Southern District of Texas
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Pakistani national admits to evading cash reporting requirementsRead the Press Release
Editor's Note:
This matter occurred on date indicated, but not published at that time due to government shutdown. Press release posted and made available following the return to normal operations.HOUSTON – A 41-year-old man who ran a Houston area business has pleaded guilty to failing to report a more than $100,000 cash payment as required, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Asad Wali Kesaria unlawfully resided in Houston and operated Parts4Cells Inc. which bought and sold wholesale quantities of used cell phones.
On Aug. 14, 2024, the business received a $108,000 cash payment from Mexican customer “Celforb” that was intended for an order of cell phones. Kesaria personally handled the cash payment and confirmed the cash had been received.
The investigation revealed the money was proceeds from violations of the Controlled Substances Act.
Kesaria admitted he knew federal law requires businesses to report when they receive more than $10,000 in coins or cash. With intent to evade this reporting requirement, Kesaria caused the business to fail to report the $108,000 received.
U.S. District Judge Sim Lake will sentence Kesaria Feb. 12, 2026. At that time, Kesaria faces up to five years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.
Kesaria has been and will remain in custody pending sentencing.
The Drug Enforcement Administration and IRS Criminal Investigation conducted the investigation along with police departments in Houston and Galveston with the assistance of the U.S. Marshals Service and local police departments and sheriffs’ offices throughout the country.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Stephanie Bauman, Sherin Daniel and Leo J. Leo III are prosecuting the case.
Mexican citizen accused of firearm possession after visa overstay in HoustonRead the Press Release
Editor's Note:
This matter occurred on date indicated, but not published at that time due to government shutdown. Press release posted and made available following the return to normal operations.HOUSTON – A 25-year-old illegal alien from Mexico has been charged with possession of a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Erik Guadalupe Ibarra Venegas, who had been illegally residing in Houston, has made his initial appearance in federal court and will remain in custody pending further criminal proceedings.
According to the criminal complaint, on Oct. 28, law enforcement responded to a report of a suspicious man pushing two bicycles and carrying tools in a cul-de-sac. Authorities found Venegas walking in the middle of the road, according to the charges. When asked, he denied having any weapons but lifted his shirt to reveal a firearm in his waistband, according to the complaint.
The charges further allege Venegas had no identification and provided a fake name, but fingerprint analysis later confirmed his identity.
Court documents allege Venegas had overstayed his visa and was unlawfully present in the United States. As a result, he is prohibited under federal law from possessing firearms and ammunition.
If convicted, Venegas faces up to 15 years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.
Hedwig Village Police Department, Immigration and Customs Enforcement - Homeland Security Investigations and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Smith and AUSA Byron Black are prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces and Project Safe Neighborhood.
A criminal complaint is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.
Houston business owner admits to failing to pay over $1.6 million in taxesRead the Press Release
Editor's Note:
This matter occurred on date indicated, but not published at that time due to government shutdown. Press release posted and made available following the return to normal operations.HOUSTON - A former certified public accountant has pleaded guilty for failing to pay taxes withheld from employee wages, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Harry Lamar Curtis III was the owner of Information Advisory Group LLC, a cybersecurity and IT company based in Houston. As such, he was required to withhold and pay over all employment taxes withheld from employee paychecks. These included federal income taxes, FICA taxes and employer matching amounts.
As part of his plea, Curtis admitted that despite being trained as a CPA, he failed to file any business tax returns for IAG since 2016. He improperly withheld $1,647,142 over this time period that was due to the IRS.
Curtis also admitted he had not filed any individual tax returns for himself since 2008.
U.S. District Judge Sim Lake will impose sentencing Feb. 12, 2026. At that time, Curtis faces up to five years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.
He was permitted to remain on bond pending that hearing.
IRS-Criminal Investigation conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brad Gray is prosecuting the case.
Ringleader sentenced in multimillion-dollar fraud operation which saddled victims with crushing debtRead the Press Release
Editor's Note:
This matter occurred on date indicated, but not published at that time due to government shutdown. Press release posted and made available following the return to normal operations.HOUSTON – A 62-year-old California resident has been ordered to federal prison for leading a sweeping mortgage and loan fraud scheme that defrauded businesses, banks, mortgage lenders and government programs out of millions of dollars, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Steven Tetsuya Morizono aka Jeff Lucian, Mission Viejo, California, pleaded guilty March 5 to 34 counts to include conspiracy to commit bank fraud, wire fraud, mortgage fraud and conspiracy to make false statements to the Federal Trade Commission and obstruction of an official proceeding.
U.S. District Judge Keith P. Ellison has sentenced Morizono to a total of 121 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release.
At the hearing, the court heard additional evidence that Morizono recruited his brother-in-law, Albert Lim aka Ted Chen, 56, Mission Viejo, California, and longtime friend David Best, 62, Anaheim, California, to participate in the scheme. Together, they operated through a company called Jeff Funding, which carried out a nationwide fraud involving falsified loan applications, shell companies, straw buyers and fraudulent credit repair services connected to numerous homes in Spring.
In handing down the sentence, the court described Morizono’s conduct as “deeply troubling and absolutely corrupt.” Restitution will be determined at a later date.
“This wasn’t just paperwork fraud, this was a calculated and opportunistic nationwide scheme designed to manipulate mortgage lenders, banks and people with poor credit histories, for personal gain,” said Ganjei. “These criminals exploited every opportunity — from banks to the housing market to the pandemic – to enrich themselves at the expense of taxpayers, banks, and honest Americans.”
“The sentencings in this case send a clear message that mortgage fraud will not be tolerated,” said Special Agent in Charge Korey Brinkman of the Federal Housing Finance Agency - Office of Inspector General. “Those who defraud the government-sponsored enterprises, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, put our housing finance system at risk. FHFA-OIG is proud to work with the Southern District of Texas and our investigative partners to diligently pursue and bring to justice those commit these crimes.”
The group had recruited individuals with poor credit scores, falsely reported identity theft to inflate their credit histories and submitted fraudulent pay stubs to secure personal loans. Once the loans were approved, Morizono and others skimmed the proceeds, leaving clients burdened by unmanageable debt.
They also used straw buyers to acquire homes, collecting millions in rent and pandemic-era assistance while failing to pay the mortgages which resulted in foreclosures.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the group expanded their fraud to target federal relief programs, including the Paycheck Protection Program and Economic Injury Disaster Loans, submitting hundreds of falsified applications.
The conspiracy, which dates back to 2017, has led to the convictions of 17 individuals, including mortgage brokers Heather Campos and Kimberli Ann Tomman, Spring, and multiple straw buyers.
Campos, 46, and Best, 62, fled after indictment, but authorities arrested them in Utah.
Campos acted as a recruiter and mortgage broker for the scheme and managed the Jeff Funding office in Spring. She was sentenced to 94 months. Lim, who acted as the bookkeeper and created fake documents for the scheme, received a sentence of 84 months, while Best was ordered to serve a 60-month-term of imprisonment for setting up numerous shell companies and acting as a straw buyer on numerous properties.
Morizono, Campos, Lim and Best have been and will remain in custody pending transfer to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
The FHFA-OIG conducted the investigation with the assistance of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, IRS – Criminal Investigation, Small Business Administration - OIG, Department of Housing and Urban Development – OIG and Federal Trade Commission – OIG. U.S. Marshals Service and FBI assisted in apprehending fugitives along with police departments in South Jordan, Riverton and Herriman, Utah; Colorado City/Hilldale, Arizona; and Virginia State Police.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kate Suh and Jay Hileman prosecuted the case.
Mexican gang member sentenced for illegally acquiring multiple firearmsRead the Press Release
Editor's Note:
This matter occurred on date indicated, but not published at that time due to government shutdown. Press release posted and made available following the return to normal operations.LAREDO, Texas – A 40-year-old member of the Hermanos de Pistoleros Latinos gang has been sentenced for orchestrating a straw-purchasing scheme that funneled dozens of firearms to a Mexican cartel, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Jesus Guadalupe Covarrubias, Laredo, pleaded guilty March 20.
U.S. District Judge Diana Saldaña has now ordered Covarrubias to serve 120 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by three years of supervised release. In handing down the sentence, the court noted Covarrubias’s central role in directing the scheme, the number and type of weapons involved and his decision to flee the United States while on bond. The court also heard about allegations involving Covarrubias to include the killing of a man at a bar he owned before fleeing to Mexico.
Between 2018 and July 2021, Covarrubias organized an operation to illegally acquire at least 50 firearms. He instructed family members to visit federally licensed firearms dealers, photograph available weapons and purchase specific firearms and ammunition using his funds. They then delivered the weapons to Covarrubias, despite his prohibition under federal law from possessing firearms due to his status as a convicted felon.
Following a dispute with a Mexican cartel in 2021, a deal was struck to spare his life in exchange for cash and several items to include his long rifles. After they were delivered, Covarrubias arranged for the filing of a false report claiming that 10 AK-style and 20 AR-style rifles had been stolen from his ranch.
Authorities identified inconsistencies in the claim and questioned its authenticity but did determine that at least 23 rifles purchased for Covarrubias could not be located. Among those was a .50 caliber rifle valued at $10,000.
Covarrubias then attempted to move the remaining weapons in his possession. On Aug. 25, 2021, he and others moved firearms from his residence to other locations. Law enforcement discovered three additional firearms wrapped in sheets and hidden in Covarrubias’s backyard.
After his arrest in August 2021, Covarrubias was permitted release upon posting bond. He then fled to Mexico where law enforcement there took him into custody on unrelated charges. He was returned to U.S. authorities Feb. 21.
Covarrubias will remain in custody pending transfer to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
ATF conducted the investigation with assistance from Webb County Sheriff’s Office and Laredo Police Department. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs worked with law enforcement partners in Mexico to secure the arrest and extradition of Covarrubias. U.S. Marshals Service completed the removal of Covarrubias from Mexico to the Southern District of Texas. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Day prosecuted the case.
Illegal alien admits to repeatedly smuggling bulk amounts of methamphetamine into the United StatesRead the Press Release
Editor's Note:
This matter occurred on date indicated, but not published at that time due to government shutdown. Press release posted and made available following the return to normal operations.LAREDO, Texas – A 46-year-old Mexican national has pleaded guilty to a conspiracy involving over 15 kilograms of methamphetamine, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Jose Calleros Avila crossed the Colombia Solidarity Bridge in Laredo June 1 driving a 2003 Chevrolet Suburban. He claimed he was coming back from Matehuala, Mexico, with two duffle bags full of candy for his children. However, during a routine inspection, authorities located two bundles inside a bag mixed in with children’s candies. The bundles tested positive for methamphetamine which prompted further inspection and the discovery of a total of 15 bundles weighing 15.44 kilograms.
Avila had planned to transport the drugs to another individual in Dallas for further distribution throughout the United States. After delivering the methamphetamine, Avila would return to the location in Dallas, pick up cash and wire the money to various individuals throughout Mexico.
Avila admitted he had transported various narcotics at least five times previously and received a total of $7,000.
U.S. District Judge John Kazen will impose sentencing at a later date. At that time, Avila faces up to life in federal prison as well as a possible $1 million maximum possible fine.
Avila has been and will remain in custody pending sentencing.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement – Homeland Security Investigations and Customs and Border Protection conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tory R. Sailer is prosecuting the case.
Two plead guilty to roles in cocaine trafficking conspiracyRead the Press Release
Editor's Note:
This matter occurred on date indicated, but not published at that time due to government shutdown. Press release posted and made available following the return to normal operations.LAREDO, Texas – An illegal alien from Mexico and a local man have admitted they conspired together to organize and transport cocaine from Laredo to other locations across the United States, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
In March, Luis Manuel Castillo Garcia, 51, who had been illegally residing in Laredo, recruited tractor-trailer drivers to haul several loads of cocaine stored at a local yard. Luis Alonzo Pena Jr., 30, Laredo, was one of the drivers.
Garcia arranged for two trailers containing hidden compartments of cocaine to be transported from Laredo. He offered $9,000 per trailer. Authorities seized the first trailer March 4 which was found to contain 23.5 kilograms of cocaine, while there was 26.5 kilograms in the second trailer the following day.
On May 8, law enforcement observed Garcia meet Pena at a location in Laredo. Pena arrived in a red Chevrolet Silverado and accepted a duffle bag of cocaine for transport.
A subsequent traffic stop led to the discovery of the bag, which contained 15 bundles of cocaine weighing approximately 18.5 kilograms.
In total, authorities seized over 65 kilograms of cocaine over the course of the investigation. The drugs have an estimated street value of over $1 million.
U.S. District Judge Diana Saldana will impose sentencing at a later date. At that time both face up to life in federal prison and a possible $10 million maximum possible fine. Not a U.S. citizen, Garcia also admitted to illegally reentering the country and faces an additional term of up to 20 years in prison.
Both men have been and will remain in custody pending sentencing.
The Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation with assistance from the Texas Department of Public Safety, Laredo Police Department, Border Patrol and Immigration and Customs Enforcement - Enforcement and Removal Operations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mary Lou Castillo is prosecuting the case.
Texas resident sentenced for role in crypto-Ponzi schemeRead the Press Release
Editor's Note:
This matter occurred on date indicated, but not published at that time due to government shutdown. Press release posted and made available following the return to normal operations.HOUSTON – A 45-year-old Houston man ordered to federal prison for running a fraudulent investment scheme, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Samuel Ayala-Ibarra pleaded guilty Aug. 4.
Senior U.S. District Judge Kenneth M. Hoyt has now ordered Ayala-Ibarra to serve 51 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by three years of supervised release. At the hearing, the court heard additional information describing the sophistication of his fraudulent scheme. This included creating a shell company, using multiple bank accounts and having investors sign meaningless contracts to offer legitimacy to the investments. The court also heard about Ayala-Ibarra’s prior and pending criminal charges along with his educational background. In handing down the sentence, the court noted this crime was designed for people with degrees, due to the complexity of the scheme.
From July through November 2017, Ayala-Ibarra operated JASTBITME, a Houston-based company that falsely promised high returns through cryptocurrency investments. Ayala-Ibarra told clients their money would be invested in cryptocurrency, but he instead used the funds for personal gain and to repay earlier investors. He also paid others to recruit new clients.
Once clients invested, JASTBITME created fake documents to show fabricated growth and returns. Ayala-Ibarra used these false reports to persuade clients to reinvest.
The scheme resulted in numerous victims who never received their original investments or promised returns.
He has been and will remain in custody pending transfer to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
The Secret Service conducted the investigation.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Rodolfo Ramirez and Elizabeth Wyman prosecuted the case. AUSA Kristine Rollinson is handling seizure and forfeiture matters.
Four individuals charged in COVID-19 loan fraud schemeRead the Press Release
Editor's Note:
This matter occurred on date indicated, but not published at that time due to government shutdown. Press release posted and made available following the return to normal operations.HOUSTON – A 13-count indictment has now been unsealed alleging a scheme to defraud the Small Business Administration and Paycheck Protection Program-affiliated lenders during the COVID-19 pandemic, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Decarla Conner, 42, Bastrop, Louisiana, has now made her initial appearance in federal court. Previously arrested were Randy Delrosario, 55, Katy, and Darrell Foster, 58, League City, while Enjoli Jeffrey, 44, Pearland, had surrendered to authorities.
A federal grand jury returned the indictment Sept. 24, charging all four individuals with conspiring to commit wire fraud. According to the indictment, they had devised a scheme to submit fraudulent PPP and Economic Injury Disaster Loan Program loan applications to the SBA and banks authorized to approve and fund PPP loans. They allegedly submitted false tax documents, including fake business tax returns, to support the loan applications.
Delrosario, Conner and Jeffrey are also charged with money laundering offenses. The conspirators are alleged to have used fraudulent loan proceeds to make large cash withdrawals and to pay for non-business expenses such as house payments, mortgage payments, personal travel, vehicles and jewelry. Some of the money was also used to pay kickbacks to another person for submitting the fraudulent loan applications, according to the indictment.
If convicted, each faces up to 20 years imprisonment for conspiracy and wire fraud as well as a $250,000 maximum possible fine. For his money laundering counts, Delrosario faces up to 10 and 20 years, while Conner and Jeffrey could receive up to 10 years for their counts. Convictions of money laundering also carry as a possible penalty either a $250,000 or $500,000 fine or twice the amount of property involved in the transaction.
Federal Housing Finance Agency – Office of Inspector General,
Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration, Immigration and Customs Enforcement - Homeland Security Investigations, Small Business Administration – OIG and Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation – OIG conducted the investigation with the assistance of Harris County Constable’s Office Precinct One, League City Police Department, U.S. Marshals Service and Ouachita Parish Sheriff’s Office in Louisiana. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Stephanie Bauman and Shirin Hakimzadeh 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.
Final man sentenced in million-dollar stolen mail credit card fraud schemeRead the Press Release
Editor's Note:
This matter occurred on date indicated, but not published at that time due to government shutdown. Press release posted and made available following the return to normal operations.HOUSTON – The final person in a large-scale mail theft and credit card fraud scheme has been ordered to prison, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Bradley Kane Zarco, 39, of Houston, pleaded guilty April 28.
U.S. District Judge Andrew S. Hanen has now imposed a 60-month-term of imprisonment for Zarco. He must also serve three years of supervised release following his sentence. In handing down the prison terms, Judge Hanen noted Zarco’s extensive criminal history involving violent offenses and identity theft.
Zarco admitted to obtaining stolen U.S. mail containing new credit cards and bank statements for intended account holders. They called financial institutions to activate the stolen credit cards, increased credit limits and changed information. The stolen credit cards were used to purchase goods, services, gift cards, cash and merchandise at retail stores.
Over a six-month period, they fraudulently activated at least 120 stolen credit cards and caused approximately $1 million in losses to Chase Bank.
Four others had also previously pleaded guilty to the same charges – Dennis Christopher McGee, 45, and Daniel Sanchez, 37, Travis Castaneda Qawasmeh, 28, all of Houston, and Nigerian citizen Omokehinde Muyiwa Oyegoke-Tewogbade, 64, who illegally resided in Houston.
McGee, the leader in the conspiracy, was previously ordered to serve 72 months in prison. Sanchez received a sentence of 41 months, and Qawasmeh and Oyegoke-Tewogbade received sentences of 24 months each. All were ordered to pay $839,555.75 in restitution to Chase Bank.
Zarco will remain in custody pending transfer to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility.
U.S. Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Karen Lansden prosecuted the case.
Three Rivers resident imprisoned for 15 years after recording sexual video of himself with minor relativeRead the Press Release
Editor's Note:
This matter occurred on date indicated, but not published at that time due to government shutdown. Press release posted and made available following the return to normal operations.CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A 39-year-old man has been ordered to prison for sexual exploitation of a child, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Johnathon Roberts pleaded guilty July 24.
U.S. District Judge Nelva Gonzales Ramos has now sentenced Roberts to 180 months in federal prison. At the hearing, the court heard additional information including that Roberts had created similar recordings over a period of years. Roberts will serve 10 years on supervised release following the 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. Roberts will also be ordered to register as a sex offender. Restitution will be determined at a later date.
The investigation revealed child sexual abuse material had been uploaded onto the internet. Law enforcement was able to identify Roberts as the source of the content.
On Oct. 25, 2024, authorities obtained a search warrant for his residence in Three Rivers. At that time, they located and seized Roberts’ cell phone which was found to contain over 150 videos and images of CSAM.
Upon inspection, law enforcement discovered a video recording Roberts made of himself engaging in sexual activity with a minor female. Roberts admitted to law enforcement that he had created the video.
Roberts will remain in custody pending transfer to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement - Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Patrick Overman prosecuted the case, which was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative the Department of Justice 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.
Illegal alien gets maximum sentence for leading smuggling organization involving transportation of over 100 peopleRead the Press Release
Editor's Note:
This matter occurred on date indicated, but not published at that time due to government shutdown. Press release posted and made available following the return to normal operations.CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A 41-year-old Mexican national who illegally resided in Houston has been sentenced for an alien smuggling conspiracy and illegal reentry into the country, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Edgar Ruiz-Briones pleaded guilty July 22.
U.S. District Judge Nelva Gonzales Ramos has now ordered Ruiz-Briones to serve the maximum of 120 months in federal prison. Not a U.S. citizen, he is expected to face removal proceedings following his imprisonment.
The investigation revealed Ruiz-Briones arranged transportation and coordinating trips for illegal aliens coming over the southern border with Mexico. Ruiz-Briones was the leader of the smuggling organization, recruiting drivers from as far away as Kansas to come to the Rio Grande Valley.
Drivers would communicate directly with Ruiz-Briones to set up the trips, give updates on progress and set meeting spots for drop-offs in Houston after successful smuggling operations. They would pick up illegal aliens from different stash houses and transport them to Houston, where they met with Ruiz-Briones before going further into the United States.
Ruiz-Briones handled payments from the aliens to come into the United States and payments to the drivers he recruited.
Over the course of the 18-month conspiracy, Ruiz-Briones arranged for over 100 aliens to enter, remain and be transported further into the United States.
An illegal alien himself having been removed from the United States on multiple occasions, he also pleaded guilty to illegally reentering the United States from Mexico and remaining here in violation of the law.
Ruiz-Briones has been and will remain in custody pending transfer to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement – Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation with the assistance of Border Patrol.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph Griffith is prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces and Project Safe Neighborhood.
Houston felon admits to shooting bystander during armed robbery spreeRead the Press Release
Editor's Note:
This matter occurred on date indicated, but not published at that time due to government shutdown. Press release posted and made available following the return to normal operations.HOUSTON – A 26-year-old Houston man has pleaded guilty to brandishing and illegally possessing a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
On Feb. 22 and 23, Devonte Robinson robbed three Houston-area businesses at gunpoint - a Timewise, Circle K and Family Dollar. At the Timewise and Family Dollar, Robinson entered wearing a mask, brandished a firearm at employees and demanded cash from the registers.
At Circle K, Robinson shot a customer while trying to steal money from the victim’s hands. The customer pulled their own firearm and returned fire, causing patrons to run and hide inside the store.
Authorities discovered him with the weapon and same mask used in all three robberies as well as a large amount of cash.
U.S. District Judge Lee Rosenthal will impose sentencing Jan. 13, 2026. At that time, Robinson faces up to life in prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.
The FBI and Houston Police Department conducted the investigation.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Francisco J. Rodriguez is prosecuting the case.
Foreign national admits to selling counterfeit cancer medicationRead the Press Release
Editor's Note:
This matter occurred on date indicated, but not published at that time due to government shutdown. Press release posted and made available following the return to normal operations.HOUSTON – A 45-year-old Indian national has pleaded guilty to conspiring to sell and ship counterfeit oncology pharmaceuticals into the United States, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
From August 2018 to June 2024, Sanjay Kumar and others arranged the sale and trafficking of counterfeit versions of the cancer drug Keytruda worth tens of thousands of dollars.
Keytruda is an FDA-approved immunotherapy used to treat melanoma and Hodgkin lymphoma as well as lung, head and neck, gastric, cervical and breast cancers. Merck Sharp & Dohme LLC, formerly Merck Sharp & Dohme Corp., holds the exclusive right to authorize the manufacturing of genuine Keytruda.
The counterfeit Keytruda Kumar sold bore fake trademarks and lacked the active ingredient needed to treat cancer. Instead, it contained fillers and adulterants with no medical purpose. The packaging was also counterfeit, bearing marks nearly identical to those registered to Merck.
During an undercover operation, Kumar attempted to sell additional quantities of counterfeit Keytruda. He admitted he knew the drugs would not work to treat cancer, describing them as “just like water.”
U.S. District Judge Lee H. Rosenthal will impose sentencing Jan. 13. At that time, Kumar faces up to 20 years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement - Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation with the assistance of the Food and Drug Administration.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jay Hileman and Trial Attorneys Ethan Cantor, Bryce Rosenbower and Jeff Pearlman of the Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section are prosecuting the case.
Illegal Alien sentenced to 25 years for operating methamphetamine conversion labRead the Press Release
Editor's Note:
This matter occurred on date indicated, but not published at that time due to government shutdown. Press release posted and made available following the return to normal operations.HOUSTON – A 26-year-old Mexican national has been ordered to federal prison for running a clandestine methamphetamine conversion laboratory in Houston, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Juan Carlos Reyes Flores pleaded guilty July 28.
U.S. District Judge George Hanks has ordered Reyes Flores to serve 300 months in federal prison. Not a U.S. citizen, he is expected to face removal proceedings following his imprisonment. At the hearing, the court heard detailed about the scope of the operation. Judge Hanks noted the lengthy prison term reflects the court’s responsibility to the people that methamphetamine distribution and addiction harms and explained that the court had a duty to issue a sentence that discourages others from engaging in similar criminal conduct.
From May to September 2020, Reyes Flores operated a methamphetamine conversion lab in Houston to process and distribute drugs smuggled between Mexico and the United States.
He oversaw workers who converted liquid methamphetamine imported from Mexico into crystal form and coordinated its distribution throughout the Greater Houston area.
On Sept. 1, 2020, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Houston location where they recovered over 30 kilograms of pure methamphetamine. They also found equipment and materials used for the conversion process throughout the premises.
The Drug Enforcement Administration, FBI and Houston Police Department conducted the investigation with the assistance of the Texas Department of Public Safety, Texas Department of Criminal Justice, Harris County Precinct Five Constable’s Office and police departments in Baytown, Navasota, Pasadena and Deer Park.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Christine J. Lu and Michael E. Day prosecuted the case.
Houston man charged with armed robbery of multiple smoke shopsRead the Press Release
Editor's Note:
This matter occurred on date indicated, but not published at that time due to government shutdown. Press release posted and made available following the return to normal operations.HOUSTON – A 33-year-old man has been charged in a nine-count federal indictment for multiple robberies and related firearms offenses, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Previously in custody on related charges, De Aundre Devoy Jones is expected to make his initial appearance in federal court before U.S. Magistrate Judge Yvonne Ho Nov. 7 at 10 a.m.
The indictment alleges that between Jan. 26-30, Jones and others conspired to rob several Houston-area businesses. They allegedly planned and carried out a series of armed commercial robberies for money. According to the charges, the group worked together, aiding and abetting one another during the robberies.
On Jan. 26, Jones and his conspirators allegedly robbed the Supreme Smoke Vape shop located at 11460 Fuqua Street in Houston. The conspirators brandished firearms at the store clerk and demanded cash from the registers, according to the allegations.
The indictment alleges that two days later, Jones and others allegedly targeted two Vape City locations in Houston and similarly brandished firearms at the store clerk, demanding cash from the registers.
Then on Jan. 30, he and his conspirators also robbed Texas Rock and Roll, a vape shop located on 1960 Road West in Houston, according to the charges. The conspirators allegedly brandished firearms at the store clerk and stole cash before fleeing.
If convicted, Jones faces up to 20 years in federal prison on each robbery count as well as a mandatory minimum of seven years per count for aiding and abetting brandishing a firearm during the robberies which must be served consecutively to any other prison term imposed. The charges could also result in a possible $250,000 maximum fine on each count.
Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Houston Police Department and Harris County Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Smith 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.
Two Rio Grande Valley men admit to roles in fentanyl trafficking operationRead the Press Release
Editor's Note:
This matter occurred on date indicated, but not published at that time due to government shutdown. Press release posted and made available following the return to normal operations.McALLEN, Texas – Two men have pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Jesus Abrego-Salinas, 30, and Ruben Mauricio Arjona, 26, both of McAllen, admitted to transporting fentanyl.
On Oct. 7, 2022, authorities stopped a Mercedes-Benz for a traffic violation. Abrego-Salinas was driving and Arjona was the passenger. During a search, law enforcement discovered a bag of fentanyl pills hidden in Abrego-Salinas’ groin area. He admitted holding the pills for Arjona and expected to be paid.
Abrego-Salinas further admitted he and Arjona arranged to sell fentanyl pills to what they believed was a potential buyer during an undercover operation.
The pills tested positive for fentanyl and weighed approximately 298 grams.
U.S. District Judge Drew B. Tipton will impose sentencing Jan. 7, 2026. At that time, Abrego-Salinas and Arjona face up to 40 years in federal prison and a possible $5 million maximum fine.
Both were permitted to remain on bond pending that hearing.
The Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation with the assistance of the Texas Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jose A. Garcia is prosecuting the case.
Father and son arrested for attempting to smuggle hundreds of firearms to MexicoRead the Press Release
LAREDO, Texas – Two men from Alabama have been charged with trafficking more than 300 weapons along with ammunition and magazines, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Emilio Ramirez Cortes, 48, a Mexican citizen who legally resides in the United States, and his son, Edgar Emilio Ramirez Diaz, have made their initial appearances in Laredo federal court and will remain in custody pending a detention hearing set for Oct. 31.
Both are charged with smuggling firearms, ammunition, magazines and other firearms accessories as well as trafficking of firearms.
“Disrupting the illegal flow of weapons into Mexico is a key part of our whole-of-government approach to dismantling the cartels,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “This significant seizure represents our commitment to protecting Americans from brutal cartel violence.”
“Those that illegally traffic guns to Mexico empower cartels to terrorize the innocent,” said Ganjei. “This seizure of an immense quantity of firearms illustrates the Southern District of Texas’s full-spectrum approach to fighting the cartels. We will attack every facet of their operations until they are wiped off the face of the earth.”
On Oct. 23, two vehicles appeared to be driving in tandem and approached the Juarez-Lincoln Port of Entry in Laredo, according to the complaint. The charges allege Ramirez Diaz was driving a Chevrolet Tahoe with Alabama license plates followed by his father in a Chevrolet Silverado with Mexican license plates. Both vehicles were allegedly hauling enclosed white box utility trailers.
The criminal complaint alleges authorities found false walls in both trailers which resulted in the discovery of well over 300 rifles and pistols as well as various caliber ammunition and magazines.
According to court records, the men were smuggling the weapons and related items in exchange for payment and had done so on multiple occasions.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement - Homeland Security Investigations, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosive and Customs and Border Protection conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon Scott Bowling is prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces and Project Safe Neighborhood.
A criminal complaint is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.
Father and Son Arrested for Attempting to Smuggle Hundreds of Firearms to MexicoRead the Press Release
Two men from Alabama have been charged with trafficking more than 300 weapons along with ammunition and magazines, announced Attorney General Pamela Bondi and U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Emilio Ramirez Cortes, 48, a Mexican citizen who legally resides in the United States, and his son, Edgar Emilio Ramirez Diaz, have made their initial appearances in Laredo federal court and will remain in custody pending a detention hearing set for Oct. 31.
Both are charged with smuggling firearms, ammunition, magazines and other firearms accessories as well as trafficking of firearms.
“Disrupting the illegal flow of weapons into Mexico is a key part of our whole-of-government approach to dismantling the cartels,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “This significant seizure represents our commitment to protecting Americans from brutal cartel violence.”
“Those that illegally traffic guns to Mexico empower cartels to terrorize the innocent,” said Ganjei. “This seizure of an immense quantity of firearms illustrates the Southern District of Texas’s full-spectrum approach to fighting the cartels. We will attack every facet of their operations until they are wiped off the face of the earth.”
On Oct. 23, two vehicles appeared to be driving in tandem and approached the Juarez-Lincoln Port of Entry in Laredo, according to the complaint. The charges allege Ramirez Diaz was driving a Chevrolet Tahoe with Alabama license plates followed by his father in a Chevrolet Silverado with Mexican license plates. Both vehicles were allegedly hauling enclosed white box utility trailers.
The criminal complaint alleges authorities found false walls in both trailers which resulted in the discovery of well over 300 rifles and pistols as well as various caliber ammunition and magazines.
According to court records, the men were smuggling the weapons and related items in exchange for payment and had done so on multiple occasions.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement - Homeland Security Investigations, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosive and Customs and Border Protection conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon Scott Bowling is prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces and Project Safe Neighborhood.
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Houston man receives 25-year sentence for violent kidnapping and carjacking of elderly victimRead the Press Release
Editor's Note:
This matter occurred on date indicated, but not published at that time due to government shutdown. Press release posted and made available following the return to normal operations.HOUSTON - A Houston man has been ordered to federal prison after choking a 73-year-old woman as he attempted to steal her car after which he kicked her until she rolled into a local bayou, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Talib Smith, 21, pleaded guilty June 6.
U.S. District Judge Sim Lake has now sentenced Smith to a total of 300 months in federal prison. At the hearing, the court heard about the trauma the victim suffered the night of the kidnapping and the lasting impact it has had on her life. The court also heard that Smith recorded himself during the kidnapping and posted the video of him fleeing to social media.
On May 16, 2023, Smith broke into the Houston home of the elderly victim through a window to get the keys to her vehicle which was parked in her driveway. Once inside, he blindfolded her and tied her feet and hands, then demanded money and the keys. Smith choked her with an electrical cord, assaulted her and stuffed a cloth into her mouth to keep her from screaming or getting help.
Smith then carried the victim to her car and put her in the trunk when she began to lose consciousness. Believing she had died, he later removed her from the trunk and kicked her several times, causing her to roll into a nearby bayou. The victim climbed out and made it to a nearby apartment where the owner called law enforcement.
The victim had multiple injuries to her face, neck and head.
Authorities located the stolen vehicle at a gas station. Smith fled before eventually abandoning the car and fleeing on foot. Upon his arrest, he had the victim’s cash, phone and safety deposit box key.
He will remain in custody pending transfer to a Federal Bureau of Prison facility to be determined in the near future.
FBI conducted the investigation with the Houston Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jill Jenkins Stotts prosecuted the case.
Final human smuggler extradited from Guatemala for 2021 mass casualty event in Chiapas, MexicoRead the Press Release
LAREDO, Texas – A 41-year-old Guatemalan national is set to make his initial appearance in U.S. federal court on charges stemming from a crash of a tractor-trailer packed with at least 160 illegal aliens – many of them Guatemalan – that killed more than 50 people, including unaccompanied children, and injured over 100 more, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Authorities arrested Daniel Zavala Ramos aka Dany ZR in Boquerón, Guatemala, Aug. 7 pursuant to a U.S. extradition request, and he was surrendered to U.S. authorities Oct. 21. He is now expected to make his initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Diana Song Quiroga in Laredo at 9:30 a.m.
The extradition is the result of sustained coordination between the Justice Department and Guatemalan authorities following an international enforcement operation carried out Dec. 9, 2024, the third anniversary of the tragedy. The extradition marks yet another significant step in the Justice Department’s efforts to bring those responsible to justice.
Also charged are Tomas Quino Canil, 37, Oswaldo Manuel Zavala Quino aka Osvaldo ZQ, 25, Josefa Quino Canil De Zavala, 43, and Alberto Marcario Chitic aka Alberto De Jesus, 32, who were all taken into custody in Guatemala Dec. 9, 2024. U.S. authorities arrested Jorge Agapito Ventura aka Jorge Ventura, George Ventura or El Raitero, 33, at his residence in Cleveland, Texas, the same day. All are now in federal custody pending further criminal proceedings.
All six are charged with conspiracy to bring illegal aliens into the United States, placing life in jeopardy, causing serious bodily injuries and resulting in death.
According to court documents, from October 2021 to February 2023, all six worked with other smugglers to facilitate the travel of illegal aliens from Guatemala through Mexico into the United States. They allegedly recruited them, collected payment and arranged travel by foot, microbuses, cattle trucks and tractor-trailers.
In some instances, the scheme allegedly involved the smuggling of unaccompanied minors. According to the charges, they also provided illegal aliens with scripts and instructions on what to say if apprehended. The indictment further alleges some of the individuals they recruited died or suffered serious bodily injury as a result of the Dec. 9, 2021, crash.
If convicted, all face a maximum penalty of life in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s – Homeland Security Investigations’ Counter Proliferation Investigations Group in Washington D.C. conducted the joint investigation with HSI offices in Guatemala and Mexico with substantial assistance of HSI’s Human Smuggling Unit and HSI offices in Houston and Laredo, Customs and Border Protection’s National Targeting Center, Operation Sentinel, Border Patrol, Liberty County Constable, Precinct 6; ICE - Enforcement and Removal Operations in Houston, U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Texas and Justice Department’s Office of Overseas Prosecutorial Development, Assistance and Training.
The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs provided significant assistance in securing the arrests and extraditions. Guatemalan and Mexican prosecutors, with the support of law enforcement officials from both countries, were also instrumental in furthering the investigation.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jennifer Day and Mary Lou Castillo are prosecuting the case along with Senior Trial Attorney Danielle Hickman of the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section with substantial assistance from HRSP Latin American Specialist/Historian Joanna Crandall.
The indictment is the result of the coordinated efforts of Joint Task Force Alpha. JTFA, a partnership with Department of Homeland Security, has been elevated and expanded with a mandate to target cartels and transnational criminal organizations to eliminate human smuggling and trafficking networks operating in Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Panama and Colombia that impact public safety and the security of our borders. JTFA currently comprises detailees from U.S. Attorneys’ Offices along the southwest border, including the Southern District of California, Districts of Arizona and New Mexico and Western and Southern Districts of Texas. Dedicated support is provided by the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, led by the Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section and supported by the Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section, Office of Enforcement Operations and the Office of International Affairs, among others. JTFA also relies on substantial law enforcement investment from DHS, FBI, Drug Enforcement Administration and other partners. To date, JTFA’s work has resulted in more than 420 domestic and international arrests of leaders, organizers and significant facilitators of alien smuggling; more than 370 U.S. convictions; more than 315 significant jail sentences imposed; and forfeitures of substantial assets.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the DOJ to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces and Project Safe Neighborhood.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Final Human Smuggler Extradited from Guatemala for 2021 Mass Casualty Event in Chiapas, MexicoRead the Press Release
A 41-year-old Guatemalan national is set to make his initial appearance in U.S. federal court on charges stemming from a crash of a tractor-trailer packed with at least 160 illegal aliens – many of them Guatemalan – that killed more than 50 people, including unaccompanied children, and injured over 100 more, the Justice Department announced today.
Authorities arrested Daniel Zavala Ramos aka Dany ZR in Boquerón, Guatemala, Aug. 7 pursuant to a U.S. extradition request and he was surrendered to U.S. authorities Oct. 21. He is expected to make his initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Diana Song Quiroga in Laredo this morning.
The extradition is the result of sustained coordination between the Justice Department and Guatemalan authorities following an international enforcement operation carried out Dec. 9, 2024, the third anniversary of the tragedy. The extradition marks yet another significant step in the Justice Department’s efforts to bring those responsible to justice.
Also charged are Tomas Quino Canil, 37, Oswaldo Manuel Zavala Quino aka Osvaldo ZQ, 25, Josefa Quino Canil De Zavala, 43, and Alberto Marcario Chitic aka Alberto De Jesus, 32, who were all taken into custody in Guatemala Dec. 9, 2024. U.S. authorities arrested Jorge Agapito Ventura aka Jorge Ventura, George Ventura or El Raitero, 33, at his residence in Cleveland, Texas, the same day. All are now in federal custody pending further criminal proceedings.
All six are charged with conspiracy to bring illegal aliens into the United States, placing life in jeopardy, causing serious bodily injuries and resulting in death.
According to court documents, from October 2021 to February 2023, all six worked with other smugglers to facilitate the travel of illegal aliens from Guatemala through Mexico into the United States. They allegedly recruited them, collected payment and arranged travel by foot, microbuses, cattle trucks and tractor-trailers.
In some instances, the scheme allegedly involved the smuggling of unaccompanied minors. According to the charges, they also provided illegal aliens with scripts and instructions on what to say if apprehended. The indictment further alleges some of the individuals they recruited died or suffered serious bodily injury as a result of the Dec. 9, 2021, crash.
If convicted, all face a maximum penalty of life in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s – Homeland Security Investigations’ Counter Proliferation Investigations Group in Washington D.C. conducted the joint investigation with HSI offices in Guatemala and Mexico with substantial assistance of HSI’s Human Smuggling Unit and HSI offices in Houston and Laredo, Customs and Border Protection’s National Targeting Center, Operation Sentinel, Border Patrol, Liberty County Constable, Precinct 6; ICE - Enforcement and Removal Operations in Houston, U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Texas and Justice Department’s Office of Overseas Prosecutorial Development, Assistance and Training.
The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs provided significant assistance in securing the arrests and extraditions. Guatemalan and Mexican prosecutors, with the support of law enforcement officials from both countries, were also instrumental in furthering the investigation.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jennifer Day and Mary Lou Castillo are prosecuting the case along with Senior Trial Attorney Danielle Hickman of the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section with substantial assistance from HRSP Latin American Specialist/Historian Joanna Crandall.
The indictment is the result of the coordinated efforts of Joint Task Force Alpha. JTFA, a partnership with Department of Homeland Security, has been elevated and expanded with a mandate to target cartels and transnational criminal organizations to eliminate human smuggling and trafficking networks operating in Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Panama and Colombia that impact public safety and the security of our borders. JTFA currently comprises detailees from U.S. Attorneys’ Offices along the southwest border, including the Southern District of California, Districts of Arizona and New Mexico and Western and Southern Districts of Texas. Dedicated support is provided by the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, led by the Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section and supported by the Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section, Office of Enforcement Operations and the Office of International Affairs, among others. JTFA also relies on substantial law enforcement investment from DHS, FBI, Drug Enforcement Administration and other partners. To date, JTFA’s work has resulted in more than 420 domestic and international arrests of leaders, organizers and significant facilitators of alien smuggling; more than 370 U.S. convictions; more than 315 significant jail sentences imposed; and forfeitures of substantial assets.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the DOJ to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces and Project Safe Neighborhood.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Convicted felon sentenced to over 15 years for restaurant robberyRead the Press Release
Editor's Note:
This matter occurred on date indicated, but not published at that time due to government shutdown. Press release posted and made available following the return to normal operations.HOUSTON – A 34-year-old Houston resident and documented gang member has been ordered to federal prison for striking a manager with a gun at a local food establishment during a robbery, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
U.S. District Judge Alfred H. Bennett found Kelvin Patton guilty of interference with commerce through robbery and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence following a one-day bench trial that occurred Nov. 5, 2024.
The court has now handed Patton an 89-month term of imprisonment for the robbery. He also received 96 months for the firearms charge which must be served consecutively to the other sentence imposed. The total 185-month prison term will be immediately followed by five years of supervised release. At the hearing, the court heard additional evidence that described Patton’s lengthy history of repeatedly committing felony offenses, even while on court supervision. In handing down the sentence, Judge Bennett noted Patton was on a path that will lead to one of two places - him spending the rest of his life in prison or his early death.
From 2019 to 2022, Patton committed multiple felonies, including robbery, vehicle theft and unlawful possession of firearms and body armor. In each instance, he was released on bond.
Shortly following the release on the weapons charge, Patton followed a Denny’s manager from a bank to the restaurant on Hillcroft Ave. in Houston. Surveillance video captured Patton striking the manager in the head with a firearm and stealing a bank bag before fleeing in a car.
Later, someone observed Patton looking into vehicles outside a bank. Patton followed the person as they left. However, authorities identified him and took him into custody.
At trial, the defense argued the robbery was outside federal jurisdiction. The court did not believe those claims and found Patton guilty as charged.
As a convicted felon, he is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition per federal law.
Patton will remain in custody pending transfer to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
Houston Police Department conducted the investigation with the assistance of U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Stuart Tallichet prosecuted the case.
Laredo man sentenced for robbing bank which led to high-risk pursuitRead the Press Release
Editor's Note:
This matter occurred on date indicated, but not published at that time due to government shutdown. Press release posted and made available following the return to normal operations.LAREDO, Texas - A 42-year-old resident of Laredo has been sentenced for robbing Falcon International Bank, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Adrian Hernandez pleaded guilty April 1.
U.S. District Judge Marina Garcia Marmolejo has now sentenced him to 78 months in federal prison. At the hearing, the court noted the very serious nature of Hernandez’s past and current violent actions and the danger that he poses to the community as a whole.
On June 10, 2024, Hernandez entered the location at 212 Bob Bullock Loop in Laredo. He approached the counter and passed a note to the bank teller which read – “this is a bank robbery, give me all the money.”
Hernandez had a gray shirt wrapped around his hand to conceal, or appear to conceal, a weapon. The teller activated the silent alarm and placed the money that was in her teller drawer, including bait money, into a brown paper bag and handed it to Hernandez. He then left the bank, got into his car and sped away.
Authorities later observed a car matching the description of Hernandez’s vehicle parked at a motel. They attempted a felony stop but Hernandez evaded, and a chase ensued. Eventually, Hernandez collided with a chain link fence in the vicinity of Salinas Avenue, at which time law enforcement fired several shots before he eventually surrendered.
At the time of his arrest, he was wearing the same clothing as viewed in the security footage from the Falcon International Bank.
Law enforcement also found a large amount of cash in the car as well as a yellow note and blue marker.
Hernandez will remain in federal custody pending his transfer to the custody of the Bureau of Prisons where he will serve the remainder of his sentence.
The FBI conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mike Makens is prosecuting the case.
Four more charged in $110 million hospice fraud schemeRead the Press Release
Editor's Note:
This matter occurred on date indicated, but not published at that time due to government shutdown. Press release posted and made available following the return to normal operations.HOUSTON – Seven Houston residents are now charged in a superseding indictment for their roles in a Medicare fraud scheme involving patients not terminally ill, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Authorities have arrested Hattie Banks, 49, Humble; Lydia Obere, 59, and Cheryl Brooks, 64, both of Houston; and Ena Cowart, 50, Missouri City. They join Dera Ogudo, 40, Victoria Martinez, 36, both of Richmond, and Evelyn Shaw, 52, Houston, who were previously taken into custody.
According to the 43-count superseding indictment, returned Oct. 5, all seven conspired to fraudulently bill Medicare and Medicaid for more than $110 million for hospice services provided to patients who were not terminally ill.
The charges allege Ogudo and Martinez operated United Palliative & Hospice Company, a business that misled elderly patients and their families about services billed to Medicare and Medicaid.
Court documents allege UPHC marketers told Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries and their families they qualified for hospice care even though many patients were not terminally ill, as required. Ogudo allegedly paid kickbacks to group homeowners and others who helped enroll patients and to Shaw, a hospital discharge coordinator, for referrals. Ogudo also bribed a physician to falsely certify and re-certify patients as terminally ill, according to the charges.
The indictment further alleges that after authorities searched UPHC, Ogudo and Martinez opened new hospice companies – Residential Hospice and Cedar Hospice – under straw ownership to continue the fraud. They then allegedly conspired to launder Medicare reimbursements from those companies through accounts Martinez and others controlled before transferring the funds into other accounts to conceal Ogudo’s ownership and control.
All are charged with conspiracy to commit health care fraud, multiple counts of health care fraud, conspiracy to pay and receive kickbacks and substantive violations of the Anti-Kickback Statute. Ogudo is additionally charged with 14 counts of engaging in monetary transactions involving criminally derived property. Any of these counts could result in up to 10 years in prison. Ogudo and Martinez also face one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering which carries a penalty of up to 20 years. Each conviction also carries a possible $250,000 maximum fine.
The FBI, Department of Health and Human Services-Office of Inspector General and Texas Attorney General’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kathryn Olson and Brad Gray 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.
Suburban Houston woman charged with wire fraud, assaulting officer and threatening to kill a witnessRead the Press Release
Editor's Note:
This matter occurred on date indicated, but not published at that time due to government shutdown. Press release posted and made available following the return to normal operations.HOUSTON – A 20-count indictment has been unsealed following the arrest of a 56-year-old Porter resident for fraudulently applying for and receiving a newly built house worth $435,000, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas Ganjei.
Sharai Poteet also allegedly threatened to kill a witness and assaulted a federal officer. She made her initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Christina Bryan.
According to the indictment returned Oct. 9, Poteet submitted fraudulent loan applications that falsely claimed 11 people – including seven children and a disabled adult - were household members. As a result of the alleged false claims and aggravated identity theft, Poteet received assistance in the form of a custom seven-bedroom home.
The charges allege the funds used to construct the home were intended for victims impacted by Hurricane Harvey through a program the Department of Housing and Urban Development administered. The home Poteet received was the largest the program was responsible for building at that time, according to the allegations.
The indictment further alleges Poteet submitted three additional fraudulent disaster relief claims to the Federal Emergency Management Agency for storms that occurred between 2021 and 2024. During the investigation, she also allegedly threatened to kill a whistle-blower in an attempt to silence them.
Poteet allegedly assaulted a federal agent and attempted to flee during an operation intended to seize her cell phone.
If convicted of any of the seven counts of wire fraud, Poteet faces up to 30 years in federal prison and a fine up to $1 million. Each of the two counts of obstruction of justice also carry a possible 20-year prison sentence, while she could receive another eight years upon conviction of assaulting a federal officer. She is also charged with seven counts of aggravated identify theft, each of which carry a mandatory two years which must be served consecutively to any other prison term imposed.
HUD-Office of Inspector General conducted the investigation. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Shalimar Addy 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.
Registered sex offender sentenced to 15 years for downloading child sexual abuse materialRead the Press Release
Editor's Note:
This matter occurred on date indicated, but not published at that time due to government shutdown. Press release posted and made available following the return to normal operations.HOUSTON – A 55-year-old Pasadena resident has been sentenced to federal prison for receipt of child pornography, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Bo Rain Wells pleaded guilty July 14.
U.S. District Judge Andrew S. Hanen has now sentenced Wells to 180 months in prison. He will also be required to serve 25 years on supervised release following the 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. The court also noted Wells was already a registered sex offender due to his 2006 conviction of aggravated sexual assault of a child in Harris County. Restitution will be determined at a later date.
“People who view child sex abuse material create a demand for the sexual exploitation of defenseless children,” said Ganjei. “Watching child pornography is therefore not a victimless offense. The Southern District of Texas is determined to stamp out this sickening conduct.”
On July 26, 2024, law enforcement executed a federal search warrant at Wells’ residence in Pasadena and seized several electronic devices. Some included hard drives which contained 39 terabytes of pornography.
The files included videos of prepubescent minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement – Homeland Security Investigations Galveston conducted the investigation with the assistance of Pearland Police Department and Houston-Metro Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jay Hileman prosecuted the case, which was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative the Department of Justice 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.
PharMerica pays $778,000 to settle DEA recordkeeping violationsRead the Press Release
Editor's Note:
This matter occurred on date indicated, but not published at that time due to government shutdown. Press release posted and made available following the return to normal operations.HOUSTON – Houston-based pharmacy PharMerica and its parent company PharMerica Corporation of America have settled allegations that they violated the Controlled Substances Act, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
PharMerica is a nationwide institutional pharmacy services provider specializing in long-term care, senior living and other healthcare settings. It operates locations across the United States, including several in Texas.
The pharmacy, located on Post Oak Road, is registered with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) to handle Schedule II-V controlled substances.
According to the settlement agreement, a DEA on-site inspection in June 2024 revealed multiple recordkeeping failures. PharMerica allegedly failed to maintain required records intended to prevent the diversion of controlled substances. Among the alleged violations, PharMerica failed to maintain complete and accurate records of eight of eight controlled substances audited, failed to maintain dispensing records in a readily retrievable manner for seven of eight audited controlled substances and failed to keep complete records of transfer for collected controlled substances.
“The Controlled Substances Act is designed to keep tight controls on those who manufacture, distribute and dispense controlled substances so that dangerous narcotics are not diverted for illicit purposes,” said Ganjei. “When a registrant fails to adhere to the rules, diversion can, and often does, occur. Today’s settlement is an important step in preventing similar conduct by others.”
“Failing to monitor highly addictive controlled substances is not just a violation, but a threat to public safety and will lead to hefty fines,” said Special Agent in Charge Jonathan C. Pullen of the DEA’s Houston Division. DEA Houston Diversion’s unwavering commitment to keeping our communities safe will continue to hold companies accountable for any mishandling of prescription drugs that could fall into the wrong hands.”
DEA conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jill O. Venezia prosecuted the case.
The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only and there has been no admission of liability.
Multimillion-dollar unlicensed money transmitter sent to prisonRead the Press Release
Editor's Note:
This matter occurred on date indicated, but not published at that time due to government shutdown. Press release posted and made available following the return to normal operations.HOUSTON – A 56-year-old Iraqi citizen who resided in Richmond has been sentenced following his conviction of unlicensed money remitting, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
A federal jury deliberated for approximately two hours before convicting Sameer Sami Rasheed Al Salman April 23 following a two-day trial.
U.S. District Judge Sim Lake has now ordered Salman to serve 54 months in federal prison. Not a U.S. citizen, he is expected to face removal proceedings following his imprisonment. At the hearing, the court heard how Salman provided money services to criminal organizations in the tens of thousands of dollars and that he refused to tell FBI where $300,000 cash was located when they searched his house.
During trial, the jury heard evidence about Salman’s money transmitting business, which he operated at his residence in Richmond. Since 2020, Salman transferred and wired millions of dollars from U.S. bank accounts to ones all over the world, including in China, Indonesia and India.
Additional testimony revealed that Salman offered his services locally and conducted informal hawala transactions-a method of transferring money without using the banking system. He carried out these transfers, often amounting to thousands of dollars, from his driveway and required individuals to show their identification. Many transfers originated from Iraq with some up to $40,000.
Authorities identified Salman’s illegal money transmitting operation after extensive surveillance and conducted a search of his residence. At that time, they discovered over $282,000 in cash stored within the house, which Salman will forfeit.
At the time of the trial, the defense attempted to convince the jury Salman had lawful authority to operate a money transfer business in Iraq. The jury did not believe those claims and found him guilty as charged.
Salman remains in custody pending transfer to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
FBI conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Heather Winter and Steven Schammel prosecuted the case.
Former drilling technology company employees charged with embezzlementRead the Press Release
Editor's Note:
This matter occurred on date indicated, but not published at that time due to government shutdown. Press release posted and made available following the return to normal operations.HOUSTON – Two Houston residents have been indicted on charges of embezzling over $1 million from their former employer, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Authorities have now taken Kendra Blake aka Kendra Walker, 37, New Caney, into custody. She made her initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Bryan at 10 a.m. Also charged is James Tillotson, 37, Baytown, who has already made his appearance in federal court.
According to the now fully unsealed indictment, both are charged with one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, wire fraud and conducting monetary transactions in criminally derived property. Tillotson is also charged with making a false statement on a mortgage application.
The charges allege Blake and Tillotson abused their positions at a local drilling technology company between December 2022 and June 2024. They allegedly changed bank account information in the company’s payment system and diverted funds to accounts they controlled.
As part of the scheme, Blake allegedly added her own company, LL2L Trucking, as a vendor in the company’s system. She then directed fraudulent payments to that company and to other accounts she and Tillotson controlled, according to the charges.
If convicted, both face up to 20 years in prison and a maximum $250,000 fine. Tillotson could also face another maximum 30 years upon conviction of making false statements in a mortgage application.
The FBI conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Shirin Hakimzadeh 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.
COVID scammer sentenced for defrauding investors with fake products and false documentsRead the Press Release
Editor's Note:
This matter occurred on date indicated, but not published at that time due to government shutdown. Press release posted and made available following the return to normal operations.HOUSTON – A 31-year-old Houston resident has been sentenced for wire fraud in a $12.5 million scam that victimized investors in the Southern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Robert Maxwell pleaded guilty April 10.
U.S. District Judge Alfred H. Bennett has now ordered Maxwell to serve 90 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by three years of supervised release and full restitution to the victims. At the hearing, the court heard testimony that Maxwell was currently engaged in another possible fraudulent scheme by managing and attempting to sell a company in the medical clinic trial space called “ClinConnect.” Additionally, the court heard evidence that shortly before sentencing, Maxwell forged a letter from the managers at his former luxury apartment complex in Los Angeles and submitted it to the Probation Department in an attempt to provide an alibi for his whereabouts while on bond.
In handing down the sentence, the court noted the complex and relentless nature of the Maxwell’s scheme and stated that Maxwell preying upon people’s fears during the early years of the COVID-19 pandemic was “despicable.”
When the pandemic emerged, Maxwell falsely represented to investors that he had procured a manufacturing contract with a Chinese company for personal protective equipment such as masks and gloves. He also purported to have a domestic agreement to sell the PPE.
He used fabricated bank records, agreements and other documents to solicit millions in investments to aid in this purported venture. He then pocketed the investment funds, while the PPE never existed.
At the same time, Maxwell agreed to help produce an at-home aerosol product intended to kill coronavirus. While again taking in millions from investors, Maxwell claimed he was working with a manufacturing plant in Texas and an out-of-state distributor to produce and deliver the product to major retailers.
Maxwell told victims that retailers were selling out of the product and ordering millions of additional units in a bid to obtain additional investor funds. However, the entire arrangement was a fraud. No one had even manufactured the product, retailers had never heard of it nor of Maxwell, and he had fabricated all the documents he showed to investors to bolster the scheme.
Maxwell admitted to stealing more than $12.5 million from victims in the course of his fraudulent scheme.
Previously released on bond, Maxwell was taken into custody immediately following the sentencing where he will remain pending transfer to a Federal 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. Attorneys Christian Latham and Thomas Carter prosecuted the case.
Three convicted in large-scale bail bond fraud conspiracyRead the Press Release
Editor's Note:
This matter occurred on date indicated, but not published at that time due to government shutdown. Press release posted and made available following the return to normal operations.HOUSTON – A federal judge has found three Houstonians guilty of conspiring to secure the release of Harris County inmates on fraudulent bail bonds, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
U.S. District Judge Lee H. Rosenthal determined Kamaiga Gholar, 31, James Bateson, 46, and Katherine O’Brien, 26, were each guilty of conspiracy and committing wire fraud following a week-long trial.
“This fraudulent scheme attacked the integrity of the bail bond system,” said Ganjei. “These defendants also endangered the public by helping to obtain pretrial release for accused criminals who should have been kept in jail. The Southern District of Texas will not tolerate attempts to undermine public confidence in our system of justice.”
The court heard how these three knowingly submitted falsified documents to manipulate the bail bond system in Harris County to secure the release of repeat and violent criminals. From approximately September 2020 to January 2022, Gholar, Bateson and O’Brien falsified paycheck stubs so inmates would qualify for bonds that AABLE Bail Bonds had facilitated.
During trial, Judge Rosenthal heard numerous jail calls discussing the scheme. She also considered testimony from people around the country, some of whom were company representatives who explained that bond co-signers were not employees of their companies despite claiming to be so.
The inmates receiving the bonds had various charges including aggravated assault, firearms, drug trafficking, promoting prostitution and more.
At trial, the court heard evidence that Gholar admitted to knowingly passing falsified paystubs in support of one inmate’s bond paperwork. Gholar inflated income amounts and emailed falsified paystubs to AABLE Bail Bonds.
Bateson aided an inmate who testified that although Bateson had co-signed his bond, he only knew him as a friend’s roommate. The employer listed on his bond application was false.
The court also heard calls in which O’Brian commented that it was difficult to find co-signers with enough income and that she knew how to make false paystubs. In one instance, five co-signer applications for a single inmate had been completed in O’Brien’s handwriting. One had been submitted in the name of O’Brien’s own relative who testified at trial that she never agreed to co-sign and that her paystub had been falsified. O’Brien attempted to blame AABLE Bail Bonds employees for the inaccurate paperwork.
Overall, the defense claimed there was no wire fraud because Gholar, Bateson and O’Brien were not trying to get money or property, but simply trying to get their friends and loved ones released from jail. The defense also claimed that because no one actually forfeited a bond, there was no harm; therefore, no loss and no crime. The court was not convinced and found all three guilty as charged.
Judge Rosenthal will impose sentencing Dec. 31. At that time, each faces up to 20 years in prison per count and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.
All were permitted to remain on bond pending that hearing.
A total of 53 people have been charged in the case. To date, 26 have now been convicted through pleas or trial.
The FBI, Houston Police Department and Harris County Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation with the assistance of Texas Department of Public Safety and U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael Day, Stephanie Bauman, Anthony Franklin and Jay Hileman are prosecuting the case.
Leader of alien smuggling organization sentenced to 51 months in prisonRead the Press Release
Editor's Note:
This matter occurred on date indicated, but not published at that time due to government shutdown. Press release posted and made available following the return to normal operations.HOUSTON – A 22-year-old New Orleans resident has been ordered to federal prison for his role in transporting illegal aliens, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
The jury deliberated for less than an hour before finding Mailon Almendares-Martinez guilty following a three-day trial April 30.
U.S. District Judge Kenneth P. Hoyt has now ordered Almendares-Martinez to serve 51 months in federal prison. Not a U.S. citizen, he is expected to face removal proceedings following his imprisonment. In handing down the sentence, the court noted that Almendares-Martinez maintained a role as an organizer and leader within the conspiracy.
From Oct. 30 to Nov. 2, 2022, Almendares-Martinez conspired with others to transport illegal aliens from the South Texas border to Houston. He recruited friends and conspirators from New Orleans, Louisiana, offering to pay $1,000 to $2,000 per person and directed the operation through WhatsApp messages and phone calls.
During one trip, rival smugglers shot at them en route to Houston, wounding two aliens in the arm and leg. After the shooting, Almendares-Martinez told the drivers to return to Houston and not seek medical attention.
On Nov. 1, 2022, the aliens were brought to a motel in Houston, where they escaped the next day. Authorities arrived at the motel and took Jonathan Melendez-Merino, Oscar Melendez-Sosa, Cristian Mencias-Padilla and Cesar Monge-Milla into custody.
Almendares-Martinez will remain in custody pending transfer to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
Seven others, all from New Orleans, previously pleaded guilty - Melendez-Merino, 22, Melendez-Sosa, 22, Mencias-Padilla, 22, and Monge-Milla, 25, along with Yunior Sorto-Ramirez, 23, Bayron Pineda-Alvarado, 23, and Alan Galvez-Baquedano, 22.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement – Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation with the assistance of Houston Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael Day and Anthony Franklyn prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces and Project Safe Neighborhood.
Convicted drug trafficker receives 76-month sentence for illegally entering U.S. for third timeRead the Press Release
Editor's Note:
This matter occurred on date indicated, but not published at that time due to government shutdown. Press release posted and made available following the return to normal operations.HOUSTON – A 41-year-old Mexican national who illegally resided in Houston has been ordered to federal prison for illegally reentering the country again without authorization, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Eduardo Ramiro Gonzalez-Leal pleaded guilty May 28.
U.S. District Judge George C. Hanks has now ordered Gonzalez-Leal to serve 76 months in federal prison. Not a U.S. citizen, he is again expected to be removed following his imprisonment. At the hearing, the court heard about Gonzalez-Leal’s criminal and immigration history and noted the obligation to protect the community from his unlawful conduct.
Gonzalez-Leal has multiple felony convictions including conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance, felon in possession of a firearm and driving under the influence.
He was removed in November 2015 and October 2021 and returned each time. Authorities discovered him again Nov. 27, 2023, in Houston.
He has been and will remain in custody pending transfer to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
Immigration Customs Enforcement – Enforcement Removal Operations conducted the investigation. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Carrie Law prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces and Project Safe Neighborhood.
Homicide convict sent to federal prison after illegal aliens found crammed in trunk and on floorboard of compact carRead the Press Release
Editor's Note:
This matter occurred on date indicated, but not published at that time due to government shutdown. Press release posted and made available following the return to normal operations.LAREDO, Texas – A 57-year-old Rio Bravo man has been ordered to federal prison for human smuggling, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Antonio Pena pleaded guilty May 6.
U.S. District Judge Marina Garcia Marmolejo has now ordered Pena to serve 63 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by three years of supervised release. At the hearing, the court heard how Pena has remained a decades-long danger to others in the community. In handing down the sentence, the court noted the breadth of his criminal history, which includes a homicide conviction, the risk of substantial bodily injury or death he imposed on the two illegal aliens crammed into his trunk and attacks made to other inmates while Pena awaited sentencing.
On Feb. 14, Pena was driving a black Chevrolet Cruz that appeared heavily weighted down and sagging in the rear. He pulled into a gas station, claiming he was “just getting gas.” When law enforcement approached him, he appeared nervous, stuttered and clutched his phone while insisting there was no one else in the car. Law enforcement also noticed he was holding just a single key without any other personalized keys attached.
A subsequent search revealed one person lying on the floorboard and two more crammed in the trunk. Authorities determined all three were citizens of Mexico and in the United States illegally.
One illegal alien admitted he had waded across the Rio Grande and was awaiting transport to Atlanta when Pena arrived. He saw two others already hidden in the trunk when Pena instructed him to lie on the floorboard.
Border Patrol conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tae W. Chon prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces and Project Safe Neighborhood.
Houston man sentenced to nearly two decades in prison after committing two armed robberiesRead the Press Release
Editor's Note:
This matter occurred on date indicated, but not published at that time due to government shutdown. Press release posted and made available following the return to normal operations.HOUSTON - A 25-year-old Houston man has been ordered to prison for committing two aggravated robberies with a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Eric Suarez-Maldonado pleaded guilty May 25.
U.S. District Judge George Hanks has now ordered Suarez-Maldonado to serve a total of 231 months in federal prison - 63 months for robberies with a consecutive 168 months for using firearms during the crimes. The sentence will be followed by three years of supervised release. In imposing the sentence, Judge Hanks noted that the victims will be haunted by Suarez-Maldonado’s actions for the rest of their lives, and there must be consequences for those actions.
On or about Oct. 18, 2023, Suarez-Maldonado entered the 7-Eleven located at 12776 East Freeway in Houston with a ski mask. He immediately ran to the clerk and put a firearm in her face, demanding money from the register. He then left in a waiting get-away vehicle.
Approximately 10 minutes later, law enforcement responded to another armed robbery, this time at a Valero located at 7501 Lyons in Houston. The investigation revealed Suarez-Maldonado had entered the store with a firearm and pointed it at the victim clerk while demanding money from the register before fleeing the scene.
Authorities identified him and took him into custody following a short high-speed chase. Suarez-Maldondo was in possession of a firearm that matched the firearm seen on surveillance videos during the robberies.
He has been and will remain in custody pending transfer to a Federal Bureau of Prison facility to be determined in the near future.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation with the assistance of Houston Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jill Jenkins Stotts prosecuted the case.
Former refugee sentenced to 12 years for providing material support to ISISRead the Press Release
Editor's Note:
This matter occurred on date indicated, but not published at that time due to government shutdown. Press release posted and made available following the return to normal operations.HOUSTON – A 28-year-old former Iraqi refugee and legal permanent resident of Richmond has been sentenced for providing material support to a designated foreign terrorist organization, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Abdulrahman Mohammed Hafedh Alqaysi pleaded guilty March 7.
U.S. District Judge Alfred Bennett has now ordered Alqaysi to serve 144 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by three years of supervised release. In handing down the sentence, the court noted the gravity of the offense and how Alqaysi’s conduct affected not only Americans, but the entire international community. Alqaysi is also expected to lose his immigration status in the United States.
“The American people generously allowed Alqaysi to live in the United States,” said Ganjei. “Alqaysi betrayed that hospitality by helping ISIS, a terrorist organization that has murdered Americans and countless other innocent people. This sentence sends a clear message: If you help terrorist organizations, the Southern District of Texas will send you to prison for a long, long time.”
Alqaysi admitted to providing material support and resources to the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham.
From 2015 to 2020, Alqaysi provided his computer expertise to develop and post logos for a media arm of the ISIS group known as the Kalachnikov team. He further sent hacking videos and instructions to ISIS members in addition to stolen credit card information and fraudulently created identity documents.
He will remain in custody pending transfer to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
The FBI Houston Joint Terrorism Task Force conducted the investigation with the assistance of Immigration Customs Enforcement - Homeland Security Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Heather Winter prosecuted the case along with National Security Division Trial Attorney Michael Dittoe.
“K pack” sales earn Houston area man federal prison sentenceRead the Press Release
Editor's Note:
This matter occurred on date indicated, but not published at that time due to government shutdown. Press release posted and made available following the return to normal operations.HOUSTON – A 35-year-old Cypress resident has been ordered to prison following his conviction for possession of methamphetamine, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Jessie King pleaded guilty Nov. 20, 2023.
U.S. District Judge George C. Hanks Jr. ordered King to serve 60 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by five years of supervised release. In handing down the sentence, the court noted the amount of methamphetamine and the fact that King hurt people through his trafficking.
The investigation began Nov. 17, 2020, after authorities discovered a phone call between Jessie King and Billy Ray Ashley about obtaining “whites.” Later that day, King arrived at the location where Ashley was staying, went inside briefly, then left.
Law enforcement followed King and saw him conduct a suspected drug transaction. They were able to recover two “K packs” (packages containing 1,000 pills each) weighing over 700 grams which tested positive for methamphetamine.
King will remain in custody pending transfer to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
Billy Ray Ashley previously pleaded guilty Feb. 7 and was sentenced to 120 months.
The FBI conducted the investigation with assistance from Houston Police Department and Texas Department of Public Safety.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys John Lewis and John Ganz prosecuted the case.
Gang members receive additional sentences for assaulting federal officersRead the Press Release
Editor's Note:
This matter occurred on date indicated, but not published at that time due to government shutdown. Press release posted and made available following the return to normal operations.McALLEN, Texas – Three additional Pasia gang members have been sentenced for their roles in the assault of two federal correctional officers, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Mexican national Oscar Ambrocio Hernandez, 25, pleaded guilty in April, while Ruben Gonzalez-Balderas, 29, also of Mexico, and Roger Emmanuel Lemus, 42, Guatemala, entered their pleas in July.
U.S. District Judge Drew B. Tipton has now imposed a 137-month term of imprisonment for Gonzalez-Balderas, while Lemus and Hernandez received 126 and 57 months, respectively. Not U.S. citizens, all are expected to face removal proceedings following their imprisonment. In handing down the sentences, the court noted surveillance footage of the assault as well as photos displaying each inmate assaulting the officers. At the hearing, the court heard about a drug trafficking conviction for Lemus as well as Gonzalez’s extensive criminal history which includes a conviction for burglary and alien smuggling.
“Federal correctional officers are essential to protecting the public,” said Ganjei. “They perform the critical and difficult task of ensuring that those in custody remain behind bars. The Southern District of Texas will seek severe punishment for criminals or detainees who do them harm.”
In January, 12 inmates at the East Hidalgo Detention Center assaulted two federal correctional officers. The inmates, who were already in custody pending federal immigration charges, outnumbered the officers and repeatedly punched and kicked them. They were housed in a gang-designated unit within the facility. One inmate wielded a sock with a bar of soap as a weapon during the assault. One correctional officer sustained injuries that resulted in multiple staples in his forehead.
Bryan Hernandez-Ruiz, 25, Francisco Antonio Hernandez-Mora, 27, Adrian David Guzman-Salas, 28, David Ramirez-Bautista, 21, Roberto Fabian Garza-Castaneda, 49, Jose Alberto Resendez-Hernandez, 27, and Jose Ramos-Lerma, 45, all of Mexico, also pleaded guilty and were previously sentenced Sept. 10 to terms ranging from 48-114 months.
All have been and will remain in custody.
The FBI and U.S. Marshals Service conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Laura Garcia and Avery Benitez prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces and Project Safe Neighborhood.
Fleeing illegal alien accused of murdering woman in custody after manhunt, charged with federal weapons violationRead the Press Release
VICTORIA, Texas – A 41-year-old illegal alien from Cambodia has been charged with unlawfully possessing a weapon following the shooting death of a woman in Victoria, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Savin Seng aka “Two-Face” had illegally resided in Victoria and is now in federal custody pending a detention hearing set for Oct. 10 at 10 a.m. At his initial appearance, the court heard that he is an admitted gang member.
According to the criminal complaint, a shooting incident occurred at a residence in the Telferner community outside Victoria Oct. 3. Authorities had allegedly found a female victim deceased from a gunshot wound to the head. The charges allege the shooter had left his cell phone and fled the scene.
An image on the phone showed a man holding a Glock pistol with an extended magazine, according to the charges. The criminal complaint alleges the man was Seng, whom a witness had identified as the murder suspect.
Court documents allege Seng also had an active arrest warrant from 2022 for another homicide in Los Angeles, California.
Law enforcement allegedly located Seng less than a mile from the scene of the shooting and took him into custody. At the time of his arrest, he had a loaded Glock 17, 9mm pistol in his shorts along with a loaded 31-round extended magazine, according to the allegations.
The charges allege Seng had illegally entered the United States as a child and never held lawful immigration status in the country. Court documents allege he had been ordered removed as an aggravated felon in April 2016 but had not been physically removed. He has been in custody in California, Georgia and Louisiana, according to court records.
The criminal complaint further alleges Seng has had possession of several guns while remaining in the United States illegally.
“The presence of armed, illegal-alien gang members in our midst is a threat to public safety,” Ganjei said. “The Southern District of Texas is determined to remove each and every one of them from our streets.”
If convicted, Seng faces up to 10 years in federal prison as well as a possible $250,000 maximum fine.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement – Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation with the assistance of Victoria County Sheriff’s Office and Los Angeles, California, Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Patti Hubert Booth is prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces and Project Safe Neighborhood.
Jury convicts truck driver of smuggling illegal aliensRead the Press Release
Editor's Note:
This matter occurred on date indicated, but not published at that time due to government shutdown. Press release posted and made available following the return to normal operations.CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A 47-year-old Seagoville resident has been found guilty of smuggling illegal aliens into the country, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
The jury deliberated for approximately an hour before convicting Jose Eduardo Rocha following a less than two-day trial.
On Feb. 10, Rocha drove a tractor trailer to the Border Patrol checkpoint near Falfurrias. He appeared nervous, looked around and avoided eye contact.
The jury heard that authorities shined a flashlight into the cab from outside and saw what appeared to be the back of a person’s head sticking out from a blanket on the top bunk.
Law enforcement attempted to open the side sleeper door, but it was locked. Testimony revealed Rocha claimed the door was broken.
Upon further inspection, an x-ray scan revealed anomalies inside the cab. Authorities discovered four illegal aliens hiding on the top bunk, the main bed behind the driver, inside the closet and under the bed. They were from the countries of El Salvador and Guatemala.
Testimony revealed Rocha told the illegal aliens to be quiet and to hide.
The defense attempted to convince the jury that Rocha not fleeing from or fighting the authorities meant he did not know the aliens were hidden in his tractor cab. They were not convinced and found Rocha guilty as charged.
U.S. District Judge David S. Morales presided over the trial and set sentencing for Jan. 6, 2026. At that time, Rocha faces up to five years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.
Rocha was permitted to remain on bond pending sentencing.
Customs and Border Protection conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ashley A. Pruitt and Young M. Burkett prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces and Project Safe Neighborhood.
Pharmacist arrested for illegal distribution of oxycodoneRead the Press Release
Editor's Note:
This matter occurred on date indicated, but not published at that time due to government shutdown. Press release posted and made available following the return to normal operations.HOUSTON – A 65-year-old Sugar Land resident has been charged with illegal distributing over 800 oxycodone pills over the course of just a few days, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Kirti Ruxmohan made his initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Peter Bray Oct. 6.
The 10-count indictment, returned Oct. 1 and unsealed upon his arrest, alleges Ruxmohan conspired with others to illegally distribute oxycodone from May to June. According to the indictment, the crew leaders paid individuals to pose as patients at Houston-area pill mill clinics to obtain prescriptions for controlled substances.
One leader allegedly worked with Ruxmohan to fill several fraudulent oxycodone prescriptions at his pharmacy. In just a few days in May, they dispensed approximately 810 oxycodone pills, according to the charges.
If convicted, Ruxmohan faces up to 20 years in federal prison and a possible $1 million maximum fine.
Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathryn Olson 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 alien charged for throwing Texas law enforcement officer into fence during immigration arrestRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – A 36-year-old Mexican national who illegally resided in Houston has been charged for assaulting an officer which resulted in deep head wounds, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Javier Cornelio Cruz-Nava is now in custody pending further criminal proceedings.
On Oct. 1, federal and state authorities were conducting immigration enforcement activities in Houston, according to the charges. They allegedly attempted to stop a vehicle Javier Cornelio Cruz-Nava was driving and activated their emergency lights, but he did not yield and began to evade. The charges allege they surrounded Cruz-Nava’s vehicle, at which time he jumped out and fled on foot.
An agent with the Texas Department of Public Safety in uniform began to chase Cruz-Nava, according to the allegations. The charges allege the agent eventually caught up with him and attempted to grab his shirt, but Cruz-Nava slid out of the garment and continued to flee. The agent then allegedly attempted to secure Cruz-Nava by wrapping his arms around him, but Cruz-Nava lunged and threw him into a wrought iron fence.
The charges allege Cruz-Nava fled again, but authorities soon took him into custody.
The agent was injured during the scuffle and sustained two deep head wounds, according to the complaint.
“Those who attack law enforcement officers are attacking the American system of justice,” said Ganjei. “The Southern District of Texas has a zero-tolerance policy towards anyone who does so. The message is clear—comply with officer directives and keep your hands to yourself.”
If convicted of assaulting, resisting or impeding a person assisting a federal officer, Cruz-Nava faces up to 20 years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.
FBI conducted the investigation with the assistance of Immigration and Customs Enforcement - Homeland Security Investigations and DPS. Assistant U.S. Attorney John S. Ganz is prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces and Project Safe Neighborhood.
A criminal complaint is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.
Convicted felon illegal alien who assaulted police returns to prison for unlawfully reentering the U.S.Read the Press Release
Editor's Note:
This matter occurred on date indicated, but not published at that time due to government shutdown. Press release posted and made available following the return to normal operations.HOUSTON - A 39-year-old Mexican national with a felony criminal history has been sentenced for illegally reentering the country without authorization, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Luis Adrian Torres-Tamayo pleaded guilty June 30.
U.S. District Judge Kenneth M. Hoyt has now ordered Torres to serve 105 months in federal prison. Not a U.S. citizen, he is again expected to face removal proceedings following his imprisonment.
Torres was first removed in 2012 after sustaining a conviction for possession of a controlled substance. He illegally returned and in 2022, he assaulted two local law enforcement officers during a domestic violence dispute. He repeatedly attacked them, seizing their taser guns and striking them with a closed fist. He subsequently served three years imprisonment for assault of a public servant.
He will remain in custody pending transfer to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement – Enforcement and Removal Operations conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Celia Moyer and Amanda Alum prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces and Project Safe Neighborhood.
Illegal alien with multiple violent crime convictions sentenced for unlawfully returning to the United StatesRead the Press Release
Editor's Note:
This matter occurred on date indicated, but not published at that time due to government shutdown. Press release posted and made available following the return to normal operations.HOUSTON – A 34-year-old man from El Salvador has been ordered to federal prison for illegally reentering the country after removal, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Carlos Membreno-Lainez pleaded guilty June 30.
U.S. District Judge David Hittner has now ordered Membreno-Lainez to serve 72 months in federal prison. Not a U.S. citizen, he is expected to face removal proceedings following his imprisonment. At the hearing, the court determined an upward variance was appropriate to deter Membreno-Lainez from committing further crimes.
Membreno-Lainez has convictions for evading arrest and theft as well as a significant sentence for aggravated robbery with a deadly weapon. He was removed in November 2018 with no permission to return to the United States. However, authorities encountered him again Nov. 30, 2024, following an arrest in Harris County on charges of felony assault of a family member impeding breath.
He has been and will remain in custody pending transfer to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement - Enforcement and Removal Operations conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Luis Batarse is prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces and Project Safe Neighborhood.
.50 caliber straw purchaser sentenced in relation to illegal firearm shipment destined for MexicoRead the Press Release
Editor's Note:
This matter occurred on date indicated, but not published at that time due to government shutdown. Press release posted and made available following the return to normal operations.HOUSTON - A 50-year-old Houston man has been ordered to prison for making a false statement in the purchase of firearms and purchasing firearms knowing they were to be exported to Mexico, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
The jury deliberated for less than 20 minutes following a three-day trial before finding John Castellano guilty April 30.
U.S. District Judge Ewing Werlein Jr. has now ordered Castellano to serve 70 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by three years of supervised release. In handing down the sentence, the court noted that Castellano was not just simply purchasing firearms, he was getting them through others with money people in Mexico had provided. Judge Werlein commented that these were .50 caliber rifles destined for Mexico and that Castellano was looking to purchase more.
On or about Dec. 16, 2019, Castellano lied to a federal firearms licensed dealer. He falsely claimed he was purchasing two Barrett .50 caliber rifles for himself, each valued at approximately $8,000. In reality, they were intended for others and ultimately destined for Mexico.
The jury heard evidence that Castellano purchased the rifles with approximately $17,000 in cash from Jacinto Zuniga.
Evidence revealed Castellano had picked up the firearms from a federal firearms licensed dealer with a friend, who was a previously convicted felon.
The jury also heard he was attempting to obtain additional Barrett .50 caliber rifles.
Experts provided testimony regarding the regulations and various licensing requirements necessary for exporting firearms to Mexico. The jury also had the opportunity to view the rifles Castellano had straw purchased.
The defense attempted to convince the jury that the accusations were false, he was wrongfully accused and that incriminating text messages were lies. They did not believe those claims and found Castellano guilty as charged.
Previously released on bond, Castellano was taken into custody following the sentencing where he will remain pending transfer to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
Zuniga, 44, Houston, previously pleaded guilty for his role in the scheme and was sentenced to 34 months.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation with the assistance of Houston Police Department, Immigration and Customs Enforcement - Homeland Security Investigations and Department of State. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Smith and Assistant U.S. Attorney Jill Stotts prosecuted the case.
Mexican national receives 66 months following conviction for illegally reentering country for 4th timeRead the Press Release
Editor's Note:
This matter occurred on date indicated, but not published at that time due to government shutdown. Press release posted and made available following the return to normal operations.HOUSTON – A 44-year-old Mexican national who illegally resided in Houston has been ordered to federal prison for entering the country without authorization, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Wilfredo Sanchez pleaded guilty May 22.
U.S. District Judge Charles Eskridge has now ordered him to serve 66 months in federal prison. Not a U.S. citizen, he is again expected to face removal proceedings following his imprisonment. In handing down the sentence, the court considered his previous convictions and the dangerousness of his crimes, lack of respect for the law and need for deterrence.
Sanchez has felony convictions for illegal reentry as well as burglary of habitation and evading arrest with a motor vehicle. He was first removed in 2007 and illegally returned four times, most recently in February 2022. Authorities discovered him in Harris County following an arrest for evading detention.
He will remain in custody pending transfer to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
Immigration Customs Enforcement – Enforcement Removal Operations conducted the investigation. Special Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brooke Fuselier and Carrie Law prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces and Project Safe Neighborhood.
Sugar Land man convicted in conspiracy involving smuggling firearms to IraqRead the Press Release
Editor's Note:
This matter occurred on date indicated, but not published at that time due to government shutdown. Press release posted and made available following the return to normal operations.HOUSTON – A 54-year-old Iraqi national has been convicted for conspiracy to violate gun export laws, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
The jury deliberated for approximately two hours before finding Hassan Al Gharawi guilty on one count of conspiracy to violate export control laws following a three-day trial.
From approximately November 2020 to June 2021, Gharawi conspired with others to knowingly stockpile, conceal and transport firearms in vehicle parts bound for Iraq.
At trial, the jury heard Gharawi received two deliveries in 2020 and 2021 totaling approximately 77 firearms, which he had stored in his home.
On June 10, 2021, authorities observed Gharawi load firearms into his vehicle and transport them to a storage facility.
The jury saw photos of more than 500 firearms and listened to recordings of Gharawi discussing the trafficking plan.
The defense argued Gharawi acted under duress from the traffickers in Iraq. The jury rejected those claims after seeing the extent of his involvement and found him guilty as charged.
U.S. District Judge Andrew Hanen presided over the trial and set sentencing for Jan. 21, 2026. At that time, Gharawi faces up to 20 years in prison for violating export laws. He also faces a maximum $1 million fine.
Previously released on bond, Gharawi was taken into custody following the conviction where he will remain pending sentencing.
FBI conducted the investigation with the assistance of the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorneys John Pearson, Steven Schammel and Heather Winter are prosecuting the case.
Second man sentenced for role in carjacking linked to human smugglingRead the Press Release
Editor's Note:
This matter occurred on date indicated, but not published at that time due to government shutdown. Press release posted and made available following the return to normal operations.CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A 19-year-old Richmond resident has been ordered to federal prison for stealing a car that was later used in an alien smuggling scheme, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Christian Brayden Hardy pleaded guilty Oct. 2, 2024.
U.S. District Judge Nelva Gonzales Ramos has now ordered Hardy to serve 18 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by two years of supervised release. In handing down the sentence, the court noted the seriousness of Hardy’s conduct and the fact that he took a bad situation, alien smuggling, and made it far worse.
Jesus Jonathan Rodriguez had recruited Hardy to help smuggle two aliens from McAllen to San Antonio for $1500. They initially traveled in a truck to pick up the aliens in the Rio Grande Valley, but it had mechanical problems and broke down several times. They then decided to steal an alternate vehicle.
Both men approached the driver of a Ford Fiesta. Hardy struggled with the victim, while Rodriguez brandished a firearm and told him it was not worth losing his life. Hardy then drove off in the stolen vehicle with Rodriguez as passenger.
They picked up the aliens and drove to the Border Patrol checkpoint in Falfurrias. Hardy claimed to be heading to Houston, while Rodriguez displayed nervous behavior and looked in every direction which prompted a referral to secondary inspection.
Law enforcement found two illegal aliens hiding in the trunk. They also discovered the vehicle had been stolen.
Hardy was permitted to remain on bond and voluntarily surrender to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
Rodriguez, 19, Houston, was sentenced Jan. 8 to 42 months in federal prison to be followed by three years of supervised release.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement – Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation with the assistance of Border Patrol, Edinburg Police Department and Brooks County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ashley Martin prosecuted the case.
Mexican national sentenced to 97 months for possession of sexually explicit videos and images of childrenRead the Press Release
Editor's Note:
This matter occurred on date indicated, but not published at that time due to government shutdown. Press release posted and made available following the return to normal operations.BROWNSVILLE, Texas – A 42-year-old man has been sentenced for possession of child sexual abuse material, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Cesar Orlando Aldana-Aguirre pleaded guilty Sept. 27, 2024.
U.S. District Judge Rolando Olvera has now sentenced Aldana-Aguirre to 97 months imprisonment for possession of child pornography. He was further ordered to pay $54,000 in restitution to the victims and will serve 20 years on supervised release following the 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. Aldana-Aguirre will also be ordered to register as a sex offender.
“Given his proclivities, Aldana-Aguirre is not somebody we want or need in our country,” said Ganjei. “Thanks to the excellent work of our law enforcement partners, he won’t be out walking the streets of community. This case is just one example of how Project Safe Childhood and a secure border work hand-in-glove to ensure predators aren’t free to victimize American citizens.”
On July 12, 2024, Aldana-Aguirre attempted to enter the United States through the Brownsville and Matamoros port of entry. Law enforcement referred him to secondary inspection where they conducted a search of his cell phone and located CSAM.
Forensic analysis of the devices resulted in the discovery of 219 videos and 149 images of CSAM.
Aldana-Aguirre will remain in custody pending transfer to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement - Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Ana C. Cano 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.