District of Vermont
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
New Hampshire Man Sentenced to More Than Six Years in Federal Prison for 2024 Robbery SpreeRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that on September 30, 2025, Christopher Boisvert of Swanzey, New Hampshire was sentenced by Chief United States District Judge Christina Reiss to a term of 74 months’ imprisonment to be followed by a three-year term of supervised release.
On June 10, 2025, Boisvert pleaded guilty to one count of Bank Robbery and stipulated to the commission of a second bank robbery and an attempted robbery of a marijuana dispensary, all committed on August 26, 2024. Boisvert’s conspirator, Meghan Cox, 40, of Laconia, New Hampshire, pled guilty on June 12, 2025 to her role in conspiring to rob the marijuana dispensary. Cox is scheduled to be sentenced on October 20, 2025.
According to court records, starting at around 2:00 p.m. on August 26, 2024, Boisvert and Cox attempted to rob a marijuana dispensary then Boisvert went on to successfully rob TD Bank in Bellows Falls and Brattleboro Savings & Loan in Brattleboro. Throughout the spree, Boisvert was masked, appeared to be armed, and obtained $7,500 by threatening bank tellers and their families with violence. After the Brattleboro robbery, Boisvert led law enforcement on a high-speed chase through back roads of Vermont before abandoning his truck in a business parking lot. Upon returning to their home in New Hampshire, Boisvert and Cox called law enforcement and falsely reported the truck stolen and claimed to be hiking all afternoon. Prior to this offense, Boisvert had multiple arrests and convictions for armed robberies from 2012 through 2023.
Acting United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher commended the investigatory efforts of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Vermont State Police, the Brattleboro Police Department, the Bellows Falls Police Department, the Keene (New Hampshire) Police Department, the Swanzey (New Hampshire) Police Department, the Cheshire County (New Hampshire) Sheriff’s Department, the New Hampshire State Police, the Athol (Massachusetts) Police Department, and the Winchendon (Massachusetts) Police Department.
The prosecutors are Assistant United States Attorneys Jonathan Ophardt and Dana Hill. Assistant Federal Public Defender Emily Kenyon represents Christopher Boisvert and Meghan Cox is represented by Richard C. Bothfeld, Esq.
Indian National Charged with Making a False Statement in the Attempted Acquisition of a FirearmRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that Harkamal Singh, 34, of Ludhana, India, has been charged by criminal complaint with making a false statement to a federal firearms licensee during the attempted purchase of a firearm.
On September 18, 2025, Singh had his initial court appearance before United States Magistrate Judge Kevin J. Doyle. A detention hearing has been scheduled for Wednesday, September 24, 2025, at 1:00pm in Burlington before Magistrate Judge Doyle. Singh remains in the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending that hearing.
According to court records, it is alleged that Singh falsely indicated that he had lawful status in the United States when he filled out ATF Form 4473 during the attempted purchase of a firearm, when Singh knew that he did not have lawful status to be in the United States.
The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that the complaint contains allegations only and that Singh is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. Singh faces up to ten years of imprisonment if convicted. The actual sentence, however, would be determined by the District Court with guidance from the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines and the statutory sentencing factors.
Acting United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher commended the investigatory efforts of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (“ATF”) and the United States Border Patrol.
The prosecutor is Special Assistant United States Attorney Charles W. Kirkham. Singh is represented by Assistant Federal Public Defender Emily Kenyon.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
Guatemalan Man Sentenced to 12 Months in Transportation of Illegal Aliens CaseRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that on September 19, 2025, Carlos Alfredo Barrera Vasquez, 31, of Jalapa, Guatemala, was sentenced by Chief United States District Judge Christina Reiss to a term of 12 months imprisonment. Barrera Vasquez previously pleaded guilty to transporting two adults and two small children after they had illegally crossed the border from Canada into the United States.
According to court records, on November 23, 2024, United States Border Patrol was alerted that four individuals had illegally crossed into the United States from Canada near Derby, Vermont. A Border Patrol agent responded to the area and encountered a truck with multiple individuals inside, later confirmed to be driven by Barrera Vasquez, travelling at a high rate of speed away from the area. Barrera Vasquez attempted to evade the Border Patrol agent by continuing to speed away, running through a stop sign, and eventually driving into an open field. During the pursuit, Barrera Vasquez’s vehicle collided with the responding Border Patrol agent’s vehicle. It was later determined that Barrera Vasquez’s passengers included the aliens who had just entered the United States illegally, two of whom were minor children not properly secured in Barrera Vasquez’s vehicle.
Evidence gathered during the investigation showed that Barrera Vasquez had been promised money in exchange for transporting the individuals who had illegally crossed the border.
Acting United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher commended the investigatory efforts of the U.S. Border Patrol.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jonathan A. Ophardt and Joshua Banker, and Special Assistant U.S. Attorneys Katherine Flynn and Charles W. Kirkham. Barrera Vasquez was represented by Assistant Federal Public Defenders Emily Kenyon and Carmen Brooks.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
Rutland, Vermont Man Sentenced to 48 Months in Drug and Firearms CaseRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that on September 16, 2025, Todd Popovitch, 44, of Rutland, Vermont, was sentenced by Chief United States District Judge Christina Reiss to a term of 48 months’ imprisonment to be followed by a 7-year term of supervised release. Popovitch previously pleaded guilty to distribution of cocaine base and possession without registration of a firearm governed by the National Firearms Act.
According to court records, Popovitch had previously successfully completed state and federal drug treatment court programs before returning to armed drug dealing in 2024.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Eugenia Cowles. Popovitch was represented by Natasha Sen, Esq.
New York and South Carolina Men Charged with Conspiring to Distribute Cocaine and Cocaine Base in RutlandRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont announced that on September 17, 2025, a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging James Brown, 43, of Troy, New York, and Lionell Thompson, 40, of Manning, South Carolina, with conspiracy to distribute cocaine and cocaine base, as well as multiple counts of distributing cocaine and cocaine base.
Brown and Thompson are scheduled to be arraigned today before Magistrate Judge Kevin J. Doyle in Burlington at 3pm.
According to court records, Brown, Thompson, and others conspired to distribute cocaine and cocaine base between July 2024 and September 2025. Brown and Thompson’s conduct in that conspiracy, including the reasonably foreseeable conduct of other members of the conspiracy, involved more than 280 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing cocaine base. Brown’s conduct in that conspiracy, also involved more than 500 grams of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of cocaine. The indictment also alleges that Brown distributed cocaine base on January 30, January 31, February 20, March 27, and April 2, 2025, and distributed cocaine on March 13, 2025. The indictment alleges that Thompson distributed cocaine base on October 8, 2024, as well as February 26 and April 2, 2025. The indictment also alleges that Thompson distributed cocaine on July 16 and October 16, 2024, and March 13, 2025. According to court documents, law enforcement has conducted over 35 controlled purchases into Brown and Thompson’s drug organization and the distribution charges are the result of controlled purchases conducted by a law enforcement confidential informant and an undercover detective.
The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that an indictment contains allegations only and that Brown and Thompson are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. Both Brown and Thompson face up to a life sentence of incarceration, with a mandatory minimum prison sentence of ten years if convicted. The actual sentences, however, would be determined by the District Court with guidance from the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines and the statutory sentencing factors.
Acting United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher commended the investigatory efforts of the Vermont State Police’s Vermont Drug Task Force, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Rutland City Police Department, Vermont National Guard Counterdrug Program, the Brandon Police Department, Homeland Security Investigations, the New York State Police, the Rutland Town Police Department, New England State Police Information Network, and Capital Region Crime Analysis Center.
The prosecutor is Assistant United States Attorney Jason Turner. James Brown is represented by Assistant Federal Public Defender Emily Kenyon. Lionell Thompson is represented by John-Claude Charbonneau, Esq.
Richmond, Vermont Man Charged with Possession of Child Sexual Abuse MaterialsRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that Kenneth Beane, 37, of Richmond, Vermont, has been charged by criminal complaint with Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Materials. On September 8, 2025, Beane appeared before United States Magistrate Judge Kevin J. Doyle. A detention hearing was held on September 9, 2025, during which the government requested Beane be held pending trial, due to his prior federal conviction for possession of child sexual abuse materials (“CSAM”) and his prior violations of release conditions that included unapproved contacts with minors. Magistrate Judge Doyle denied the government’s motion and ordered Beane released on conditions that included location monitoring, not having contact with children, and avoiding places where children are likely to congregate.
According to court records, in July of 2025, Homeland Security Investigations began investigating a person who was sharing CSAM materials on a peer-to-peer network involving sexual assaults of prepubescent children. The IP address for the person sharing the materials led investigators to a residence in Richmond, Vermont which was determined to be Beane’s home. On September 8, 2025, HSI and members of the Vermont Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force executed a federal search warrant at Beane’s Richmond apartment. Inside the apartment, law enforcement found a hand-held tablet on which CSAM materials were located.
The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that the complaint contains allegations only and that Beane is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. Due to his prior conviction, Beane faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years of imprisonment and a maximum sentence of up to 20 years of imprisonment, if convicted. The actual sentence, however, would be determined by the District Court with guidance from the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines and the statutory sentencing factors.
Acting United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher commended the investigatory efforts of Homeland Security Investigations, the Merrimack County (New Hampshire) Sheriff’s Office, and the Vermont ICAC Task Force. Acting U.S. Attorney Drescher also thanked the Vermont Attorney General’s Office and the Richmond, Vermont Police Department for their assistance.
The prosecutors are Assistant United States Attorneys David Golubock and Jonathan Ophardt. Beane is represented by the Office of the Federal Public Defender.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC.
St. Albans Man Charged with Illegal Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont announced that on August 28, 2025, a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Richard Bailey Jr., 34, of St. Albans, Vermont, with being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Bailey entered a plea of not guilty to the charge during an arraignment on September 8, 2025, before United States Magistrate Judge Kevin J. Doyle. Judge Doyle ordered that Bailey be detained during the pendency of this matter.
According to court records, on June 2, 2025, police in St. Albans, Vermont were investigating a domestic violence incident involving Bailey. Police in Burlington, Vermont subsequently observed Bailey standing near the alleged domestic violence victim’s place of employment. Bailey fled from police and discarded a fanny pack containing a loaded Sig Sauer pistol with a round chambered.
The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that an indictment contains allegations only and that Bailey is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. Bailey faces up to 15 years of imprisonment if convicted. The actual sentence, however, would be determined by the District Court with guidance from the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines and the statutory sentencing factors.
Acting United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher commended the investigatory efforts of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, as well as the St. Albans and Burlington Police Departments.
The prosecutor is Assistant United States Attorney Nate Burris. Bailey is represented by Assistant Federal Public Defender Barclay Johnson.
Venezuelan Man Sentenced to 24 Months for Being in the United States Illegally After Having Been Previously Removed by Immigration OfficialsRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that on August 29, 2025, Jorge Humberto Moreno Martinez, 34, of Venezuela, was sentenced by Chief United States District Judge Christina Reiss to a term of 24 months’ imprisonment. Moreno previously pleaded guilty to being in the United States illegally after having been previously removed by Immigration Officials.
According to court records, Moreno was previously removed from the United States by immigration officials on November 15, 2016, after he completed a three-and-a-half-year prison sentence following his New York felony conviction for burglary in the second degree. At that time, Moreno was advised and acknowledged that due to his criminal history he was prohibited from entering or attempting to enter the United States. Despite that warning, Moreno re-entered the United States and his presence in the country thereafter was in violation of U.S. law.
Court records also state that when agents from the Department of Homeland Security attempted to arrest Moreno at a parking lot in Williston, Vermont, on January 27, 2025, Moreno fled in a vehicle, hitting three law enforcement vehicles before travelling at more than 100 miles per hour on a busy street before he was apprehended. As he drove, items were discarded from Moreno’s vehicle. Law enforcement recovered some of those items, which tested presumptively positive for cocaine base and cocaine. In his plea agreement, Moreno admitted to possessing the cocaine and cocaine base with the intent to distribute them.
Acting United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher commended the investigatory efforts of the United States Department of Homeland Security, including its Homeland Security Investigations (“HSI"), Enforcement and Removal Operations (“ERO”), and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP”) divisions, with assistance from the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (“DEA”).
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew C. Gilman. Moreno was represented by Brooks G. McArthur, Esq.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
St. Albans Man Sentenced to 74 Months in Prison for Aggravated Identity Theft and Mail FraudRead the Press Release
Rutland, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that on September 2, 2025, Jonathan Whalley, 52, of St. Albans, Vermont was sentenced by United States District Judge Frank P. Geraci, Jr. to a total term of 74 months’ imprisonment to be followed by a 3-year term of supervised release. Whalley previously pleaded guilty to both Mail Fraud and Aggravated Identity Theft in relation to his purchase of six vehicles using the stolen identity of a Vermonter. Judge Geraci imposed a 50-month term of imprisonment on the Mail Fraud conviction, and the 24-month mandatory consecutive term of imprisonment for Aggravated Identity Theft, resulting in the total 74-month sentence.
According to court records, Whalley obtained the identity documents from a Vermont man whose wallet was stolen from the victim’s vehicle. Whalley traveled to the State of Georgia, where he engaged in numerous fraudulent transactions, including the purchase of a 2022 Ford Explorer, a 2022 Ford Bronco, a 2022 Chevrolet Silverado, a 2020 Kawasaki ATV, a 2021 CF Moto ATV, and a 2022 Honda dirt bike, together valued at over $224,000. Whalley also engaged in fraudulent conduct with multiple banks and insurance companies. On June 8, 2022, Whalley was back in Vermont with the Silverado he had fraudulently purchased, when law enforcement conducted a motor vehicle stop. Whalley fled the stop, dragging an officer over 10 feet, and endangering pedestrians as he sped away at speeds over three-times the speed limit. In sentencing Whalley, Judge Geraci noted Whalley’s extensive criminal history, which includes 34 criminal convictions dating back to 1991.
Acting United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher commended the collaborative investigatory efforts of the Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles’ Enforcement and Safety Division (Investigative Section) and Homeland Security Investigations.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Corinne M. Smith and Jonathan A. Ophardt. Whalley was represented by Assistant Federal Defender Charles N. Curlett, Jr.
Michigan Woman Indicted for Smuggling Aliens, Including Children, Across the Northern BorderRead the Press Release
Note: View indictment here.
A Michigan woman has been indicted for her role in an international alien smuggling conspiracy which brought aliens, including children, from Central America into the United States across the northern border.
“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.”
“The defendant is charged with conspiring to smuggle families, including young children, across our northern border for profit,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Smuggling organizations threaten the security of our borders and undermines public safety. The Criminal Division is committed to working with our law enforcement partners to disrupt smuggling networks wherever they operate and bring their members to justice.”
“Those who promote and profit from smuggling migrants into the country take advantage of vulnerable individuals without regard for the safety of others,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Michael P. Drescher for the District of Vermont. “The prosecution of Ms. Lozano should send a message that those who commit these offenses will be investigated and held responsible, not only for their own criminal acts but also for facilitating illegal border crossings by others. Thank you to our law enforcement partners at the U.S. Border Patrol and Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) for their collaborative investigative work to keep our communities and country safe.”
“Human smuggling is a ruthless criminal enterprise that exploits vulnerable individuals for profit without regard for their life and safety,” said Special Agent in Charge Michael J. Krol of HSI New England. “HSI remains steadfast in combating alien smuggling organizations and upholding the integrity of our borders.”
“I commend the unwavering dedication and vigilance of our agents in combating the dangers posed by smuggling operations along our northern border,” said Chief Robert N. Garcia of U.S. Border Patrol Swanton Sector. “Smuggling, whether it involves people, contraband, or other illicit activities, poses a significant threat to public safety and national security. The alleged actions of Norma Linda Lozano underscore the risks associated with these criminal enterprises and the critical need for robust enforcement efforts. I would also like to extend my appreciation to all of our partners in the investigation and indictment of Lozano. Their efforts are vital to ensuring that those who engage in these dangerous and illegal activities are held accountable.”
A federal grand jury charged Norma Linda Lozano, also known as Norma Linda Quintanilla Lozano, 53, of Ypsilanti, Michigan, with one count of conspiracy to smuggle aliens and six counts of bringing aliens to the United States for profit.
According to the indictment, from February through November 2024, Lozano participated in an alien smuggling organization (ASO) that brought and attempted to bring aliens from Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, and El Salvador, including children, illegally into the United States from Canada. The ASO instructed the aliens to cross the border on foot, provided GPS coordinates and a description of Lozano’s vehicle, and coordinated their pick-up once inside the United States.
Lozano allegedly drove from Michigan to Vermont to meet the aliens at prearranged locations near the border. She then transported the aliens further into the United States, delivering them to residences, businesses, or airports. The aliens or their family members allegedly paid Lozano for smuggling services.
Photo depicting young female laying across various bags and items in the rear of the vehicle in light pink/purple jacketIn one smuggling event, Lozano allegedly transported three aliens from Guatemala and El Salvador in her car, with a five-year-old girl. The child rode in the front passenger seat, and Lozano falsely claimed the child was her granddaughter. In another smuggling event, she allegedly transported six adults along with an eight-year-old girl and a 12-year-old boy. The girl was placed in the cargo area of the hatchback on top of luggage.
The investigation and indictment are the first brought in the District of Vermont coordinated under Joint Task Force Alpha (JTFA). JTFA, a partnership with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), has been elevated and expanded by the Attorney General 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 southern and northern borders. Dedicated support is provided by numerous components of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, led by the Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section (HRSP) and supported by the Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section, the Office of Enforcement Operations, and the Office of International Affairs, among others. JTFA also relies on substantial law enforcement investment from DHS, the FBI, the 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.
HSI Burlington and U.S. Border Patrol Swanton Sector led U.S. investigative efforts, with substantial assistance from HSI’s Human Smuggling Unit in Washington, D.C., and CBP’s National Targeting Center International Interdiction Task Force.
Trial Attorney Jenna Reed of the Criminal Division’s HRSP and Assistant U.S. Attorney Michelle Arra for the District of Vermont 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 Project Safe Neighborhoods.
An indictment is merely an allegation. The defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Indictment - Lozano.pdfSpringfield, Vermont Man Sentenced to 45 Months in Prison for Straw-Purchasing 19 Firearms and Robbing 3 BanksRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that on August 29, 2025, Stephen Loewe, 43, of Springfield, Vermont, was sentenced by Chief United States District Judge Christina Reiss to a term of 45 months’ imprisonment to be followed by a 3-year term of supervised release. Loewe previously pleaded guilty to straw purchasing 19 firearms between December 2023 and May 2024, and admitted as part of his plea that he robbed the Claremont Savings Bank in Springfield on August 13, 2024, the M&T Bank in Springfield on August 13, 2024, and the M&T Bank in Putney, Vermont on August 14, 2024.
According to court records, Loewe purchased the 19 firearms at a firearm store in New Hampshire, falsely stating that the firearms were being purchased for his own possession. Instead, Loewe provided the firearms to another person. 18 of the firearms were handguns that Loewe provided to his drug dealer in exchange for crack cocaine. At the time he gave him the firearms, Loewe knew his drug dealer was prohibited from possessing firearms due to the drug dealer’s criminal history. One of the firearms trafficked by Loewe was subsequently recovered during a search of a drug den on Reed Street in Springfield, Vermont. A second firearm trafficked by Loewe was recovered at the scene of the shooting of a police officer in Springfield, Massachusetts. Loewe was arrested on July 31, 2024 after stealing a vehicle and leading police officers on a chase. After he was released from state custody, Loewe proceeded to commit the three bank robberies. Loewe admitted after his arrest for the bank robberies that he used the money he obtained from the robberies to purchase crack cocaine.
“The straw-purchasing of firearms and intentional provision of them to drug traffickers is an exceedingly serious crime,” stated Acting United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher. “A key aspect of federal firearm background checks is to confirm the person purchasing the firearm is the intended recipient. Straw-purchasing intentionally circumvents this safeguard by allowing prohibited people to possess guns, and arming criminals with firearms that cannot be traced back to them as purchasers.”
Acting U.S. Attorney Drescher commended the collaborative investigative efforts of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Vermont State Police, and the Springfield, Vermont Police Department. Assistance was also provided by the Chester Police Department, the Weathersfield Police Department, the Bellows Falls Police Department, and the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department in the response to the bank robberies.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Corinne Smith and Jonathan Ophardt. Loewe was represented by Assistant Federal Defender Steven Barth.
Venezuelan Man Sentenced to Two Years in Prison for Immigration and Firearms CrimesRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that on August 27, 2025, Julio Cesar Romero-Paredes, 47, of Venezuela, was sentenced by United States District Judge Mary Kay Lanthier to a term of 24 months’ imprisonment. Romero-Paredes previously pleaded guilty to illegally entering the United States and possessing a firearm as someone who had illegally entered the United States.
According to court records, just before 1:00 am on November 7, 2024, Romero-Paredes drove his motorcycle around the barriers near the Haskell Library in Derby Line, Vermont. United States Customs and Border Protection Officers thereafter stopped Romero-Paredes riding the motorcycle southbound on Interstate 91. In a search of Romero-Paredes’s person and the motorcycle, law enforcement found: a Walther .22 caliber pistol, multiple firearm magazines, a suppressor, approximately 50 rounds of .22 caliber ammunition, approximately 30 rounds of 9mm ammunition, multiple knives, handcuff keys, and a collapsible baton. Romero-Paredes, who is a citizen of Venezuela, later admitted to law enforcement that he was illegally in the United States.
Acting United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher commended the collaborative investigatory efforts of United States Customs and Border Protection and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicole Cate and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Katherine Flynn. Romero-Paredes was represented by Assistant Federal Public Defender Carmen Brooks.
Mexican National Charged with Illegal Reentry to the United StatesRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont announced that on August 21, 2025, a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Samuel Alfaro-Sanchez, 31, of Mexico, with being found in the United States on August 13, 2025, after having previously been removed from the United States.
Alfaro-Sanchez entered a plea of not guilty to the charges during an arraignment on August 28, 2025 before United States Magistrate Judge Kevin J. Doyle. Judge Doyle ordered that Alfaro-Sanchez be detained during the pendency of this matter.
According to court records, Alfaro-Sanchez, a citizen of Mexico, illegally entered the United States on numerous prior occasions. In 2008, Alfaro-Sanchez voluntarily returned to Mexico after having been apprehended near Tucson, Arizona. In 2018, Alfaro-Sanchez was removed from the United States twice after having been apprehended first near Paso Del Norte, Texas in March and then again near Sasabe, Arizona in July. In 2019, Alfaro-Sanchez was again removed from the United States after having been apprehended near El Paso, Texas. In 2020, Alfaro-Sanchez was expelled from the United States twice in September after having been apprehended on two separate occasions near Douglas, Arizona. In 2021, Alfaro-Sanchez was expelled from the United States after having been apprehended near Douglas, Arizona.
The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that an indictment contains allegations only and that Alfaro-Sanchez is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. Alfaro-Sanchez faces up to 2 years’ imprisonment if convicted. The actual sentence, however, would be determined by the District Court with guidance from the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines and the statutory sentencing factors.
Acting United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher commended the investigatory efforts of the United States Border Patrol.
The prosecutor is Special Assistant United States Attorney Charles W. Kirkham. Alfaro-Sanchez is represented by Assistant Federal Public Defender Emily Kenyon.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
Jamaican National Charged with Possession of a Firearm by an Alien Unlawfully in the CountryRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that Michael Wilson, 24, of Kingston, Jamaica, has been charged by criminal complaint in federal court with possession of a firearm while being an alien unlawfully present in the United States. On August 26, 2025, Wilson appeared before United States Magistrate Judge Kevin J. Doyle, who ordered that Wilson be detained pending trial.
According to court records, at approximately 11:44 a.m. on June 28, 2025, near Dorset Street in South Burlington, Wilson shot an individual with whom he had a dispute stemming from the previous night at a bar. Wilson shot his victim in the shoulder. After the shooting, Wilson fled Vermont to Connecticut, where he was eventually arrested.
On June 30, 2025, the State of Vermont charged Wilson with attempted second-degree murder and reckless endangerment. On August 25, 2025, however, the State withdrew its request that Wilson be held without bail, resulting in Wilson’s release from State custody.
According to the July 1, 2025, federal criminal complaint, Wilson faces federal prosecution because federal law enforcement determined that Wilson, a citizen of Jamaica, had arrived in the United States in June 2023 as a visitor but had overstayed his visa. Wilson thus had no legal status in the United States when he possessed the firearm he used in the shooting. Because a federal arrest warrant was issued at the time the federal complaint was filed, when Wilson was released from state custody, he was transferred to federal custody.
“This federal prosecution is an example of the vigilance of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives, working closely with the United States Border Patrol, to protect the public by enforcing federal firearms laws that prohibit the possession of firearms by foreign nationals who are here unlawfully,” said Acting United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher.
The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that the complaint contains allegations only and that Wilson is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. Wilson faces up to 15 years’ imprisonment if convicted. The actual sentence, however, would be determined by the District Court with guidance from the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines and the statutory sentencing factors.
In addition to ATF and Border Patrol, Acting United States Attorney Drescher also commended the investigatory efforts of the South Burlington Police Department, the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department, and the Winooski Police Department. The Windsor Connecticut Police Department also provided valuable assistance in apprehending Wilson.
The prosecutor is Assistant United States Attorney Andrew C. Gilman. Michael Wilson is represented by Assistant Federal Public Defender Charles N. Curlett, Jr.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
Brooklyn, New York Man Charged with Evidence TamperingRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that Damien DeJesus, 22, of Brooklyn, New York, has been charged by criminal complaint with evidence tampering for his destruction and attempted destruction of evidence that he believed would be used in a criminal prosecution against him.
On August 20, 2025, DeJesus appeared before United States Magistrate Judge Kevin J. Doyle, who ordered that DeJesus be released on conditions.
According to court records, on August 14, 2025, DeJesus was detained when law enforcement executed a federal search warrant on a residence in Vergennes, Vermont. Law enforcement found controlled substances including cocaine and three loaded firearms inside of the house. After DeJesus was detained, law enforcement investigators brought him to the Vergennes Police Department for questioning. There, DeJesus was searched and placed in a holding cell prior to an interview.
While waiting to be interviewed, DeJesus told investigators that he needed to use the bathroom. DeJesus then entered a bathroom and locked the door. Investigators waited outside the door and then heard plastic crinkling from inside the bathroom. DeJesus was told to finish up and exit the bathroom. DeJesus responded by flushing the toilet, then exiting the bathroom. When investigators brought DeJesus back to his holding cell, they found a sandwich size plastic bag with small torn twist baggies inside with traces of cocaine in one of DeJesus’s hands. Law enforcement then entered the bathroom that DeJesus had just used and observed cocaine base on top of the toilet tank.
The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that the complaint contains allegations only and that DeJesus is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. DeJesus faces up to twenty years’ incarceration if convicted. The actual sentence, however, would be determined by the District Court with guidance from the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines and the statutory sentencing factors.
Acting United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher thanked the officers and agents from Homeland Security Investigations, the United States Marshals Service, the Rutland City Police Department, the Vergennes Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives for their work on this matter. The prosecutors are Assistant United States Attorneys Michelle Arra and Zachary Stendig. DeJesus is represented by Jason Sawyer, Esq.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
Philadelphia Man Sentenced to 95 Months for Conspiring to Distribute Crack Cocaine and FentanylRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that on August 19, 2025, Talbert Hill, 44, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was sentenced by Chief United States District Judge Christina Reiss to a term of 95 months’ imprisonment to be followed by a 3-year term of supervised release. Hill previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute crack cocaine and fentanyl.
According to court records, in the summer and fall of 2023, Hill conspired with others to distribute drugs in the Burlington, Vermont area. On five occasions in September and October, 2023, law enforcement conducted controlled buys of fentanyl from Hill and others working with Hill in the drug trafficking enterprise. On November 3, 2023, law enforcement located Hill in Burlington, Vermont. As they approached Hill to arrest him, he fled, dropping items as he ran. When law enforcement apprehended him, they found on his person and along the path he had traveled approximately 1,000 baggies of fentanyl and 8-12 packages of crack cocaine. The same day, law enforcement searched an apartment that was connected with Hill’s drug trafficking. In Hill’s bedroom at the apartment, law enforcement found approximately 16,000 baggies of fentanyl and a quantity of crack cocaine. According to testimony presented at Hill’s sentencing hearing, this was one of the Burlington Police Department’s largest drug seizures at that time. In total, Hill was held accountable for possessing with intent to distribute more than one kilogram of fentanyl, and a quantity of crack cocaine.
Acting United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher commended the collaborative investigatory efforts of the Burlington Police Department, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Lamoille County Sheriff’s Department.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michelle Arra, and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Katherine Flynn. Hill was represented by Jordana Levine, Esq.
Seattle Woman Indicted for Murder of U.S. Border Patrol Agent in VermontRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – A federal grand jury in the District of Vermont returned a four-count superseding indictment today charging Teresa Youngblut, 21, of Seattle, Washington, with the murder of a Border Patrol agent, the assault of two additional agents with a deadly weapon, and related firearms offenses.
“As alleged, this defendant shot and killed a United States Border Patrol Agent while he was performing his duties,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “We will not stand for such attacks on the men and women who protect our communities and our borders.”
“The United States Attorney’s Office intends to continue to honor the men and women of law enforcement, and the memory of Border Patrol Agent Maland, by performing its prosecutorial duties so that justice may be done,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Michael P. Drescher for the District of Vermont.
“The murder of a federal agent is more than a tragic loss,” said Assistant Director Jose A. Perez of the FBI Criminal Investigative Division. “It’s an attack on the security of our nation and the safety of our communities. The FBI and our law enforcement partners will not rest until those responsible are held accountable. We are all steadfast in our mission to curb violence that endangers both public servants and the citizens we are sworn to protect."
According to court documents, on the afternoon of Jan. 20, 2025, a U.S. Border Patrol agent conducted a traffic stop of a Toyota Prius on Interstate 91 in Coventry, Vermont. Youngblut and a male German citizen – whose immigration status was in question – were in the car.
Days earlier, law enforcement had taken note of Youngblut and her companion when a hotel employee reported that they were wearing tactical gear and appeared to be armed. The same day of the shooting, officers had observed the pair at a Walmart parking lot in Newport, Vermont, where the German citizen was seen wrapping unknown objects in aluminum foil.
Court documents allege that during the Jan. 20 vehicle stop, both Youngblut and her companion were armed. Youngblut exited the vehicle and, without warning, opened fire, resulting in the death of one of the agents.
For the current charges, the maximum penalty is death, and Attorney General Bondi has authorized and directed the Acting United States Attorney for the District of Vermont to pursue capital punishment in this case. Consistent with that authorization and direction, the Acting United States Attorney has filed a notice of intent to seek the death penalty against Youngblut.
The FBI Albany Field Office investigated the case, with substantial assistance from the Vermont State Police and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) in coordination with Homeland Security Investigations, United States Border Patrol, the Newport Police Department, and the Orleans County Sheriff’s Department.
Trial Attorneys Lisa M. Thelwell and Dennis Robinson of the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section (VCRS) and Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Lasher for the District of Vermont are prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Seattle Woman Indicted for Murder of U.S. Border Patrol Agent in VermontRead the Press Release
A federal grand jury in the District of Vermont returned a four-count superseding indictment today charging Teresa Youngblut, 21, of Seattle, with the murder of a Border Patrol agent, the assault of two additional agents with a deadly weapon, and related firearms offenses.
“As alleged, this defendant shot and killed a United States Border Patrol Agent while he was performing his duties,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “We will not stand for such attacks on the men and women who protect our communities and our borders.”
“The United States Attorney’s Office intends to continue to honor the men and women of law enforcement, and the memory of Border Patrol Agent Maland, by performing its prosecutorial duties so that justice may be done,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Michael P. Drescher for the District of Vermont.
“The murder of a federal agent is more than a tragic loss,” said Assistant Director Jose A. Perez of the FBI Criminal Investigative Division. “It’s an attack on the security of our nation and the safety of our communities. The FBI and our law enforcement partners will not rest until those responsible are held accountable. We are all steadfast in our mission to curb violence that endangers both public servants and the citizens we are sworn to protect."
According to court documents, on the afternoon of Jan. 20. a U.S. Border Patrol agent conducted a traffic stop of a Toyota Prius on Interstate 91 in Coventry, Vermont. Youngblut and a male German citizen – whose immigration status was in question – were in the car.
Days earlier, law enforcement had taken note of Youngblut and her companion when a hotel employee reported that they were wearing tactical gear and appeared to be armed. The same day of the shooting, officers had observed the pair at a parking lot in Newport, Vermont, where the German citizen was seen wrapping unknown objects in aluminum foil.
Court documents allege that during the Jan. 20 vehicle stop, both Youngblut and her companion were armed. Youngblut exited the vehicle and, without warning, opened fire, resulting in the death of one of the agents.
For the current charges, the maximum penalty is death, and Attorney General Pamela Bondi has authorized and directed the Acting United States Attorney for the District of Vermont to pursue capital punishment in this case. Consistent with that authorization and direction, the Acting U.S. Attorney has filed a notice of intent to seek the death penalty against Youngblut.
The FBI Albany Field Office investigated the case, with substantial assistance from the Vermont State Police and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) in coordination with Homeland Security Investigations, U.S. Border Patrol, the Newport Police Department, and the Orleans County Sheriff’s Department.
Trial Attorneys Lisa M. Thelwell and Dennis Robinson of the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section (VCRS) and Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Lasher for the District of Vermont are prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Jamaican National Charged with Firearms Crimes in VermontRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont announced that on June 26, 2025, a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Alex Dwayne Bignall, 30, of Jamaica, with lying about his immigration status while attempting to purchase a firearm, and attempting to receive a firearm knowing that such receipt would be a felony.
Bignall entered a plea of not guilty to the charges during an arraignment on August 8, 2025 before United States Magistrate Judge Kevin J. Doyle. Judge Doyle ordered that Bignall be released on conditions.
According to court records, in the summer of 2023, Bignall, who did not have legal status in the United States, attempted to buy a Taurus 9mm firearm from a federal firearms licensee in Vermont. In connection with that attempted purchase, Bignall filled out a form, swearing under oath that he was not an alien illegally and unlawfully in the United States. At the time of the attempted firearm purchase, Bignall lacked legal status in the United States. Weeks before he attempted to purchase the firearm, United States Citizenship and Immigration Services denied an application Bignall had submitted for immigration benefits, and informed him he was no longer authorized to remain in the United States.
The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that an indictment contains allegations only and that Bignall is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. Bignall faces up to 15 years if convicted. The actual sentence, however, would be determined by the District Court with guidance from the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines and the statutory sentencing factors.
Acting United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher commended the investigatory efforts of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
The prosecutor is Special Assistant United States Attorney Katherine Flynn. Bignall is represented by the Office of the Federal Public Defender.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
Fort Wayne, Indiana Man Charged with Transportation and Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont announced that on August 7, 2025, a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Marco Antonio Jimenez Gonzalez, 27, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, with transportation and possession of child pornography.
Gonzalez’s arraignment on the indictment will occur on August 14, 2025, at 10:00 AM before United States Magistrate Judge Kevin J. Doyle.
According to court records, Gonzalez attempted to reenter the United States at the Highgate Springs Port of Entry on July 23, 2025. During the reentry process, U.S. Customs and Border Protection Officers found child sexual abuse material, also known as child pornography, on Gonzalez’s cell phone and laptop. Law enforcement arrested Gonzalez that same day.
The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that an indictment contains allegations only and that Gonzalez is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. Gonzalez faces up to 40 years of imprisonment and a mandatory minimum sentence of five years if convicted on all counts. The actual sentence, however, would be determined by the District Court with guidance from the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines and the statutory sentencing factors.
Acting United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher commended the investigatory efforts of U.S. Customs and Border Protection and Homeland Security Investigations.
The prosecutor is Assistant United States Attorney Joshua L. Banker. Gonzalez is represented by Brooks McArthur, Esq.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC.
Vermont Man Sentenced for Illegal Firearm PossessionRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont announced today that on August 4, 2025, Travis Collins, age 43, of St. Albans City, Vermont, was sentenced by Judge William K. Sessions III to a term of imprisonment of 12 months and one day, to be followed by three years of supervised release, for being a felon in possession of a firearm. Judge Sessions ordered that Collins’ sentence was to begin on the date the sentence was imposed, and would not count the time Collins spent in pretrial custody.
According to court records, on January 9, 2024, Collins was arrested in downtown Burlington, Vermont on outstanding State of Vermont warrants. At the time he was arrested, Collins was wearing a backpack that contained a loaded pistol. The pistol, which had an obliterated serial number, was later determined to have been stolen.
Acting United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher commended the investigatory efforts of the United States Marshals Service and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.
The prosecutor was Assistant United States Attorney Nicole Cate. Collins was represented by the Office of the Federal Public Defender.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. 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. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.
Northfield Man Charged with Possession and Sale of Stolen FirearmsRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont announced that on July 10, 2025 a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Peter Baez, 41, of Northfield, Vermont with possession and sale of stolen firearms.
Baez entered a plea of not guilty to the charges during an arraignment on August 7, 2025 before United States Magistrate Judge Kevin J. Doyle. Judge Doyle ordered that Baez be released on conditions pending trial.
According to court records and statements at the arraignment, the allegations in the grand jury’s indictment relate to Peter Baez’ unlawful possession and sale of firearms which had belonged to his father, Pedro Baez. Pedro Baez died suddenly in the fall of 2024, and his will left his home and all property to his daughter. Despite having notice of the terms of his father’s estate, Peter Baez retained possession of Pedro Baez’ firearms, and sold some of them to area gun stores, keeping the proceeds.
The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that an indictment contains allegations only and that Baez is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. Baez faces up to 10 years’ imprisonment if convicted. The actual sentence, however, would be determined by the District Court with guidance from the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines and the statutory sentencing factors.
Acting United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher commended the investigatory efforts of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and thanked the Berlin and Montpelier Police Departments for their assistance.
The prosecutor is Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan A. Ophardt. Peter Baez is represented by William Vasiliou, II, Esq.
Rutland, Vermont Man Sentenced to 24 Months for Maintaining Drug PremisesRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that on August 4, 2025, Daniel McSwiggan, 52, of Rutland, Vermont, was sentenced by Chief United States District Judge Christina Reiss to a term of 24 months’ imprisonment to be followed by a 2-year term of supervised release. McSwiggan previously pleaded guilty to managing and controlling a residence and making the residence available for the purpose of unlawfully manufacturing, storing, distributing, and using cocaine base, a Schedule II controlled substance.
According to court records, in late June and early July of 2024, McSwiggan rented and occupied a residence in Rutland, Vermont, where he used and allowed others to use cocaine base, and from which he and others distributed cocaine base. McSwiggan – a former practicing nurse at a local medical center, who had been terminated from that position in April 2024 – also possessed firearms at the residence. And in the early morning hours of June 24, 2024, McSwiggan shot a rifle in the direction of another suspected drug distributor as the man ran away from the residence. In executing a search warrant at the residence, law enforcement recovered a Savage Model 10 .308 caliber rifle, a Ruger 10/22 .22 caliber rifle, 282 rounds of ammunition, cocaine base, and drug paraphernalia.
Acting United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher commended the collaborative investigatory efforts of Homeland Security Investigations, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Rutland Police Department, the Vermont State Police, and the Vermont Drug Task Force.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Corinne Smith. McSwiggan was represented by Jordan Handy, Esq.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. 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. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.
Hartford, Vermont Man Charged with Drug CrimeRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont announced that on July 31, 2025, a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging two-time U.S. Open snowboarding champion Rahm Klampert, 45, of Hartford, Vermont, with possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, cocaine, and fentanyl.
Klampert entered a plea of not guilty to the charges during an arraignment on July 31, 2025, before United States Magistrate Judge Kevin J. Doyle. Judge Doyle ordered that Klampert be detained during the pendency of this matter.
According to court records, on June 20, 2025, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Klampert’s residence and personal training studio, Rahm’s Results, both located in Hartford, Vermont. In total, law enforcement recovered from those locations approximately 1.1 kilograms of methamphetamine, 1.5 kilograms of cocaine, and 75 grams of fentanyl; 12 firearms including multiple suspected short-barreled shotguns, assault rifles, and handguns, three of which have been identified as stolen; a money-counter machine; and over $100,000 in U.S. currency. Multiple sources of information reported to law enforcement that Klampert was trafficking drugs in the Hartford area.
The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that an indictment contains allegations only and that Klampert is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. If convicted, Klampert faces a 10-year mandatory minimum prison sentence and up to a lifetime term of imprisonment. The sentence would be determined by the District Court with guidance from the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines and the statutory sentencing factors.
Acting United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher commended the investigatory efforts of the Hartford Police Department, the Vermont State Police, the Vermont Drug Task Force, the Brattleboro Police Department and Homeland Security Investigations.
The prosecutors are Assistant United States Attorney Corinne Smith and Special Assistant United States Attorney Charles W. Kirkham. Klampert is represented by Assistant Federal Public Defender Charles Curlett.
West Warwick, Rhode Island Man Sentenced to 57 Months for Conspiring to Export Heroin to CanadaRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that on July 21, 2025, Freddy Rodriguez, 40, of West Warwick, Rhode Island, was sentenced by Chief U.S. District Judge Christina Reiss to a term of 57 months’ imprisonment to be followed by a 3-year term of supervised release. Rodriguez previously pleaded guilty to conspiring to export heroin from the United States to Quebec, Canada in September 2023.
According to court records, United States Border Patrol (USBP) and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) agents encountered Rodriguez on the night of September 18 into September 19, 2023, on the shore of Missisquoi Bay on Lake Champlain in Highgate, Vermont. The agents observed Rodriguez attempting to walk a kayak loaded with approximately 12 kilograms (inclusive of packaging) of suspected controlled substances into the lake to meet a boat that would transport the narcotics into Canada. Based on text messages recovered from Rodriguez’s phone, he appeared to have expected to receive a large quantity of cash and MDMA (ecstasy) in exchange for the controlled substances he was attempting to deliver. In the driveway of the property on Missisquoi Bay Rodriguez had rented for the event, agents seized a Ford F150 truck that was later found to have a sophisticated locking trap—a void used for secretly transporting large quantities of drugs or currency—under the truck’s rear seats. Later laboratory testing showed that the bricks from the kayak Rodriguez was walking into the water contained approximately 10 kilograms of heroin.
Acting United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher commended the efforts of the USBP and HSI agents who positioned themselves around the property on Missisquoi Bay overnight, observed Rodriguez’s actions, apprehended him safely, and located the trap in his truck.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Lasher. Rodriguez was represented by William J. Keefe, Esq.
St. Johnsbury, Vermont Man Sentenced to 36 Months for Conspiracy to Distribute Fentanyl While on Federal Supervised ReleaseRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that on July 7, 2025, Shawn Snead, 33, of St. Johnsbury, Vermont was sentenced by United States District Judge William K. Sessions III to a term of 24 months’ imprisonment. Snead previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and admitted that in February and March 2024 he worked with a co-conspirator to distribute fentanyl in St. Johnsbury, Vermont. Judge Sessions also sentenced Snead to 12 months’ incarceration, to run consecutively to the 24-month sentence, for a related supervised release violation. Following his incarceration, Sneed will also be subject to a 3-year term of supervised release.
According to court records, the offense involved multiple controlled purchases of fentanyl in St. Johnsbury, Vermont. Critically, Snead committed this offense while on federal supervised release following his 2020 conviction in U.S. District Court for the District of Vermont for conspiracy to distribute heroin and cocaine base. Snead began his supervised release in July 2022, and not even two years later, he was selling drugs again.
Acting United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher commended the collaborative investigatory efforts of Homeland Security Investigations and the Vermont State Police.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Nicole Cate and Michelle Arra. Snead was represented by Assistant Federal Public Defender Steven Barth.
Foreign National Sentenced After Being Convicted at Trial of Illegally Entering the United StatesRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that on July 18, 2025, following a one-day bench trial before United States Magistrate Judge Kevin J. Doyle, Huan Lin, 41, a Chinese citizen, was convicted of illegally entering the United States. Following the trial, Judge Doyle sentenced Lin to a time-served sentence of approximately three months.
According to evidence presented at trial, on April 18, 2025, Lin was spotted walking across a field near Holland, Vermont, about a quarter-mile south of the U.S.-Canada border. Lin got into a minivan with New York license plates, which appeared to be a car for hire. After Lin got into the minivan, agents with United States Border Patrol stopped the vehicle. Lin, who was the sole passenger, presented agents with a Chinese passport that contained a Canadian visa and a stamp showing she had entered Canada about seven days earlier. In her purse and backpack, Lin carried changes of clothing, electronics chargers, foreign currency, and what appeared to be Chinese identification and bank cards. Border Patrol agents confirmed that Lin had no legal status in the United States.
Acting United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher commended the collaborative investigatory efforts of United States Border Patrol and United States Citizenship and Immigration Services.
The case was prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Katherine Flynn and Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Lasher. Lin was represented by Assistant Federal Public Defenders Charles N. Curlett, Jr., and Emily Kenyon.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
Honduran Man Charged with Illegal Reentry to the United StatesRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont announced that on June 26, 2025, a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Yubert Yasiel Lopez-Lopez, 31, of Honduras, with being found in the United States on February 2, 2025, after having previously been removed from the United States.
Lopez-Lopez entered a plea of not guilty to the charges during an arraignment on June 27, 2025, before United States Magistrate Judge Kevin J. Doyle. Judge Doyle ordered that Lopez-Lopez be detained during the pendency of this matter.
According to court records, Lopez-Lopez, a citizen of Honduras, was previously ordered removed from the United States on two occasions. On December 8, 2014, Lopez-Lopez was removed pursuant to an order issued by an Immigration Judge in Houston, Texas, after he had illegally crossed the U.S./Mexico border near Hidalgo, Texas in May 2014. On June 26, 2018, Lopez-Lopez was removed to Honduras after pleading guilty to illegal entry into the United States and receiving a sentence of time served in the United States District Court for the Southern District of Texas. Pursuant to his order of removal in 2018, Lopez-Lopez was prohibited from entering, attempting to enter, or being in the United States for 20 years thereafter. Lopez-Lopez was additionally expelled from the United States on two occasions in 2022 after illegally crossing the U.S./Mexico border near Yuma, Arizona.
On February 2, 2025, Lopez-Lopez was encountered by a law enforcement officer who recorded Lopez-Lopez’s presence on the officer’s body worn camera. Lopez-Lopez provided his legal name and date of birth that matched his immigration records and indicated that his presence in the United States was illegal. On February 2, 2025, Lopez-Lopez was also wanted by law enforcement in Honduras for weapons trafficking. Lopez-Lopez was taken into custody by agents of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (“ATF”) with the assistance of other law enforcement agencies on June 10, 2025, in North Attleboro, Massachusetts.
The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that an indictment contains allegations only and that Lopez-Lopez is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. Lopez-Lopez faces up to 2 years’ imprisonment if convicted. The actual sentence, however, would be determined by the District Court with guidance from the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines and the statutory sentencing factors.
Acting United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher commended the investigatory efforts of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the United States Customs and Border Protection.
The prosecutor is Assistant United States Attorney Jason Turner. Lopez-Lopez is represented by Assistant Federal Public Defender Charles Curlett.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
Connecticut Man Sentenced to 69 Months in Fentanyl Distribution CaseRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that on June 26, 2025, Alexander Marcano, 33, of Hartford, Connecticut, was sentenced by Chief United States District Judge Christina Reiss to a term of 69 months’ imprisonment to be followed by a 5-year term of supervised release. Marcano previously pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute more than 40 grams of fentanyl on December 9, 2024.
According to court records, in the early hours of January 30, 2023, U.S. Border Patrol Agents patrolling in the area of North Troy, Vermont, approximately one-half mile from the U.S./Canada border, encountered a vehicle driving erratically and pulled it over. Marcano was the front-seat passenger of the vehicle. Border Patrol agents learned that Marcano had an extraditable warrant from Connecticut for a shooting, for which Marcano was later convicted of Assault 1st Degree – Serious Physical Injury. At the time of the traffic stop, Marcano was found to be in possession of more than 98 grams of fentanyl, over 41 grams of cocaine base, over 75 grams of cocaine powder, a loaded 9 millimeter pistol, over $20,000 in cash, and drug paraphernalia indicative of drug distribution.
Acting United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher commended the collaborative investigatory efforts of the United States Border Patrol, Homeland Security Investigations, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the Vermont Drug Task Force.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Matthew Lasher and Corinne Smith. Marcano was represented by Ian Carleton, Esq.
Canadian Man and Costa Rican Woman Plead Guilty to Illegal EntryRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that on June 13, 2025, Joshua Ian Fudge, 30, a citizen of Canada, and his wife Karen Melissa Rodriguez Valverde, 24, a citizen of Costa Rica, both pled guilty to criminal complaints charging them, with illegally entering the United States at a time or place other than designated for entering the country by immigration authorities, and were sentenced to time-served. They each faced a maximum prison term of 6 months.
According to court records, at approximately 2:55 p.m. on June 12, 2025, electronic surveillance spotted two individuals with backpacks on “Pee Wee’s” bridge in Canaan, Vermont. “Pee Wee’s” bridge is approximately 150 feet from the U.S./Canada border and is commonly used to illegally cross into the United States. U.S. Border Patrol agents made contact with the individuals less than five minutes after the electronic surveillance alert. Fudge and Rodriguez Valverde provided identification to Border Patrol agents that confirmed that Fudge was a Canadian citizen and that Rodriguez Valverde was a citizen of Costa Rica who was a lawful permanent resident of Canada. Following a review of immigration records for Fudge and Rodriguez Valverde, Border Patrol agents discovered that on November 4, 2024, Fudge was deemed inadmissible and denied access to the United States at Newark International Airport after he stated to agents during pre-entry questioning that he had previously traveled to New Jersey to work with Rodriguez Valverde’s father and had been paid for that work. Fudge did not possess an immigrant visa that allowed him to work in the United States.
Acting United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher commended the efforts of the United States Border Patrol and United States Customs and Border Protection.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jason Turner. Fudge was represented by Lisa Shelkrot, Esq. Rodriguez Valverde is represented by Federal Public Defender Michael Desautels.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
Twelve Defendants Sentenced for Drug and Firearm Offenses Related to Springfield, Vermont Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office announced that twelves defendants have been sentenced in connection with drug and firearm charges related to a conspiracy to distribute cocaine base and fentanyl between March and November 2022 in Springfield, Vermont. The last sentencing occurred June 16, 2025. All twelve defendants previously pleaded guilty to charges including conspiracy to distribute cocaine base and fentanyl, and unlawful possession of a firearm.
According to court documents, the drug conspiracy involved distribution of controlled substances on Valley Street in Springfield, Vermont and elsewhere. The conspirators armed themselves with firearms in furtherance of the conspiracy. At certain times, firearms were discharged in Springfield in connection with the drug trafficking activity. Several of the conspirators were arrested on November 30, 2022 following the execution of federal search warrants on several addresses on Valley Street.
Chief United States District Judge Christina Reiss imposed the following sentences, each followed by a three-year term of federal supervised release:
Anibal Castro, Sr. – 108 months
Jonathan Castro – 98 months
Alex Barnes – 47 months
James Hines – 38 months
Jessica Auclair – 8 months
Jennifer Armstrong – Time ServedUnited States District Judge Geoffrey W. Crawford imposed the following sentences, each followed by a three-year term of federal supervised release:
Anibal Castro, Jr. – 72 months
Martine Protas – Time ServedUnited States District Judge Frank P. Geraci, Jr. imposed the following sentence, followed by a three-year term of federal supervised release:
Kerri Yaqoob – 75 months
United States District Judge Mary Kay Lanthier imposed the following sentence, followed by a three-year term of federal supervised release:
Todd Amell – Time Served
United States District Judge William K. Sessions, III imposed the following sentences:
Michael Cotter – Time Served to be followed by 2 years of supervised release
Derek Arie – Time Served to be followed by 1 year of supervised releaseActing U.S. Attorney Michael P. Drescher commended the investigatory and collaborative efforts of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Vermont State Police, the Vermont Drug Task Force, the Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Massachusetts State Police, the Springfield Police Department, and the Windsor County State’s Attorney’s Office.
The United States is represented in this matter by Assistant U.S. Attorney Zachary Stendig. Assistant United States Attorneys Andrew Gilman and Joe Perella offered valuable assistance.
Anibal Castro, Sr. is represented by Natasha Sen, Esq.; Jonathan Castro is represented by Robert Behrens, Esq.; Anibal Castro, Jr. is represented by Karen Shingler, Esq.; Derek Arie is represented by Kevin Henry, Esq.; Martine Protas is represented by Michael Shklar, Esq.; Michael Cotter is represented by Mark Oettinger, Esq.; Jessica Auclair is represented by Peter Langrock, Esq.; Kerri Yaqoob is represented by Richard Bothfeld, Esq.; Alex Barnes is represented by John-Claude Charbonneau, Esq.; James Hines is represented by Stephanie Greenlees, Esq.; Todd Amell is represented by Chandler Matson, Esq.; Jennifer Armstrong is represented by Jason Sawyer, Esq.
Burlington Man Charged After Possessing a Loaded Firearm on Church StreetRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that Noor Mohamed, age 25, of Burlington, Vermont has been charged by criminal complaint with being a felon in possession of ammunition. Mohamed is currently in State of Vermont custody and his initial appearance in federal court is not yet scheduled.
According to court records, shortly after 2:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 21, 2025, Mohamed caused a disturbance with a firearm on Church Street in Burlington. When officers from the Burlington Police Department (BPD) attempted to detain him, he ignored their orders and physically resisted. Instead of complying with the officers, Mohamed reached into his waistband to grab the loaded firearm that he possessed, resulting in an intense and perilous physical struggle between Mohamed and law enforcement over the gun. As law enforcement struggled with Mohamed to detain him and gain control of the firearm, a large, confrontational, agitated crowd formed around officers, creating an increasingly unsafe and precarious scene. Eventually, officers were able to handcuff the defendant and gain possession of the gun, which was a Glock-style handgun with scratch marks where a serial number should have been located, loaded with thirteen rounds of ammunition, including a round in the chamber.
The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that the complaint contains allegations only and that Mohamed is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. Mohamed faces up to 15 years of imprisonment if convicted. The actual sentence, however, would be determined by the District Court with guidance from the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines and the statutory sentencing factors.
“The responding Burlington Police officers demonstrated bravery and skill by safely disarming Mr. Mohamed, despite his vigorous resistance and the presence of the agitated crowd,” said Acting United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office will continue to work closely with our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners to help protect our communities.” Drescher also commended the investigative work of the Burlington Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Interim Chief of the Burlington Police Department, Shawn Burke, stated: “This incident highlights the dangers our officers face and their selfless commitment to keeping Burlington safe. We deeply appreciate our federal partners for seeking to hold Mohamed accountable and to reduce his ability to further victimize our community.”
The prosecutor is Assistant United States Attorney Nicole Cate. Attorney information for Mohamed is not yet available.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
Bennington Man Sentenced to 50 Months for Possessing BombRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that on June 24, 2025, Tyler Hayes, 43, of Bennington, Vermont, was sentenced by United States District Judge Joseph LaPlante to a term of 50 months’ imprisonment to be followed by a 3-year term of supervised release. Hayes was previously convicted by a jury on February 13, 2025, of unlawfully possessing an unregistered bomb and possessing a bomb as an unlawful drug user after a 5-day trial.
According to court records and evidence presented at trial, a bomb was discovered in Hayes’s former Bennington residence days after he abandoned the property in February of 2023. The property manager contacted law enforcement, who defused the bomb. Witnesses at trial described how Hayes had been discussing and constructing bombs for months, and had offered to trade a bomb for fentanyl. Other witnesses described Hayes making admissions after the bomb was discovered, including that he was “on the run” after a bomb had been found at his residence. An explosives expert from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives testified that, although the homemade bomb was rudimentary and simplistic (constructed from a combination of a pipe bomb and flammable liquids stored in plastic water bottles), it was nonetheless capable of causing substantial destruction and injury had it been detonated.
The jury convicted Hayes of possessing an unregistered destructive device, in violation of the National Firearms Act (“NFA”), and of possessing a destructive device while being an unlawful user of a controlled substance, in violation of the Gun Control Act (“GCA”). Hayes faced up to 10 years in prison on the NFA violation, and up to 15 years on the GCA violation.
Acting United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher commended the collaborative investigatory efforts of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, Homeland Security Investigations, the Vermont State Police Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit, and the Bennington Police Department.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Corinne Smith and Nicole Cate. Hayes was represented by James Valente, Esq., and Chandler Matson, Esq.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. 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. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.
Florida Man and New York Man Sentenced for Aiding and Abetting an Attempt to Bring Aliens to the United StatesRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that Joel Gil-Garcia, 23, currently residing in Orlando, Florida, and Maykel Reyes-Castillo, 22, currently residing in Yonkers, New York, have both been sentenced by Chief United States District Judge Christina Reiss to a time-served term of imprisonment to be followed by a 1-year term of supervised release. Both men pleaded guilty to aiding and abetting an attempt to bring aliens to the United States.
Reyes-Castillo, who was also ordered to pay a $500 fine, was sentenced on June 24, 2025. Gil-Garcia, who was also ordered to pay a $1,000 fine, was sentenced on May 22, 2025.
According to court records, in March 2024, Gil-Garcia made arrangements with an individual to pick up four foreign nationals crossing into Vermont from Canada illegally. Gil-Garcia asked Reyes-Castillo to drive with him to Vermont. In exchange for his promise to pick up the foreign nationals illegally entering the United States, Gil-Garcia received $1,800 and Reyes-Castillo received $500. Prior to this event, neither Gil-Garcia nor Reyes-Castillo had any criminal history.
Acting United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher commended the investigatory efforts of the United States Border Patrol.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michelle Arra. Gil-Garcia was represented by Mark Oettinger, Esq., and Reyes-Castillo was represented by Stephanie Greenlees, Esq.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
Connecticut Man Sentenced to 11 Years in Drug and Firearms CaseRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that on June 23, 2025, Brendan Salmon, 36, of Hartford, Connecticut, was sentenced by United States District Judge Geoffrey W. Crawford to a term of 132 months’ imprisonment to be followed by a 5-year term of supervised release. Salmon previously pleaded guilty to conspiring to distribute fentanyl, cocaine base, and cocaine between mid-2022 and November 2023, and causing a straw purchase of a firearm in September 2022.
According to court records, Salmon, who used the street name “Nice,” began distributing fentanyl, crack, and powder cocaine in the Stowe, Vermont area in the spring of 2022. His operation, which included several associates, expanded to Morristown, Vermont and Hardwick, Vermont as his trafficking continued into 2023. Two of his Connecticut couriers were stopped along Interstate 89 in separate 2023 law enforcement operations. In each stop, law enforcement seized over 2,700 bags of fentanyl and over half a kilogram of crack and powder cocaine. The two couriers were also convicted in connection with those seizures. Salmon was also actively involved in acquiring firearms, principally handguns, in Vermont from drug customers, some of whom purchased guns for him at Vermont firearms dealers. Salmon was arrested during a search warrant on a residence in Hardwick in November 2023. He has been detained since that time.
Acting United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher commended the collaborative investigatory efforts of the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Vermont State Police, the Lamoille County Sheriff’s Department, the Morristown Police Department, and the Stowe Police Department.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Paul Van de Graaf and Jason Turner. Salmon was represented by Mark Kaplan, Esq.
St. Albans, Vermont Man Sentenced to 42 Months for Unlawful Possession of Stolen FirearmsRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that on June 20, 2025, Shane Hardy, 46, originally of Bedford-Stuyvesant, New York, but more recently residing in St. Albans, Vermont, was sentenced by United States District Judge Geoffrey W. Crawford to a term of 42 months’ imprisonment to be followed by a 2-year term of supervised release.
According to court records, Hardy has a serious criminal history that includes a conviction for manslaughter in New York State for which he was incarcerated for over a decade. Despite knowing that he was prohibited from possessing firearms, Hardy expressed interest in firearms and then accepted four stolen firearms as payment for a drug debt and a quantity of cocaine in October 2023. After receiving the stolen firearms, Hardy then facilitated transportation of the guns by carrying them into an SUV that had New Jersey license plates.
Acting United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher commended the investigatory efforts of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michelle Arra. Hardy was represented by Emily Kenyon and Barclay Johnson of the Office of the Federal Public Defender.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. 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. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.
New Hampshire Man Sentenced to 78 Months in Kidnapping CaseRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that on June 20, 2025, Barry Perez of Lebanon, New Hampshire, was sentenced by Chief United States District Judge Christina Reiss to a term of 78 months’ imprisonment to be followed by a 5-year term of supervised release. The Court also ordered Perez to pay restitution in the amount of $44,626 and recommended that the Bureau of Prisons not give Perez credit for time Perez has been detained pending the sentencing date. Perez previously pleaded guilty to kidnapping an interstate trucker on January 13, 2023.
According to court records, Perez stole a box truck in Lebanon, New Hampshire, in the early morning hours of January 13, 2023. He drove the stolen truck into Vermont along Interstate 89. He was under the influence of various illegal drugs. After crashing the box truck near Exit 1 on I-89, a tractor trailer driver with an interstate shipment stopped to assist Perez. Perez displayed what appeared to be handgun, but was in fact a pellet gun, to force the trucker to drive Perez further north on I-89. When Perez dozed off, the trucker was able to stop the truck and escape. After a standoff, Perez was arrested in Berlin, Vermont, and taken into custody.
Acting United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher commended the collaborative investigatory efforts of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Vermont State Police, and the Berlin Police Department.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul Van de Graaf. Perez was represented by Federal Public Defender Michael Desautels.
Williston Man Charged with Tax EvasionRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont announced that on June 12, 2025, a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging John Caleb Wright, 43, of Williston, Vermont, with attempting to evade payment of over $1 million of tax. Wright’s arraignment before United States Magistrate Judge Kevin J. Doyle is scheduled for July 22, at 11:00 A.M. in Burlington.
According to court records, after the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) notified Wright that it would begin enforced collection of his assets to satisfy a tax debt of over $1 million, Wright moved his cryptocurrency assets on two occasions in 2021 from a cryptocurrency exchange where they were accessible to the IRS via legal process, to an off-exchange, unhosted wallet beyond the reach of the IRS.
The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that an indictment contains allegations only and that Wright is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. Wright faces up to 5 years’ imprisonment if convicted. The actual sentence, however, would be determined by the District Court with guidance from the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines and the statutory sentencing factors.
Acting United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher commended the investigatory efforts of the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation.
The prosecutor is Assistant United States Attorney Corinne Smith. Wright is represented by Brooks McArthur, Esq.
New Hampshire Couple Pleads Guilty to Federal Charges for 2024 Crime SpreeRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – A New Hampshire couple pleaded guilty in federal court last week to robbery charges stemming from a crime spree in August of 2024.
On June 10, 2025, Christopher Boisvert entered a plea of guilty to the charge of armed bank robbery during a plea hearing before Chief United States District Judge Christina Reiss.
On June 12, 2025, Meghan Cox entered a plea of guilty to the charge of conspiring with her accomplice to interfere with commerce by robbery during a plea hearing before Chief United States District Judge Christina Reiss.
At sentencing, if the District Court accepts the plea agreements Boisvert and Cox each face up to 20 years’imprisonment. The actual sentence, however, will be determined by the District Court with guidance from the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines and the statutory sentencing factors. Both defendants are scheduled for sentencing in September of this year.
According to court records, on August 26, 2024, around 2:06 PM, the Vermont State Police were notified of an attempted robbery at Rolling Twenties, a Cannabis Dispensary located at 440 Rockingham Road in the Town of Rockingham, Vermont. Investigation revealed that in the minutes before the robbery, exterior surveillance video captured a blue Chevrolet Silverado truck parked in front of the business, with its rear license plate obscured by a dark covering.
Two subjects, a male and a female – later confirmed to be Boisvert and Cox – exited the Silverado truck and approached the business on foot. The male was white, with a medium build, and was wearing a grey long-sleeved “Henley” style shirt, gray sweatpants, brown leather boots, a black ball cap, a black face mask, sunglasses, and was carrying one or two dark colored backpacks or duffel bags.
The female, also white, with a medium build, red hair, was wearing a black hooded sweatshirt, tight-fitting blue jeans, brown leather boots, wearing a black ball cap, a black face mask, and dark “aviator” style sunglasses. She was also carrying a dark colored bag. Both subjects were wearing blue colored latex gloves. Once inside the business’s lobby, they attempted to enter the retail floor and demanded money and marijuana. An attendant denied entry and both subjects left the business in the blue Silverado truck, traveling south bound on VT Route 5/Rockingham Road towards Bellows Falls, Vermont.
At approximately 2:47 PM, the Bellows Falls Police Department was called to a bank robbery at the TD Bank, 2 Church Street, Bellows Falls, Vermont. Officers determined the bank robbery suspect fit the description of the male subject from the Rolling Twenties attempted robbery minutes earlier. TD Bank surveillance video showed the male wearing the same clothing and disguise as described in the Rolling Twenties attempted robbery and was carrying a black and gray backpack. The male approached an employee and produced a note indicating he wanted 100s (one-hundred-dollar bills) and other large denominations placed into the bag. The male lifted his shirt revealing what appeared to be a wooden handle/grip of an object tucked into his pants. The teller placed money onto the counter and the male subject retrieved the money, placing it into his backpack. An image of the male, who turned out to be Christopher Boisvert, displaying the weapon in his waist band is below:
TD Bank PhotographBoisvert told the employees he had done research, and he knew where their families live – if they try anything, he was going to come back and hurt or kill them. He also said he had a gun inside his backpack and that his girlfriend or wife was waiting in the vehicle outside with a “45[.]” As he was leaving, Boisvert told the employees to wait two minutes before calling the police. In total, Boisvert received approximately $2,500 of U.S. Currency from TD Bank.
About an hour after the Bellows Falls bank robbery, around 3:45 PM, the Brattleboro Police were called to a robbery of the Brattleboro Savings and Loan, located at 972 Putney Road, Brattleboro, Vermont (“Brattleboro Savings and Loan”). Law enforcement investigation revealed a blue Chevrolet Silverado truck with New Hampshire registration plates parked on Black Mountain Road, next to the Putney Road Plaza where the bank is located. Boisvert was wearing the same clothing, hat, mask, footwear, blue gloves, and was carrying a black and gray backpack.
Inside the bank, he approached a teller and told her to put money into the bag. He stated to the teller that he knew the employee’s families and their addresses, and to give him all the money. He also said he had a gun. The teller observed that he possessed an orange handled knife. Several tellers provided him with U.S. Currency; in total the amount was approximately $5,000. Surveillance video showed Boisvert return to the blue Silverado truck. Using a cellular phone, a teller captured photographs of the Silverado fleeing the area. The photographs revealed the rear license plate number of the truck. Law enforcement then confirmed the vehicle was registered to Christopher Boisvert of New Hampshire.
At approximately 4:00 PM, the Cheshire County, New Hampshire Sheriff’s Department located the blue Silverado on Route 9 near the Chesterfield/Keene, New Hampshire town line. Deputies attempted to stop the truck, but it fled, and a pursuit began. Sheriff Deputies and New Hampshire State Police, among other agencies, pursued the truck, ultimately ending the pursuit when the truck entered Massachusetts. The truck was later located abandoned in the parking lot of Athol Memorial Hospital in Athol, Massachusetts.
Law enforcement examined a social media account associated with Boisvert and Cox, and compared known photos of the defendants to the surveillance footage obtained during the investigation. Investigators saw Boisvert was wearing an identical shirt to the one he wore during the robberies. In addition, Meghan Cox had a distinctive tattoo on her neck. A close-up review of the surveillance footage from the Rolling Twenties dispensary shows an object covering the tattoo that appeared to be peeling off her neck.
When they searched the Silverado truck, investigators recovered a 14-inch bowie knife with a wooden handle consistent in appearance with the weapon displayed in the TD Bank surveillance footage, black KN95-style facemasks consistent in appearance with what the defendants were wearing, a small spiral bound notebook containing a handwritten note that matched the same threats articulated to the various robbery victims, a grey “Henley” style shirt, and blue medical gloves. These clothing and disguise items were subsequently tested for DNA that matched Boisvert and Cox.
Acting United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher commended the investigatory efforts of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Vermont State Police, Brattleboro Police Department, Bellows Falls Police Department, Keene, New Hampshire Police Department, Swanzey, New Hampshire Police Department, Cheshire County, New Hampshire Sheriff’s Department, New Hampshire State Police, Athol, Massachusetts Police Department, and the Winchendon, Massachusetts Police Department.
The prosecutor is Assistant United States Attorney Thomas J. Aliberti. Federal Defender Michael Desautels represents Christopher Boisvert and Meghan Cox is represented by Richard C. Bothfeld, Esq.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
Deven Moffitt of Bennington Sentenced for Federal Gun and Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that on June 10, 2025, Deven Moffitt, 34, of Bennington, Vermont, was sentenced by Chief United States District Judge Christina Reiss to a term of 150 months’ imprisonment to be followed by a 7-year term of supervised release. Deven Moffitt previously was convicted by a jury on May 16, 2024 of possessing fentanyl and cocaine with the intent to distribute, knowingly possessing firearms in furtherance of his drug trafficking, and of possessing firearms while being a convicted felon after a four-day trial.
According to court records and evidence presented at trial, Moffitt was arrested by the Vermont State Police in Bennington, Vermont on June 1, 2022. During a search of the bags Moffitt was carrying that day, law enforcement recovered over 3,500 individual bags containing fentanyl, additional bags of cocaine and cocaine base, as well as two firearms: a .22 High Standard Manufacturing Corporation revolver and a 9mm Hi-Point semi-automatic pistol. Both guns were loaded, and the 9mm pistol had a bullet in its chamber, with its safety off. Moffitt also possessed over $16,000 in cash upon his arrest.
“Vermont State Police encountered Deven Moffitt, as he possessed two fully loaded handguns, one with a bullet chambered and the safety off,” stated Acting United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher. “He possessed those weapons to protect his stash of over 3500 bags of fentanyl and more than $16,000 in drug proceeds. It was a likely just a matter of time before the danger of armed drug dealing would have become a violent reality. We recognize the courage and skill of the VSP for their efforts protecting the public not only in this case, but everyday across the state.”
“This sentence of more than 12 years in prison sends a strong message that our communities will not tolerate those who traffic illegal drugs, especially when they bring firearms into these already extremely dangerous situations,” said Col. Matthew T. Birmingham, director of the Vermont State Police. “We are grateful for the efforts of our federal partners in the U.S. Attorney’s Office and law enforcement to investigate and prosecute offenses of this nature, collaborating with us to ensure accountability and make Vermont a safer place for everyone.”
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew C. Gilman as well as Acting United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Julia “Jules” Torti. Deven Moffitt was represented by Kevin Henry, Esq.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. 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. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.
Brooklyn Man Sentenced to 47 Months’ Imprisonment for Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office stated that on June 9, 2025, Kajuan Woods, 36, of Brooklyn, New York was sentenced by Chief United States District Judge Christina Reiss to a term of 47 months of imprisonment to be followed by a 3-year term of supervised release. Woods previously pleaded guilty to possessing with intent to distribute fentanyl.
According to court records, on January 19, 2024, Woods was one of six individuals located inside 195 St. Paul Street, Apt. A in Burlington, where law enforcement executed a search warrant as part of a drug trafficking investigation. Woods was wearing a satchel at the time, and within the satchel were nearly ten grams of fentanyl, including some fentanyl containing xylazine, drug packaging materials, and over $1,100 in U.S. currency. Within the apartment, law enforcement found seven handguns, three of which had previously been reported stolen.
Then, in the early morning hours of May 12, 2024, when officers from the South Burlington Police Department encountered Woods and a woman apparently passed out in a running vehicle, Woods provided a false name to officers. A subsequent search of the vehicle revealed over 28 grams of suspected cocaine, a partially loaded 9-millimeter Glock magazine, a stolen Apple MacBook Pro, and over $2,400 of stolen clothing.
On June 4, 2024, after responding to reports of a male threatening a woman with a firearm, Burlington Police Department officers located Woods and a woman in a vehicle, and attempted to detain them. Woods ran from police, leading them on a foot chase through multiple backyards. After Woods was apprehended, officers learned his identity and arrested him pursuant to an active federal arrest warrant. Woods had over 34 grams of suspected cocaine on his person and a bullet in his pocket. Within the rental vehicle that Woods had been driving, officers found on the floorboard of the driver’s seat a fanny pack that contained a Glock 17 Gen4 9-millimeter pistol, suspected cocaine base, ten wax folds of suspected fentanyl, and empty wax folds. There was also $3,200 in U.S. currency.
Acting United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher commended the investigatory efforts and hard work of the Burlington Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration, and also thanked the South Burlington Police Department.
“Individuals who possess distribution quantities of deadly controlled substances, thousands of dollars in cash, and firearms pose a danger to the communities where they sell drugs, to law enforcement officers, and to themselves,” Acting United States Attorney Drescher stated. “I commend the officers of the Burlington Police Department for safely apprehending defendant Woods despite his attempt to run away from them through multiple backyards. The U.S. Attorney’s Office will continue to work closely with our federal, state, county, and local partners to investigate and prosecute armed drug traffickers in our ongoing effort to make Vermont a safer place.”
The prosecutor was Assistant United States Attorney Nicole Cate. Woods was represented by Chandler Matson, Esq.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. 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. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.
Canadian Father and Son Plead Guilty to Illegal EntryRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that on June 6, 2025, Van Hoa Phung, 49, and Reason Phung, 18, both citizens of Canada, pleaded guilty to criminal complaints charging them, respectively, with illegally entering the United States at a time or place other than designated for entering the country by immigration authorities, and illegally entering the United States by making willfully false statements.
According to court records, on June 5, 2025, at approximately 2:35 p.m., the United States Border Patrol observed a man walking south and crossing the United States-Canada international border near the Haskell Free Library in Derby Line, Vermont. The Haskell Free Library and its vicinity do not constitute a time or place as designated by immigration officers to lawfully enter the United States.
After entering the U.S., the man, who was wearing a red shirt with shorts, entered the passenger side of a Red Tesla motor vehicle. Border Patrol agents stopped the vehicle in a parking lot in Derby, Vermont and identified the driver as Reason Phung, and the passenger as Van Hoa Phung, Reason Phung’s father. Van Hoa Phung was wearing a red shirt with shorts consistent with the description of the individual who illegally crossed the border.
During the vehicle stop, Border Patrol determined that the Red Tesla previously crossed through a legal port of entry in Derby, Vermont. At the time the vehicle entered, Reason Phung was the only occupant.
Reason Phung admitted that he travelled to the border where he dropped off his father, Van Hoa Phung, at the Haskell Free Library in Derby Line, Vermont. Thereafter, Reason Phung entered through the port of entry, and then picked his father up in the U.S. after Van Hoa Phung illegally crossed the border in the vicinity of the library. Reason Phung intended to transport his father to an airport and then return to Canada.
When he entered through the Port of Entry earlier, Reason Phung stated his purpose in entering the United States was to visit his grandparents. Because his real purpose was to pick up and transport his father and then return to Canada, that statement was false.
Van Hoa Phung and Reason Phung had their initial court appearances before United States Magistrate Judge Kevin J. Doyle on June 6, 2025, where they each pleaded guilty, and both received time-served sentences.
Acting United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher commended the investigatory efforts of the United States Border Patrol and United States Customs and Border Protection.
The prosecutor is Assistant United States Attorney Zachary Stendig. Van Hoa Phung is represented by Federal Public Defender Michael Desautels. Reason Phung is represented by Robert Behrens, Esq.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
Staten Island, New York Man Sentenced to 42 Months for Conspiracy to Distribute Fentanyl While on Federal Supervised ReleaseRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that on June 2, 2025, Xavier Parker, 31, of Staten Island, New York was sentenced by United States District Judge William K. Sessions III to a term of 18 months’ imprisonment to be followed by a 3-year term of supervised release. Parker previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and admitted that in February and March 2024 he worked with a co-conspirator to distribute fentanyl in St. Johnsbury, Vermont. Judge Sessions also sentenced Parker to 24 months’ incarceration, to run consecutively to the 18-month sentence, for a related supervised release violation.
According to court records, the offense involved multiple controlled purchases and additional drugs quantities found hidden on Parker at his arrest, totaling approximately 12.1 grams of cocaine base, 2.2 grams of fentanyl, 0.67 grams of heroin, and 5.6 grams of cocaine. Critically, Parker committed this offense while on federal supervised release following his 2020 conviction in U.S. District Court for the District of Vermont for conspiracy to distribute heroin and cocaine base. Parker began his supervised release in August 2022, and not even two years later, he was selling drugs again.
Acting United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher commended the collaborative investigatory efforts of Homeland Security Investigations and the Vermont State Police.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Nicole Cate and Michelle Arra. Parker was represented by Chandler Matson, Esq.
Colchester, Vermont Man Sentenced to 49 Months for Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that on May 30, 2025, Samuel Blatt, 33, of Colchester, Vermont, was sentenced by Chief United States District Judge Christina Reiss to a term of 49 additional months’ imprisonment to be followed by a 3-year term of supervised release. Blatt has been detained in the custody of the State of Vermont since his arrest on March 15, 2024. Judge Reiss also ordered that Blatt pay $14,100 in restitution. Blatt previously pleaded guilty to the March 5, 2024, robbery of the Union Bank in Johnson, Vermont.
According to court records, between February 28, 2024, and March 14, 2024, Blatt committed the robberies of four banks in Vermont, and attempted the robbery of a fifth bank. On February 28, 2024, Blatt entered the M&T Bank in Essex, Vermont and handed the teller a note demanding money, stating that he wanted $100 bills with “No dye packs,” “No bait money,” and “Fast.” Blatt obtained approximately $1000 from M&T Bank. On March 5, 2024, Blatt entered the Union Bank in Johnson, Vermont and handed the teller a note which stated, “Give me all $100’s, $50’s, $20 bills fast, no dye packs.” During the robbery, Blatt stated to bank employees in effect, “This is not a joke, you know what to do, give me all your money.” Blatt obtained approximately $5,300 from Union Bank. On March 13, 2024, Blatt entered a Community Bank in Burlington, Vermont, stated that he was robbing the bank and handed a bank employee a note that stated, “Give me all $100-, $50-, and $20-bills, no dye packs. Fast.” Community Bank employees did not comply with Blatt’s demands, and he left the bank. On March 13, 2024, Blatt entered the TD Bank in Winooski, Vermont, and displayed a note to the teller that stated in effect that he wanted $20’s, $50’s and $100’s but no dye packs. Blatt obtained approximately $600 from TD Bank. On March 14, 2024, Blatt entered the North Country Federal Credit Union in Alburgh, Vermont. Blatt asked a teller, “Can I cash a check if I don’t have an account here?” When the teller told Blatt no, he handed the teller a note and asked “What about this one?” The note stated, “Give me all the 100’s, 30’s and 20’s you have!!!” Blatt obtained approximately $7200 from NCFCU.
Acting United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher commended the collaborative investigatory efforts of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Essex Police Department, the Lamoille County Sheriff’s Department, the Winooski Police Department, the Burlington Police Department, the Grand Isle County Sheriff’s Department, the Williston Police Department, and Homeland Security Investigations.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Colin Owyang and Jason Turner. Blatt was represented by Assistant Federal Defender Sara Puls.
One Irish National and One Massachusetts Man Arrested in Vermont Border-Crossing EventRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that on May 31, 2025, Michael Doherty, 41, of Quincy, Massachusetts, and Andrew McRedmond, 42, a citizen of Ireland, were arrested by the United States Border Patrol in Williamstown, Vermont. Both were charged by criminal complaints—McRedmond with illegally re-entering the United States as an alien and entry into the United States at a time or place other than authorized, and Doherty with transporting McRedmond in furtherance of his illegal entry. Doherty and McRedmond both appeared on June 2, 2025, before United States Magistrate Judge Kevin J. Doyle, who ordered that Doherty be released on conditions of pretrial supervision pending further proceedings. Judge Doyle ordered McRedmond detained pending future proceedings.
According to court records, around 7:13 a.m. on May 31, 2025, one individual with a blue hat with white mesh and a backpack was seen walking south from a wooded area near Golf Course Road in Richford, Vermont, approximately a quarter mile south of the United States/Canada border. Law enforcement authorities determined that a vehicle driven by Doherty that had recently crossed the United States border at the Richford Port of Entry, was also in the vicinity of the person observed in the wooded area near Golf Course Road. When law enforcement later stopped Doherty’s vehicle on Interstate 91 in Williamstown, Vermont, Doherty was driving, and McRedmond was also in the vehicle. Investigators also observed a blue hat with white mesh on the dashboard matching the description of the person from the wooded area. In a post-arrest interview, McRedmond admitted to Border Patrol agents that he was in the United States illegally, and that he coordinated with Doherty to be picked up near the international border.
The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that the complaints contain allegations only and that Doherty and McRedmond are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. Doherty faces up to five years’ imprisonment if convicted. McRedmond faces up to two years’ incarceration if convicted. The actual sentence, however, would be determined by the District Court with guidance from the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines and the statutory sentencing factors.
Acting United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher commended the investigatory efforts of the United States Border Patrol and Customs and Border Protection.
The prosecutor is Assistant United States Attorney Zachary Stendig. Doherty is represented by Assistant Federal Defender Barclay Johnson and McRedmond is represented by Richard Bothfeld, Esq.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
United Kingdom National Charged with Unlawful EntryRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that Danny Gabriel Rooney, 19, of the United Kingdom, has been charged by criminal complaint with entering the United States at a time or place other than designated for entering the country by immigration authorities.
On Tuesday, May 27, 2025, Rooney appeared before United States Magistrate Judge Kevin J. Doyle, who ordered that Rooney be detained during the pendency of this matter. According to court documents, U.S. Border Patrol agents apprehended Rooney after he was observed walking southbound in an area of Highgate, Vermont, that is frequently travelled by persons attempting to enter the United States illegally from Canada. Law enforcement’s records review revealed that Rooney has no legal status in the United States.
The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that the complaint contains allegations only and that Rooney is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. Rooney faces up to six months’ incarceration if convicted. The actual sentence, however, would be determined by the District Court with guidance from the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines and the statutory sentencing factors.
Acting United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher commended the investigatory efforts of the United States Border Patrol.
The prosecutor is Assistant United States Attorney Michelle Arra. Rooney is represented by Stephanie M. Greenlees , Esq.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
Three Chilean Nationals Charged with Immigration OffensesRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that Jose Quezada-Villena, 30, and Kevin Bernal-Fuentes, 25, both of Chile, have been charged by criminal complaint with transporting Jeanne Marie Medel-Garay, 46, also from Chile, who had just entered the United States illegally by crossing into the country from Canada without passing through a port of entry, and who has been charged with illegal entry into the United States.
According to court documents, during the evening of May 27, 2025, the United States Border Patrol received a report that a landowner near the U.S./Canada border had observed a single female crossing into the United States from Canada at a location other than a Port of Entry in Derby Line, Vermont. The female had been picked up by a silver Nissan Rogue. Based on this information a United States Border Patrol agent established surveillance a few miles south of the border where he observed the Nissan driving erratically before conducting a traffic stop. During the stop, law enforcement encountered two males in the front of the car, later identified as Quezada-Villena and Bernal-Fuentes, and a single female passenger in the back, later identified as Medel-Garay. A subsequent review of immigration records revealed that all three individuals lacked permission to be in the United States. During a post-arrest interview, Bernal-Fuentes admitted to traveling to Vermont from Long Island, New York, with Quezada-Villena for the purpose of picking up and transporting an individual within the United States.
On May 29, 2025, United States Magistrate Judge Kevin J. Doyle ordered Medel-Garay detained during the pendency of her prosecution. On May 30 and June 2, Judge Doyle ordered that Quezada-Villena and Bernal-Fuentes, respectively, be released on conditions pending trial.
The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that the complaint contains allegations only and that the defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. Quezada-Villena and Bernal-Fuentes face up to five years’ incarceration if convicted. Their actual sentence, however, would be determined by the District Court with guidance from the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines and the statutory sentencing factors. Medel-Garay faces up to six months’ incarceration if convicted.
Acting United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher commended the investigatory efforts of the United States Border Patrol.
The prosecutor is Assistant United States Attorney Michelle Arra. Quezada-Villena is represented by the Office of the Federal Public Defender. Bernal-Fuentes is represented by Allan Sullivan, Esq. Medel-Garay is represented by Robert Behrens, Esq.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
Mexican National Charged with Unlawful EntryRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that Juan De Dios Tena-Granados, 39, of Mexico, has been charged by criminal complaint with entering the United States at a place or time other than as designated by immigration authorities.
On May 27, 2025, Tena-Granados appeared before United States Magistrate Judge Kevin J. Doyle, pleaded guilty, and received a time-served sentence. According to court documents, U.S. Border Patrol agents apprehended Tena-Granados after he was observed walking southbound in an area of Highgate, Vermont, that is frequently traveled by persons attempting to enter the United States illegally from Canada. During a post-arrest interview, Tena-Granados admitted to entering the country illegally.
Acting United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher commended the investigatory efforts of the United States Border Patrol.
The prosecutor is Assistant United States Attorney Michelle Arra. Tena-Granados is represented by William A. Vasiliou II , Esq.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
Mexican National Charged with Illegal ReentryRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that Rufino Hernandez-Hernandez, 42, of Mexico, has been charged by criminal complaint with unlawful re-entry following prior removal from the United States.
Court records indicate that Hernandez-Hernandez was removed from the United States on four occasions from 2013 through 2020. Because of that history, and because he had failed to reapply for admission to the United States, his presence in the United States constitutes a new offense.
The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that the complaint contains allegations only and that Hernandez-Hernandez is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. Hernandez-Hernandez faces up to two years’ incarceration if convicted. The actual sentence, however, would be determined by the District Court with guidance from the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines and the statutory sentencing factors.
Acting United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher commended the investigatory efforts of the U.S. Border Patrol.
The prosecutor is Assistant United States Attorney Zachary Stendig. Hernandez-Hernandez is represented by the Office of the Federal Public Defender.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
U.S. Virgin Islands Man Charged with Making Interstate Threats and StalkingRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont announced that a federal grand jury returned a two-count indictment charging Todd Hoyte, 54, of Saint Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, with making interstate threats and stalking. Hoyte was arrested by the Federal Bureau of Investigation on April 1, 2025, in Saint Thomas. Hoyte initially appeared in federal court in the U.S. Virgin Islands where he was ordered detained.
Hoyte entered a plea of not guilty to the charges during an arraignment in the District of Vermont on May 29, 2025 before United States Magistrate Judge Kevin J. Doyle. Judge Doyle ordered that Hoyte continue pretrial detention during the pendency of this matter.
According to court records, between July 29, 2024 and September 25, 2024, Hoyte left numerous
voicemails for Victim-1, who worked in Vermont. The voicemails which were harassing, threatening, and intimidating, were made from outside of Vermont. Hoyte left the voicemails on Victim-1’s work phone, Victim-1’s voicemail box, and the voicemail box of the Vermont Department of Public Service. The voicemails included threats to injure Victim-1.The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that an indictment contains allegations only and that Hoyte is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. Hoyte faces up to 5 years’ imprisonment on each count if convicted. The actual sentence, however, would be determined by the District Court with guidance from the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines and the statutory sentencing factors.
Acting United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher commended the investigatory efforts of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and thanked the U.S. Marshals Service.
The prosecutors are Assistant United States Attorneys Jonathan A. Ophardt and Zachary Stendig. Hoyte is represented by Assistant Federal Defender Emily Kenyon.