeds and “kickbacks” for the fraud scheme.
“People who exploit our system to steal public money from the citizens of this country are engaged in despicable behavior,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs. “Let this sentence serve as a clear message: anyone who endeavors to steal from the public coffers within our jurisdiction will be pursued and held fully accountable under the law.”
This case was investigated by FBI, Department of the Interior, and the Small Business Administration. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Chalana A. Oliver.
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Jefferson County man sentenced to 19 years in federal prison for trafficking fentanylRead the Press Release
BEAUMONT, Texas – A Beaumont man has been sentenced to 19 years in federal prison for trafficking fentanyl in the Eastern District of Texas, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.
Carl Wayne Hite, Jr., 41, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and was sentenced to 228 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Marcia A. Crone on July 24, 2025.
According to information presented in court, in July 2023, federal narcotics agents in Beaumont initiated an investigation into the suspected drug trafficking activities of Hite. The investigation revealed that Hite was supplying fentanyl-laced pills on a recurring basis to individuals in Jefferson County. Federal agents were able to obtain fentanyl-laced pills directly from Hite, at which time Hite was arrested, and a search warrant was executed at his residence. During the search of Hite’s residence, law enforcement seized various controlled substances, including fentanyl.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration; Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office; Beaumont Police Department; Port Neches Police Department; Port Arthur Police Department; FBI CAST; Jefferson County Crime Laboratory; and DEA South Central Laboratory. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jonathan C. Lee and Matthew Quinn.
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Livingston man sentenced to federal prison for trafficking methamphetamineRead the Press Release
BEAUMONT, Texas – A Livingston man has been sentenced to federal prison for drug trafficking violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.
Jerry Wayne Akins, II, 37, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and was sentenced to 235 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Marcia A. Crone on July 21, 2025.
According to information presented in court, on November 17, 2021, Akins was stopped in Nacogdoches County for a traffic violation. During the stop, there was a strong odor of marijuana and Akins did not have a driver’s license. A search of the vehicle revealed marijuana, a firearm, 496 grams of methamphetamine, and various paraphernalia associated with drug trafficking.
This case was investigated by the Nacogdoches County Sheriff’s Office and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Matt Quinn.
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Jefferson County man sentenced to federal prison for trafficking methamphetamineRead the Press Release
BEAUMONT, Texas – A Beaumont man has been sentenced to federal prison for drug trafficking violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.
Tomaas Herron Stittem, 29, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and was sentenced to 140 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Marcia A. Crone on July 21, 2025.
According to information presented in court, in December 2023, local law enforcement began investigating Stittem as a drug trafficker in the Jefferson County area. On January 24, 2024, Stittem was stopped for a traffic violation and found to be in possession of 109.2 grams of methamphetamine. Throughout the investigation, Stittem is responsible for trafficking approximately 318.28 grams of methamphetamine.
This case was investigated by the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Beaumont Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan C. Lee.
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Indiana man sentenced to federal prison for exploiting Texas minor through gaming appRead the Press Release
BEAUMONT, Texas – A Putnam County, Indiana man has been sentenced to over 24 years in federal prison for production of child pornography in the Eastern District of Texas, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.
Tristan Kalobbe Martin, 29, pleaded guilty to production of child pornography and was sentenced to 293 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Marcia A. Crone on July 21, 2025.
According to information presented in court, in June 2022, Martin began communicating with a minor from Jasper County, Texas, while gaming through an on-line game console. Although the victim told Martin they were 15 years old, Martin continued to communicate with the minor. Law enforcement authorities in Jasper contacted law enforcement in Indiana in reference to the relationship. Local law enforcement in Indiana seized Martin’s cell phone, which contained nine videos of the minor engaging in sexually explicit behavior.
This case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
This case was investigated by the FBI; Putnam County, Indiana, Sheriff’s Office; and the Jasper Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Rachel Grove.###
Federal inmate sentenced for trafficking methamphetamine in prisonRead the Press Release
BEAUMONT, Texas – A federal inmate has been sentenced to additional time in federal prison for drug trafficking violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.
Kerry Wayne Feaster, 49, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and was sentenced to 63 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Marcia A. Crone on July 21, 2025.
According to information presented in court, on August 14, 2024, a correctional officer at the federal prison in Beaumont conducted a search of Feaster, an inmate at the prison. The search revealed a black package in Feaster’s gym bag containing 52.488 grams of methamphetamine.
This case was investigated by the FBI and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Rachel Grove.
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Twice deported Mexican national indicted for unlawfully returning to the United StatesRead the Press Release
TYLER, Texas – A Mexican national, illegally living in Tyler, has been charged with unlawfully returning to the United States, announced Eastern District of Texas Acting U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.
Jose Luis Rosales-Betancourt, 39, was named in an indictment returned by a federal grand jury this week in the Eastern District of Texas charging him with unlawful reentry following removal.
The indictment alleges that on July 8, 2025, Betancourt was twice previously deported in 2008 and 2013. Public records also indicate that Betancourt was previously convicted in 2006 of aggravated robbery in Smith County, after which he received a five-year prison sentence. Betancourt was again convicted in 2012 for illegal reentry following removal in the Eastern District of Texas, for which he was sentenced to 30 months.
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).
If convicted, Betancourt faces up to 20 years in federal prison and deportation.
This case is being investigated by Homeland Security Investigations-Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the Smith County Sheriff’s Office. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lucas Machicek.
A federal indictment is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Armed alien, illegally living in Tyler, indicted on federal firearms violationRead the Press Release
TYLER, Texas – A Mexican national, illegally living in Tyler, has been charged with a federal firearms violation in the Eastern District of Texas, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.
Marco Imanol Ferrusca-Ortega, 23, was named in an indictment returned by a federal grand jury this week in the Eastern District of Texas charging him with being an illegal alien in possession of a firearm.
The indictment alleges that on July 8, 2025, Ferrusca-Ortega was found illegally in the United States and in possession of a firearm
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).
If convicted, Ferrusca-Ortega faces up to 15 years in federal prison and deportation.
This case is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration; Homeland Security Investigations; and the Tyler Police Department. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Dustin Farahnak.
A federal indictment is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Armed Mexican national federally indicted in the Eastern District of TexasRead the Press Release
TYLER, Texas – A Mexican national, illegally living in Tyler, has been charged with a federal violation in the Eastern District of Texas, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.
Luis Donaldo Villanueva-Tapia, 30, was named in an indictment returned by a federal grand jury this week in the Eastern District of Texas charging him with being an illegal alien in possession of a firearm.
The indictment alleges that on July 8, 2025, Villanueva-Tapia was found illegally in the United States and in possession of a firearm
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).
If convicted, Villanueva-Tapia faces up to 15 years in federal prison and deportation.
This case is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration; Homeland Security Investigations; and the Tyler Police Department. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Dustin Farahnak.
A federal indictment is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Cherokee County felon sentenced to federal prison for firearms violationRead the Press Release
TYLER, Texas –A Rusk man has been sentenced to federal prison for a firearms violation in the Eastern District of Texas, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.
Justin Jones, 37, pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm and was sentenced to 24 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Jeremy D. Kernodle on July 15, 2025.
According to information presented in court, on December 4, 2023, was seen driving on County Road 2120 in Cherokee County. The Sheriff recognized Jones and attempted to stop him for an outstanding arrest warrant. Jones abandoned his vehicle and fled the scene on foot. A search of the abandoned vehicle revealed Jones’ cell phone, two rifles, and a pistol. The phone also contained a photo of Jones holding one of the rifles. Jones has several prior felony convictions, including four prior convictions for being a felon in possession of a firearm. As a convicted felon, Jones is prohibited by federal law from owning or possessing firearms.
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).
This case was investigated by the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives – Tyler Field Office. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jim Noble.
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The former senior Costa Rican official has been charged, arrested, and is pending extradition to the United States on international drug trafficking chargesRead the Press Release
A former Costa Rican government official and judge has been charged with federal drug trafficking violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.
Celso Manuel Gamboa Sanchez, 49, was named in a federal indictment returned by a grand jury this week in the Eastern District of Texas charging him with manufacturing and distributing cocaine knowing it would be unlawfully imported into the United States and conspiracy.
The indictment alleges that Gamboa Sanchez conspired with and assisted other international drug traffickers to manufacture, distribute, and transport significant quantities of cocaine, much of which was trafficked through Costa Rica and ultimately into the United States for further distribution. Gamboa Sanchez has held several governmental positions in Costa Rica, including Minister of Public Security in 2014, a position charged with overseeing crime prevention in the country, and judge from 2016 to 2018.
On June 23, 2025, Gamboa Sanchez was arrested in Costa Rica, pursuant to a provisional arrest warrant issued because of similar international drug trafficking charges alleged against Gamboa Sanchez in 2024 in the Eastern District of Texas. Also on June 23, 2025, Costa Rican officials arrested another alleged Costa Rican international narcotics trafficker, Edwin Danny Lopez Vega, who was an associate of Gamboa Sanchez, and indicted in the Eastern District of Texas.
Both remain jailed in Costa Rica and are awaiting extradition to the United States.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
If convicted, Gamboa Sanchez and Lopez Vega face a minimum of ten years and a maximum of life in federal prison.
This case is being investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the North Texas Strike Force. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs provided substantial assistance. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Wes Wynne and Christopher Eason.
A federal indictment is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Mexican national, illegally living in Beaumont, guilty of immigration violations in the Eastern District of TexasRead the Press Release
BEAUMONT, Texas –A Mexican national has pleaded guilty to an immigration violation in the Eastern District of Texas, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.
Jesus Adame-Nunez, 43, a Mexican national illegally residing in Beaumont, pleaded guilty to illegal reentry by a previously deported person before U.S. Magistrate Judge Zack Hawthorn on July 10, 2025.
According to information presented in court, Adame-Nunez was arrested in Beaumont on February 11, 2025, after an investigation revealed that he had been previously deported from the United States to Mexico in 2006.
Adame-Nunez faces up to 2 years in federal prison and deportation at sentencing. The maximum statutory sentence prescribed by Congress is provided here for information purposes, as the sentencing will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the U.S. Probation Office.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
This case was investigated by Department of Homeland Security-Immigration and Customs Enforcement and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Chris Jackson.