Southern District of Texas
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Illegal alien sentenced to 20 years for producing 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.LAREDO, Texas – A 45-year-old Mexican national has been sentenced for sexual exploitation of a child, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Felipe Hernandez-Mata pleaded guilty March 3.
U.S. District Judge John Kazen has sentenced Hernandez-Mata to serve 240 months in federal prison. Not a U.S. citizen, he is expected to face removal proceedings following his imprisonment. At the hearing, the court also heard additional information from the victim’s relative who described how the family trusted Hernandez-Mata and were shocked by what he did, commenting on how the trauma has deeply affected the child. In handing down the prison term, the court noted Hernandez-Mata effectively destroyed the minor victim’s life by exploiting her when he offered her money in exchange for child sexual abuse material. Hernandez-Mata was further ordered to pay $3,000 in restitution and will serve 10 years of supervised release following completion of his prison term. During that time, he will have to comply with numerous requirements designed to restrict his access to children and the internet. Hernandez-Mata will also be ordered to register as a sex offender.
“The American people have little patience for those that produce child sexual abuse material, particularly for those abusers who are illegally in the country,” said Ganjei. “The Southern District of Texas is committed to a secure southern border, which will keep people like Hernandez-Mata out of our country and away from our children.”
Hernandez-Mata admitted to asking a minor to take sexual images and videos of herself in exchange for money. He also admitted to sending the minor a photo of his genitalia.
The investigation began when a relative reported suspicious communications indicating Hernandez-Mata had directed the minor to send him nude photos.
Forensic analysis of the victim’s cell phone revealed Hernandez-Mata received, at his own direction, approximately 25 images and two videos containing child sexual abuse material. There were also images from Hernandez-Mata of various amounts of money.
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 - Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation with the assistance of the Laredo Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Christine A. Cortez 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.
Final two members of deadly human smuggling ring sent to federal 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.BROWNSVILLE, Texas – Two Starr County residents have been sentenced for conspiring to smuggle illegal aliens from the Rio Grande Valley to other parts of the United States which resulted in multiple deaths, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Julia Isairis Torres, 39, and Erasmo Garcia, 24, Roma, pleaded guilty Sept. 27, 2023, and Oct. 3, 2023, respectively.
U.S. District Judge Rolando Olvera has now imposed a 48-month-term of imprisonment for Torres, while Garcia received 32 months. Both must also serve two years of supervised release following their sentences. In handing down the prison terms, Judge Olvera noted the severity of human smuggling and admonished both that should they ever return to criminal activity, they could be facing extensive time in federal prison.
On March 24, 2019, law enforcement attempted to stop a Nissan Xterra in Duval County. The vehicle failed to stop, crossed into oncoming traffic and eventually overturned, killing four illegal aliens and seriously injuring six others.
The victims were from the countries Honduras, Guatemala, El Salvador and Ecuador. One victim was a minor.
“Human smuggling is a dangerous and deadly business. Here, the reckless actions by these smugglers claimed four lives and endangered law-abiding citizens traveling on our roads,” Ganjei said. “If you’re thinking of employing an alien smuggler, think again. They will gladly risk your life—or sacrifice it—to make a few bucks.”
As part of their pleas, Torres and Garcia admitted to conspiring to transport illegal aliens using vehicles. Garcia admitted acting as a scout, while Torres admitted to recruiting others to serve as scouts during the smuggling attempt.
Garcia will remain in custody pending transfer to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future. Torres was permitted to remain on bond and voluntarily surrender 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, Coast Guard, Customs and Border Protection Air and Marine Operations, Police Departments in Port Mansfield and South Padre Island, Texas Rangers, Texas Game Wardens, Sheriff’s offices in Kenedy, Duval and Willacy Counties and the Willacy County District Attorney’s Office.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jose E. Arreola Jr. and Jose Esquivel Jr. prosecuted the case.
Corpus Christi man sentenced for sexual exploitation of a childRead 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 20-year-old Corpus Christi resident has been ordered to prison for distribution of child sexual abuse material, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Angel Valdez pleaded guilty April 28.
U.S. District Judge Nelva Gonzales Ramos has now sentenced Valdez to 72 months in federal prison. In handing down the prison term, the court noted the severity of the offense and Valdez’s past criminal conduct. Valdez was further ordered to 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. Valdez will also be ordered to register as a sex offender.
The investigation began in December 2023 when Valdez left a comment on a social media page supporting the work of an individual sentenced to prison in Australia for animal cruelty. Australian law enforcement subsequently began undercover conversations with Valdez, in which he spoke about his interest in animal cruelty and CSAM.
Law enforcement executed a search warrant June 28, 2024, which resulted in the discovery of a laptop containing CSAM. Valdez also admitted he had participated in distributing CSAM.
Valdez 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 and Corpus Christi Police Department conducted the investigation with the assistance of authorities in Australia.
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.
Clinic owner arrested in multimillion-dollar fraud scheme involving non-existent psychotherapy servicesRead 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 47-year-old Houston resident has been taken into custody for his alleged role in a $4 million Medicare fraud and identity theft scheme, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Dempsey Spears made his initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Richard Bennett.
A federal grand jury in Houston returned a nine-count indictment Sept. 23, which was unsealed upon his arrest. The indictment alleges that from 2016 to 2024, Spears submitted false and fraudulent claims to Medicare for psychotherapy services that were never provided.
According to court documents, Spears owned and operated two mental health clinics – Transitional Life Counseling and Consultation in Texas City and Spears Community Services in Mesquite. He allegedly continued billing under the names of seven licensed clinical social workers after they resigned from TLCC. The charges further allege he submitted claims for services purportedly provided to Medicare beneficiaries who were deceased at the time of the billed treatment.
From 2016 to 2023, Spears allegedly billed Medicare approximately $4 million in fraudulent psychotherapy claims tied to the seven former LCSWs and was paid approximately $1.5 million.
If convicted, Spears faces up to 10 years in federal prison for each count of health care fraud. He could also receive an additional two years for aggravated identity theft which must be served consecutively to any other prison term imposed. The charges also carry a possible $250,000 maximum fine.
The Texas Attorney General’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit and Department of Health and Human Services - Office of Inspector General conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathryn Olson is prosecuting the case.
An indictment or criminal complaint is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.
SDTX’s “Operation Pick-Off” comes to Laredo, resulting in nearly 30 criminal alien arrests, including convicted murdererRead the Press Release
LAREDO, Texas – A total of 28 people have been taken into custody for various immigration-related violations of federal law following a major enforcement action throughout Webb, La Salle, McMullen, Jim Hogg and Zapata Counties, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Most are set to make their appearances before U.S. Magistrate Judge Brian Bajew in Laredo Sept. 29 at 9 a.m.
The Southern District of Texas and FBI initiative known as Operation Pick-Off began in the Rio Grande Valley as a multi-agency immigration/violent crime effort targeting illegal aliens who are on state probation for other crimes. It was launched Aug. 22 in the McAllen and Brownsville areas and resulted in the arrests of nearly 80 people. An additional 28 individuals have now been arrested in the Laredo area as part of this continuing effort.
“States normally put offenders on probation or parole to give them a second chance. But when it comes to criminal illegal aliens, our focus should be repatriating them to their home country, rather them letting them walk the streets of our community to commit additional crimes,” said Ganjei. “Today’s operation was a win for public safety, but, as I said at the announcement of this initiative, the U.S. Attorney’s Office is not going to rest until we bring Pick-Off to all 43 counties of the Southern District of Texas. If you’re here illegally and have committed crimes in our communities, consider yourself warned. We are coming.”
The Laredo operation involved the arrests of 23 people who are allegedly in the country illegally after having been previously removed. The charges allege they were serving varying terms of probation following convictions for state crimes, such as drug offenses, human smuggling, fraud, burglary and aggravated assault.
One individual is a convicted murderer, according to court records, having been sentenced to 18 years in a Texas prison. He was removed to Mexico but allegedly reentered the United States after serving that sentence and was illegally residing in Laredo.
If convicted, he and most of the others face up to 20 years in federal prison.
Law enforcement also identified and arrested five others illegally present in the country who are expected to be immediately removed from the country.
In support of Operation Pick-Off, the FBI, through its Summer Heat initiative, surged resources alongside its law enforcement partners to focus on intelligence-driven, multi-jurisdictional operations against priority targets.
“No single law enforcement agency can face today’s increasingly complex, dangerous, and far-reaching threats alone,” said Special Agent in Charge Aaron Tapp of the FBI San Antonio Field Office. “Operation Pick-Off reflects a unified and strategic law enforcement effort to protect the community from criminal illegal aliens. The FBI will continue to surge and mobilize resources to join our partners in protecting the homeland by enforcing our federal laws. The success of this operation was made possible by the unwavering commitment of the U.S. Attorney’s Office to securing our southern border.”
“This is what a whole-of-government approach looks like - federal, state and local agencies working together to increase public safety and make our communities safer one arrest at a time,” said Immigration and Customs Enforcement - Enforcement and Removal Operations Harlingen Field Office Director Juan Agudelo. “We are grateful for the collaborative efforts we saw today. This operation would not be possible without the support and assistance of the law enforcement partners we work with day in and day out to address complex threats facing our nation and achieve a shared goal.”
FBI – San Antonio Field Office, ICE Harlingen (Laredo Sub-Office) and Laredo Sector Border Patrol worked with the U.S. Attorney’s Office on the Laredo cases with assistance from ICE-ERO; U.S. Marshals Service; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; Drug Enforcement Administration; Customs and Border Protection; ICE-Homeland Security Investigations; Texas National Guard; Texas Department of Public Safety and Laredo Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys from the Laredo Division are prosecuting the cases.
The collaborative effort 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.
Illegal alien who skipped immigration court charged after attacking officer during arrestRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – A 28-year-old illegal alien from Honduras has been charged for attacking and injuring an Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer during her arrest, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Sindi Vanessa Moreno-Flores is expected to make her initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Richard W. Bennett Sept. 29 at 2 p.m.
On Sept. 23, an ICE officer encountered Moreno-Flores as she was getting into her vehicle and identified himself, according to the complaint. The officer advised her she was under arrest, but Moreno-Flores allegedly started her vehicle, refused to turn it off or exit.
The charges allege the officer removed Moreno-Flores and attempted to secure her in handcuffs, but she resisted and began scratching the officer and swinging her arm in order to strike him. Moreno-Flores allegedly continued to struggle and physically resist, fleeing to a nearby group of bystanders. A family member also became involved in the physical altercation as the officer continued to try to secure Moreno-Flores, according to the charges.
The complaint alleges additional authorities arrived and were able to detain Moreno-Flores.
The ICE officer allegedly sustained deep scratches on his arm and hands.
The investigation revealed an immigration judge had ordered Moreno-Flores removed from the United States in February 2024 after she failed to appear for her immigration hearing, according to the charges.
“Federal law enforcement agents work hard to enforce our country’s democratically-enacted immigration laws,” Ganjei said. “It is unacceptable for illegal aliens to assault these agents as they carry out that important mission. The Southern District of Texas will prosecute those who do so every single time.”
If convicted of assaulting, resisting or impeding a federal officer, Moreno-Flores faces a possible 20-year federal prison sentence. She is also charged with conniving, conspiring or taking action to hamper or prevent an alien’s departure and could receive up to four years, upon conviction. Both charges also carry possible fines of up to $250,000.
ICE - Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation with the assistance of the Drug Enforcement Administration and Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Justin Martin 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.
Assaults on federal agents and 55 aliens locked in a produce trailer among 505 cases recently filed in SDTX’s continuing border security effortsRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – Between Sept. 19-25, a total of 511 individuals have been charged in immigration and related matters as part of ongoing enforcement actions along the South Texas border, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Among those are 180 people charged with illegally reentering the country. The majority have prior felony convictions for narcotics, violent crime, sexual offenses, prior immigration crimes and more. A total of 304 people are charged with illegal entry, while 16 others are alleged to have engaged in human smuggling. Other relevant cases include five individuals charged with other immigration-related matters, illegal fishing and assaults of officers.
Two of those are Mexican nationals Juan Carmen Padron Mendez and Juan Carlos Padron Barron for allegedly strangling a Border Patrol agent while en route to a Houston-area detention facility. Court documents allege Mendez wrapped his arm around the agent’s neck as Barron grabbed their belongings and fled on foot before authorities apprehended both men. If convicted, they face up to 20 years in federal prison.
Another assault of on officer allegedly occurred Sept. 23. The criminal complaint alleges an Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer encountered Sindi Moreno-Flores and attempted to place her under arrest. She allegedly resisted and began scratching him and swinging her arm in order to strike him. The charges allege she was eventually placed into custody following a continued struggle that included a family member. The officer allegedly sustained deep scratches on his arm and hands.
“The Southern District of Texas has zero tolerance for those who assault law enforcement,” said Ganjei. “Let it be known: if you lay a hand on an officer, deputy, or federal agent, SDTX will do whatever it can to put you in federal prison for as long as the law will allow. You’ve been warned.”
Also charged this week are Brandon Lajohn Hargrove, Houston, and Jose Luis Castellanos-Hercules, an illegal alien from Honduras. They allegedly transported 55 illegal aliens in a hidden compartment in a produce trailer near San Ygnacio. According to the complaint, multiple heavy pallets blocked the access door and prevented them from being able to leave on their own. Once authorities discovered them, the aliens had to crawl through a small door to get out from behind the false wall. If convicted, Hargrove and Castellanos-Hercules could receive up to 10 years in federal prison. Several of the illegal aliens in the truck are also facing charges of illegal entry or reentry.
Others facing new criminal charges are four men discovered in the Rio Grande Valley. The complaints allege they attempted to unlawfully reenter the country within six months of their most recent removals. Mexican nationals Vicente Trejo-Rodriguez, David Flores-Garcia and Romeo Enrique Perez-Santacruz were previously removed March 14, Aug. 15 and Sept. 10, respectively, while Honduran national Enil Omar Guillen-Santos was removed May 10, according to the charges. Each allegedly has prior felony convictions, including identity theft, drug manufacturing and distribution, tampering with government records or possessing counterfeit permits.
Authorities also found two other Mexican nationals who had been previously removed in the McAllen area, according to the criminal complaints. Charges allege Leonardo Chavez-Sifuentes and Leobardo Perez-Fernandez have both been sentenced previously for illegal reentry crimes.
All six men face up to 20 years in federal prison, if convicted.
In addition to the new cases, Erik Villegas Cusi, a resident of Queretaro, Queretaro, Mexico, admitted he conspired with others in Mexico to smuggle fentanyl and cocaine during a family trip. Authorities discovered the drugs hidden in an aftermarket compartment in the undercarriage of his vehicle as he crossed the Internation Bridge No. 2 with his wife and minor son. He faces up to life in prison and a possible $1 million maximum fine.
These cases were referred or supported by federal law enforcement partners, including Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) - Homeland Security Investigations, ICE - Enforcement and Removal Operations, Border Patrol, Drug Enforcement Administration, FBI, U.S. Marshals Service and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with additional assistance from state and local law enforcement partners.
The cases are 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.
Under current leadership, public safety and a secure border are the top priorities for this district. Enhanced enforcement both at the border and in the interior of the district have yielded aliens engaged in unlawful activity or with serious criminal histories, including convictions for human trafficking, sexual assault and violence against children.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Texas remains one of the busiest in the nation. It represents 43 counties and more than nine million people covering 44,000 square miles. Assistant U.S. Attorneys from all seven divisions including Houston, Galveston, Victoria, Corpus Christi, Brownsville, McAllen and Laredo work directly with our law enforcement partners on the federal, state and local levels to prosecute the suspected offenders of these and other federal crimes.
An indictment or criminal complaint is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.
Two plead guilty in large-scale interstate email scam schemeRead the Press Release
HOUSTON - A Houston man and woman have pleaded guilty to their respective roles in an identity theft and business email compromise scam (BEC), announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
From 2021 to 2022, Bolaji Okunnu, 31, operated an unlicensed money transmitting business that received and transmitted funds from the BEC scheme.
As part of his plea, Okunnu acknowledged he moved money through bank accounts that he and others controlled. The funds originated from fraudsters involved in a BEC wire fraud scheme involving at least four victims. Okunnu admitted receiving the funds and then, for a fee, transmitting the fraud proceeds to others.
The scheme also included the theft of stolen checks from various companies.
Amber Bush, 30, created bank accounts to funnel money from stolen checks to Destini Godfrey, who is charged in the BEC wire fraud scheme.
As part of her plea, Bush admitted to using the name and personal identifying information of a real person without their knowledge or consent to open a bank account at JP Morgan Chase bank. After receiving deposits into that account which originated from a stolen check, Bush acknowledged she then issued four checks totaling $165,000 to Godfrey.
More than 45 people in multiple states, including Okunnu and eight others in the Southern District of Texas, have been charged in separate BEC schemes that affected numerous victims.
U.S. District Judge George Hanks will impose sentencing Dec. 8. At that time, Okunnu faces up to five years in federal prison, while Bush faces a mandatory prison term of two years. Both could also be ordered to pay a $250,000 maximum possible fine.
They were permitted to remain on bond pending those hearings.
Godfrey, 31, Houston, is considered a fugitive and a warrant remains outstanding for his arrest. Anyone with information about his whereabouts is asked to contact the FBI at 713-693-5000. He is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.
The FBI-Bryan Resident Agency and IRS Criminal Investigation conducted the investigation with valuable assistance from the Middlesex County District Attorney’s Office and the Edison Police Department in New Jersey and other law enforcement agencies and U.S. Attorney’s Offices throughout the country. Assistant U.S. Attorney Belinda Beek is prosecuting the case.
Illegal alien sentenced to over 7 years for taco truck robberyRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – A 49-year-old Mexican citizen who illegally resided in Houston has been ordered to federal prison for robbing a local food establishment at gunpoint, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Moises Arvizo Del Carmen pleaded guilty May 27.
U.S. District Judge Ellison sentenced Del Carmen to serve 94 months in federal prison. Not a U.S. citizen, he is expected to face removal proceeding following his imprisonment.
On Sept. 12, 2023, Del Carmen entered a taco truck through the customer window and demanded money from the register. He threatened and pointed a firearm at employees before exiting through the same window and fleeing. Surveillance video showed Del Carmen entering a Hummer decorated with purple flames.
Witnesses provided a description of the robber and the distinctive vehicle.
Approximately three weeks later, authorities executed a search warrant at Del Carmen’s residence and discovered clothing matching the description from the robbery as well as a firearm.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Houston Police Department conducted the investigation.
Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Smith prosecuted this case as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Illegal alien admits to abandoning corpse after smuggling scheme results in deathRead the Press Release
BROWNSVILLE, Texas – A 24-year-old Mexican national who illegally resided in Edinburg has pleaded guilty to transporting other illegal aliens resulting in death, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
On May 27, 2024, Victor Manuel Martinez-Gallegos picked up several aliens in Brownsville and drove them to a stash house where he harbored and shielded them from detection.
The investigation revealed that an illegal alien from Guatemala was in visible distress but still alive. However, he later died at the location.
As part of his plea, Martinez-Gallegos admitted leaving the body at a site near Maverick Road in Brownsville. Authorities later discovered human remains at the location and identified them as belonging to the missing victim.
“Human smuggling is a depraved, dangerous business, and one where the smugglers often show no mercy or compassion to those they transport,” said Ganjei. “I implore anyone considering hiring a smuggler - either for themselves or their loved ones - to think twice. Stay home and stay safe.”
U.S. District Judge Rolando Olvera will impose sentencing Dec. 17. At that time, Martinez-Gallegos faces up to life in prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.
He has been and will remain in custody pending that hearing.
Border Patrol conducted the investigation with the assistance of the Cameron County Sheriff’s Office and University of North Texas Center for Human Identification. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ana C. Cano is prosecuting the case.
Houston pimp felon sentenced to over 15 years for sexual conduct with minor and illegal possession of firearmRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – A 42-year-old man has been ordered to federal prison for coercion and enticement of a minor and being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Brandon Dominic Porter pleaded guilty May 15.
U.S. District Judge Sim Lake has now sentenced Porter to a total of 188 months in prison. He will also serve the rest of his life 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. Porter will also be ordered to register as a sex offender.
“The goal of Project Safe Childhood is to protect children from sexual abusers,” said Ganjei . “Thanks to the good work of law enforcement and our SDTX prosecutors, this dangerous predator will spend the next decade-and-a-half behind bars.”
On Oct. 11, 2022, the victim’s mother reported her daughter missing. The investigation led law enforcement to Porter who had been at a local hotel.
Following his departure, they conducted a traffic stop at which time they found a pink iPhone, school paperwork and documents containing the name of the victim. They also discovered another phone in the vehicle as well as a loaded Smith and Wesson .40 caliber pistol under the driver’s gear shaft and center console.
He claimed the pink phone was his, but authorities were able to link it to the victim. They located her the following day.
Forensic examination of the two phones revealed photos and videos, several of which depicted sexual activity between the minor female and Porter. The videos were taken July 20-Oct. 5, 2022. The investigation revealed he had coerced her into performing sex acts and prostituting herself for his financial gain.
Porter has multiple prior felony convictions. As such, he is prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition per federal law.
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 - Homeland Security Investigations and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation with the assistance of the Houston Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney (AUSA) Stuart Tallichet and former AUSA Sherri Zack 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.
Houston gunmen sentenced to 14 years for armed robberiesRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – Two Houston men have been sentenced to significant federal prison terms following their convictions for using a firearm during the commission of two convenience store robberies, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Derian Joel Caesar and Centel Devon Willis Jr. pleaded guilty in April.
Today, U.S. District Judge Alfred H. Bennett ordered Willis to serve 14 years in federal prison to be immediately followed by five years of supervised release. In handing down the sentence, Judge Bennett noted that if Willis continued to make these decisions following his imprisonment, he will either return to prison or could even end up dead.
Caesar was previously ordered to serve 14 years in prison followed by five years of supervised release.
Caesar and Willis admitted that on March 15, 2023, both acted together and used firearms to rob two different 7-Eleven convenience stores in Harris and Fort Bend Counties. In both crimes, Caesar carried a black firearm and took money from the cash drawer, while Willis pointed a black semiautomatic handgun towards the employee on duty.
Both have been and will remain in custody pending transfer to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Justin R. Martin prosecuted the case.
Mexican national admits to smuggling drugs with family in vehicleRead the Press Release
LAREDO, Texas – A 49-year-old resident of Queretaro, Queretaro, Mexico, has admitted to conspiring to import four kilograms of fentanyl and two kilograms of cocaine from Mexico, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
On Feb. 14, Erik Villegas Cusi approached the International Bridge No. 2 in a sedan with his wife and minor son as passengers. An x-ray of his vehicle revealed anomalies in the center of the car, prompting further inspection. Authorities drilled into the undercarriage and discovered an aftermarket compartment containing six bundles with 4.02 kilograms of fentanyl and 2.05 kilograms of cocaine.
Cusi initially denied knowledge of the drugs and claimed a mechanic in Mexico may have been responsible. In the presence of law enforcement, he contacted the mechanic who confirmed he had only performed brake work.
Further investigation revealed significant underbody modifications to create the hidden compartment. The muffler and catalytic converter had been removed, reshaped and rewelded before installation. There were also cuts beneath the center console and additional insulation used to seal the compartment after the drugs were placed there.
As part of his plea, Cusi admitted he had conspired with others in Mexico to smuggle the drugs into the United States during the family trip. According to documents filed with the court, Cusi knew he was transporting the drugs from Mexico into the United States at Laredo and was then supposed to deliver the drug-laden vehicle to other people in the United States.
U.S. District Judge Diana Saldaña will impose sentencing at a later date. At that time, Villegas-Cusi faces up to life in federal prison and a possible $1 million maximum fine.
Cusi has been and will remain in custody pending that hearing.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement – Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation with the assistance of Customs and Border Protection, its Laredo Evidence Collection Team and the Drug Enforcement Administration Southwest Regional Laboratory. Assistant U.S. Attorney Homero Ramirez 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 faces federal charges for violent carjackingsRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – A 22-year-old Houston man is set to make his initial appearance in federal court in connection with two carjackings, one of which resulted in the victim being shot, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Jose Antonio Infante was in custody on related charges and expected to make his initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Richard W. Bennett at 10 a.m.
The five-count indictment, returned Sept. 16, alleges Infante used a firearm to carjack one victim June 8. Approximately a week later, he allegedly used a firearm to carjack a second victim. During that crime, the charges allege he discharged the weapon and struck the victim, causing serious bodily injury.
If convicted, Infante faces up to 15 years in federal prison for the first carjacking and up to 25 years for the second. If convicted of the related firearms charges, he could also receive another seven and 10 years, respectively, which must be served consecutively to any other prison term imposed. He also faces a maximum of 15 years for being a felon in possession of a firearm. The charges all carry possible fines of up to $250,000.
The FBI conducted the investigation with the assistance of the Harris County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Justin R. Martin 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.
Adult masquerading as minor to illegally enter the country found guiltyRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – A 21-year-old Guatemalan national has been convicted for making false statements in a juvenile immigration case, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
The jury deliberated for just under one hour before convicting Tadeo Pedro-Torres following a three-day trial.
On Oct. 26, 2024, Pedro-Torres claimed he was a 16-year-old unaccompanied minor as he attempted to enter the country near El Paso.
The Department of Health and Human Services provides care for each unaccompanied alien child who has no lawful immigration status in the United States for whom there is no parent or legal guardian in the country with the ability to do so. As such, Pedro-Torres was placed in a facility charged with the housing and care for unaccompanied alien children.
At trial, the jury heard that Pedro-Torres identified himself to law enforcement as a minor with a November 2007 birthdate. Later investigation revealed that Pedro-Torres was actually born in 2003.
The jury additionally heard that while at the facility, Pedro-Torres received services and attended school alongside minors, with whom he also resided.
The defense attempted to convince the jury Pedro-Torres was confused and never lied. The jury did not believe these arguments and found Pedro-Torres guilty as charged.
U.S. District Judge Sim Lake presided over the trial and set sentencing for Dec. 19. At that time, Torres faces up to five years federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.
He will remain in custody pending that hearing.
Immigration Customs Enforcement - Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Carrie Law and Celia Moyer are prosecuting the case.
SDTX charges two illegal aliens for choking federal agent during escapeRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – A pair of Mexican nationals have been taken into custody for strangling a Border Patrol agent in her vehicle during their escape en route to a detention facility in the Houston area, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Juan Carmen Padron Mendez, 29, and Juan Carlos Padron Barron, 23, are expected to make their initial appearances before U.S. Magistrate Judge Richard W. Bennett Sept. 24 at 10 a.m.
The criminal complaint alleges that on Sept. 22, authorities encountered Mendez and Barron and determined they were in the United States illegally. Law enforcement took them into custody and secured both men with flexicuffs in a Border Patrol vehicle in order to transport them to a detention facility.
The charges allege that, while en route to the detention facility, the Border Patrol agent stopped at a red light and heard a seatbelt unbuckling. When she turned towards the back seat, Mendez quickly wrapped his arm around her neck and began choking her, according to the complaint.
During the incident, Barron allegedly exited the vehicle, retrieved both men’s personal belongings from the front seat, and fled on foot. Mendez then released the agent and also fled the scene, according to the complaint.
The agent was able to immediately call for assistance, after which authorities apprehended both men.
The agent allegedly reported fearing for her life but has since recovered.
“The Southern District of Texas has zero tolerance for those who assault law enforcement,” said Ganjei. “Let it be known: if you lay a hand on an officer, deputy, or federal agent, SDTX will do whatever it can to put you in federal prison for as long as the law will allow. You’ve been warned.”
Barron and Mendez are both charged with assault, resisting or impeding a federal officer and face up to 20 years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 fine as well as another one year and up to $100,000 if convicted of escape from custody of an officer of the United States.
The FBI conducted the investigation with the assistance of Immigration and Customs Enforcement - Homeland Security Investigations and U.S. Marshals Service as well as Customs and Border Protection, Border Patrol, Harris County Constables Office – Precinct 5, Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office and police departments in Conroe, Houston and Pasadena. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jill Stotts 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.
Rio Grande City man admits to trafficking nearly 29 kilograms of cocaineRead the Press Release
BROWNSVILLE, Texas – A 48-year-old South Texas man has entered a guilty plea to possession with intent to deliver 28.94 kilograms of cocaine, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Jorge Rafael Perez drove a white Chevrolet Tahoe to the Falfurrias Border Patrol checkpoint July 19. During secondary inspection, an x-ray scan revealed a lead-lined wall in the passenger side of the vehicle. Authorities searched it and discovered 24 vacuum-sealed bundles of cocaine hidden in the rear quarter panel.
Field tests confirmed the bundles contained cocaine and weighed approximately 28.94 kilograms. Perez admitted he knowingly transported the drugs from Edinburg and intended to take them to San Antonio.
The investigation also revealed Perez had been previously convicted in 2010 of possessing with intent to distribute marijuana. Because of that prior conviction, Perez faces a minimum of 15 years and up to life in federal prison as well as a possible $20 million fine. U.S. District Judge Rolando Olvera will impose sentencing Jan. 8, 2026.
Perez has been and will remain in custody pending that hearing.
The case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts and dismantles drug trafficking organizations and other criminal networks that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state and local enforcement agencies. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found on the Department of Justice’s OCDETF webpage.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement - Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation with the assistance of Border Patrol. Assistant U.S. Attorney Oscar Ponce prosecuted the case.
Weslaco woman admits role in cocaine trafficking schemeRead the Press Release
BROWNSVILLE, Texas – A 34-year-old South Texas woman has admitted she conspired to possess with intent to deliver more than five kilograms of cocaine, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Upon her initial arrest, Edith Gonzalez admitted she “knew this date was coming” and to personally “gift-wrapping” a box containing the cocaine.
On April 16, 2024, authorities stopped a Chevrolet Equinox in Weslaco and discovered the gift-wrapped cardboard box containing 8.8 kilograms of cocaine.
As part of her plea, Gonzalez acknowledged communicating with others to have the cocaine delivered.
U.S. District Judge Rolando Olvera Gonzalez will impose sentencing Dec. 17. At that time, Gonzalez faces a minimum of 10 years and up to life in federal prison as well as a possible $10 million fine.
The case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts and dismantles drug trafficking organizations and other criminal networks that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state and local enforcement agencies. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found on the Department of Justice’s OCDETF webpage.
Drug Enforcement Administration, Immigration and Customs Enforcement – Homeland Security Investigations and FBI conducted the investigation with the assistance of the Texas Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorney Oscar Ponce is prosecuting the case.
Two arrested for transporting 55 illegal aliens inside hidden compartment in produce trailerRead the Press Release
McALLEN, Texas – Two men, one an illegal alien himself, have been charged with human smuggling, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Brandon Lajohn Hargrove, 43, Houston, and Jose Luis Castellanos-Hercules, 21, an illegal alien from Honduras, allegedly transported nearly six dozen illegal aliens from Mission to Zapata in a box truck.
Both have made their initial appearances and are set for detention hearings Sept. 25 at 1 p.m. before U.S. Magistrate Judge Scott Hacker.
The criminal complaint alleges authorities stopped a box truck near San Ygnacio on Sept. 19 with Hargrove as the driver. He allegedly claimed he was hauling boxes and opened the back to show the produce.
However, law enforcement observed Castellanos-Hercules in the trailer and conducted a more thorough search, according to the charges. The complaint further alleges they discovered a hidden compartment which held 55 illegal aliens, all from Guatemala, Mexico, Venezuela, Honduras, El Salvador, China, India, Colombia and Ecuador. Three were allegedly younger than 17.
According to court documents, the aliens had to crawl through a small door in order to get out from behind the false wall. The charges allege multiple heavy pallets blocked the access door and prevented them from being able to leave on their own.
Hargrove allegedly picked up the aliens from a stash house in Mission that authorities had previously identified as being utilized for smuggling activity.
“The Southern District of Texas takes a zero-tolerance policy towards illegal immigration, including those who transport or otherwise enable alien smuggling,” said Ganjei. “Our message on this point has been consistent and clear: smuggling is a dangerous and often deadly business, and one should neither engage in human smuggling nor seek smuggling services. People overseas would be well-advised to stay home and stay safe.”
If convicted, both face a maximum of 10 years in federal prison and a $250,000 maximum possible fine.
Several of the illegal aliens in the truck are also facing charges of illegal entry and illegal reentry.
Border Patrol conducted the investigation with assistance of Immigration and Customs Enforcement - Homeland Security investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Devin V. Walker 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.
Two New Caney individuals charged for firebombing Buddhist templeRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – Two Montgomery County residents have been indicted in connection with the November 2023 firebombing of the Huyen Trang Buddhist Meditation Center, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Austin Willard Tanton, 28, and Kayla Lynn Thompson, 31, have been charged with conspiracy to commit malicious use of explosive materials and using explosive materials in the commission of a felony. Tanton is also charged with possession of an unregistered destructive device.
They are expected to make their initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Yvonne Ho at 2 p.m.
“The use of firebombs to attack a place of worship is a direct threat to the safety and peace of our community,” said Ganjei. “No one should fear being attacked in their house of worship. The Southern District will continue working with our law enforcement partners to hold accountable those who seek to spread fear and violence through acts of hate or intimidation.”
According to the charges, on Nov. 5, 2023, Tanton allegedly threw a crude incendiary device, known as a Molotov cocktail, through a window of the temple, igniting a fire that damaged a rug and flooring inside the building.
Monks who had been asleep in the temple awoke and quickly extinguished the fire, which caused smoke damage and forced the temple to close temporarily, according to the charges. The indictment alleges that four individuals, including the center’s head nun, were inside.
According to the charges, surveillance video captured a vehicle stopping near the property gate late at night. After the vehicle left, a man allegedly approached the building, broke a window screen, ignited a gasoline-filled jar and threw it inside before fleeing on foot.
The charges alleged the authorities later identified Tanton as the suspect and Thompson as the driver of the vehicle. The two allegedly conspired together, along with others, to carry out the attack on the Buddhist worship center.
“On Nov. 5, 2023, Austin Tanton and Kayla Thompson allegedly conspired to burn down the Huyen Trang Temple in New Caney, TX,” said FBI Houston Special Agent in Charge Douglas Williams. “Their purported actions intimidated a peaceful community, shattered the safety of a neighborhood, and struck at the heart of American religious freedom. For nearly two years, dedicated FBI Houston investigators worked jointly with the Montgomery County Fire Marshal’s Office and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Houston to bring justice in this case. The arrests of Tanton and Thompson make clear that the right to practice one’s faith without fear is a cornerstone of our democracy and will be fiercely defended by the FBI.”
“The deliberate use of firebombs to target a house of worship is both a violent crime and a direct attack on the sense of safety in our community,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Michael Weddel. “ATF remains committed to working alongside our federal, state and local partners to investigate and bring to justice anyone who seeks to spread fear and destruction through explosives and fire.”
If convicted, they both face up to 20 years in federal prison and a maximum $250,000 fine for conspiracy to commit malicious use of explosive materials and use of explosive materials in commission of a felony. Tanton could also face an additional 10 years, served consecutively, and up to a $10,000 fine if convicted of possessing an unregistered destructive device.
The FBI and ATF conducted the investigation with the significant assistance of Montgomery County Fire Marshal’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jennifer Weinhold and Anthony Franklyn 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.
Another massive week: 360 more people face charges as the Southern District strengthens border security effortsRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – A total of 358 more cases have been filed in immigration and border security-related matters from Sept. 12-18, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
A total of 179 people face charges of illegal entry, while another 154 individuals face charges of felony reentry after removal. Most have felony convictions for narcotics, violent crime, immigration crimes and more. An additional 21 people have been charged with human smuggling, while the remaining six have been charged with firearms offenses, assaults on federal officers and other immigration crimes.
One of those charged is Penitas resident Diego Masiel Torres, who allegedly impeded federal law enforcement during an Aug. 27 consensual worksite enforcement operation in Harlingen. Court documents allege Torres tried to pull an officer away from apprehending an illegal alien. If convicted, he faces up to eight years in federal prison.
“The Southern District of Texas is committed to fully enforcing our country’s immigration laws, and anyone who tries to stop a federal agent from carrying out this mission will be held accountable before a judge and jury,” said Ganjei. “So, the message is simple. Don’t end up on the wrong end of a federal indictment – keep your hands to yourself.”
Among those charged this week are Gonzalo Alvarado-Cortez and Enedino Nieves-Tomas, both Mexican nationals. According to court documents, authorities discovered Alvarado-Cortez near Edinburg after his March 2019 removal and Nieves-Tomas near Roma after his October 2023 removal. Both men have prior convictions for illegal reentry and face up to 20 years in federal prison, if convicted.
Charges also allege Jose Manuel Lopez-Hernandez and Marcos Joel Castro-Lopez, both Mexican nationals, were found near Alamo after removals in July 2024 and February 2012, respectively. Lopez-Hernandez has a prior conviction for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute more than 500 grams of cocaine, while Castro-Lopez has a prior conviction for aggravated sexual assault, according to court documents.
In Houston, Mexican national Manuel Albert Aragon-Hernandez, 39, was sentenced to 44 months in federal prison for illegally reentering the country. Aragon-Hernandez, who has multiple prior felony convictions including theft and drug possession, was first removed in 2010 and returned illegally three times. Authorities discovered him again during a traffic stop for speeding and found methamphetamine and marijuana in his vehicle. At sentencing, the court also heard evidence that he fired a weapon while intoxicated.
Also sentenced this week was Mexican national Fidel Ramirez-Mancilla, 39, who received 15 months for illegal reentry. He has a prior conviction for aggravated felony of assault with the intent to commit mayhem, rape, sodomy or oral copulation. He was removed from the United States in 2011, but authorities encountered him again May 19.
These cases were referred or supported by federal law enforcement partners, including Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) - Homeland Security Investigations, ICE - Enforcement and Removal Operations, Border Patrol, Drug Enforcement Administration, FBI, U.S. Marshals Service and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with additional assistance from state and local law enforcement partners.
The cases are 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.
Under current leadership, public safety and a secure border are the top priorities for this district. Enhanced enforcement both at the border and in the interior of the district have yielded aliens engaged in unlawful activity or with serious criminal history, including human trafficking, sexual assault and violence against children.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Texas remains one of the busiest in the nation. It represents 43 counties and more than nine million people covering 44,000 square miles. Assistant U.S. Attorneys from all seven divisions including Houston, Galveston, Victoria, Corpus Christi, Brownsville, McAllen and Laredo work directly with our law enforcement partners on the federal, state and local levels to prosecute the suspected offenders of these and other federal crimes.
An indictment or criminal complaint is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.
Leader of Houston robbery crew sentenced to nearly 20 yearsRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – A 21-year-old Houston man has been sentenced for his role in multiple gunpoint robberies, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Danial Starr pleaded guilty March 20 to two counts of aiding and abetting robbery and two counts of aiding and abetting the brandishing of a firearm during the commission of the crimes.
U.S. District Judge David Hittner has now ordered Starr to a 70-month-term of imprisonment for his involvement in a series of robberies. He also received 168 months for the firearms charges, which must be served consecutively to the other sentence imposed. The total 238-month prison term will be immediately followed by three years of supervised release. The court also imposed $1,960 in restitution to the victims for all the money he and his accomplices stole.
“Hard-working, law-abiding people should be able to go about their day without having their lives threatened in armed robberies,” said Ganjei. “This sentence was richly deserved. A difficult childhood is not an excuse for committing crime-plenty of people with similar upbringings manage to lead productive lives and not stick guns in other people’s faces. If you are thinking about committing robbery in the Southern District of Texas, you’d better think twice.”
At the hearing, the court heard additional evidence describing Starr’s challenging upbringing as an orphan in the foster care system. Despite this background, the court emphasized that the victims had experienced significant trauma during the robberies and would carry those memories with them.
On Jan. 27, 2024, Starr robbed three Houston-area smoke shops and a liquor store along with three other men, former high school classmates and peers. Calvin Deshazo and others distracted store employees by pretending to be customers, Starr entered the stores wearing a mask and brandishing a firearm, demanding cash.
Approximately two days later, Starr targeted the Spring Smoke Shop on Veteran’s Memorial Drive, one of the same locations he had robbed earlier. Patrick Norman acted as a lookout while Starr once again threatened an employee with a firearm, swiftly stealing cash and smoke products.
Deshazo, 19, previously pleaded guilty to his role in the robberies and was ordered to serve a total sentence of 112 months in federal prison July 11.
Norman, 20, was convicted after a three-day trial by jury of aiding and abetting the smoke shop robbery on Jan. 29, 2024, and sentenced to 33 months in federal prison July 24.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Harris County Sheriff’s Office and Texas Department of Public Safety conducted the joint investigation.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Francisco J. Rodriguez and Anh-Khoa Tran prosecuted the case.
Two now in custody for international kidnappingRead the Press Release
McALLEN, Texas – A 30-year-old Lumberton resident is set for a detention hearing following his arrest for kidnapping two minor children and taking them to Mexico, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Authorities have taken Luis Angel Rodriguez into custody. He made his initial appearance and is set for a detention hearing Sept. 19 at 1 p.m. before U.S. Magistrate Judge Scott Hacker.
Carolina Rodriguez is also charged and remains in custody. Law enforcement arrested her in June.
The indictment, returned in August, alleges that on or about Sept. 1, 2024, Carolina and Luis Angel Rodriguez kidnapped two children, both under the age of 16, and took them to Mexico.
Authorities also located the children and have reunited them with their guardians.
If convicted, Luis and Carolina Rodriguez face up to three years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.
FBI conducted the investigation with the assistance of Legat Mexico City, Monterrey Sub-office and San Juan Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexa D. Parcell 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.
Multiple time convicted felon and habitual re-enterer sentenced to 45 monthsRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – A 38-year-old Mexican national who unlawfully resided in Houston has been ordered to federal prison for illegally reentering the country for the sixth time, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Bartolo Saucedo-Patino pleaded guilty June 11.
U.S. District Judge Andrew S. Hanen has now ordered Saucedo-Patino to serve a total of 45 months in federal prison – 32 months for this offense plus an additional 13 months for violating his supervised release for his prior conviction for illegal reentry. In handing down the sentence, the court considered the dangerousness of his other crimes, lack of respect for the law and need for deterrence. Not a U.S. citizen, he is again expected to face removal proceedings following his imprisonment.
Saucedo-Patino has multiple felony convictions to include assault of a family member, assault for intentionally or recklessly impeding breathing or circulation, failure to stop and provide information, possession of marijuana, two for possession of cocaine as well as another conviction for illegal reentry into the country.
He was first removed in September 2007, repeatedly returned unlawfully and removed eight times. Authorities encountered him again May 27, 2024, 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.
Illegal alien sex offender sentenced for unlawfully reentering the countryRead the Press Release
BROWNSVILLE, Texas – A 34-year-old man from Puebla, Mexico, has been ordered to federal prison for illegally reentering the United States after removal, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Fidel Ramirez-Mancilla pleaded guilty June 27.
U.S. District Judge Rolando Olvera has now ordered Ramirez-Mancilla to serve 15 months in federal prison. Not a U.S. citizen, he is expected to face removal proceedings following his imprisonment.
“Operation Take Back America means not only preventing criminals like Mr. Ramirez-Mancilla from ever entering our country, but also finding, arresting, and removing those predators that have slipped into our country in previous years,” said Ganjei. “Thanks to the efforts of our law enforcement partners, we now have one less dangerous sex offender walking American streets.”
According to court records, Ramirez-Mancilla has a conviction for the aggravated felony of assault with the intent to commit mayhem, rape, sodomy or oral copulation. He was previously removed from the United States in December 2011 with no permission to return. However, authorities encountered him again May 19 north of the Rio Grande.
He has been and will remain in custody pending transfer to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
Customs and Border Protection conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Angel Castro 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.
Tango Blast gang member sentenced for firearm felonyRead the Press Release
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A 28-year-old Corpus Christi resident has been ordered to federal prison for possessing a firearm as a felon, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
The court found documented Tango Blast gang member Kristian Ariel Garcia guilty as charged following a one-day bench trial Feb. 18.
U.S. District Judge Nelva Gonzales Ramos has now ordered Garcia to serve 70 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by three years of supervised release. In handing down the sentence, the court considered the circumstances of his arrest and noted Garcia’s violent criminal history to include murder, burglary of a habitation, kidnapping and aggravated assault.
At the hearing, the court also heard additional evidence that Garcia had victimized his girlfriend after breaking into her house, kidnapping her and her 18-month-old daughter and holding them captive. Evidence showed he had drugged the baby to keep her quiet during the ordeal. Judge Ramos also considered the fact that Garcia has been convicted of murder after stabbing a woman to death.
“Violent felons like Mr. Garcia have no business possessing firearms,” Ganjei said. “This sentence sends a strong message to other felons—handle a firearm and we will hand you a prison term.”
On Jan. 9, 2021, authorities conducted a traffic stop because Garcia was driving without headlights. Before stopping, Garcia handed the gun to his then girlfriend and instructed her to hide it.
As law enforcement recovered the weapon, they discovered blood and organic matter on the slide. The investigation revealed that less than 24 hours earlier, Garcia had used the firearm to assault a man while stealing his cellphone.
At trial, the court heard that Garcia had previous felonies at the time he had the firearm. As such, he is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition per federal law.
He will remain in custody pending transfer to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Corpus Christi Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Barbara J. De Peña prosecuted the case.
Seven-time felon imprisoned for unlawfully reentering the U.S. and drunkenly firing a weaponRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – A 39-year-old Mexican national with a felony criminal history has been sentenced for illegally reentering the country without authorization following a felony theft conviction, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Manuel Albert Aragon-Hernandez pleaded guilty July 1.
U.S. District Judge Keith P. Ellison has now ordered Aragon-Hernandez to serve 44 months in federal prison. Not a U.S. citizen, he is again expected to face removal proceedings following his imprisonment. At the hearing, the court heard evidence that after unlawfully reentering the United States, Aragon-Hernandez had fired a weapon while intoxicated. Authorities also found him in possession of narcotics. In handing down the sentence, the court took into consideration that Aragon-Hernandez has been in custody for narcotics offenses since 2023.
“If you illegally reenter the United States after being removed or deported, you are going be imprisoned and then sent home again,” Ganjei said. “Save yourself the trouble—and the prison time—by just staying home in the first place.”
Aragon-Hernandez has convictions for failure to identify with intent to give false information and theft from a person as well as three prior convictions for illegal entry and two for possession of a controlled substance.
He was first removed from the country Sept. 14, 2010, and returned illegally three times. While in the country after illegally reentering the last time, law enforcement conducted a traffic stop on a speeding vehicle he was driving and found him in possession of methamphetamine and marijuana. Immigration authorities ultimately encountered him April 2.
Aragon-Hernandez 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 along with the Texas Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorney Carrie Wirsing 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.
Penitas man charged with impeding federal law enforcement during arrest of othersRead the Press Release
BROWNSVILLE, Texas – A federal grand jury has returned an indictment against a 19-year-old man for impeding and interfering with federal law enforcement agents in the course of their duties, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Diego Masiel Torres remains in custody following the filing of the original criminal complaint. He will remain there pending his appearance on the charges in the indictment.
On Aug. 27, authorities were conducting a consensual worksite enforcement operation in Harlingen, according to the charges. Upon their arrival, several people allegedly fled from the area.
While authorities attempted to apprehend an illegal alien, Torres allegedly attempted to physically remove a law enforcement officer from that person.
“The Southern District of Texas is committed to fully enforcing our country’s immigration laws, and anyone who tries to stop a federal agent from carrying out this mission will be held accountable before a judge and jury,” said Ganjei. “So, the message is simple. Don’t end up on the wrong end of a federal indictment – keep your hands to yourself.”
If convicted, he faces up to eight years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement – Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney L. Salazar 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.
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 indicted for child sexual assault material offensesRead the Press Release
LAREDO, Texas – A 28-year-old Mexican national who illegally resided in Laredo has been charged with possession, receipt and distribution of child pornography, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Originally charged by criminal complaint Aug. 21, Alfredo Gutierrez-Cantu remains in custody pending further criminal proceedings. He is expected to make an appearance on the charges contained in the indictment in the near future before a U.S. magistrate judge in Laredo.
According to the charges, Gutierrez-Cantu came to the attention of law enforcement upon discovery of a Google account linked to a Laredo address containing child sexual assault material (CSAM). Gutierrez-Cantu was allegedly the owner of the Google account and resided at the location.
The charges allege he would visit group chats where weblinks directed him towards a site with approximately 500 CSAM files.
Authorities executed a search warrant and seized several electronic devices which allegedly contained several CSAM images and videos. One video depicted three minors engaged in sexual acts which he “forgot to delete” because he was too busy, according to the charges.
“The allegations, if true, demonstrate that the defendant is somebody who shouldn’t be in our country, and definitely shouldn’t be out walking the streets of our community,” said Ganjei. “The Southern District of Texas won’t pull any punches when it comes to border security or the investigation and apprehension of those who consume child sexual abuse materials.”
If convicted, Gutierrez-Cantu faces up to 20 years in prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement - Homeland Security Investigations, Laredo Child Exploitation Task Force conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew P. Hakala-Finch is prosecuting the case, which was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood (PSC), a nationwide initiative the Department of Justice (DOJ) launched in May 2006 to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section leads PSC, which marshals federal, state and local resources to locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children and identifies and rescues victims. For more information about PSC, please visit DOJ’s PSC page. For more information about internet safety education, please visit the resources tab on that page.
An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.
Former DHS officer sentenced to 70 months for laundering drug proceedsRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – A former deportation officer has been sentenced for laundering money while working for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Christopher Washington Toral, 49, Spring, pleaded guilty Feb. 27.
U.S. District Judge Keith Ellison has now ordered Toral to serve 70 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by two years of supervised release. He must also pay a $20,000 fine. At the hearing, the court heard additional information that detailed Toral’s willingness to use his badge and gun to protect what he believed to be cartel drug money.
“Federal officers are imbued with tremendous power, and with that power comes a great responsibility to uphold the people’s trust. When those same officers choose to engage in corrupt acts, they not only break the law, they strike at the heart of public confidence in our system of government,” said Ganjei. “In choosing personal gain over his duty to his fellow citizens, Toral effectively chose prison over honor.”
“When a sworn officer uses the badge to shield criminal activity, the damage extends far beyond a single crime; it strikes at the very foundation of public trust,” said FBI Houston Special Agent in Charge Douglas Williams. “Christopher Toral decided to put personal gain over public duty. Today’s sentencing is the result of a shared commitment by FBI Houston and DHS-Office of Inspector General (OIG) to root out corruption wherever it hides.”
“Serving the public as a law enforcement officer demands the utmost integrity,” said DHS Inspector General Joseph V. Cuffari Ph.D. “We, along with our partners at the FBI and the U.S. Attorney’s Office, remain resolute to ensure law enforcement officers who break the public’s trust are held accountable.”
Toral began working with Immigration and Customs Enforcement in 2008 and was assigned to a processing center in Conroe. Over a two-month period in 2023, he used his position as a federal law enforcement officer to transport $700,000 in drug proceeds under the guise of official duties.
As part of an undercover operation, Toral agreed to transport a black bag containing $200,000 in cash from Dallas to Houston in February 2023, believing the money was from illegal narcotics sales. He made the same trip later that month delivering an additional $200,000.
In March, Toral flew from Newark, New Jersey, to Houston with $300,000 in suspected drug money, bypassing airport security and Transportation Security Administration by exploiting his law enforcement position.
Toral did all this in exchange for cash payments.
Toral was permitted to remain on bond and voluntarily surrender to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
FBI and DHS-OIG conducted the investigation.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Carolyn Ferko and John Marck prosecuted the case.
Self-proclaimed “Mayor of Bissonnet” sentenced to 10 years for sex crimesRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – A 58-year-old registered sex offender has been ordered to federal prison for aiding and abetting the transportation of a woman across state lines to engage in prostitution and failing to comply with requirements of the Sex Offender Registration Act, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Paul Edwards Evans aka Blue Diamond pleaded guilty May 29.
U.S. District Judge Kenneth M. Hoyt has now sentenced Evans to a total of 120 months in prison. In imposing the sentence, the court considered Evans had inducted two family members into the family business which involved the trafficking of women to engage in commercial sex acts.
The crimes took place in the Bissonnet street area of Houston and in various other cities between Texas and California including Las Vegas, Nevada.
The “blade” or “track” is an area near I-59 Southwest Freeway and Bissonnet Street in Houston where pimps and traffickers commonly place their victims to engage in commercial sex.
As a registered sex offender, he was also required to notify authorities when traveling from state to state. However, as part of his plea, he admitted that he failed to do so.
Evans will remain in custody pending transfer to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Carrie Wirsing prosecuted the case.
The FBI and Houston Police Department (HPD) conducted the investigation as part of the Human Trafficking Rescue Alliance (HTRA) with the assistance of the Santa Barbara, California, Police Department.
HTRA law enforcement includes members of HPD, FBI, Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, Texas Attorney General’s Office, IRS Criminal Investigation, Department of Labor (DOL), DOL – Wage and Hour Division, Department of State, Texas Alcoholic and Beverage Commission, Texas Department of Public Safety, Department of Homeland Security – Office of Inspector General (OIG), Social Security Administration – OIG and Sheriff’s Offices in Harris and Montgomery counties in coordination with District Attorney’s offices in Harris, Montgomery and Fort Bend Counties.
Established in 2004, the United States Attorney’s office in Houston formed HTRA to combine resources with federal, state and local enforcement agencies and prosecutors, as well as non-governmental service organizations to target human traffickers while providing necessary services to those that the traffickers victimized. Since its inception, HTRA has been recognized as both a national and international model in identifying and assisting victims of human trafficking and prosecuting those engaged in trafficking offenses.
Trucker sentenced after failed attempt to hide cocaine with urineRead the Press Release
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A 50-year-old Orange resident has been ordered to federal prison for possession with intent to distribute over 23 kilograms of cocaine, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Pablo Garcia Ortiz pleaded guilty April 2.
U.S. District Judge David S. Morales has now ordered Ortiz to serve 36 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by five years of supervised release. At the hearing Sept. 11, the court heard additional evidence that detailed how Ortiz attempted to conceal the cocaine from detection. In handing down the sentence, Judge Morales noted the great damage illegal drugs cause American society. By smuggling drugs, Ortiz made himself partially responsible for those harms.
On Nov. 1, 2024, Ortiz drove a Freightliner tractor to the Sarita Border Patrol checkpoint. A K-9 alert prompted a referral to secondary inspection.
Ortiz delayed exiting and poured a jug of urine inside the cab in an attempt to mask the odor of narcotics. He also accused law enforcement of planting evidence.
Authorities ultimately found 22 bundles of cocaine weighing approximately 24 kilograms hidden in a blue toolbox under the bed. The drugs, concealed in a trash bag and cardboard box, tested positive for cocaine. They also found chili powder which is commonly used to disguise the smell of narcotics.
A search of Ortiz’s phone revealed evidence of a prior cocaine smuggling event in September 2024.
Ortiz was permitted to remain on bond and voluntarily surrender to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation with the assistance of Border Patrol. Assistant U.S. Attorney Izaak Bruce prosecuted the case.
Sentencing for illegal reentry includes new allegations of sexual misconductRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – A 31-year-old Mexican national with a felony criminal history has been sentenced for illegally entering the country without authorization, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Luis Alfonso Murillo-Soriano pleaded guilty March 8, 2024.
U.S. District Judge Keith P. Ellison has now ordered Murillo-Soriano to serve 130 months in federal prison. Not a U.S. citizen, he is again expected to face removal proceedings following his imprisonment. At the hearing, the court heard evidence that Murillo-Soriano had allegedly sexually assaulted another inmate and helped bring contraband into the facility while in custody. In handing down the sentence, the court noted the seriousness of Murillo-Soriano’s three drug convictions and expressed concern over his commission of another serious offense after illegally re-entering the United States.
Murillo-Soriano has multiple felony drug convictions involving heroin, cocaine, and methamphetamine as well as driving while intoxicated. He was first removed in 2018 and returned unlawfully two other times.
Authorities discovered him after he was apprehended in December 2019 for his involvement in distributing four kilograms of heroin. Murillo-Soriano had just been deported at the end of October 2019. Further, he returned illegally to the United States while on supervised release for a previous serious drug trafficking charge.
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 along with the Texas Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorney Christine Lu 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.
Former NASA employee and husband convicted in mortgage fraud schemeRead the Press Release
HOUSTON - A Missouri City couple have admitted to their roles in orchestrating a fraudulent financing and refinancing mortgage loan scheme, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Noreen Khan aka Noreen Khan-Mayberry, 52, and her husband Christopher Mayberry, 53, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy for making false statements to loan businesses in relation to several mortgage loans they financed. Khan had been a technical manager for NASA, while a NASA contractor had employed Mayberry.
Beginning in 2016, Mayberry and Khan, while employed at NASA, took out significant personal loans to fund the purchase of their luxury home before quickly defaulting on them.
The couple attempted to dispute the debts, claiming to be victims of identity theft. Khan filed a false police report, submitted a false report to the Federal Trade Commission and sent letters to credit bureaus seeking to have loans removed from her credit.
As part of the scheme, the couple signed three separate loan agreements with mortgage lenders related to the financing of their home from 2017 to 2021.
They also admitted to providing false employment information and fake documents, including pay stubs, tax forms and account statements, to lenders.
Khan and Mayberry face up to five years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine in addition to the possible forfeiture of their luxury home. They must also pay restitution in the amount of $276,709 prior to sentencing, which is set for Dec. 18 before U.S. District Judge Charles Eskridge.
Both were permitted to remain on bond pending that hearing.
NASA’s Office of Inspector General-Office of Investigations conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Heather Winter is prosecuting the case.
Corpus Christi resident sentenced to 10 years for methamphetamine traffickingRead the Press Release
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A 62-year-old man has been ordered to federal prison for possession with the intent to distribute more than 50 grams of methamphetamine, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Robert Hall pleaded guilty March 3, 2022.
U.S. District Judge Drew B. Tipton has now ordered Hall to serve 120 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by three years of supervised release. The court emphasized that Hall had no arguments that could alter the statutorily required sentence.
On March 16, 2019, law enforcement pulled Hall over for a traffic violation in Corpus Christi. A subsequent search of the vehicle uncovered a black backpack containing approximately 54 grams of methamphetamine, a scale and unused plastic baggies.
Hall admitted he knew the methamphetamine was in the backpack and that he was on his way to drop it off to someone else in Corpus Christi.
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 - Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ashley A. Pruitt prosecuted the case.
Convicted murderer among 306 people charged in border security-related cases during second week of SeptemberRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – A total of 303 cases have been filed in relation to immigration and border security matters from Sept. 5-11, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Among those charged are 126 individuals who allegedly reentered the country illegally after removal. Most have felony convictions for narcotics, violent crime, sexual offenses and prior immigration crimes. Another 162 people face charges of illegally entering the country, while 14 others are allegedly involved in human smuggling. The remaining four individuals face charges that include firearms offenses and other immigration-related crimes.
Some charged with felony reentry after removal are five illegal aliens who had just been removed this summer. One is Mexican national Luis Pablo Estolano-Velasquez. The charges allege he has a prior conviction for capital murder of multiple persons, for which he was sentenced to 10 years in prison and removed in June. However, authorities allegedly found him near Pharr, illegally in the country this week.
Other criminal complaints allege Mexican nationals Adan Jaimes-Gomez and Jose Alvarado-Aguirre were removed June 23 and Aug. 21, respectively, while Honduran nationals Franklin Geovanny Escobar-Matias and Jose Mauricio Garcia-Martinez were removed July 27 and Aug. 1. Each allegedly has prior convictions, including illegal reentry, robbery or manufacturing and delivering a controlled substance.
Authorities also found in the Rio Grande Valley Mexican nationals Juan Gerardo Garcia-Torres and Juan Manuel Zamudio-Villasenor as well as Honduran national Cesar Ernesto Amendola-Hernandez with no legal permission to be in the United States, according to the complaints against them. The charges allege all have prior convictions for illegal reentry.
All face up to 20 years in prison, if convicted.
The Southern District of Texas also indicted a 33-year-old Mexican national for illegal reentry following his second alleged DWI and a fatal crash. Law enforcement allegedly arrested Eduardo Balderas-Zuniga May 11 for a DWI in Harris County. Authorities removed him from the country, but the charges allege he illegally returned and was again arrested after allegedly driving drunk and causing the death of an innocent civilian.
In addition to the new cases, eight violent MS-13 gang members, all El Salvadorian citizens who illegally resided in Houston, pleaded guilty and face decades in prison for racketeering charges involving multiple murders and witness tampering. The men used machetes, a baseball bat and strangulation to expand the gang’s power. They also then sent photos of the victims’ bodies to MS-13 leaders in El Salvador, sometimes after mutilating or dismembering them. Under their plea agreements, three will each serve 50 years in federal prison, while the others face sentences ranging from 35-50 years.
“This case demonstrates the tremendous public safety threat that MS-13 and other criminal terrorist organizations pose to American communities,” said Ganjei. “Here, defendants carried out a series of murders - bludgeoning, butchering, and strangling their victims with sadistic glee. These are people without remorse or pity. When it comes to eradicating these gangs, the United States cannot afford to either relent or fail. As the facts of this case show, the stakes are too high.”
In Brownsville, a Mexican citizen illegally residing in the Weslaco area was sentenced to 204 months following his conviction for illegal reentry after removal, conspiracy to possess with the intent to deliver over five kilograms of cocaine and possession of a firearm by a prohibited person. Jorge Huerta-Garcia was indicted in March 2024 for illegal reentry after removal. During this time, law enforcement was also investigating him as part of a drug trafficking organization and linked him to an incident involving nearly 40 kilograms of cocaine. Huerta-Garcia, previously convicted in 2017 of being a felon in possession of a firearm and removed from the United States in 2022, was again arrested in March 2024 with a loaded AR-10 rifle, ammunition and firearm magazines.
Mexican national and gang member Raul Angel Serna Buentello was sentenced in Houston to 100 months for illegally reentering the country. The sentence included 24 months for violating the terms of his supervised release following a previous conviction for the same offense. At the hearing, the court heard confirmation of his status as a member of the Tango Blast gang and about other troubling behavior which contradicted defense claims about him allegedly being a loving, family man. He was removed on two occasions and has a conviction for illegal reentry but was found in the United States in 2022 after an arrest and conviction for unauthorized use of a motor vehicle and evading arrest. He has a criminal history dating back to the age of 14 including multiple burglaries/thefts of vehicles, evading arrest and being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Also announced this week was a 62-year-old Alamo resident who pleaded guilty to transporting two Mexican citizens hidden under blankets on the top bunk of a tractor-trailer’s sleeper cab. Authorities said Lazaro Rosendo Vega appeared abnormally loud and excited at the Falfurrias Border Patrol checkpoint. He faces up to five years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.
Another case out of Corpus Christi federal court was a La Villa resident and repeat human smuggler who received 46 months in federal prison for conspiring to transport 27 illegal aliens, two of whom were minors. The court noted his prior convictions for bulk cash smuggling and the transportation of illegal aliens. He was also on supervised release when he committed the crime. Authorities found the illegal aliens lying on produce pallets in a refrigerated trailer set at approximately 50 degrees.
These cases were referred or supported by federal law enforcement partners, including Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) - Homeland Security Investigations, ICE - Enforcement and Removal Operations, Border Patrol, Drug Enforcement Administration, FBI, U.S. Marshals Service and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with additional assistance from state and local law enforcement partners.
The cases are 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.
Under current leadership, public safety and a secure border are the top priorities for this district. Enhanced enforcement both at the border and in the interior of the district have yielded aliens engaged in unlawful activity or with serious criminal histories, including convictions for human trafficking, sexual assault and violence against children.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Texas remains one of the busiest in the nation. It represents 43 counties and more than nine million people covering 44,000 square miles. Assistant U.S. Attorneys from all seven divisions including Houston, Galveston, Victoria, Corpus Christi, Brownsville, McAllen and Laredo work directly with our law enforcement partners on the federal, state and local levels to prosecute the suspected offenders of these and other federal crimes.
An indictment or criminal complaint is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.
Former police officer sentenced to 15 years for having sexual relations with minor femaleRead the Press Release
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A 31-year-old resident of Corpus Christi has been sentenced for enticing a minor, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Daniel Verduzco pleaded guilty May 23.
U.S. District Judge David Morales has now sentenced Verduzco to 180 months in federal prison. In handing down the prison terms, the court noted that Verduzco had met the victim while on duty as a police officer. The court considered Verduzco’s position and his pursuit of the minor female while on duty when determining his sentence. Verduzco will serve 10 years on supervised release following completion of his prison term. During that time, he will have to comply with numerous requirements designed to restrict his access to children and the internet. Verduzco will also be ordered to register as a sex offender. Restitution will be considered at a later date.
On Jan. 8, authorities discovered Verduzco was having a relationship with a 15-year-old minor female dating back to May 2024. The two had exchanged more than 3,700 messages which included sexually suggestive images and detailed different times they had engaged in sexual relations and intentions for future sexual acts.
The conversations further revealed Verduzco and the minor victim had met in person on multiple occasions.
Previously released on bond, Verduzco was taken into custody following the sentencing today where he will remain 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 the Corpus Christi Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Patrick Overman is prosecuting the case, which was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood (PSC), a nationwide initiative the Department of Justice (DOJ) launched in May 2006 to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section leads PSC, which marshals federal, state and local resources to locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children and identifies and rescues victims. For more information about PSC, please visit DOJ’s PSC page. For more information about internet safety education, please visit the resources tab on that page.
Convicted felon who assaulted officer sent to federal prison for illegally reentering U.S.Read the Press Release
HOUSTON - A 34-year-old Honduran national has been sentenced for unlawfully returning to the country after a prior removal, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Jose Leon Cruz-Lanza pleaded guilty April 7.
U.S. District Judge Charles R. Eskridge has now ordered Cruz-Lanza to serve 70 months in federal prison. Not a U.S. citizen, he is again expected to face removal proceedings following his imprisonment.
“The defendant in this case took a bad situation and made it much, much worse,” said Ganjei. “You don’t come to this country illegally, and you don’t assault law enforcement. And you certainly don’t do both of these at the same time. Hopefully this sentence serves as a lesson to other would-be lawbreakers.”
Cruz-Lanza was first removed from the United States in 2017, but later illegally returned. He was convicted of illegal reentry and removed again. In May 2022, authorities found him in the United States again, this time in The Woodlands, after he had assaulted two members of law enforcement – a local police officer and a deputy constable.
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 – Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation. Assistant. U.S. Attorneys Jennifer Weinhold and Amanda Alum prosecuted the case.
Previously removed alien imprisoned for 17 years for immigration, narcotics, and firearms violationsRead the Press Release
BROWNSVILLE, Texas – A 31-year-old Mexican citizen illegally residing in the Weslaco area has been sentenced following his conviction for illegal reentry after removal, conspiracy to possess with intent to deliver over five kilograms of cocaine and possession of a firearm by a prohibited person, announced U.S. Attorney Nicolas J. Ganjei.
Jorge Huerta-Garcia pleaded guilty to the immigration and drug/firearms crimes in August 2024 and March 2025, respectively.
U.S. District Judge Rolando Olvera has now ordered him to serve a total of 204 months in federal prison. Not a U.S. citizen, Huerta-Garcia is again expected to face removal proceedings following his imprisonment. At the hearing, the court heard additional evidence that described the extensive elements of the drug conspiracy which attributed 643 kilos of cocaine to Huerta-Garcia as relevant conduct. In handing down the sentence, the court noted he had serious prior convictions which included an aggravated assault and firearm possession.
A federal jury indicted Jorge Huerta-Garcia in March 2024 for illegal reentry after removal. During this time, law enforcement was also investigating him as part of a drug trafficking organization. In September 2024, he was charged with the additional possession of drug and firearms crimes.
On Nov. 28, 2023, several vehicles were traveling in tandem in Hidalgo County, including a Chevrolet Silverado truck which Huerta-Garcia was driving. Alvino Lozoya-Ramon was the passenger. They arrived at a residence in Brownsville where Juan Alberto Monroy-Villanueva was located. All three men then placed wrapped bundles from the location into the back seat of the Silverado.
Law enforcement attempted to conduct a traffic stop, but a chased ensued. After crashing through a ranch gate, Huerta-Garcia successfully fled the scene, but authorities took Loyoza-Ramon into custody. A search of the vehicle resulted in the discovery of 39.46 kilograms of cocaine.
The investigation revealed Huerta-Garcia was an illegal alien from Mexico who had been previously convicted in 2017 of being a felon in possession of a firearm and removed from the United States in June 2022.
Authorities ultimately arrested him in March 2024, at which time they found a loaded AR-10 rifle and assorted rounds of ammunition and weapon magazines.
He has been and will remain in custody pending transfer to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
Loyoza-Ramon, 56, and Monroy Villanueva, 42, both Mexican citizens who illegally resided in Weslaco and Brownsville, respectively, pleaded guilty to possessing with intent to deliver cocaine and were sentenced in December 2024. Loyoza-Ramon received a 120-month sentence, while Monroy-Villanueva was ordered to serve 48 months.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement - Homeland Security Investigations and Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation with the assistance of the Cameron County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Oscar Ponce 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.
Making a [drug] run for border: Jury convicts driver who used Taco Bell wrappers to smuggle methamphetamineRead the Press Release
LAREDO, Texas – A 57-year-old Mexican national has been found guilty of conspiracy to import 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
The jury deliberated for approximately 30 minutes before convicting Jose Luis Valverde-Ramos following a two-day trial.
On June 14, Valverde-Ramos drove a Mitsubishi Outlander bearing Mexican plates to the Lincoln-Juarez International Bridge in Laredo.
When questioned, Valverde-Ramos said he was going to Dallas to see a doctor for blood pressure treatment. Law enforcement noticed anomalies in the vehicle’s ceiling and referred him to secondary inspection.
At trial, the jury heard that an x-ray examination revealed the vehicle had a modified, non-factory compartment in the ceiling that was electronically controlled. Authorities discovered eight tube-like packages inside the box, each wrapped in clear plastic with Taco Bell Doritos Locos packaging around them.
The bundles field tested positive for methamphetamine which had a total weight of 51.15 kilograms.
The jury heard Valverde-Ramos asked if a GPS had been found in the vehicle, claiming someone contacted him about his arrival in Laredo, even though he had not shared his location. They also saw photos of the modified vehicle and listened to voice memos from others instructing Valverde-Ramos where and when to cross into the United States.
The defense argued Valverde-Ramos had no knowledge of the narcotics. The jury was not convinced and found him guilty as charged.
U.S. District Judge Marina Garcia Marmolejo presided over the trial and set sentencing for Dec. 9. At that time, Valverde-Ramos faces a minimum of 10 years and up to life in federal prison as well as a possible $10 million maximum fine.
Valverde-Ramos 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 Customs and Border Protection.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Bryan Oliver and Leslie Cortez prosecuted the case.
Valentine’s Day gas station robber who tried to plead insanity found guiltyRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – A 42-year-old Houston man has been convicted on all five counts as charged in relation to several Houston-area robberies, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
The jury deliberated for less than two hours before finding Ahmed Oraby Ahmedaly guilty of attempted robbery and two counts each of robbery and discharging a firearm following a five-day trial.
During trial, the jury heard from store clerk victims, a firearm and tool mark examiner and other members of law enforcement. Testimony revealed that on Feb. 9, 2022, Ahmedaly entered a Houston-area gas station pretending to be a customer, brandished a 9mm pistol at a store clerk and demanded cash. Five days later, he robbed two more convenience stores in west Houston on the same night. In each, he again brandished the pistol and demanded money. During the Feb. 14 robberies, he also discharged the firearm inside the stores as he ordered clerks to quickly comply.
The jury saw video surveillance capturing a blue Honda at all three robberies which showed the same man entering the stores.
At the time of his arrest, authorities recovered the loaded 9mm pistol in his vehicle. Forensic analysis confirmed the firearm matched a recovered cartridge casing from the Feb. 14 robbery.
The jury also heard several jail calls in which Ahmedaly discussed the firearm being used and admitted he was the man seen on store video.
The defense claimed Ahmedaly was insane at the time of the offenses and attempted to offer testimony from his friend and sister as part of that argument. However, the court heard evidence that his sister and friend had, in fact, had minimal contact with him for years prior to the offenses.
A forensic psychologist who had examined Ahmedaly found he was faking and exaggerating his psychotic symptoms.
The jury also heard rebuttal information to explain his sane behavior and the same methods of operation he used in all three store robberies. On the stand, Ahmedaly admitted he knew what he did was wrong.
The jury ultimately did not believe defense claims and found him guilty as charged.
U.S. District Judge Alfred H. Bennett presided over the trial and set sentencing for Dec. 11. At that time, Ahmedaly faces up to life in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.
He has been and will remain in custody pending that hearing.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation with assistance from the Houston Police Department, Harris County Constables Office - Precinct 5 and Waller County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Francisco J. Rodriguez and Andrew Sand are prosecuting the case.
Repeat smuggler imprisoned for 46 months for conspiracy to transport over two dozen people in refrigerated containerRead the Press Release
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A 35-year-old La Villa resident has been sentenced for conspiring to transport 27 illegal aliens, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Reynaldo Del Castillo pleaded guilty March 26.
U.S. District Judge Nelva Gonzales Ramos has now ordered Del Castillo to serve 46 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by two years of supervised release. At the hearing, the court heard additional evidence that described the dangerous conditions in which the aliens were transported. In handing down the sentence, the court noted his prior convictions for bulk cash smuggling and transportation of illegal aliens. He was also on supervised release when he committed the present crime.
“Any person who endangers lives by engaging in human smuggling deserves a serious sentence. Any person who smuggles people more than once is telling his fellow citizens that he has no regard for human life,” said Ganjei. “Here, a single technological malfunction could have cost the lives of 24 people, including two children. The Southern District of Texas is working hard to either put these smugglers out of business, or put them in prison. The choice is theirs.”
On Jan. 5, Del Castillo was driving a tractor hauling a white refrigerated trailer and approached the Falfurrias Border Patrol checkpoint. Upon questioning, he claimed he was transporting limes. A K-9 alerted to the trailer, and authorities noted Del Castillo’s nervous behavior then referred him to secondary inspection.
Law enforcement ultimately discovered 27 illegal aliens laying on top of produce pallets in the refrigerated trailer. The temperature was set at approximately 50 degrees. Two of the aliens were minors.
Del Castillo 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 Izaak Bruce 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.
Three high-level MS-13 gang members plead guilty to 50-year sentences in large-scale racketeering conspiracy involving murder and other violent crimesRead the Press Release
GALVESTON, Texas – Eight El Salvadorian citizens who illegally resided in Houston and are members of the violent transnational criminal organization Mara Salvatrucha, commonly known as MS-13, have pleaded guilty to charges stemming from a racketeering conspiracy that included multiple murders and acts of witness tampering, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Walter Antonio Chicas-Garcia aka Mejia, 28, Wilson Jose Ventura-Mejia aka Discreto, 29, Miguel Angel Aguilar-Ochoa aka Darki, 40, and Marlon Miranda-Moran aka Chinki, 26, have now entered their pleas. Four others - Luis Ernesto Carbajal-Peraza, aka Destino, 33, Edgardo Martinez-Rodriguez aka Largo, 35, Carlos Alexi Garcia-Gongora aka Garcia, 27, and Wilman Rivas-Guido aka Inquieto, 29 - also pleaded guilty to the same racketeering conspiracy Aug. 11.
“This case demonstrates the tremendous public safety threat that MS-13 and other criminal terrorist organizations pose to American communities,” said Ganjei. “Here, defendants carried out a series of murders - bludgeoning, butchering, and strangling their victims with sadistic glee. These are people without remorse or pity. When it comes to eradicating these gangs, the United States cannot afford to either relent or fail. As the facts of this case show, the stakes are too high.”
“These defendants carried out brutal murders in the name of MS-13, killing victims with machetes, baseball bats and their bare hands, and then sending photos of the victims’ bodies to MS-13 leaders in El Salvador,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “The defendants committed these unthinkable acts to maintain their status in a gang that spread fear in local neighborhoods and targeted those brave enough to cooperate with law enforcement. Today’s guilty pleas send a powerful message that the Justice Department will aggressively pursue and hold accountable MS-13 members who use violence and murder to terrorize our communities.”
According to court documents and statements made in court, MS-13 is a violent international street gang involved in a variety of violent criminal activities across the United States, including Texas, Virginia, Maryland, New York and California. MS-13 also has a large international presence in El Salvador and Honduras. To protect MS-13’s power, reputation and territory, members and associates must use intimidation and violence, including murder and assault with deadly weapons, such as machetes.
As part of their plea agreements, all eight admitted to being members of MS-13 and participating in a criminal enterprise responsible for multiple murders, extortion, drug trafficking, robbery and obstruction of justice in and around the Houston area from 2017 through 2018. High-ranking MS-13 leaders based in El Salvador ordered and approved of the murders, sometimes listening by phone as MS-13 members carried out the crimes.
MS-13 members participated in the murders to increase or maintain their own position within MS-13’s ranks. MS-13 targeted the murder victims because they were believed to be members of rival gangs, cooperating with law enforcement or working against MS-13’s interests. MS-13 members committed the murders using machetes, a baseball bat and strangling. After the murders, MS-13 members sent photos of the victims’ bodies to high-ranking MS-13 members in El Salvador, sometimes further mutilating or dismembering the victim’s bodies before sending the photos.
According to their plea agreements, Chicas-Garcia, Ventura-Mejia and Aguilar-Ochoa will each be sentenced to 50 years in federal prison while Miranda-Moran will receive a 35-year-term of imprisonment. Martinez-Rodriguez, Garcia-Gongora and Rivas-Guido have agreed to a term from 45-50 years, while Carbajal-Peraza is expected to receive 40-45 years of imprisonment.
U.S. District Judge Jeffrey Brown accepted the pleas and has set sentencing for November. At that time, he will consider the sentencing stipulations and impose any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
FBI; Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations; police departments in Houston and Galveston as well as Prince George’s County in Maryland; sheriff’s offices in Harris and Liberty counties; Texas Department of Public Safety; University of North Texas Center for Human Identification; U.S. Marshals Service; and Texas Office of the Attorney General led or contributed to the lengthy and complex investigation of this case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Keri Fuller and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Britni Verdeja are prosecuting the case along with Trial Attorney César S. Rivera-Giraud from the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section.
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.
Online child predator sentenced to 25 yearsRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – A 28-year-old Vermont man has been ordered to federal prison after his multiple convictions related to the production of child sexual assault material (CSAM) involving a South Texas victim, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Daniel Lee Hicks pleaded guilty April 16 to two counts of production of child pornography and one count of coercion and enticement of a minor.
U.S. District Judge George C. Hanks Jr. has now sentenced Hicks to a total of 300 months in federal prison. In imposing the sentence, the court noted its responsibility to the victims and advised Hicks there are consequences for his actions. Hicks will also serve 10 years of supervised release following completion of his prison term. During that time, he will have to comply with numerous requirements designed to restrict his access to children and the internet. Hicks will also be ordered to register as a sex offender. The court will determine and order restitution at a later date.
“The internet is a valuable tool, but unfortunately, for predators like Hicks, it can become a weapon used to target some of our most vulnerable,” Ganjei said. “To anyone who tries to use social media or other avenues to prey on our kids, it matters not where you are. We will hunt you down, arrest you, and imprison you…often for decades. To parents, stay vigilant and be aware of those that could be infiltrating your children’s devices.”
“As a parent, cases like this hit close to home knowing that dangerous predators like this are just a mouse click or phone swipe away from our children on social media,” said Special Agent in Charge Chad Plantz of Homeland Security Investigations Houston. “Fortunately, working with our partners at the Montgomery County Constables Office, we were able to identify this child predator and remove him from the community for the next 25 years, but it’s never a bad time for parents to talk to their kids and educate them about the dangers on social media. Department of Homeland Security offers plenty of useful tools and resources that can be found at https://www.dhs.gov/know2protect.”
In November 2022, authorities discovered sexually explicit conversations between Hicks and a minor female victim who was residing in the Southern District of Texas. Hicks began communicating with her since at least 2021 and knew she was under the age of 14. During the conversations, Hicks sent demeaning and threatening messages to coerce the victim to create and send videos and images depicting sexually explicit conduct. During the conversations, Hicks also sent CSAM images to her.
Authorities identified at least two additional minor victims residing across the United States, both under the age of 16. Hicks would communicate with the children online for the explicit purpose of creating and obtaining more CSAM. Hicks exploited online social media platforms to identify and exploit the minor victims.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement – Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation as part of their Child Exploitation Investigations Group with the assistance of Montgomery County Constable’s Office – Precinct 5.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Luis Batarse 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.
Eight MS-13 Gang Members Plead Guilty to Multi-Year Racketeering Conspiracy Involving Murders and Witness TamperingRead the Press Release
Eight members of the violent transnational criminal organization Mara Salvatrucha, commonly known as MS-13, pleaded guilty today to charges stemming from a multi-year racketeering conspiracy that included multiple murders and acts of witness tampering. The defendants—identified as Walter Antonio Chicas-Garcia, 28, aka “Mejia,” Wilson Jose Ventura-Mejia, 29, aka “Discreto,” Miguel Angel Aguilar-Ochoa, 40, aka “Darki,” and Marlon Miranda-Moran, 26, aka “Chinki,”—are all citizens of El Salvador and were unlawfully residing in Houston, Texas at the time of the offenses.
According to their plea agreements, Chicas-Garcia, Ventura-Mejia, and Aguilar-Ochoa will each be sentenced to 50 years of imprisonment while Miranda-Moran will be sentenced to 35 years of imprisonment.
“These defendants carried out brutal murders in the name of MS-13, killing victims with machetes, baseball bats, and their bare hands, and then sending photos of the victims’ bodies to MS-13 leaders in El Salvador,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “The defendants committed these unthinkable acts to maintain their status in a gang that spread fear in local neighborhoods and targeted those brave enough to cooperate with law enforcement. Today’s guilty pleas send a powerful message that the Justice Department will aggressively pursue and hold accountable MS-13 members who use violence and murder to terrorize our communities.”
On August 11, four additional MS-13 members—Defendants Luis Ernesto Carbajal-Peraza, 33, aka “Destino,” Edgardo Martinez-Rodriguez, 35, aka “Largo,” Carlos Alexi Garcia-Gongora, 27, aka “Garcia,” and Wilman Rivas-Guido, 29, aka “Inquieto” —also pleaded guilty to the same racketeering conspiracy. All four are citizens of El Salvador and were residing in the Houston area. The parties stipulated to a sentencing range of 40 to 45 years of imprisonment for Carbajal-Peraza, and 45 to 50 years for Martinez-Rodriguez, Garcia-Gongora, and Rivas-Guido.
According to court documents and statements made in court, MS-13 is a violent international street gang involved in a variety of violent criminal activities across the United States, including Texas, Virginia, Maryland, New York, and California. MS-13 also has a large international presence in El Salvador and Honduras. To protect MS-13’s power, reputation, and territory, members and associates must use intimidation and violence, including murder and assault with deadly weapons, such as machetes.
As part of their plea agreement, the defendants admitted to being members of MS-13 and participating in a criminal enterprise responsible for multiple murders, extortion, drug trafficking, robbery, and obstruction of justice in and around the Houston, Texas area from 2017 through 2018. High-ranking MS-13 leaders based in El Salvador ordered and approved of the murders, sometimes listening by phone as MS-13 members carried out the murders. MS-13 members participated in the murders to increase or maintain their own position within MS-13’s ranks. MS-13 targeted the murder victims because they were believed to be members of rival gangs, cooperating with law enforcement, or working against MS-13’s interests. MS-13 members committed the murders using machetes, a baseball bat, and strangling. After the murder, MS-13 members sent photos of the victims’ bodies to high-ranking MS-13 members in El Salvador, sometimes further mutilating or dismembering the victim’s body before sending the photos.
According to their plea agreements, Chicas-Garcia, Ventura-Mejia, and Aguilar-Ochoa will each be sentenced to 50 years in federal prison while Miranda-Moran will receive a 35-year-term of imprisonment. Martinez-Rodriguez, Garcia-Gongora, and Rivas-Guido have agreed to a term from 45-50 years, while Carbajal-Peraza is expected to receive 40-45 years of imprisonment.
Sentencing hearings for all eight defendants are scheduled to take place later this year. A federal district court judge will consider the sentencing stipulations and impose any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The FBI, Homeland Security Investigations, Houston Police Department, Harris County Sheriff’s Office, Galveston Police Department, Texas Department of Public Safety, Liberty County Sheriff’s Office, the Prince George’s County Police Department, the University of North Texas Center for Human Identification, the United States Marshal Service, and the Texas Office of the Attorney General led or contributed to the lengthy and complex investigation of this case.
Trial Attorney César S. Rivera-Giraud from the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section, along with Assistant U.S. Attorney Keri Fuller, and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Britni Verdeja for the Southern District of Texas 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 OCDETF and Project Safe Neighborhoods.
Canadian national sentenced to over 11 years in prison for facilitating cocaine shipments from South America to CanadaRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – A 35-year-old man who illegally resided in the Heights area in Houston has been ordered to federal prison for his role in a transnational drug trafficking organization, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Jack Kasjaniuk pleaded guilty May 27.
U.S. District Judge Kenneth M. Hoyt has now ordered Kasjaniuk to serve 135 months in federal prison. At the hearing, the court heard additional evidence that described Kasjaniuk’s role in operating a waypoint for hundreds of kilograms of cocaine coming from Mexico and South America and destined for Canada. Not a U.S. citizen, Kasjaniuk is expected to face removal proceedings following the sentence.
Kasjaniuk came to the United States for the express purpose of receiving the shipments of cocaine, repackaging them and sending them on to the drug trafficking organization in Canada. Kasjaniuk operated the cocaine distribution point in the Heights neighborhood of Houston for approximately two years.
The investigation revealed that in one three-month span alone, Kasjaniuk handled at least 620 kilograms of cocaine on behalf of the organization.
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 Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation with the assistance of the Houston Police Department, Royal Canadian Mounted Police and the Alberta, Canada, Law Enforcement Response Team. Assistant U.S. Attorney Stuart Tallichet prosecuted the case.
Alamo man guilty of smuggling illegal aliensRead the Press Release
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A 62-year-old Alamo resident has admitted he illegally transported two Mexican citizens in a tractor-trailer, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Lazaro Rosendo Vega drove to the Falfurrias Border Patrol checkpoint in a maroon tractor-trailer May 30. At primary inspection, authorities noticed him sitting unusually high in his seat and acting abnormally loud and excited. When asked what he was hauling, he claimed “avocados loaded about two hours ago.”
A subsequent x-ray scan revealed two illegal aliens hidden under blankets on the top bunk of the sleeper cab. Both were citizens of Mexico. Vega claimed he was unaware of the two men hiding just feet behind him.
As part of his plea, Vega acknowledged one of the illegal aliens had claimed to have entered the United States about a month earlier, was led to a warehouse and later placed in Vega’s tractor-trailer. He had paid $9,000 to be smuggled into Fort Worth and was hidden inside the cab with another man for extended periods before the truck continued north.
Vega had blocked the dash camera view before picking up the aliens.
U.S. District Judge Nelva Gonzales Ramos accepted the plea and set sentencing for Dec. 10, at which time Vega faces up to five years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.
Vega was permitted to remain on bond pending that hearing.
Border Patrol conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Izaak Bruce and Patrick Overman 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.
Another week, another 350+ cases: Southern District continues relentless border enforcement effortsRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – A total of 352 cases have been filed charging 356 people from Aug. 29 – Sept. 4 for various immigration and related border security crimes, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
This week’s cases include 21 people allegedly engaged in human smuggling. Charges were also filed against 194 individuals accused of illegal entry and 140 others charged with felony reentry after prior removal. Many already have felony convictions for narcotics, violent crime, immigration crimes and more. Another case filed this week involves an assault of an officer.
Also of note this week was the announcement regarding three Guatemalan nationals who had been extradited on charges stemming from a 2021 mass casualty event in Chiapas, Mexico. Attorney General Pam Bondi praised the excellent work that led to the charges in the case and noted the huge cost of human smuggling.
The crash allegedly involved 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 three smugglers – Tomas Quino Canil, Oswaldo Manuel Zavala Quino and Josefa Quino Canil De Zavala – were arrested in Guatemala last December and made their appearances in Laredo Sept. 4. If convicted they face up to life in prison for conspiracy to bring illegal aliens into the United States, placing lives in jeopardy and causing death.
“Human smugglers do not care if the people they transport live or die,” said U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei of the Southern District of Texas. “They do not care if unaccompanied children have food, water, or even air to breathe. They respect neither the law nor basic principles of decency. They care for only one thing—the blood money they make from the suffering of others. But these extraditions show that the United States will never tire in pursuing them. There is no border, no refuge that can shield these criminals from justice.”
As part of the new cases filed this week, law enforcement allegedly attempted to arrest a group of illegal aliens Sept. 2. The charges allege Mexican national Jesus Gabriel De Lira-Villapando rushed at and pushed a Border Patrol agent. Authorities were able to apprehend De Lira-Villapando after a short foot chase, according to the charges. He faces up to eight years in federal prison, upon conviction.
Four more criminal complaints allege foreign nationals attempted to unlawfully reenter the country after they had already been removed just this year. Mexican nationals Pedro Sandoval and Leobardo Reyes-Gonzalez were allegedly removed less than two months ago - July 30 and Aug. 21, respectively. According to court records, Honduran nationals Ricardo Mauricio Cruz-Najera and Winston Churchill Grant-Mesen were removed May 9 and July 21, respectively. Each allegedly has prior convictions, including possession of a controlled substance, evading arrest or illegal reentry. The charges allege authorities discovered all four in the Rio Grande Valley area without legal authorization.
Another illegal alien facing charges this week is Mexican national Juan Antonio Ruiz-Gutierrez, who authorities allegedly discovered unlawfully in the United States near Penitas. According to court documents, he was previously removed April 2013 and has a prior conviction for indecency with child sexual contact.
If convicted of felony illegal reentry after removal, all five face up to 20 years in prison.
In Brownsville, Mexican national Daniel Antonio Varcenas-Aguilar pleaded guilty to unlawfully reentering the United States without permission. Law enforcement discovered him July 12 near Brownsville after having been removed Sept. 21. According to court records, he has a previous conviction for aggravated assault of a child. He is set for sentencing in November and faces up to 20 years in prison.
In Laredo, a 21-year-old Mexican national was sentenced to 15 months in federal prison for assaulting a Border Patrol agent who was trying to assist him after illegally entering the United States. Marco Cupil-Hernandez struck the agent as he attempted to flee. The court noted he did more than push the agent aside and instead appeared to plan a fight that caused the agent’s knee and back injuries.
These cases were referred or supported by federal law enforcement partners, including Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) - Homeland Security Investigations, ICE - Enforcement and Removal Operations, Border Patrol, Drug Enforcement Administration, FBI, U.S. Marshals Service and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with additional assistance from state and local law enforcement partners.
The cases are 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.
Under current leadership, public safety and a secure border are the top priorities for this district. Enhanced enforcement both at the border and in the interior of the district have yielded aliens engaged in unlawful activity or with serious criminal history, including human trafficking, sexual assault and violence against children.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Texas remains one of the busiest in the nation. It represents 43 counties and more than nine million people covering 44,000 square miles. Assistant U.S. Attorneys from all seven divisions including Houston, Galveston, Victoria, Corpus Christi, Brownsville, McAllen and Laredo work directly with our law enforcement partners on the federal, state and local levels to prosecute the suspected offenders of these and other federal crimes.
An indictment or criminal complaint is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.
Underwear-clad illegal alien sentenced after assaulting federal agent who was trying to assist himRead the Press Release
LAREDO, Texas – A 21-year-old Mexican citizen has been ordered to federal prison for assaulting a Border Patrol agent and inflicting bodily injury, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Marco Cupil-Hernandez, an illegal alien from Nuevo Laredo, Tamaulipas, Mexico, pleaded guilty April 28, admitting he struck the agent’s body and face repeatedly while attempting to flee.
U.S. District Judge John A. Kazen has now ordered him to serve 15 months in prison. Not a U.S. citizen, Cupil-Hernandez is expected to face removal proceedings following his imprisonment. He asked for leniency, telling the court he only wanted to escape and did not intend to injure the agent. In handing down the sentence, Judge Kazen said Cupil-Hernandez did more than push the agent away and appeared to have planned to fight, which left the agent with knee and back injuries.
On the evening of Jan. 23, Cupil-Hernandez illegally entered the United Stated by wading across the Rio Grande. Authorities immediately took him into custody. However, Cupil-Hernandez complained of injuries to his knees, and law enforcement then transported him to a local hospital for emergency care.
Medical personnel soon cleared him for release, though he walked with a limp. As the agent attempted to assist him into a vehicle, Cupil-Hernandez forcefully pushed him away and attempted to flee.
A struggle ensued on the concrete. Each time the agent grasped an article of Cupil-Hernandez’s clothing, he removed it. Cupil-Hernandez then elbowed the agent’s face which caused him to lose his hold, at which time Cupil-Hernandez jumped to his feet and fled wearing only his underwear and shoes.
Authorities took him into custody a short time later after discovering him hiding under the covered parking spaces of a nearby gym.
Cupil-Hernandez will remain in custody pending transfer to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
FBI conducted the investigation with the assistance of Border Patrol and Customs and Border Protection Air and Marine Operations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Homero Ramirez 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.
Three human smugglers charged in U.S. for 2021 mass casualty event in Chiapas, Mexico extradited from GuatemalaRead the Press Release
LAREDO, Texas – Three Guatemalan nationals have made their initial appearances in 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 extraditions are 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 extraditions mark yet another significant step in the Justice Department’s efforts to bring those responsible to justice.
“This DOJ is investigating and prosecuting human smuggling more aggressively than ever before, and Joint Task Force Alpha is the tip of the spear,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “We will not rest until those who profit from the suffering of vulnerable people — including many unaccompanied children — face severe, comprehensive justice.”
“Human smugglers do not care if the people they transport live or die,” said U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei of the Southern District of Texas. “They do not care if unaccompanied children have food, water, or even air to breathe. They respect neither the law nor basic principles of decency. They care for only one thing—the blood money they make from the suffering of others. But these extraditions show that the United States will never tire in pursuing them. There is no border, no refuge that can shield these criminals from justice.”
“Five Guatemalan smugglers charged in the Chiapas mass casualty incident are now in U.S. custody,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “This case demonstrates the ability of Joint Task Force Alpha and its domestic and international law enforcement partners to dismantle the most lethal human smuggling networks. Human smuggling organizations profit by exploiting the vulnerable, putting lives at grave risk for financial gain. Even those smugglers who try to hide beyond the reach of the United States will be brought to justice for the death and suffering they have caused.”
Tomas Quino Canil, 37, Oswaldo Manuel Zavala Quino aka Osvaldo ZQ, 25, and Josefa Quino Canil De Zavala, 43, were arrested in Boquerón, Guatemala, Dec. 9, 2024, pursuant to U.S. extradition requests, and were surrendered to U.S. authorities Sept. 3. They have now made their initial appearances before U.S. Magistrate Judge Diana Song Quiroga in Laredo.
A fourth Guatemalan national, Daniel Zavala Ramos aka Dany ZR, 41, was arrested Aug. 7 in Boquerón and is pending extradition.
Two additional defendants were also arrested during the coordinated operation in December 2024. Alberto Marcario Chitic aka Alberto De Jesus, 32, was also arrested in Boquerón and extradited to the United States in May. Authorities took Jorge Agapito Ventura aka Jorge Ventura, George Ventura and El Raitero, 33, into custody at his residence in Cleveland, Texas.
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. The indictment alleges the defendants also provided the illegal aliens with scripts and instructions on what to say if apprehended. Some of the individuals they recruited died or suffered serious bodily injury as a result of the Dec. 9, 2021, crash according to the charges.
If convicted, all face a maximum penalty of life in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.
ICE – HSI’s 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 San Antonio, 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 International Affairs and 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. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs provided significant assistance in securing the arrests and extraditions. Guatemalan prosecutors and Mexican prosecutors from the Republic of Mexico’s Federal Prosecutions Office also known as Fiscalía General de la República, 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.
The indictment is the result of the coordinated efforts of Joint Task Force Alpha (JTFA). JTFA, a partnership with Department of Homeland Security (DHS), 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 410 domestic and international arrests of leaders, organizers and significant facilitators of alien smuggling; more than 355 U.S. convictions; more than 305 significant jail sentences imposed; and forfeitures of substantial assets.
This case is also part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s OCDETF and Project Safe Neighborhood.
An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.