Southern District of Texas
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Felon guilty of illegally owning rifles and shotgunsRead the Press Release
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A 33-year-old Huntsville resident has admitted to being a felon in possession of multiple firearms, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
On March 10, 2021, authorities pulled over a vehicle for having an expired Texas temporary tag. Alonzo Gonzalez III was a passenger in the vehicle.
Law enforcement officers noticed the occupants of the vehicle were behaving suspiciously and brought a K9 to the scene. The K9 alerted to the rear of the vehicle. A subsequent search resulted in the discovery of seven firearms concealed inside the trunk. Those included two 12-gauge shotguns, a .243 rifle, .223-5.56 rifle and three 7.62x54R rifles. Authorities later determined that two of the weapons were stolen.
Gonzalez admitted he had placed the firearms in the trunk and planned to sell them in South Texas.
U.S. District Judge Nelva Ramos will impose sentence on June 22. If found to be an armed career criminal, Gonzalez will face a minimum of 15 years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 fine.
He has been and will remain in custody pending sentencing.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation with the assistance of the Kleberg County Attorney Specialized Crimes & Enforcement Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Amanda L. Gould is prosecuting the case.
EMS employee indicted for smuggling two in ambulanceRead the Press Release
LAREDO, Texas – A 45-year-old man has been indicted on alien smuggling charges, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
A federal grand jury returned the three-count indictment against Hugo Daniel Torres. He was originally charged by criminal complaint. He is expected to appear for his initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Christopher dos Santos on the indictment in the near future.
On March 2, Torres allegedly attempted to drive an ambulance through the Interstate Highway 35 Border Patrol (BP) checkpoint located in Laredo. The charges further allege authorities became suspicious after the passenger of the vehicle appeared nervous and did not provide proof of citizenship.
At secondary inspection, law enforcement determined the passenger and one other woman posing as a patient were non-U.S. citizens and were in the United States illegally, according to the charges.
If convicted, Torres faces up to 10 years in prison as well as a possible $250,000 maximum fine.
BP conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Isaac is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.
Illegal gambling business operator admits to plotting military equipment theftRead the Press Release
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A 46-year-old Corpus Christi resident has entered a guilty plea to conducting an illegal gambling business and conspiring to steal government property, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
Nathan Nichols admitted that from March 2018 to August 2019, he operated illegal gambling businesses in Corpus Christi. He also pleaded guilty to conspiring to steal sensitive government property from the U.S. Army installation at Ft. Hood in June 2021.
Nichols was the co-owner of Theo's Bar and owner/operator of Lady Luck, both facilities containing illegal gaming devices. The establishments contained sweepstakes games which people play by using computers and monitors rather than casino-style equipment. The games are software-based and function as traditional slot-machine games or “8-liners.” However, the action of the slot-machine reels are simulated on a computer screen rather than on mechanical reels. Those playing the machines place bets before each spin and receive winnings in cash.
In a separate case, Nichols also admitted he conspired with others to steal sensitive U.S. Army property valued at $2,176,000. He had been in contact with one of the persons responsible for the theft and requested pictures of the property before agreeing to buy it for resale. Once he obtained the items, Nichols subsequently listed them for sale on eBay.
Authorities executed a search warrant at Nichols’ residence in July 2021. At that time, they discovered sensitive military equipment including laser range finders, thermal scopes, night vision scopes, night vision goggles and laser aiming devices. All of the property belonged to the U.S. Army.
As part of his guilty pleas, Nichols agreed to forfeit a total of $2,185,218.73 as proceeds from his illegal activity. Sentencing has been set for June 21 before U.S. District Judge Nelva Gonzales Ramos. At that time, Nichols faces up to five years in prison for each conviction.
He has been and will remain in custody pending that hearing.
The FBI conducted the investigation with the assistance of the Corpus Christi Police Department on the gambling case. Homeland Security Investigations conducted the stolen property investigation with the assistance of the U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Division.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys (AUSA) Joel Dunn and Christopher Marin are prosecuting the cases with the assistance of Asset Forfeiture AUSA Yifei Zheng.
Edinburg man sentenced for “catching a case” of sex tourism with minorRead the Press Release
McALLEN, Texas – A 23-year-old Edinburg man has been ordered to federal prison for engaging in illicit sexual conduct with a minor in Mexico, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
Carlos Daniel Uribe-Garza pleaded guilty June 7, 2021, admitting to the crime and that it had resulted in a pregnancy.
Today, U.S. District Judge Randy Crane ordered him to serve a 121-month sentence. At the hearing, the court heard about Uribe-Garza’s repeated phone calls with the victim. During those conversations, he attempted to influence her not to cooperate with law enforcement and instructed her to send letters to the judge retracting her previous statements. Evidence was also presented that indicated Uribe-Garza was emotionally manipulative towards the victim and had associates confront her and her family at their residence. Judge Crane considered comments from the victim’s mother indicating how Uribe-Garza’s conduct was obsessive, manipulative and toxic. After considering all the evidence, the court determined Uribe-Garza engaged in the obstruction of justice.
Judge Crane also heard that Uribe-Garza had previously engaged in another illicit sexual relationship with a 16-year-old minor in 2019, which also resulted in a pregnancy. Uribe-Garza told that girl not to tell anyone of their relationship because he could “catch a case.” The court deemed him a repeat and dangerous sex offender against minors and imposed a sentencing enhancement.
In imposing the prison term, the court noted Uribe-Garza is predatory toward minors. Following his imprisonment, Uribe-Garza will serve five years on supervised release, during which time, he will have to comply with numerous requirements designed to restrict his access to children. He will also be ordered to register as a sex offender.
Uribe-Garza spoke at sentencing and told the court his only regret was attempting to bring the victim into the United States.
Uribe-Garza met the minor victim at her 15th birthday party in Reynosa, Mexico, and then began contacting her via social media. From December 2020 to February 2021, Uribe-Garza pursued a sexual relationship with the victim, traveling from Texas to Mexico on multiple occasions.
She became pregnant that February.
Uribe-Garza attempted to bring the minor into the United States at the Hidalgo Port of Entry on February 24, at which time authorities took him into custody. Uribe-Garza had disguised the victim as a male United States citizen by cutting her hair, dressing her in men’s clothing, and providing her with false documentation.
Uribe-Garza has been and will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation with the assistance of Customs and Border Protection.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Devin V. Walker and Amy L. Greenbaum prosecuted the case, which was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood (PSC), a nationwide initiative the Department of Justice (DOJ) launched in May 2006 to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section leads PSC, which marshals federal, state and local resources to locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children and identifies and rescues victims. For more information about PSC, please visit DOJ’s PSC page. For more information about internet safety education, please visit the resources tab on that page.
Cuban guilty of ignoring court orderRead the Press Release
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A Corpus Christi jury has returned a guilty verdict against a 45-year-old citizen of Cuba for failing to appear in court as ordered, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
The federal jury deliberated for approximately 20 minutes following one-day of trial before convicting Noriel Ramos-Garcia as charged.
Ramos-Garcia had been facing charges related to the unlawful transportation of individuals. A U.S. magistrate judge had permitted him release upon positing bond pending further criminal proceedings. As part of his conditions, he was ordered to stay in contact with authorities and attend all court hearings.
However, he did not appear for his court date Jan. 21, 2021.
At trial, a U.S. probation officer testified that in November 2020, Ramos-Garcia ceased all communications with them. Law enforcement was unable to locate him until September 2021.
The jury heard Ramos-Garcia left the United States and traveled to Cuba in November 2020 and returned September 2021. Law enforcement arrested him upon landing in the United States.
The defense attempted to convince the jury that Ramos-Garcia went to Cuba with the intent of delivering medicine for his family members who had been infected with Covid-19. Ramos-Garcia claimed he intended to fly back three days later, but the flights were cancelled. He told the court he did not intend to miss his court date. They did not believe those claims and found him guilty as charged.
U.S. District Judge Nelva Gonzales Ramos presided over the trial and set sentencing for June 15. At that time, Ramos-Garcia faces up to five years of imprisonment and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.
Ramos-Garcia has been and will remain in custody pending that hearing.
The U.S. Marshals Service conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Patrick Overman prosecuted the case.
Court Imposes Restrictions on Credit Repair Company to Protect ConsumersRead the Press Release
The Justice Department and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) announced that a federal court in Houston, Texas, entered a permanent injunction barring a credit repair company and its CEO from representing that it can repair or improve consumers’ credit scores. The court also entered a preliminary injunction that prohibits the defendants from making large or non-essential expenditures to preserve assets for consumer redress.
In a civil complaint filed March 1 and unsealed on March 14, the Department of Justice alleged that that Alexander V. Miller, 42, of Missouri City, Texas, and his company Turbo Solutions Inc. violated the Credit Repair Organizations Act, the Telemarketing and Consumer Fraud and Abuse Prevention Act, the FTC Act and the FTC’s Telemarketing Sales Rule in connections with defendants’ marketing and sales of credit repair services. On March 4, the court issued a temporary restraining order imposing financial restrictions on defendants, which remained in place through the resolution of the preliminary injunction hearing.
The complaint alleges that the defendants used internet websites and telemarketing to falsely claim that the defendants could improve consumers’ credit scores by removing all negative items from consumers’ credit reports. According to the complaint, the defendants also filed or caused to be filed fake identity theft reports with the FTC. The complaint further alleges that the defendants routinely took prohibited advanced fees for their credit repair services and did not make required disclosures regarding those services. Many consumers allegedly paid defendants a fee ranging from several hundred dollars to $1,500, but did not receive the higher credit scores defendants promised.
“Credit repair scams affect consumers who already are suffering from low credit scores,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Brian M. Boynton, head of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “The Department of Justice will use all tools at its disposal to stop credit repair agencies from engaging in unlawful conduct targeting financially vulnerable consumers.”
“IdentityTheft.gov is a resource for consumers, not scammers,” said Director Samuel Levine of the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection. “Those who abuse this resource by filing fake reports can expect to hear from us.”
The government is represented in the civil matter by Trial Attorneys Marcus Smith and Amy Kaplan, Senior Trial Counsel Stephen Tosini, Senior Litigation Counsel Claude Scott, Assistant Director Lisa Hsiao of the Civil Division’s Consumer Protection Branch and Assistant U.S. Attorney Richard Kincheloe of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Texas. The FTC is represented by Gregory A. Ashe.
For more information about the Consumer Protection Branch and its enforcement efforts, visit its website at https://www.justice.gov/civil/consumer-protection-branch. For more information about the FTC, visit its website at https://www.FTC.gov.
Soccer coach ordered to prison for producing child pornographyRead the Press Release
McALLEN, Texas – A former McAllen youth league coach illegally residing in Pharr has been sent to federal prison for sexual exploitation of children, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
Oscar Hinojosa pleaded guilty Dec. 1, 2021.
Today, U.S. District Judge Alvarez sentenced Hinojosa to 210 months in federal prison. At the hearing, the court heard additional information including a victim letter detailing the impact this case on the minor child involved. In handing down the prison terms, the court noted the soccer coach was in a position of trust which he abused by grooming the child as well as her mother. Hinojosa will serve 10 years on supervised release following completion of his prison term, during which time, he will have to comply with numerous requirements designed to restrict his access to children and the internet. Hinojosa will also be ordered to register as a sex offender.
From March 2020 through June 2021, Hinojosa communicated and cultivated a relationship with a 15-year-old minor.
Hinojosa was the victim’s soccer coach. Over time, Hinojosa told her he loved her and expressed his sexual desire for her. During their communications, Hinojosa instructed the minor victim to send a sexually-explicit photo of her genitalia in a specific pose. She ultimately did as requested on this occasion and others.
While communicating with this victim, Hinojosa also attempted to cultivate a similar relationship to another one of the minor females on his soccer team. While he was unsuccessful, he expressed his love for her as well.
Hinojosa is not a citizen of the United States and does not have legal status to reside here.
He has been and will remain in custody pending that hearing.
Mission Police Department and Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Colton T. Turner prosecuted the case, which was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood (PSC), a nationwide initiative the Department of Justice (DOJ) launched in May 2006 to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section leads PSC, which marshals federal, state and local resources to locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children and identifies and rescues victims. For more information about PSC, please visit DOJ’s PSC page. For more information about internet safety education, please visit the resources tab on that page.
Local tax return preparer indicted for fraudRead the Press Release
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – The owner and operator of The Tax Company in Corpus Christi is set to appear in federal court on charges of tax fraud, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
Berlinda Luikens is charged in a 41-count indictment returned March 9. She is set to appear for her arraignment today at 10 a.m. before U.S. Magistrate Judge Julie K. Hampton.
The charges allege she submitted false Form 1040 tax returns by including fraudulent Schedule C and Schedule F items, including fictitious businesses. This resulted in higher tax refund amounts her clients were not entitled to receive, according to the charges.
Luikens allegedly caused hundreds of thousands of dollars in tax revenue loss.
“IRS - Criminal Investigation (CI) takes the job of investigating criminal violations of our nation’s tax laws seriously because tax fraud steals from programs that help every American,” said acting Special Agent in Charge Rodrick Benton. “We will continue working with the U.S. Attorney’s Office and our law enforcement partners to help identify suspected tax criminals and protect taxpayers’ money.”
If convicted, Luikens faces up to three years in prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine for each count of conviction.
IRS-CI conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney John Marck is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence.
A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.Tri City Bombers and Cartel associate sentenced for racketeering crimesRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – Five men have pleaded guilty and received significant sentences for their involvement in a Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO) conspiracy, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
Ramon De La Cerda, 48, McAllen; Jose Rolando Gonzalez, 43, and Juan Alberto Mendez, 49, both of Mission; Salomon Robles, 35, San Juan; and Margil Reyna, 38, Toledo, Ohio, admitted their roles in the Tri City Bombers (TCB) racketeering conspiracy and were immediately sentenced.
Today, U.S. District Judge Sim Lake sentenced each man to 30 years in federal prison.
In handing down the sentences, Judge Lake found De La Cerda and Gonzalez to be ranking members of the TCB, while Reyna and Robles were members of the criminal organization. Mendez was a drug distributor for the Gulf Cartel and associate of the criminal enterprise.
“With the pleas today, these five people have admitted their involvement in a slew of senseless violent crimes, including murders committed in furtherance of the TCB criminal enterprise,” said Lowery. “We and our federal and state law enforcement partners will continue our unrelenting efforts to eradicate gang violence in the district and hold accountable all those who threaten the safety and well-being of our citizens.”
“Members of our Rio Grande Valley community deserve to live free of threats from criminal organizations,” said FBI Acting Special Agent in Charge Jason Hudson. “The FBI thanks our partners on the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) for their collective efforts to keep members of this organization off the streets.”
The court found Mendez hired De La Cerda, Gonzalez and Robles to kill on two occasions. The criminal enterprise kidnapped and murdered a man in McAllen and attempted to murder a woman in Mission. The woman was shot six times, but survived.
Gonzalez was also involved in the distribution of 27 kilograms of cocaine in October 2016 in Victoria.
In 2012, Reyna participated in an ongoing marijuana trafficking conspiracy and home invasion burglary that resulted in the death of the homeowner in Edinburg. The homeowner’s son was also shot, but survived.
The TCB is a national gang active in multiple states that was formed in the early 1980s in the Pharr, San Juan and Alamo areas of South Texas. The TCB have an organized decision-making hierarchy, including a person in charge of each city and leaders within the organization who determine whether its members violated the gang’s rule and deserved punishment. To instill loyalty, including participation in gang’s criminal activities and adherence to its strict rule structure, TCB leaders determine and order the severe beating of members and associates for acts of disobedience or non-observance of TCB rules.
The scope of the TCB’s crimes is wide-ranging and consistent in its nationwide operation. This RICO conspiracy includes murder, attempted murder, drug trafficking, firearm crimes, money laundering and other crimes in furtherance of the organization’s enterprise. The TCB brought money into the gang through murders, drug trafficking, home invasion robberies and money laundering.
To date, 35 individuals have been convicted in the case.
All five men sentenced today have been in custody since their arrests and will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
The FBI led the OCDETF investigation dubbed “Operation Bomb Disposal,” along with IRS-Criminal Investigation, Drug Enforcement Administration, Customs and Border Protection, Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission, Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Office and police departments in McAllen, Mission, Edinburg, Weslaco and Pharr. OCDETF identifies, disrupts and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found on the Department of Justice’s OCDETF webpage.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Anibal J. Alaniz and Casey N. MacDonald prosecuted the case with the assistance of Trial Attorney Brendan Woods and other members of the Department of Justice’s Organized Crime and Gang Section.
Out of state man admits to smuggling Iran nationalsRead the Press Release
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A 62-year-old man pleaded guilty to attempting to smuggle two Iranian citizens into the country, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
Gholamreza Hosseinpour, Fairfax, Virginia, pleaded guilty to two counts of transporting illegal aliens within the United States.
As part of his plea, he admitted that on Dec. 19, 2021, he flew from his home state to Texas. He rented a vehicle in San Antonio and drove to McAllen to pick up two individuals that had crossed into the United States from Mexico. Hosseinpour then drove them north to the Javier Vega Jr. Border Patrol (BP) checkpoint located near Sarita.
There, law enforcement conducted an initial inspection, at which time the two individuals could not answer questions about their citizenship. Authorities ultimately determined each individual was from Iran and illegally present in the United States.
U.S. District Judge David S. Morales will impose sentencing June 9. At that time, Hosseinpour faces up to five years of imprisonment and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.
He was permitted to remain on bond pending that hearing.
BP conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Dennis Robinson and Molly Smith are prosecuting the case.
Cuban citizen sentenced to prison after ramming FBI security gateRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – A 39-year-old man has been ordered to prison for illegally breaching federal security and gaining entry to the FBI building in Houston, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
Nestor Mariano Vidal Batista pleaded guilty Feb 24. 2022.
Today, U.S. Circuit Judge Gregg Costa, sitting by designation, ordered Vidal to serve 14 months in federal prison. Not a U.S. citizen, Vidal is expected to face removal proceedings following his imprisonment. At the hearing, the court heard additional evidence that Batista had previously been convicted of alien smuggling. In handing down the sentence, the court noted how his actions posed a risk to others.
On June 23, 2021, Batista stole a Dodge Ram 2500 pick-up truck shortly before attempting to lodge an in-person complaint at the FBI office in Houston. Upon his arrival, security referred him to local authorities. Batista then re-entered the truck, circled the area and tried to force entry. He sped forward and crashed the truck into the front security gates of the FBI building. Shortly thereafter, he was able to exit the truck and enter the visiting area in the lobby. Authorities then subdued him and took him into custody.
As a result of his actions, he caused $7,929.90 in damages.
Vidal has been and will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
The FBI conducted the investigation with the assistance of Houston Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Joe Porto prosecuted the case.
Two sentenced for illegally obtaining nearly 50 tons of cheese and moreRead the Press Release
BROWNSVILLE, Texas – Two women have been sent to prison following their convictions of conspiracy and committing $1.2 million in food stamp fraud, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
Ana Rioja, 51, Brownsville, and Maria Consuelo de Ureno, a legal permanent resident of Brownsville, 55, pleaded guilty May 12, 2021, to conspiring to commit and committing Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) fraud.
Today, U.S. District Judge Rolando Olvera Jr. handed Rioja a 30-month term of imprisonment to be immediately followed by one year of supervised release. Ureno received 37 months followed by a three-year-term of supervised release. Ureno could also face loss of her legal status in the United States and removal proceedings following her release from prison. In handing down the prison terms, Judge Olvera ordered Rioja and Ureno to pay $975,401 and $1,284,282.15 in restitution, respectively.
Beginning in February 2016, the investigation revealed Ureno, Rioja and other co-conspirators exchanged SNAP benefits for cash by using a point of sale device at a local meat market Rioja owned. Additionally, authorities discovered Ureno and co-conspirators conducted fraudulent transactions at Sam’s Wholesale Club.
The investigation discovered 715 fraudulent transactions that were linked to 83 unique SNAP benefit recipients which conspirators redeemed for cash or food. Ureno’s fraudulent purchases totaled to approximately 49.1 tons of American cheese slices, 22.3 tons of pinto beans, 1.6 tons of Folgers coffee, 1.4 tons of instant mashed potatoes and over 5,000 gallons of mayonnaise which she would sell to a partner and transport to Mexico.
Between September 2014 and August 2019, both Rioja and Ureno conducted approximately $1.2 million in fraudulent transactions.
Ureno has been and will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future. Rioja was permitted to remain on bond and voluntarily surrender at a date to be determined in the near future.
Homeland Security Investigations and the Department of Agriculture – Office of Inspector General conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ana C. Cano and Jose A. Esquivel prosecuted the case.
Siblings sentenced for selling drugs near elementary schoolRead the Press Release
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – Two Corpus Christi residents have been ordered to prison for their involvement in a drug conspiracy, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
Jesus Sustaita III, 26, pleaded guilty Nov. 23, 2021, while his sister - Anna Sustaita, 24, entered her plea Oct. 20, 2021.
Today, U.S. District Judge David S. Morales sentenced each to serve 135 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by five years of supervised release. At the hearing, the court heard additional testimony about multiple shootings in which the siblings had previously been involved. The court also heard about other investigations in which they were believed to be selling narcotics over the past several years.
The investigation began back in July 2021 when authorities learned that Alec Garcia, a known felon, was in possession of firearms based on multiple social media posts. Further investigation revealed he and the Sustaitas were selling narcotics out of their residence.
Authorities executed a search warrant at a residence in Corpus Christi in August 2021. The home was located across the street from a local elementary school. At that time, law enforcement found over 50 grams of meth; nearly two kilograms of pills that had the appearance of candy and contained fentanyl, alprazolam and meth; LSD; approximately two kilograms of marijuana as well as numerous THC products, nine firearms, hundreds of rounds of ammunition, body armor and U.S. currency. All of the firearms were unsecured, eight of which were loaded.
At the time of the search, an 8-year-old was living in the home.
Garcia, 30, Corpus Christi, pleaded guilty to his involvement in the conspiracy last month and is set to be sentenced later this year.
Jesus and Anna Sustaita will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation with the assistance of the Corpus Christi Police Department’s Gang Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorney Barbara J. De Peña prosecuted the case.
Houstonians sent to prison for illegal firearms purchasesRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – Four individuals have been sentenced for illegally purchasing weapons for others aka straw purchasing, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
Maribel Santana-Cerano, 45, Ariceli Santana, 47, Carlos Joel Hernandez, 26, and Johnny Talavera, 28, all of Houston, pleaded guilty in 2021.
Today, U.S. District Judge Lynn N. Hughes imposed the statutory maximum 120-month term of imprisonment for Santana-Cerano. Santana and Talavera received sentences of 12 months and a day, while Hernandez was ordered to serve six months. In imposing the sentence for Santana-Cerano, the court noted her role in the scheme, the number of firearms attributed to her and her knowledge of the trafficking scheme among other factors that warranted her maximum sentence. In handing down the prison terms, Judge Hughes noted the impact these firearms would have on American and Mexican lives.
The investigation began July 31, 2018. At that time, Santana-Cerano was a passenger on a bus headed to Mexico. Authorities conducted an X-ray inspection which revealed 34 pistols and 31 magazines inside black luggage. Santana-Cerano denied the luggage was hers but displayed suspicious behavior.
Upon further investigation, law enforcement was able to trace firearms purchases from various federally-licensed firearms dealers to Santana-Cerano, Santana, Hernandez and Talavera. Authorities also retrieved falsely represented ATF 4473 forms that each had completed. The documents claimed they were the purchasers of the firearms when, in fact, they were not.
Upon her to return to the United States and arrest, Santana-Cerano admitted to straw purchasing firearms for an individual residing in Mexico. She would then store and accumulate the firearms at her residence before their transport into Mexico. She also reported that her sister, Santana, purchased more firearms for her. Santana stated each individual was given money and directed to purchase specific firearms.
The group was ultimately held responsible for the illegal purchase of 82 firearms that were destined for Mexico.
Straw purchasing occurs when someone professes to be purchasing a firearm for themselves, when in actuality, they provide it to someone else, usually not legally able to do it themselves.
Santana-Cerano was taken into custody at the conclusion of her sentencing hearing, while the others were permitted to remain on bond pending dates to surrender in the near future.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Steven Schammel prosecuted the case.
Alien smuggler’s high speed flight leads to stint in federal prisonRead the Press Release
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A 43-year-old Falfurrias resident has been ordered to federal prison following his conviction of transporting illegal aliens, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
Pedro Galindo pleaded guilty Dec. 1, 2021.
Today, U.S. District Judge Drew Tipton handed Galindo a sentence of 41 months in federal prison. At the hearing, the court noted he had prior convictions for burglary, robbery and conspiracy to transport undocumented aliens.
On Sep. 3, 2021, Galindo was driving a black Chevrolet Impala Northbound on U.S. Highway 281 near San Manuel. During that time, law enforcement observed a low-riding vehicle that appeared to contain more occupants than its seating capacity allowed.
When a registration check on the vehicle returned with no record on file, law enforcement attempted to pull the vehicle over for further inspection. Galindo failed to yield and drove north at an accelerated speed before eventually losing control. At that time, he allowed eight passengers to exit the vehicle. Authorities determined all passengers were illegally present in the United States.
After speeding through the Falfurrias checkpoint, Galindo continued to flee in his vehicle at nearly 148 miles per hour. A vehicle immobilization device brought the car to a halt where officers were able to arrest Galindo.
He will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
Customs and Border Protection conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney J. Parker Gochenour prosecuted the case.
Texan caught smuggling over $30,000Read the Press Release
LAREDO, Texas – A 36-year-old man has been charged with bulk cash smuggling, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
A federal grand jury has returned an indictment against Modesto Zepeda for smuggling $30,025 into the United States from Mexico.
Originally charged by criminal complaint, he made his first appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Christopher dos Santos Feb. 16. He is expected to appear for his initial appearance on the indictment in the near future.
On Feb. 14, Zepeda attempted to enter United States through the Gateway to the Americas Port of Entry in Laredo as a pedestrian, according to the charges. There, he allegedly gave a negative declaration for possessing currency over $10,000.
The charges allege law enforcement searched him and found a total of $30,025 hidden inside his wallet, pants pocket and underwear.
If convicted, Zepeda faces up to five years in prison as well as a possible $250,000 maximum fine.
Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Isaac is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.
Out of state man pleads guilty to possessing over 53 kilos of methRead the Press Release
LAREDO, Texas – A 31-year-old Phoenix, Arizona, man has admitted he attempted to bring $242,325 worth of narcotics into the country via a Laredo-area port of entry, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
Jose Correjudo-Trinidad, 31, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute 53.5 kilograms of meth.
As part of his plea, Correjudo-Trinidad admitted that on Dec. 15, 2021, he attempted to drive a vehicle through the Border Patrol (BP) checkpoint located on Texas State Highway 16 near Hebbronville. At that time, authorities searched inside his trunk and found a large speaker box, which Correjudo-Trinidad admitted did not work. Further inspection yielded approximately 14.7 kilograms of crystal meth, 39.15 kilograms of liquid meth and nearly 300 rounds of ammunition.
Correjudo-Trinidad admitted he had been recruited to transport the drugs from McAllen to Dallas in exchange for $12,000. He purchased the ammunition for himself and planned on smuggling it to Mexico.
The combined meth had a total weight of 53.5 kilograms with an approximate value of $242,325.
Sentencing will be set for a later date before U.S. District Judge Marina Garcia Marmolejo. At that time, Correjudo-Trinidad faces up to life in prison and a possible $10 million fine.
He has been and will remain in custody pending that hearing.
The Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation with the assistance of Border Patrol. Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul A. Harrison is prosecuting the case.
Indictment returned for smuggling nearly 80 in trailerRead the Press Release
LAREDO, Texas – A 52-year-old legal permanent resident of North Carolina has been charged with human smuggling, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
Today, a federal grand jury returned the three-count indictment against Aurelio Barajas-Pulido. He was originally charged by criminal complaint. He is expected to appear for his arraignment in the near future before U.S. Magistrate Judge Diana Song Quiroga.
The complaint alleges that on Feb. 8, Barajas-Pulido attempted to drive a tractor trailer through the Interstate Highway 35 checkpoint in Laredo. Upon arrival, he allegedly displayed suspicious behavior. A K-9 then alerted authorities to the presence of concealed humans, according to the charges.
Upon further inspection, law enforcement discovered 80 undocumented citizens in the trailer including three unaccompanied minors, one of whom was pregnant, according to the charges. All were allegedly determined to be in the United States illegally.
If convicted, Barajas-Pulido faces up to 10 years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine. He could also lose his status to reside in the United States.
Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Isaac is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.
Former law enforcement officer admits to allowing contraband into countryRead the Press Release
LAREDO, Texas – A 41-year-old Laredo resident has entered a guilty plea for his role in a conspiracy to smuggle goods into the United States, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
Simon Medina III was a Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer. Today, he admitted he helped others illegally bring commercial goods into the United States from Mexico.
Medina admitted that between May 25 and Aug. 6, 2020, he allowed several individuals to enter the United States with contraband in their vehicles on approximately 20 occasions. Although not assigned to the entry lanes at the Laredo Port of Entry, Medina would open a lane and allow his co-conspirators to pass through without inspecting their cargo. Medina also accepted gratuities from his partners.
U.S. District Judge Marina Garcia Marmolejo will impose sentencing June 1, at which time Medina faces up to five years in prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.
Medina was permitted to remain on bond pending that hearing.
The Department of Homeland Security - Office of Professional Responsibility and Customs and Border Protection conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney José Angel Moreno is prosecuting the case.
ICYMI - Weekly Roundup March 4, 2021Read the Press Release
HOUSTON – “In case you missed it,” one of the largest-scale drug enforcement operations, a life sentence for a child exploitation predator and an extradited Clan Del Golfo associate who was sent to U.S. prison are just a few of the notable matters the U.S. Attorney’s Office announced this week.
Some of the other criminal matters involved firearms, kidnapping, stalking, child pornography, bulk cash smuggling, public corruption, escape, tax fraud, immigration and several instances of meth smuggling.
“These criminal cases are just a small sample of what we do each and every day,” said U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery. “Through the pandemic or any other personal or professional challenge, the dedicated workers of the Southern District of Texas (SDTX) are hard at work every day alongside our partners in law enforcement to ensure our streets are safer and those that commit federal crimes answer for their actions. We hope the messages we send not only inform the public of our mission, but serve as a deterrent to those that even think about violating federal law.”
Also announced this week was the cooperative and collaborative effort with Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo (HLSR). “This is not an investigation into the rodeo,” said Lowery. “In fact, HLSR has been very receptive and helpful. They want the NRG grounds and facilities to be accessible and are very willing to work with us throughout this review process.”
ICYMI:
Houston - Dozens arrested in 105-count narcotics indictment
Corpus Christi - Corpus Christi man gets life for exploiting Filipino children
Houston - Clan Del Golfo associate ordered to prison for international cocaine distribution
Brownsville – Young man pleads guilty after crashing into patrol unit
Victoria – South Texas woman convicted for arranging smuggling attempt that led to death
Laredo - Texan admits guilt to multiple charges under Project Safe Childhood
Corpus Christi - Prisoner pleads guilty to escaping from halfway house
McAllen – La Joya trustee convicted of extortion
Houston - Tax preparer sent to prison for tax fraud…again
Corpus Christi - Foreign citizen imprisoned on weapon charge
Galveston - Out of state man indicted for stalking local victim
Laredo - Kidnappers admit to holding four migrants hostage at gunpoint
Corpus Christi - Felon sentenced for trafficking meth
Galveston - Santa Fe resident sentenced for receiving child pornography via Kik
Laredo - Driver convicted of transporting kilos of drugs
Corpus Christi -Un“lucky” fugitive pleads guilty to double firearms charges
Corpus Christi - Corpus Christi man gets life for exploiting Filipino children
McAllen - Million dollar smuggler sent to prison
Corpus Christi - Meth dealer heads to prison
Corpus Christi - South Texas woman admits to trafficking over $2 million in meth
Civil Houston - Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo to undergo ADA compliance review
The SDTX handles criminal, civil and appellate matters and typically prosecutes more cases against more defendants than most other U.S. Attorneys’ Offices nationwide. The district represents 43 counties and more than nine million people and covers 44,000 square miles. It comprises seven divisions with federal district courts in Houston, Galveston, Victoria, Corpus Christi, Brownsville, McAllen and Laredo. The SDTX, headquartered in Houston, has offices in all seven divisions. The cases announced this week cover all of those areas.
Young man pleads guilty after crashing into patrol unitRead the Press Release
BROWNSVILLE, Texas – An 18 year-old Mexican man illegally residing in Brownsville has entered a plea of guilty to transporting illegal aliens within the United States, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
Christopher Rodriguez-Martinez admitted his guilty today.
On Dec. 7, 2021, authorities observed Rodriguez-Martinez and Guillermo Villasenor-Sanchez in a silver vehicle near the Los Fresnos canal. Soon after, they saw six individuals run from the canal and get into the vehicle.
Rodriguez-Martinez was the driver and fled the area at a high rate of speed. As law enforcement approached the vehicle, Rodriguez-Martinez lost control and made impact with the Border Patrol (BP) unit.
After the crash, the occupants of the vehicle attempted to run away. Authorities soon apprehended them.
Upon the arrests, authorities located a total of $30,000 in cash along with several cell phones in the vehicle.
Villasenor-Sanchez, 31, Matamoros, Mexico, had previously pleaded guilty and is set for sentencing May 4. Rodriguez-Martinez is set to be sentenced May 25.
At that time, each face up to 10 years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.
Both remain in custody pending their hearings.
Customs and Border Protection and Border Patrol conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ana C. Cano is prosecuting the case.
Texan admits guilt to multiple charges under Project Safe ChildhoodRead the Press Release
LAREDO, Texas – A 30-year-old Laredo resident has pleaded guilty to receiving and possessing child pornography, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
The investigation began after authorities linked David De Los Santos to child exploitative materials in the internet.
Law enforcement conducted a search of his residence in Laredo and seized numerous digital devices. A forensic analysis revealed 832 image and video files depicting children engaged in sexually explicit conduct. According to court documents, the files included children under the age of 5 and images involving elements of bondage or bestiality.
Today, he admitted to receiving and possessing pornographic images, but challenged the content of those items.
U.S. District Judge Diana Saldaña will consider all factors and impose sentencing on a later date. At that time, De Los Santos faces a up to 20 years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.
He has been and will remain in custody pending sentencing.
Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation with the assistance of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and the Laredo Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron Petters is prosecuting the case, which was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood (PSC), a nationwide initiative the Department of Justice (DOJ) launched in May 2006 to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section leads PSC, which marshals federal, state and local resources to locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children and identifies and rescues victims. For more information about PSC, please visit DOJ’s PSC page. For more information about internet safety education, please visit the resources link on that page.
South Texas woman convicted for arranging smuggling attempt that led to deathRead the Press Release
VICTORIA, Texas – A 24-year-old Edinburg resident has entered a plea of guilty to conspiracy to transport of illegal aliens, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
Viriam Lizeth Huerta-Garcia admitted she accepted monies from the family members of a now deceased Mexican citizen to get him into the United States.
On July 21, 2021, authorities learned that a smuggled undocumented non-citizen had been abandoned along the roadside during a smuggling attempt. A family member of the victim had reported smugglers told them that the male victim had become ill during the trip and provided the location where he was left behind.
Law enforcement responded to the scene and discovered a Hispanic male laying down in a brushy area a short distance from the roadway. They pronounced him dead on the scene. The investigation revealed the victim was the same as the one the family member reported missing.
The victim had recently left the country to assist his ailing mother but had been trying to return to the United States. He was last heard from July 18, 2021.
Huerta-Garcia admitted today that she accepted $3,600 from his family members as payment for smuggling him into the United States.
Sentencing has been set before Senior U.S. District Judge John Rainey May 26. At that time, Huerta-Garcia faces up to 10 years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.
She has been and will remain in custody pending that hearing.
Homeland Security Investigations and the Victoria County Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Patti Hubert Booth is prosecuting the case.
Prisoner pleads guilty to escaping from halfway houseRead the Press Release
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A 49-year-old Falfurrias man has pleaded guilty to escaping from federal custody, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
Juan Luis Cruz admitted he knowingly left federal custody without permission.
Cruz had previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to transport undocumented aliens. On Feb. 19. 2019, he was ordered to serve 40 months of imprisonment and three years of federal supervised release. He was transferred to a halfway house Sept. 1, 2021, to complete the sentence.
Upon being transported to the halfway house in Corpus Christ, Cruz absconded by walking away from the facility without permission and did not return. Authorities located him Dec. 22.
U.S. District Judge Nelva Gonzales Ramos will impose sentencing June 8. At that time, Cruz faces up to five more years in federal prison.
He has been and will remain in custody pending that hearing.
U.S. Marshals Service conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney John Marck is prosecuting the case.
La Joya trustee convicted of extortionRead the Press Release
McALLEN, Texas – A 48-year-old Sullivan City man has admitted to threatening to cancel a contract if he did not receive increased monetary payments, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
Oscar Salinas aka “Coach” pleaded guilty today.
As part of the plea, Salinas admitted he had an agreement with Jacinto Garza, CEO of L&G Engineering. Salinas was to receive payments through his company from L&G.
Further, La Joya Independent School District (LJISD) had an insurance contract with Ruth Villareal Insurance. Salinas learned Garza was politically supporting Everardo Villarreal, a candidate for Hidalgo County commissioner and Ruth Villareal’s husband.
Salinas threatened to terminate the contract with Ruth Villarreal Insurance if the agreement with Garza was not re-negotiated for additional monetary payments. Garza eventually terminated the payment arrangement with Salinas.
Salinas subsequently cast a vote to terminate LJISD’s contract with Ruth Villarreal Insurance.
U.S. District Judge Micaela Alvarez accepted the plea and set sentencing for June 16. At that time, Salinas faces up to 20 years in federal prison.
He was permitted to remain on bond pending that hearing.
The FBI conducted the investigation with the assistance of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Department of Agriculture, Texas Department of Insurance and McAllen Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Roberto Lopez Jr. is prosecuting the case.
Un“lucky” fugitive pleads guilty to double firearms chargesRead the Press Release
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A 44-year-old Corpus Christi resident has pleaded guilty to illegally possessing a firearm as a felon and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
Joe Adam Ramirez aka Lucky admitted that on Sept. 4, 2020, he was in possession of drugs and a gun.
Ramirez was a known fugitive. However, authorities were able to locate him at a hotel in Corpus Christi. They conducted surveillance and observed him exit the hotel, enter the passenger side of a truck and depart the location. Law enforcement performed a traffic stop, at which time Ramirez attempted to flee on foot, but he tripped and fell.
At the time of the arrest, authorities discovered a loaded 9mm Taurus pistol, several bags of meth, Xanax and other prescription pills.
Ramirez knew he was aware of being a convicted felon and was not allowed to own a firearm. He said he ran because he did not want to go back to prison.
Ramirez has five prior felony convictions involving burglary of a vehicle, burglary of a habitation, theft from a person, aggravated robbery and possession of controlled substance. As such, he is prohibited under federal law from possessing firearms or ammunition at any time.
U.S. District Judge Nelva Ramos will impose sentencing June 8. At that time, Ramirez faces at least 15 years and up to life in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine. He also faces faces a five-year mandatory consecutive jail term for possessing the firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Homeland Security Investigations, Drug Enforcement Administration and the U.S. Marshals Service conducted the investigation with the assistance of the Corpus Christi Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Marin and John Marck are prosecuting the case.
Tax preparer sent to prison for tax fraud…againRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – A woman is headed to prison for falsely preparing tax returns following a prior order not to engage in that business, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
Marcia Angella Johnson pleaded guilty Sept. 7, 2021.
Today, U.S. District Judge George C. Hanks Jr. sentenced her to a total of 15 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by one year of supervised release. At the hearing, the court heard additional testimony that described how Johnson received probationary sentences in her three prior state criminal cases and yet continued to commit crimes. The court also heard testimony about Johnson’s 2011 case, which the United States elected to pursue civilly instead of criminally and which involved her submission of over 200 tax returns with a loss the government of over $1 million. In that case, a stipulated preliminary injunction and default judgment were issued against Johnson barring her from preparing tax returns. The tax credits she tried to obtain in that case were described in a filing as “so exaggerated that no reasonable person could conclude they were anything but deliberately fabricated.”
At the time of her plea, Johnson admitted that since 2016, she had been preparing income tax returns for clients even though she had been prohibited from doing so. During this time, she prepared numerous false returns which claimed various false items on her clients’ behalf. These included false wages, salaries, tips and tax credits such as earned income credit, child tax credits and American opportunity credits.
As a result of her criminal acts, the United States suffered a loss of at least $54,545 in tax revenue, which Johnson was ordered to pay back as part of her sentence. Johnson herself admitted to pocketing between $13,000 and $15,000 after preparing tax returns each year from 2016 through 2019.
Johnson previously admitted to preparing or assisting to prepare approximately 200 false tax returns. In 2011, the court banned her from conducting a tax preparation business.
She was permitted to remain on bond and voluntarily surrender to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
IRS – Criminal Investigation conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam Laurence Goldman prosecuted the case.
Santa Fe resident sentenced for receiving child pornography via KikRead the Press Release
GALVESTON, Texas – A 25-year-old local resident has been ordered to federal prison following his convictions of receipt and possession of child pornography, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
Joshua Allen Kasper pleaded guilty Aug. 10, 2021.
Today, U.S. District Judge Jeffrey V. Brown ordered him to serve a total of 78 months in federal prison. Kasper was further ordered to pay $13,500 in restitution to the victims and will serve 10 years on supervised release following completion of his prison term. During that time, he will have to comply with numerous requirements designed to restrict his access to children and the internet. Kasper will also be ordered to register as a sex offender.
In 2016, law enforcement learned of a Dropbox account that contained what was suspected to be child exploitation material. The investigation revealed that the account, which belonged to Kasper, was comprised of multiple folders that contained hundreds of images and videos meeting the federal definition of child pornography.
Authorities traced the account to an IP address registered to a residential address in Santa Fe. Kasper was living there.
Law enforcement executed a search warrant in August 2018 and seized Kasper’s cell phone, which was found to contain five photos and four images of child pornography. Several months prior to the search, Kasper had received the videos over the Kik messenger application on his phone.
Previously released on bond, Kasper was permitted to remain on bond and voluntarily surrender to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation with the assistance of the Houston Metro Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force and Pearland Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sherri Zack and Stephanie Bauman prosecuted the case, which was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood (PSC), a nationwide initiative the Department of Justice (DOJ) launched in May 2006 to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section leads PSC, which marshals federal, state and local resources to locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children and identifies and rescues victims. For more information about PSC, please visit DOJ’s PSC page. For more information about PSC, please visit DOJ’s PSC page. For more information about internet safety education, please visit the resources tab on that page.
Out of state man indicted for stalking local victimRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – A 45-year-old Colorado man has been charged with threatening a woman with releasing sexually explicit images unless she moved with him across the country, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
Moses Cano was originally charged by criminal complaint. Today, the grand jury returned the indictment. He is is expected to appear for an arraignment before U.S. Magistrate Judge Andrew Edison in the near future.
The complaint alleges Cano and the victim dated for a brief amount of time. At the end of that relationship, Cano made threats to her if she did not agree to come to Colorado with him, according to the charges. The victim allegedly refused. In retaliation, according to the complaint, he then sent sexually explicit images of the victim to her place of employment and several of her friends. He took over her Facebook account and used it to send the images and other messages to her contacts, according to the charges. He also allegedly posted a sexually-explicit video of the victim to a well-known adult pornography site.
In distress, the victim contacted authorities.
If convicted, Cano faces up to five years in federal prison and a 250,000 maximum possible fine.
Cano made his initial appearance Feb. 22, following the filing of the complaint. At that time, he was ordered to remain in custody pending further criminal proceedings.
The FBI conducted the investigation with the assistance of and Matagorda County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sherri L. Zack is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.
Kidnappers admit to holding four migrants hostage at gunpointRead the Press Release
LAREDO, Texas – Two men have pleaded guilty to kidnapping and holding victims for ransom for three days, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
Jesus Ochoa, 26, Laredo, pleaded guilty today, while Luis Armando Garcia, 29, a Mexican citizen illegally residing in Laredo, admitted his role in the scheme Monday, Feb. 28.
On Nov. 19, 2020, Ochoa and Garcia went to the banks of the Rio Grande in Laredo. There, they encountered a group of individuals who had just crossed the river and offered them a ride to San Antonio in exchange for payment.
They traveled to Garcia’s residence in Laredo, but told the group they were actually in San Antonio. They then forced all four people to call their family members and ask them to send $4,000 for each person’s release.
For three days, Ocho and Garcia held the group hostage at the residence, threatening each person with a firearm. They repeatedly forced them to call family members and beg for ransom money. Held at gunpoint, the victims had to record videos and voice messages, make video calls and send text messages to family. On several occasions, Ochoa and Garcia spoke to the family members directly, telling them if payment was not made, something would happen to the hostages.
Ultimately, family contacted authorities who were able to obtain the general location where the phone calls originated.
Ochoa and Garcia saw law enforcement in the area and panicked. They loaded the group back into a vehicle and transported them to an industrial park in Laredo. They dropped off the group and said they would return later.
The victims borrowed a phone from a nearby truck driver and called for help. Authorities found all four and were transported to safety.
U.S. District Judge Marina Garcia Marmolejo accepted the plea and will set sentencing at a later date. At that time, Ochoa and Garcia face up to life in prison.
They have been and will remain in custody pending that hearing.
Homeland Security Investigations and Laredo Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Makens is prosecuting the case.
Foreign citizen imprisoned on weapon chargeRead the Press Release
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A 34-year-old Mexican national has been ordered to federal prison following his convictions of illegal re-entry and felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
Gabriel Rangel-Castro pleaded guilty Nov. 22, 2021.
Today, U.S. District Judge Nelva Gonzales Ramos ordered Rangel-Castro to serve 57 seven months in federal prison. Not a U.S. citizen, he is expected to face removal proceedings following his imprisonment. At the hearing, the court noted he had prior convictions for possession of a controlled substance, assault causing bodily injury on a family member and three counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. In handing down the sentence, Judge Ramos cited his multiple convictions, each involving the use of a firearm while unlawfully present in the United States. Judge Ramos also referenced the extensive number of times Rangel-Castro has been removed from the United States.
On Sep. 20, 2021, law enforcement observed Rangel-Castro wearing a tactical fanny pack and carrying a knife while walking through a bush near Falfurrias. Authorities approached Rangel-Castro, at which time they found an HS Produkt Springfield Armory USA Pistol and nine rounds of .40 caliber ammunition in a magazine.
Rangel-Castro was twice previously removed from the United States as recently as June 2021. Due to his citizenship status and criminal record, Rangel-Castro is prohibited by federal law of possessing any firearm or ammunition.
He will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney J. Parker Gochenour prosecuted the case.
Felon sentenced for trafficking methRead the Press Release
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A 32-year-old McAllen resident has been ordered to federal prison following his conviction of conspiring with the intent to distribute more than seven kilograms of meth, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
Alberto Velasquez pleaded guilty Nov. 29, 2021.
Today, U.S. District Judge Nelva Gonzales Ramos ordered Velasquez to serve 180 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by 10 years of supervised release. In handing down the sentence, the court noted Velasquez had been previously convicted of conspiring to possess with the intent to distribute more than 105 kilograms of marijuana in 2009.
The conspiracy began in June 2020. Velasquez had purchased a Honda CRV and modified the vehicle by constructing a hidden compartment behind the front license plate to conceal the presence of narcotics. He and his co-conspirators later traveled to Mexico and loaded the vehicle with multiple kilograms of pure meth before importing it into the United States through the checkpoint located in Falfurrias.
However, in August 2020, a service canine alerted to Velasquez’s vehicle and authorities discovered more than seven kilograms of pure meth concealed within the hidden compartment.
Velasquez has been and will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
The Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation with assistance of BP. Assistant U.S. Attorney Roland Swanson prosecuted the case.
Roland Swanson prosecuted the case.
Driver convicted of transporting kilos of drugsRead the Press Release
LAREDO, Texas – A 44-year-old Channelview resident has been convicted of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute meth, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
Juan Jose Grande-Rivas pleaded guilty to the conspiracy charge today.
The investigation began after authorities identified a refrigerated trailer carrying narcotics that had been taken to a local trucking yard. Grande-Rivas later arrived at the location, hitched up the trailer and departed. Law enforcement maintained constant surveillance throughout Texas, Oklahoma and into a residential neighborhood in Kansas City, Kansas. There, he parked the trailer at an empty lot and left.
Law enforcement took him into custody a few miles away. At the time of his arrest, he was in possession of $30,000. He admitted he knew there were drugs in the trailer.
Upon searching the vehicle, authorities ultimately uncovered approximately 703 kilograms of meth within the foam insulation of the trailer.
A sentencing date will be set at a later date. At that time, Grande-Rivas faces a minimum of 10 years and up to life in prison.
He has been and will remain in custody pending that hearing.
Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation with the assistance of Customs and Border Protection and Border Patrol. Assistant U.S. Attorney José Angel Moreno prosecuted the case.
Dozens arrested in 105-count narcotics indictmentRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – A total of 50 people are now in custody following one of the largest major law enforcement operations in South Texas in recent years, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery along with Special Agent in Charge Daniel C. Comeaux of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). The crimes allegedly involve drug trafficking and related activities in the Houston and Galveston areas.
“I commend this multi-agency effort involving law enforcement agencies throughout the State of Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama,” said Lowery. “Their diligent efforts further our common goal of dismantling whom we believe are drug trafficking organizations by targeting their leadership and soldiers as well as intercepting narcotics and suspected ill-gotten financial gains.”
During the coordinated law enforcement effort that spanned multiple jurisdictions and states, authorities took a total of 50 people into custody. The charges remain sealed as to those charged but not as yet in custody. They are considered fugitives and warrants remain outstanding for their arrests.
“This collaborative effort involving multiple law enforcement agencies both locally and nationally shows our mission is unified in apprehending those that allegedly bring drugs, crime and unrest to our communities,” said Comeaux.
Those arrested in the Houston area are expected to make initial appearances before U.S. Magistrate Judge Christina A. Bryan in Houston beginning at 2 p.m. today.
The charges allege the crimes occurred between Dec. 10, 2020, and Dec. 15, 2021.
The indictment, returned Feb. 10, alleges the individuals engaged in a variety of fentanyl, cocaine, meth, heroin and marijuana transactions. Some also allegedly conspired to commit money laundering and illegally transferred or transported money from the United States to Mexico to promote the illicit drug smuggling activities.
Authorities have seized more than 150 kilograms of cocaine, over 140 kilograms of meth, approximately six and 18 kilograms of heroin and fentanyl, respectively, as well more than 500 kilograms of marijuana, according to the charges.
During the operation yesterday, law enforcement also found over 100 kilograms combined of suspected cocaine, fentanyl and marijuana in addition to 39 firearms.
If convicted, some could face up to life In federal prison and pay hundreds of thousands in fines.
The arrests are the culmination of 14-month Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force investigation (OCDETF) dubbed Operation Twisted Tea.
The DEA, U.S Marshals Service, police departments in Galveston, Houston and Pasadena conducted the OCDETF operation with the assistance of the Baytown Police Department; sheriffs’ offices in Harris, Fort Bend, Chambers, Refugio and Victoria counties; and Harris County Precinct 2 Constable’s Office.
OCDETF identifies, disrupts and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found on the Department of Justice’s OCDETF webpage.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Christine Lu, Sherin Daniel and Leo J. Leo III are prosecuting the case.
An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence.
A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.Clan Del Golfo associate ordered to prison for international cocaine distributionRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – A ranking member of one of the most serious transnational organized criminal organizations has been sentenced to prison for his role in distributing kilogram quantities of cocaine from Colombia, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
Joaquin Guillermo David-Usuga aka Guillermo, 43, Colombia, pleaded guilty in October 2021 to international cocaine distribution.
Today, U.S. District Judge Gray Miller ordered him to serve 10 years in federal prison.
The court found that David-Usuga distributed 20 kilograms of cocaine on behalf of commanding members of the Clan Del Golfo knowing it would be unlawfully imported into the United States. In handing down the sentence, Judge Miller also found David-Usuga was a supervisor and manager of the cocaine importation scheme.
A federal grand jury returned an indictment against David-Usuga and Jose Alfredo-Valencia, 44, and Jhony Fidel Cuello-Petro aka Mocho, 46, in August 2018. Colombian authorities took the three into custody at the request of the United States in November 2018. Each was subsequently extradited to the United States in December 2019.
Valencia and Cuello-Petro were previously sentenced to 31 months and 28 months imprisonment, respectively, in November 2021.
David-Usuga will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
The Department of Justice designated Clan Del Golfo as one of the most serious transnational organized criminal organizations that threatens the United States.
The FBI and Drug Enforcement Administration led the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation dubbed “Operation Macondo.”
The operation is part of an OCDETF Strike Force Initiative which provides for the establishment of permanent multi-agency task force teams that work side-by-side in the same location. This co-located model enables agents from different agencies to collaborate on intelligence-driven, multi-jurisdictional operations to disrupt and dismantle the most significant drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs and transnational criminal organizations.
The specific mission of the Houston Strike Force is to disrupt and dismantle the drug trafficking organizations that designated Consolidated Priority Organization or Regional Priority Organization Targets head with their affiliates that impact Houston and south Texas. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found on the Department of Justice’s OCDETF webpage.
The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs was responsible for securing the extraditions in this case. The Justice Department also extends its gratitude to the government of Colombia and the Colombian police and military for its cooperation and assistance.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Casey N. MacDonald and Anibal Alaniz prosecuted the case.
Million dollar smuggler sent to prisonRead the Press Release
McALLEN, Texas – A 36-year-old Rio Grande City man has been ordered to federal prison for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute more than five kilograms of cocaine and bulk cash smuggling, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
Oziel J. Rodriguez pleaded guilty Nov. 15, 2021.
Today, U.S. District Judge Randy Crane ordered Oziel J. Rodriguez to serve a total 180-month sentence to be immediately followed by five years of supervised release. At the hearing, the court heard evidence Rodriguez was involved in recruiting at least three other individuals to participate in a drug trafficking organization. In handing down the sentence, the court noted the extensive nature of the drug trafficking organization and Rodriguez’s leadership role in it.
Rodriguez utilized the three individuals to transport at least 30 kilograms of cocaine from Sept. 20, 2019, through June 7, 2020, from the Rio Grande Valley through the checkpoints in South Texas. Evidence gathered during the investigation also revealed that recruited individuals made approximately 50 other trips for the purpose of transporting controlled substances.
In addition to transporting narcotics, Rodriguez also facilitated and coordinated the transportation of drug proceeds to the Rio Grande Valley from northern cities in the United States and the delivery of proceeds to Mexico. On June 7, 2020, law enforcement seized approximately $265,000 of drug proceeds in Jim Wells county. In addition, they later seized $838,481 in drug proceeds from Rodriguez as he attempted to smuggle the proceeds to Mexico.
Rodriguez has been and will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility in the near future.
The FBI and Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation with the assistance of Homeland Security Investigations, U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Jim Wells County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Roberto Lopez Jr. is prosecuting the case.
The plea is a result of Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation dubbed Operation Bacon’s Law. OCDETF identifies, disrupts and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States. It uses a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found on the Department of Justice’s OCDETF webpage.
Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo to undergo ADA compliance reviewRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – The U.S. Attorney’s Office will conduct a compliance review of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo (HLSR) to evaluate accessibility for disabled individuals planning to attend the event, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
The collaborative review stems from complaints the HLSR violated the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA). The allegations include failing to provide accessible parking, accessible seating and accessible routes. The review will be conducted under Title III of the ADA which prohibits private places of public accommodation to discriminate against individuals with disabilities. It will take place over a three-day period during the week of March 7. An accessibility expert will conduct the compliance review, along with representatives from the US Attorney’s Office (USAO) and the HLSR.
Since its beginning in 1932, the HLSR’s website states it has committed more than $550 million to Texas youth and education, including $27 million to scholarships, junior show exhibitors, educational program grants and graduate assistantships. It reports to be one of the largest scholarship providers in the country.
The HLSR also reports that in 2019, it generated a total economic impact of $227 million and total economic activity of $391 million in Greater Houston. Over 2.5 million people attended the Houston Rodeo in 2019.
This year, the HLSR will run from Feb. 28-March 20.
The USAO for the Southern District of Texas is committed to vigorously enforcing the ADA and welcomes public comments or complaints. To file a comment or complaint, or to learn more about the ADA, individuals can contact the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of Texas at (713) 567-9140 or via email.
Assistant U.S. Attorney (AUSA) Elizabeth Karpati and Executive AUSA Keith Wyatt are handling the matter.
Corpus Christi man gets life for exploiting Filipino childrenRead the Press Release
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A 59-year-old local resident has been ordered to serve the rest of his life in federal prison following convictions for several child exploitation offenses including foreign travel to engage in illicit sexual conduct with three minors, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
A federal jury convicted Edward Sanchez July 26, 2021, following a week-long trial and approximately 10 hours of deliberation.
Today, U.S. Nelva Gonzales Ramos handed Sanchez life sentence. Sanchez will also be ordered to register as a sex offender. At the hearing, the court heard evidence of his attempts to solicit and coerce additional schoolmates of the victims as well as testimony from a mental health professional regarding the effects of his actions. In imposing the sentence, Judge Ramos noted Sanchez’s complete lack of remorse for his actions.
At trial, evidence showed Sanchez had traveled to the Philippines where he posed as a benefactor to a school. However, he ultimately sought sexual relationships with students. The jury heard from three minor victims who testified about his activities, which included requests for pornographic images. These were later used to extort the children into meeting for sexual encounters, some unprotected, in the Philippines. Sanchez often provided victims with “morning after pills” to prevent conception.
The jury also heard about and viewed social media messages detailing Sanchez’s attempts to arrange access to the child victim’s family members to another adult male for sex. During their deliberations, the jury poured through thousands of pages of social media messages detailing his exploitation of the victims.
The defense attempted to convince the jury his conduct was lawful by Filipino standards and that United States laws were racist. The jury did not believe those claims, ultimately finding Sanchez had sexually exploited three minor children between March 5, 2016, and Nov. 21, 2018, in the Philippines and while in the United States using social media.
Sanchez has been and will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation along with the Corpus Christi Police Department’s Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brittany L. Jensen and Dennis Robinson prosecuted the case, which was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood (PSC), a nationwide initiative the Department of Justice (DOJ) launched in May 2006 to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section leads PSC, which marshals federal, state and local resources to locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children and identifies and rescues victims. For more information about PSC, please visit DOJ’s PSC page. For more information about internet safety education, please visit the resources link on that page.
South Texas woman admits to trafficking over $2 million in methRead the Press Release
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas - A 24-year-old Alamo woman has pleaded guilty to possessing with the intent to distribute more than 70 kilograms of highly pure meth, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
On Nov. 1, 2021, Jacqueline Garcia was driving a silver SUV northbound on Highway 281 near Alice. Authorities conducted a traffic stop for an unsafe lane change. At that time, a service canine alerted to the rear of the SUV.
A thorough inspection revealed the vehicle’s gas tank to be abnormally solid. Upon examining the contents, law enforcement discovered nine concealed bundles of crystal meth.
Laboratory analysis later confirmed the substance to be meth at 98 percent purity. The drugs totaled more than 175 pounds with an estimated street value of more than $2 million.
At a hearing today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Jason B. Libby, Garcia admitted she was knowingly transporting the narcotics to Dallas and expected to be paid upon delivery.
U.S. District Judge Nelva Gonzales Ramos will impose sentencing June 8. At that time, Garcia faces a minimum of 10 years and up to life in prison as well as a maximum possible $10 million fine.
Garcia has been and will remain in custody pending sentencing.
The Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney John Marck is prosecuting the case.
Meth dealer heads to prisonRead the Press Release
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A 51-year-old Corpus Christi resident has been ordered to federal prison after selling large amounts of meth from a Corpus Christi residence, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
Franklin Herbert Odell pleaded guilty Oct. 5, 2021, to conspiring to possess with intent to distribute meth.
Today, U.S. District Judge Drew B. Tipton ordered him to serve a 125-month term of imprisonment to be immediately followed by five years of supervised release. In handing down the sentence, the court noted Odell’s multiple drug trafficking convictions.
The investigation began following reports of drug distribution in the area of Winnipeg Drive in Corpus Christi. This ultimately led to the execution of a search warrant at Odell’s residence in February. At that time, authorities discovered him in his bathroom flushing a bag of suspected meth down the toilet. They were able to recover over 300 grams of pure meth from the residence along with other narcotics.
Odell has been and will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
The Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Joel Dunn prosecuted the case.
South Texas man admits to smuggling cocaine on passenger busRead the Press Release
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas - A 21-year-old Hidalgo County man has pleaded guilty to possessing with the intent to distribute 4.5 kilograms of cocaine, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
Today, Matthew Ethan Joseph Castillo admitted he knowingly attempted to smuggle the narcotics past a U.S. Border Patrol (BP) checkpoint.
On Sept. 29, 2021, Castillo was traveling on a Tornado commercial passenger bus that entered the primary inspection area of the checkpoint near Falfurrias. There, a service canine alerted to a specific piece of luggage in the lower compartment of the bus. Authorities identified Castillo as the owner.
They searched the item and found two wooden tortilla presses, each containing two bundles of cocaine. They had been individually wrapped in carbon paper and coffee and sealed in plastic.
The drugs had an estimated street value of more than $300,000.
Sentencing has been set for May 31 before U.S. District Judge Nelva Gonzales Ramos. At that time, Castillo faces a minimum of five and up to 40 years in prison as well as a maximum $5 million possible fine.
He has been and will remain in custody pending that hearing.
The Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation with the assistance of BP. Assistant U.S. Attorney John Marck is prosecuting the case.
Repeat fraudster sent to prison againRead the Press Release
HOUSTON - A 63-year-old Sugar Land resident has been ordered to federal prison following his convictions related to a mail and wire fraud conspiracy, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
U.S. District Judge Charles Eskridge convicted Maxwell Chibueze Ezenwa on all 15 counts as charged Nov. 9, 2021, following a six-day bench trial. He was convicted of conspiracy to commit and eight counts of wire fraud affecting financial institutions as well as conspiracy to commit mail fraud and five counts of mail fraud.
Today, Judge Eskridge imposed a 78-month term of imprisonment for the two conspiracies and underlying fraud convictions to be served concurrently. He must also serve three years of supervised release following the sentences. At the hearing, the court heard Ezenwa had been convicted of bank fraud in 2000 and how the his actions have affected the victims in this case. In handing down the prison term, Judge Eskridge noted Ezenwa’s recidivist conduct and complete lack of remorse for his bad acts.
During the trial, Judge Eskridge heard testimony from seven civilian witnesses whom Ezenwa and co-conspirators had victimized. Four financial institution representatives testified to show how their the fraud affected their businesses. They described how Ezenwa’s various bank accounts were constantly flagged for suspicious transactions and how all his accounts were ultimately closed for fraud.
Law enforcement provided further details, describing their investigation and other evidence collected and analyzed, such as a voluminous number of records and data from multiple cellular phone extractions. They also detailed the interviews of dozens of witnesses.
Two co-conspirators and a federal detention center inmate also told the court about their roles in the conspiracy and knowledge of the fraud scheme.
Ezenwa attempted to convince the court he did not know he was engaged in criminal or fraudulent activity. However, Judge Eskridge heard Ezenwa was actually on bond in state court for the wire fraud activity when he engaged in the subsequent mail fraud.
The court found Ezenwa was involved in two fraud schemes that occurred from 2013 to 2014 and from 2018 to 2019.
Ezenwa will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
The U.S. Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation with the assistance of the Harris County Sheriff’s Office and Clark County Sheriff’s Office in Washington. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Christine Lu and Sherin Daniel prosecuted the case.
Physician pays over half million to settle allegations concerning ultrasound billingRead the Press Release
McALLEN, Texas - A 41-year-old primary care doctor has paid $504,588.40 to resolve allegations that he billed for excessive ultrasounds, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
Dr. Jose Escandon operates in Mission. From Aug. 1, 2014, to Oct. 31, 2018, Escandon violated the False Claims Act by causing the submission of claims to Medicare for ultrasounds that were medically unnecessary or unreasonable.
This investigation arose out of a proactive review of claims data showing Escandon was a significant statistical outlier for ultrasound claims.
As part of the settlement, Escandon and Dr. Jose A. Escandon dba Escandon Diagnostic Clinic agreed to a three-year integrity agreement with Department of Health and Human Services – Office of Inspector General (DHHS-OIG).
The agreement promotes compliance with the Medicare statutes, program requirements and written directives and all other federal health care programs. Among other obligations, Escandon and the clinic must establish and maintain a compliance program and engage an independent organization to perform quarterly claims reviews. The agreement also requires Escandon and the clinic to routinely report on these obligations to DHHS-OIG.
The USAO jointly conducted the investigation with DHHS-OIG. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brad Gray handled the matter.
The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only and there has been no determination of liability.
Houston area residents charged with unlawfully possessing full auto switchesRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – A federal grand jury has returned an indictment against the man accused of shooting three Houston police officers as well as several unrelated cases involving unlawful possession of firearms with “Glock switches” or other violations, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery along with Special Agent in Charge Fred Milanowski of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Chief Troy Finner of the Houston Police Department (HPD), Sheriff Ed Gonzalez of the Harris County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) and U.S. Marshal Michael O’Conner of the U.S. Marshals Service (USMS).
Full auto switches, or machine guns, are most commonly referred to as “Glock switches.
Five of those charged are set to make their initial appearances today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Christina A. Bryan at 2 pm.
Roland Caballero, 31, Houston, is currently in state custody on related charges and will make an appearance in Houston federal court at a later date. He is charged federally with carjacking, discharge of firearm during a crime of violence, possession of a machine gun and being a felon in possession of a firearm.
“The charges announced today are a sobering reminder of the dangers faced everyday by law enforcement officers around this country,” said Deputy Attorney General Lisa O. Monaco. “The defendant allegedly shot and wounded three HPD officers with a pistol that was converted into a machine gun. The Department of Justice is focused on taking violent criminals off the street and doing so by working side by side with our state and local law enforcement partners.”
The charges against Caballero allege he was in an altercation with his girlfriend which resulted in a 911 call Jan. 27. Authorities responded, but he fled, according to the criminal complaint originally filed in the case. They pursued. According to the charges, Caballero eventually crashed his vehicle, at which time he shot at and wounded three HPD officers using a pistol modified with a full auto switch.
Caballero then fled the scene on foot and carjacked a nearby vehicle, according to the complaint. However, the charges allege law enforcement located him and a stand-off ensued. He, again, allegedly discharged a firearm at authorities, after which he ultimately surrendered.
The indictment further alleges search warrants conducted at his residence resulted in the discovery of several firearms, ammunition, machine gun components and 3-D printers.
In addition to the charges against Caballero, federal grand jury returned indictments Feb. 16 against 19 individuals for unlawful possession of an unregistered machine gun, possession of a machine gun or being a felon in possession of a firearm. [Detailed listing attached.]
Those charges resulted from various traffic stops or responding to scenes, during which authorities discovered the unlawful firearms; through undercover investigations; or as a result of other proactive enforcement efforts.
If convicted of unlawful possession of an unregistered machine gun, possession of a machine gun, or felon in possession face up to 10 years in federal prison. Caballero faces a minimum of 30 years up to life in prison if convicted of carjacking with the use of a machine gun. All charges also carry a possible $250,000 maximum fine, upon conviction.
ATF, HPD, HCSO and USMS conducted the Caballero investigation as well as all or some of the other matters with assistance of Galveston Police Department, Harris County Precinct 2 Constables Office, Texas Department of Public Safety and Brazos County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys in the violent crimes section are prosecuting the cases.
An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence.
A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of lawHouston Area Residents Charged with Unlawfully Possessing Full Auto SwitchesRead the Press Release
A federal grand jury has returned an indictment against the man accused of shooting three Houston police officers as well as several unrelated cases involving unlawful possession of firearms with “Glock switches” or other violations, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery along with Special Agent in Charge Fred Milanowski of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Chief Troy Finner of the Houston Police Department (HPD), Sheriff Ed Gonzalez of the Harris County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) and U.S. Marshal Michael O’Conner of the U.S. Marshals Service (USMS).
“The charges announced today are a sobering reminder of the dangers faced everyday by law enforcement officers around this country,” said Deputy Attorney General Lisa O. Monaco. “The defendant allegedly shot and wounded three HPD officers with a pistol that was converted into a machine gun. The Department of Justice is focused on taking violent criminals off the street and doing so by working side by side with our state and local law enforcement partners.”
Full auto switches, or machine guns, are most commonly referred to as “Glock switches.”
Roland Caballero, 31, of Houston, is currently in state custody on related charges and will make an appearance in Houston federal court at a later date. He is charged federally with carjacking, discharge of firearm during a crime of violence, possession of a machine gun and being a felon in possession of a firearm.
The charges against Caballero allege he was in an altercation with his girlfriend which resulted in a 911 call on Jan. 27. Authorities responded, but he fled, according to the criminal complaint originally filed in the case, and officers pursued. According to the charges, Caballero eventually crashed his vehicle, at which time he shot at and wounded three HPD officers using a pistol modified with a full auto switch.
Caballero then fled the scene on foot and carjacked a nearby vehicle, according to the complaint. However, the charges allege law enforcement located him and a stand-off ensued. He, again, allegedly discharged a firearm at authorities, after which he ultimately surrendered.
The indictment further alleges search warrants conducted at his residence resulted in the discovery of several firearms, ammunition, machine gun components and 3D printers.
In addition to the charges against Caballero, federal grand jury returned indictments on Feb. 16 against 19 individuals for unlawful possession of an unregistered machine gun, possession of a machine gun or being a felon in possession of a firearm. Five of those charged were set to make their initial appearances today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Christina A. Bryan at 2:00 p.m. EST.
Those charges resulted from various traffic stops or responding to scenes, during which authorities discovered the unlawful firearms; through undercover investigations; or as a result of other proactive enforcement efforts.
If convicted of unlawful possession of an unregistered machine gun, possession of a machine gun, or felon in possession Caballero faces up to 10 years in federal prison. Caballero faces a minimum of 30 years up to life in prison if convicted of carjacking with the use of a machine gun. All charges also carry a possible $250,000 maximum fine, upon conviction.
ATF, HPD, HCSO and USMS conducted the Caballero investigation as well as all or some of the other matters with assistance of Galveston Police Department, Harris County Precinct 2 Constables Office, Texas Department of Public Safety and Brazos County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys for the Southern District of Texas in the violent crimes section are prosecuting the cases.
An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Cuban who rammed FBI security gate admits guiltRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – A 39-year-old Cuban citizen has entered a guilty plea for illegally breaching federal security and gaining entry to the FBI building in Houston, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
Nestor Mariano Vidal Batista pleaded guilty to willfully injuring or committing any depredation.
On June 23, 2021, Batista stole a Dodge Ram 2500 pick-up truck shortly before attempting to lodge an in-person complaint at the FBI office in Houston. Upon his arrival, security referred him to local authorities.
Batista then re-entered the truck, circled the area and tried to force entry. He sped forward and crashed the truck into the front security gates of the FBI building. Shortly thereafter, he was able to exit the truck and enter the visiting area in the lobby. Authorities then subdued him and took him into custody.
As a result of his actions, he caused $10,062.61 in damages.
Sentencing has been set for May 20 before U.S. District Judge David Hittner. At that time, Batista faces up to 10 years in prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.
He has been and will remain in custody pending that hearing.
The FBI conducted the investigation with the assistance of Houston Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Joe Porto is prosecuting the case.
Area residents charged in multi-layered fraud schemeRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – Six Houston individuals have been indicted for their participation in a multi-state scheme involving mortgage fraud, credit repair and government loan fraud, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery. Authorities are seeking two others.
Leslie and ShyAnne Edrington, 65 and 29, respectively, are set for a detention hearing before U.S. Magistrate Judge Christina Bryan today at 11 a.m. Authorities also arrested Melinda Moreno Munoz, 40, and Elvina Buckley, 67, Friday, Feb. 18, after which they made their initial appearances in federal court.
Two others - Heather Ann Campos, 43, and David Lewis Best Jr., 58, also of Houston, are considered fugitives, and warrants remain outstanding for their arrest. Anyone with information about their whereabouts is asked to contact the U.S. Postal Inspection Service at 281-512-8525.
The 25-count indictment, returned Feb. 16, alleges all six participated in a multi-layered fraud scheme to defraud mortgage lending businesses, banks, Small Business Administration (SBA) and Federal Trade Commission (FTC).
They allegedly recruited clients for credit repair using company names of KMD Credit, KMD Capital and Jeff Funding, among others. The indictment alleges they “cleaned” their clients’ credit histories by filing false identity theft reports with the FTC.
Campos was a mortgage broker and Buckley a realtor, while operating as a notary was the responsibility of Munoz, according to the charges. After fraudulently inflating client credit worthiness, the six individuals allegedly capitalized on the experience of Campos, Buckley and Munoz to fraudulently obtain credit cards, disaster loans and mortgages for themselves and their clients. The indictment alleges they were able to accomplish this through false statements and fake documents.
They maintained control of the properties purchased in their clients’ names, according to the charges. The purpose, the indictment alleges, was for the purpose of building a real estate portfolio worth millions of dollars and enriching themselves with rental income.
If convicted, all face up to 30 years in federal prison and a possible $1 million maximum fine.
The Federal Housing Finance Agency – Office of Inspector General (OIG), U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Housing and Urban Development – OIG and SBA – OIG with the assistance of the FTC – OIG and IRS - Criminal Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kate Suh and Jay Hileman are prosecuting the case.
An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.
Visa holder caught smuggling nearly $200,000 to MexicoRead the Press Release
LAREDO, Texas – A 34-year-old Mexican man has been charged with bulk cash smuggling, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
A federal grand jury has returned an indictment against Feliciano Quintanar-Hernandez, 34, for smuggling $195,731 into Mexico.
Originally charged by criminal complaint, he made his first appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Christopher dos Santos Jan. 31, at which time he was ordered into custody pending further criminal proceedings. He is expected to appear for his initial appearance on the indictment in the near future.
On Jan. 29, Quintanar attempted to exit the United States through the Juarez-Lincoln Port of Entry in Laredo as a solo driver in a pickup truck, according to the charges. There, he allegedly gave a negative declaration for possessing currency over $10,000.
The charges allege law enforcement inspected the pickup truck where they found a total of $195,731 hidden in the bed and center consol.
As a non-immigrant Visa holder, he is allegedly in violation of the terms of his Visa.
If convicted, Quintanar faces up to five years in prison as well as a possible $250,000 maximum fine.
Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Isaac is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.
Texas company convicted for supplying potentially tainted rocket fuel to NASARead the Press Release
HOUSTON – Anahuac Transport Inc. has pleaded guilty to fraud, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
Corporate representatives Gary Monteau and Brant Charpiot admitted their guilt today on behalf of the company. Monteau, Charpiot and Anahuac have entered voluntary exclusions with the United States in which each agrees to be banned from federal government contracting for two years. As part of their plea, Anahuac also agreed to forfeit $251,401, which constitutes gross proceeds traceable to the commission of the offense. The court entered a money judgement against Anahuac in that amount.
Anahuac admitted to falsifying its records and delivering potentially tainted rocket fuel for NASA and Department of Defense (DOD) rocket launches.
NASA and DOD entered into contracts with various companies, including Space Explorations Technologies Corp. (SpaceX), to launch rockets with supplies for the International Space Station and with military payloads.
These companies procured fuel for the rocket launches and contracted for transportation of the fuel to the launch sites. Anahuac was in the business of hauling chemicals in tanker trailers. From approximately 2012 through 2020, NASA and DOD subcontracted Anahuac to transport the rocket fuel.
To prevent contamination, Anahuac was required to ensure the tanker trailer they used did not previously contain certain chemicals that may have adverse reactions with the fuel. However, Anahuac intentionally falsified its documents, claiming it had not previously hauled incompatible chemicals with its tanker trailers. In fact, it had.
Anahuac transported the rocket fuel with its contaminated trailers. As a result, NASA used the fuel for rocket launches.
U.S. District Judge Alfred H. Bennett accepted the plea and set sentencing for May 12. At that time, Anahuac could also be ordered to pay a possible $500,000 fine and serve up to five years of probation.
NASA - Office of Inspector General (OIG) and DOD – OIG conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert S. Johnson is prosecuting the case.
RGV tax preparer indicted for filing false returnsRead the Press Release
McALLEN, Texas – A local tax preparer is set to make her initial appearance in federal court on charges of filing false tax returns on behalf of taxpayers, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
A federal grand jury sitting in Brownsville returned a nine-count indictment Feb. 15, against Linda Lopez. .
Lopez is expected to appear at 9 today before U.S. Magistrate Judge J. Scott Hacker.
Lopez was the owner and operator of Premier Tax Solutions in Mission, according to the indictment. The charges allege she submitted to the IRS false and fraudulent Form 1040 tax returns and accompanying Form 2106, Form 2106-EZ, Schedule A and/or Form 5695 for tax years 2015 and 2016.
Lopez allegedly included Form 2106/2106-EZ and Schedule A which claimed false or inflated unreimbursed employee business expenses. False or inflated residential energy credits were on Form 5695, according to the charges.
The indictment alleges these falsities resulted in the filing of tax returns to the IRS claiming refunds due to the taxpayers they otherwise were not entitled to receive.
If convicted, Lopez faces up to three years in prison and a possible $100,000 maximum fine for each count of conviction.
IRS-Criminal Investigation is investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Andrew Swartz and Asha Natarajan prosecuted the case.
An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.