Eastern District of Washington
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Toppenish Man Sentenced to More Than 16 Years in Federal Prison for Shooting at Law EnforcementRead the Press Release
Yakima, Washington –United States Attorney Pete Serrano announced Leland James Vijarro, age 26, was sentenced after pleading guilty to assaulting federal officers and firearm charges. United States District Judge Mary K. Dimke imposed a sentence of 198 months to be followed by 5 years of supervised release.
According to court documents and information presented at the sentencing hearing, on February 8, 2024, Vijarro broke into his brother’s home in Toppenish, Washington, and stole thirteen firearms and a suppresser. Then, on February 10, 2024, law enforcement officers responded to a report of gun fire coming from the Vijarro’s vehicle in Toppenish. During the stop of the vehicle, the Vijarro fled the scene and barricaded himself inside a nearby home. After law enforcement officers set up a permitter around the vicinity of the home, Vijarro went into the backyard of the home and fired six shots from a handgun that had been stolen from his brother. The majority of the shots fired by Vijarro were aimed at law enforcement officers, who had set up a permitter across the street from the defendant’s location. Two Yakima County Sheriff’s Office marked police vehicles in the permitter, which law enforcement officers were shielding themselves behind, sustained damages from the shots. The Vijarro ultimately retreated to another residence and surrendered a few hours later.
At sentencing, Assistant United States Attorney Bree Black Horse noted that the defendant “possessed over a decade of criminal convictions and arrests characterized by assaults, arson, firearm offenses, thefts, and domestic violence crimes.” In asking for the 198-month sentence, AUSA Black Horse argued “the defendant’s criminal history, gang affiliation, and the circumstances surrounding the offense demonstrate that the defendant is a clear threat to public safety on the Yakama Nation Indian Reservation.” AUSA Black Horse observed that it was “fortunate in this case that no law enforcement officers were injured or killed as a result of the defendant’s conduct” and that a significant custodial sentence “will ensure the public is protected as long as possible from further violent crimes perpetrated by the defendant.”
In imposing the 198-month sentence, the Court highlighted the history of escalating violent behavior perpetrated by the defendant and explained the significant custodial sentence was necessary to protect the community from the defendant. The Court also thanked the YCSO officers who were present at sentencing for their service and continued efforts to keep the community safe despite incidents like the one perpetrated by the defendant.
“Mr. Vijarro’s actions were violent and reckless. I am grateful for the brave men and women in law enforcement who put their own lives at risk to arrest him,” said U.S. Attorney Serrano. “I’m grateful to AUSA Black Horse’s great work on this case; this is another example of the men and women of our office holding violent offenders accountable who are a danger to our community.”
“During two days of volatile and dangerous activities, Mr. Vijarro entered several houses that did not belong to him, including his own brother’s, to steal firearms and evade capture by law enforcement,” said W. Mike Herrington, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Seattle. “Even worse, he used one of the stolen guns to shoot at law enforcement officers attempting to contain the situation. This case is an example of the FBI’s commitment to combatting violent criminals and gangs, as emphasized in Operation Summer Heat, a nationwide initiative targeting violent criminals and restoring safety in our communities.”
“On Feb 10, 2024, law enforcement officers and deputies were lucky to escape injury when they encountered Mr. Vijarro. A violent offender whose actions were without regard to anyone’s safety, we are grateful for the successful prosecution by AUSA Black Horse and her team,” said Sheriff Robert Udell. “Our partnership with federal law enforcement agencies and the U.S. Attorney, Eastern District of Washington, continues to be a significant boon to Yakima County public safety.”
This case was investigated by the FBI. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Bree R. Black Horse.
1:24-cr-2055-MKD
Pete Serrano Appointed Interim United States Attorney for the Eastern District of WashingtonRead the Press Release
Spokane, Washington – Pete Serrano was sworn in today as the Interim United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington. United States Attorney Serrano was appointed to the position by Attorney General Pam Bondi on August 6, 2025.
As Interim United States Attorney, Mr. Serrano supervises the prosecution of all federal crimes and the litigation of all civil matters in the Eastern District of Washington in which the United States has an interest. He leads a staff of approximately 79 prosecutors, civil litigators, and support personnel across Eastern Washington.
Prior to his appointment as Interim U.S. Attorney, Mr. Serrano was Mayor of the City of Pasco, Washington.
In 2021, Mr. Serrano co-founded the Silent Majority Foundation, a nonprofit organization to fight for civil liberties. Mr. Serrano was Director and the General Counsel for the Foundation.
From 2015 to 2018, Mr. Serrano worked as an attorney for the Department of Energy focusing on environmental law. From 2018 to 2021, Mr. Serrano worked at Energy Northwest including working on permitting small modular nuclear reactors.
Pasco Man Caught with 25 Pounds of Methamphetamine Sentenced to 10 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
Yakima, Washington – Acting United States Attorney Stephanie Van Marter announced that Jesus Birrueta-Mendoza, age 27, a citizen of Mexico residing in Pasco, Washington, was sentenced on charges of possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of actual methamphetamine. Birrueta-Mendoza pleaded guilty to those charges on February 18, 2025. Chief United States District Judge Stanley A. Bastian sentenced Birrueta-Mendoza to 10 years in prison to be followed by 5 years of supervised release.
According to court documents and information presented at the sentencing hearing, on January 18, 2024, Birrueta-Mendoza was engaged in ongoing negotiations to sell upwards of 50 pounds of methamphetamine. On the day of the intended transaction, Birrueta-Mendoza was arrested by agents of the Department of Homeland Security and found to be in possession of 25 pounds of methamphetamine at a location in Sunnyside, Washington. Birrueta-Mendoza was unlawfully present in the United States when he committed this serious federal offense after being removed by authorities three times in 2018.
“Mr. Birrueta-Mendoza was engaged in drug trafficking after unlawfully returning to the United States. He intended to distribute a large amount of methamphetamine into our community without concern about its impact.” stated Acting U.S. Attorney Van Marter. “This office remains committed to working with our federal, state and tribal partners to remove those offenders who pose such a threat. This sentence reflects the seriousness of his actions and my office’s commitment to hold drug distributors accountable.”
“HSI remains committed to combating transnational criminal organizations that import and distribute narcotics in our communities,” said ICE Homeland Security Investigations Seattle Acting Special Agent in Charge Colin Jackson. “HSI will continue to ensure that individuals like Mr. Birrueta-Mendoza, who attempt to distribute narcotics in the Pacific Northwest, are held accountable.”
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael D. Murphy.
1:24-cr-02007-SAB
Tri-Cities Registered Sex Offender Facing Federal Charges for Assaulting ICE AgentsRead the Press Release
Richland, Washington – Acting United States Attorney Stephanie Van Marter announced that Victor Martin Lara-Lopez, age 41, has been charged by complaint with two counts of Assault on a Federal Officer. Lara-Lopez made his initial appearance in federal court on July 17, 2025.
According to court documents and information presented in court, on the morning of June 13, 2025, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Deportation Officers attempted to detain Lara-Lopez on an Administrative Warrant for Arrest of an Alien. The officers spotted Lara-Lopez driving his F-350 truck in Pasco, Washington.
The officers, driving two separate vehicles, activated the emergency lights on their vehicles, parked in front of and behind Lara-Lopez, then approached the driver side window. Both officers were wearing ICE-issued ballistic vests with “POLICE” patches on the front and back.
The officers instructed Lara Lopez to roll down the window. Lara-Lopez only rolled the window halfway down and refused a request to turn off the vehicle or give his name or identification to the officers.
Lara-Lopez then attempted to roll up the window. One of officers stepped on the vehicle’s running board and attempted to keep the window down. Lara-Lopez took the vehicle out of park and started to back up. Both officers struggled with Lara-Lopez through the half-closed window in an attempt to gain control of Lara-Lopez and the vehicle.
After reversing a short distance, Lara-Lopez put the vehicle in drive and began to drive forward. Both ICE agents jumped backward to avoid being crushed between the F-350 and the agent’s parked vehicle. Lara-Lopez drove up on the sidewalk, struck the agent’s vehicle, then sped off. Both agents remained at the scene and did not pursue Lara-Lopez.
One of the ICE agents had bruises on their arm from the altercation. The other agent experienced pain and loss of mobility in their left shoulder.
Later that day, a federal complaint and arrest warrant were obtained for Lara-Lopez. Federal law enforcement authorities sought, but were unable to locate, Lara-Lopez for approximately one month. During this time, a Washington State Department of Corrections warrant was also issued for Lara-Lopez after he failed to report to his Community Corrections Officer. Lara-Lopez was under supervision by the Washington State DOC due to a conviction from 2022 for Child Molestation in the Second Degree with the Aggravating Circumstance of Position of Trust for which Lara-Lopez was sentenced to 36 months of imprisonment to be followed by 36 months of supervision. Lara-Lopez was also sentenced to a number of conditions, to include a prohibition on contact with minors.
On July 15, 2025, Law enforcement identified the same F-350 driven by Lara-Lopez on June 13th, driving on Highway 12 between Walla Walla and Pasco, Washington. Officers stopped the truck and the driver, a female, and a juvenile exited the vehicle. Lara-Lopez was also in the vehicle, but refused to exit until he was advised that K9 unit had been called to respond to the scene. Lara-Lopez then exited from the passenger door of the truck and was arrested by law enforcement.
“Every day, law enforcement officers in this district go to work to protect our community. Often, they must contact individuals with serious criminal histories who do not want to be apprehended and present a danger to our community. It is not uncommon for law enforcement to be assaulted in the course of doing the job, which is not lawful and should never be acceptable,” stated Acting United States Attorney Stephanie Van Marter. “My office will continue to hold those accountable who use violence in attempt to avoid arrest.”
This case was investigated by the FBI. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Laurel J. Holland.
A complaint is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
4:25-mj-07126-ACE
Mexican National with Ties to the Jalisco Cartel Sentenced to 19 Years in Federal Prison for Trafficking in Hundreds of Pounds of Fentanyl, Heroin, Methamphetamine, and Cocaine in Eastern Washington and MontanaRead the Press Release
Spokane, Washington – Acting United States Attorney Stephanie Van Marter announced that Luis Esquivel-Bolanos (a/k/a “Colorado”), age 45, of Guerrero, Mexico was sentenced on multiple drug trafficking and firearms charges. Esquivel-Bolanos was found guilty on April 16, 2025, following a jury trial. United States District Judge Thomas O. Rice sentenced Esquivel-Bolanos to 19 years in prison to be followed by 5 years of supervised release.
Based on court documents and evidence presented at trial and sentencing, in January 2023, the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) identified Esquivel-Bolanos as a member of a drug trafficking organization, which had flooded the Eastern District of Washington, including the Oroville area and the Colville Indian Reservation, with methamphetamine and fentanyl. The organization spread as far as central Montana, where many of the illegal drugs were being sold on Tribal land, including on the Crow, Northern Cheyenne, Rocky Boy’s, Fort Belknap, and Flathead Reservations. Within Eastern Washington, the organization was run by Esquivel-Bolanos and his co-defendant, Erubey Arciga Medrano. Esquivel-Bolanos was directly below Medrano, who previously pled guilty to his role in the drug trafficking conspiracy.
The organization used threatening tactics to maintain control over their drug-distribution activities. In one instance, the organization threatened that the Jalisco Cartel, who supplied drugs to Esquivel-Bolanos and his associates, would kill a confidential informant, who was strip searched when the informant was accused of being a “snitch.” On a separate occasion – not long before police were able to intervene and shut down the organization – Esquivel-Bolanos and others arranged for members of the organization to go to the home of a person suspected of stealing more than thirty pounds of methamphetamine from the organization and to threaten to kill that the suspected thief.
On April 19, 2023, BIA, DEA, the North Central Washington Narcotics Task Force, and other Federal, State, Local, and Tribal law enforcement, executed a series of federal search warrants at a number of homes in rural Okanogan County, near Oroville, Washington. In total, investigators seized approximately 161,000 fentanyl-laced pills (to include Mexi-blues and rainbow-colored pills), approximately 80 pounds of methamphetamine, approximately 6 pounds of heroin, and more than 2 pounds of cocaine. The BIA, DEA, and their partners also seized approximately 12 firearms. Many of these drugs were obtained inside a trailer, where Esquivel-Bolanos was living at the time.
“This case involved one of the largest drug seizures ever in rural Washington. Mr. Esquivel-Bolanos’s organization was major source of illegal narcotics across Washington and Montana. These drugs caused serious harm across our region and especially in our tribal communities.” stated Acting United States Attorney Stephanie Van Marter. “Thanks to countless hours of work and coordination between prosecutors in my office and federal, state, and tribal law enforcement, this drug network was dismantled and Mr. Esquivel-Bolanos was held accountable for his actions.”
“The Bureau of Indian Affairs Division of Drug Enforcement takes great pride in the relationships it has built with tribal, federal, state, and local agencies across the nation,” said BIA-DDE Deputy Associate Director Tom Atkinson. “Together, we remain committed to safeguarding communities and upholding tribal sovereignty through coordinated enforcement efforts. The sentence handed down in this case reflects the gravity of the individual’s actions. This organization has impacted countless lives across reservations and surrounding communities—both within and beyond Indian Country.”
“Mr. Esquivel-Bolanos pedaled poisonous fentanyl, meth, and cocaine on behalf of a now-designated Foreign Terrorist Organization threatening violence and death to control his turf,” said David F. Reames, Special Agent in Charge, DEA Seattle Field Division. “He richly deserves the lengthy sentence he received in this case and I am proud that DEA and our partners at BIA and the North Central Washington Narcotics Task Force could deliver justice on behalf of our community.”
This case was prosecuted under the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) program. The OCDETF program provides supplemental federal funding to the federal and state agencies involved in the investigation of transnational drug trafficking and related offenses. The U.S. Attorney’s Office is partnering with federal, state, local, and Tribal law enforcement to specifically identify the criminals responsible for these drug related offenses in the Eastern District of Washington and pursue criminal prosecution.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs Division of Drug Enforcement, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the North Central Washington Narcotics Task Force. The investigation team was assisted by the U.S. Marshals Service, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the Okanogan County Sheriff, Colville Tribal Police Department, and the Kalispel Tribal Police Department. The Eastern Washington cases were prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Nowles H. Heinrich, former Acting United States Attorney Richard R. Barker, and Contractor Echo D. Fatsis. Twenty-seven defendants were charged and convicted through a parallel prosecution handled by AUSAs and support staff in the District of Montana.
2:23-cr-00047-TOR
Eight Defendants with Long Criminal Histories Indicted for Unlawfully Reentering the United States After DeportationRead the Press Release
Yakima and Tri-Cities, Washington – The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Washington announced that eight people have been charged with Illegally Re-Entering the United States After Deportation, in violation of 8 U.S.C. § 1326. Illegal Re-Entry is a criminal offense and separate from civil immigration enforcement. All of the individuals charged have criminal records and each had previously been removed from the United States.
United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), and other Federal law enforcement partners are dedicated to protecting the lives of American citizens. As such, these Federal agencies are continually looking for illegally present foreign nationals who have a history of violating state, local, and Federal law. A Federal Grand Jury returned indictments as to the individuals listed below.
Santiago Gracida-Santos, age 29, a Mexican national, previously convicted of Illegally Re-Entering the United States after Deportation, Driving Under the Influence, and Carrying a Concealed Weapon. Gracida-Santos has also been charged in state court with Robbery and Exhibiting a Deadly Weapon. Gracida-Santos has been removed to Mexico on two prior occasions. On June 30, 2025, Gracida-Santos was arrested by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife for Arson. Gracida-Santos was released back into the community after he posted a bond on the state Arson case.
Jose Luis Cruz-Agustin, age 38, a Mexican national, previously convicted in state court for Rape in the Third-Degree, Third-Degree Assault, Furnishing Liquor to a Minor, Hit and Run Accident Injury with Domestic Violence, Reckless Endangerment with Domestic Violence, Fourth Degree Assault with Domestic Violence. Cruz-Agustin was previously removed from the United States on two separate occasions. Cruz-Agustin was prosecuted and convicted of Unlawful Re-Entry, the same offense, in the District of Arizona, in 2016. On March 14, 2025, Cruz-Agustin was located in Connell, Washington. Cruz-Agustin is scheduled for a change of plea hearing on July 17, 2025, in Richland, Washington.
Marco Alvarez-Acevedo, age 35, a Mexican national, previously convicted of Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine and Conspiracy to Commit Money Laundering in the District of Montana. Alvarez-Acevedo was also previously convicted of Attempted Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute in the Western District of Washington. In 2022, Alvarez-Acevedo was removed to Mexico. On July 3, 2025, Alvarez-Acevedo was found in Sunnyside, Washington.
Pedro Soberanis a.k.a. Victor Godinez-Vasquez and Emilio Soberanis, age 49, a Mexican national, previously convicted of Theft of Motor Vehicle, Second Degree Burglary, Possession of a Stolen Vehicle, Residential Burglary, Unlawful Possession of Methamphetamine, Battery of Spouse, and Illegally Re-Entering the United States after Deportation. Soberanis has been removed from the United States on multiple prior occasions. Soberanis was recently charged in State court with Harassment-Threats to Kill, and Second-Degree Burglary. Soberanis is currently in State custody under the name of Victor Godinez-Vasquez and will appear in the federal case at the conclusion of the pending state matter.
Jose Bautista-Sanchez, age 29, a Mexican national, previously convicted of multiple counts of Criminal Trespass, Domestic Violence Assault, Attempted Residential Burglary, and Voyeurism. Bautista-Sanchez was recently charged in State court with Harassment Threats to Kill and Second-Degree Assault. Bautista-Sanchez was previously removed from the United States.
Jovenal Faustino-Pineda, age 30, a Mexican national, previously convicted of Fourth Degree Assault, Interference with Report, and Second-Degree Burglary. Faustino-Pineda was recently charged in state court with Possession of a Stolen Vehicle, Second Degree Burglary, and Second-Degree Theft. Faustino-Pienda has been removed from the United States on multiple prior occasions. On June 4, 2024, was arrested in Yakima County for possession of a stolen vehicle and was subsequently released back into the community.
Guadalupe Hernandez-Mendez, age 26, a Mexican national, previously convicted in two separate instances of Driving Under the Influence. Hernandez-Mendez also has prior convictions for Obstruction and Reckless Driving. Hernandez-Mendez has previously been removed from the United States on two separate occasions. On June 11, 2025, Hernandez-Mendez was arrested in Toppenish, Washington.
Ruben Mata-Prida, a Mexican national, previously convicted on four separate instances of Driving Under the Influence. Mata-Prida also has prior convictions for Hit and Run, Obstruction and Threats to Do Harm. On June 23, 2025, Mata-Prida was found in Toppenish, Washington.
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Washington has prioritized identifying individuals who pose a risk to our community and are recidivist offenders. Alongside other priorities such as fentanyl interdiction, dismantling drug trafficking organizations, especially those targeting our most vulnerable populations, and child exploitation offenses, criminal immigration enforcement is amongst those priorities as it has been in the past. There is often an overlap in these areas. While each criminal defendant is different, several trends are evident. These include: the use of false names and aliases (including to enter the United States); unresolved criminal matters due to the individual failing to appear in court; convictions for narcotics offenses, both state and Federal; the illegal possession and use of firearms; and a history of violent felony and misdemeanor offenses.
Acting United States Attorney Stephanie A. Van Marter stated, “I am very proud of ICE, HSI, and our other Federal partners for coming together to remove such offenders from our communities. Each of these individuals have repeatedly violated state and/or Federal laws and have unlawfully returned to the United States. Those who commit crimes while unlawfully present, should be subject to our criminal immigration laws. Thanks to the hard work and tireless dedication of these federal law enforcement partners, our communities are safer today.”
United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) were involved in the investigations.
25-CR-02086-SAB
25-CR-02077-SAB
25-MJ-04130-ACE
25-CR-02080-SAB
25-CR-02082-MKD
25-CR-02084-RLP
25-CR-02085-SAB
25-CR-06011-MKD
An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Defendants Charged with Assaulting Federal Law Enforcement Officers, Other Offenses During Protest Near Spokane ICE OfficeRead the Press Release
Spokane, Washington – Nine defendants are scheduled to make their first appearances in federal court at 3 P.M. today after the return of an indictment alleging several charges – including assaulting a federal officer – during a protest gathering at the Homeland Security office in Spokane.
Benjamin Theodore Stuckart, age 53, has been charged with Conspiracy to Impede or Injure Officers
Justice Forral, age 33, has been charged with Conspiracy to Impede or Injure Officers
Mikki Pike Hatfield, age 34, has been charged with Conspiracy to Impede or Injure Officers and Assault on a Federal Officer, Employee, or Person Assisting a Federal Officer (intent to cause another felony/use of a dangerous weapon)
Erin Nicole Lang, age 31 has been charged with Conspiracy to Impede or Injure Officers
Collin James Muncey, age 34 has been charged with Conspiracy to Impede or Injure Officers
Thalia Marie Ramirez, age 20, has been charged with Conspiracy to Impede or Injure Officers
Bobbi Lee Silva, age 38, has been charged with Conspiracy to Impede or Injure Officers and Assault on a Federal Officer, Employee, or Person Assisting a Federal Officer (physical contact / intent to cause another felony)
Bajun Dhunjisha Mavalwalla II, age 35 has been charged with Conspiracy to Impede or Injure Officers
Jac Dalitso Archer, age 33, has been charged with Conspiracy to Impede or Injure Officers
“We respect and honor everyone’s right to peacefully protest. However, the few who choose to cross the line from protest to violence and destruction will be held accountable,” stated Acting United States Attorney Stephanie Van Marter.
According to court documents and information shared in court, on June 11, 2025, at approximately 12:52 pm, Stuckart posted on social media a call for others to come and join him as he blocked a bus that was going to be used to transport the federal detainees held at the federal facility in Spokane to Tacoma for their immigration hearings. Archer and other co-conspirators arrived in response to the post, and along with Stuckart, blocked the pathway and door to the transport bus, despite orders to disperse.
As alleged in the indictment, a short time later, Forral parked his vehicle to block the exit path of the bus. Forral and Lang then released air from the tires of the bus, and other co-conspirators painted the windshield of the bus rendering it unsafe to drive.
Archer reposted Stuckart’s call and posted additional calls urging others to come and join noting the intent was to “risk arrest to block the exits to ICE”.
When federal officers attempted to leave the building through a secure parking lot on the south end of property, Forral, Hatfield, Muncey, Silva, Mavalwalla II, Archer, and other co-conspirators blocked the driveway and/or pushed against officers, despite orders to disperse and attempts to remove the defendants from the property. Silva struck a federal officer from behind as the officer was attempting to clear a path for transport vehicles to leave the building.
Forral, Muncey, Hatfield, and other co-conspirators then placed trash cans, sand/cement bags, benches, signs, and other objects in front of doors and exits to block the exit of federal officers and detainees from the federal facility.
After Spokane Police arrived, officers placed marked patrol vehicles in front of and behind a red transport van that was then designated to transport the detainees to Tacoma for their immigration hearings. The red van was quickly surrounded by Stuckart, Hatfield, Lang, Silva, and other co-conspirators. Ramirez, armed with a boxcutter, slashed the tires of the van, making it unsafe to drive.
After dispersal orders issued by Spokane Police Department were ignored, the Spokane Police Department deployed crowd control measures to include inert smoke and pepper balls at the feet of those resistant to leave. According to the indictment, Hatfield picked one up one of those deployed incendiary devices and threw it in the direction of Spokane Police and Spokane County Sheriff’s Office deputies.
Multiple calls for assistance were made to local law enforcement agencies. Because of the defendants’ actions, federal agents and the detainees, as well as civilian employees were unable to leave the facility, until approximately 9:00 PM, and only with the assistance of the Spokane Police Department S.W.A.T team.
This case was investigated by the FBI and other federal agencies, including the USMS.
An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
2:2025-cr-00113-RLP
Armed and Violent Drug Traffickers Operating in the Yakama Nation and Yakima Valley Facing Federal Charges, Thousands of Pounds of Drugs SeizedRead the Press Release
Yakima, Washington – The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Washington announced that 13 people have been charged following the return of 12 indictments alleging more than a dozen charges against these defendants.
The arrests follow a long-term joint federal, local, and tribal investigation that began in 2024, concluding in June 2025, led by the Drug Enforcement Administration and Bureau of Indian Affairs. The investigation targeted violent individuals and armed drug traffickers on the Yakama Nation and in the Yakima Valley with the goal to disrupt drug distributors operation both on and off the reservation.
“Fentanyl continues to be one of the most dangerous substances threatening our communities,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Stephanie Van Marter. “Thanks to the hard work and tireless dedication of our tribal, state and federal law enforcement partners, working side by side with members of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Yakima, offenders have been removed from our communities and families are safer today.”
To date, agents have seized 7,100 pounds of marijuana, 336 pounds of methamphetamine, nearly 25 pounds of cocaine, 7 pounds of fentanyl power, 4,704 fentanyl laced pills, $22,512 in drug proceeds, and 12 firearms.
According to unsealed charging documents, the following individuals have been charged in connection with the investigation. The United States anticipates bringing additional charges against other individuals identified during this investigation.
Angel Navarro Aleman, age 55, charged with Distribution of 50 Grams and More of Actual (Pure) Methamphetamine (three counts)
Jose Francisco Aguirre, age 56, pleaded guilty to Distribution of 50 Grams and More of Actual (Pure) Methamphetamine; sentencing in July 2025.
Jose Caudillo-Ascencio, age 23 charged with Possession with Intent to Distribute a Mixture or Substance Containing Cocaine; Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime
Jesus Caudillo, age 31, charged with Felon in Possession of a Firearm
Johnny Thomas Axtell, age 54, charged with Distribution of 5 Grams or More of Actual (Pure) Methamphetamine; Distribution of Fentanyl
Israel Nicolas Castaneda, age 37, charged with Distribution of Fentanyl; Distribution of 40 Grams or More of Fentanyl
Samantha Rasberry-Besa, age 31, charged with Distribution of 40 Grams or More of Fentanyl; Possession of Firearms in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime
Lonzell Hawk Lucei, age 37, charged with Felon in Possession of a Firearm
Hollis Marion Woodward, age 70, pleaded guilty to Felon in Possession of a Firearm, sentencing in September 2025.
Miguel Angel Alvarado-Munoz, age 45, charged with Alien in United States After Deportation
Ira Charles Pete, age 39, charged with Felon in Possession of a Firearm
Edgar Jovnni Nunez Bocanegra, age 29, charged with Drug User in Possession of a Firearm; Possession with Intent to Distribute 5 Grams or More of Actual (Pure) Methamphetamine; Possession of a Firearm During and in Relation to a Drug Trafficking Crime
Fernando Gonzalez, age 38, charged with Possession with the Intent to Distribute 400 Grams or More of Fentanyl, Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of Drug Trafficking, and Felon in Possession of a Firearm
The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Bureau of Indian Affairs conducted the investigation along with Homeland Security Investigations, FBI, ATF, Yakima Police Department, Wapato Police Department, Yakama Nation Tribal Police Department, and the Yakima County Sheriff’s Office.
25-CR-02035-RLP
25-CR-02016-RLP
25-cr-02064-MKD
25-CR-02046-RLP
25-CR-02013-SAB
25-CR-02034-SAB
25-CR-02050-MKD
25-CR-02041-RLP
25-CR-02058-SAB
25-CR-02036-SAB
25-CR-02055-SAB
An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Stephanie Van Marter to Serve as Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of WashingtonRead the Press Release
Spokane, Washington – On July 7, 2025, Stephanie Van Marter assumed the role of Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington.
Van Marter, who was born and raised in Spokane, is a distinguished graduate of Gonzaga Prep, Gonzaga University, and the Gonzaga School of Law, where she graduated with highest honors in 1999. She has been with the United States Attorney’s Office for more than two decades and has served in numerous leadership positions over that time, most recently as Senior Litigation Counsel, Deputy Criminal Chief, and Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (“OCDETF”) Coordinator. Working alongside federal, state and tribal agency partners, she has taken on hundreds of complex federal cases involving transnational drug trafficking, murder, weapons offenses, crimes against our tribal communities and members, and crimes against children. Van Marter has been nationally recognized for her successful prosecutions and leadership in targeting and bringing to justice the most dangerous transnational drug traffickers harming our community.
Van Marter began her prosecutorial career as a deputy prosecuting attorney for Ada County in Boise, Idaho. During law school, she began serving in the U.S. Attorney’s Office as an intern and volunteered as a victim advocate at Lutheran Family Services in Spokane. While earning undergraduate degrees in criminal justice and psychology from Gonzaga, she worked at the Spokane Police Department, supporting community policing initiatives. Van Marter continues to be an active member of the Spokane community, serving as a board member of the Cancer Care Foundation with her father and sister, and as one of the founding board members for the Spokane Alliance for Fentanyl Education (“SAFE”), which recently received national recognition for its work educating the public on the dangers of illicit fentanyl. Skiers at Mount Spokane may also recognize Van Marter, a certified first responder, who served for 13 years as a member of the National Ski Patrol. She and her husband, who was also raised in the Spokane community, are the proud parents of four grown sons, each of whom has gone on to earn a college or advanced degree. Two of her sons also serve in the United States military. Van Marter intends to remain engaged in community service throughout her time at the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
“Having grown up in this community and chosen it as the place to raise my own family, I am humbled and honored to serve as Acting United States Attorney,” Van Marter said. “I have dedicated my career to this community and to developing and maintaining partnerships with all who serve in law enforcement. I have always been driven by a deep commitment to bring justice to those impacted by crime, to ensure that the voices of victims are heard, and to carry out the important law enforcement and prosecutorial missions of this District. I am proud to be a part of a team of dedicated professionals who work every day to protect our communities, and to work with our federal, state, tribal and community partners and to bring and defend cases that will continue to make our communities stronger and safer.”
Van Marter’s law enforcement colleagues have welcomed her into her new role as the chief law enforcement officer for the Eastern District, which spans all 20 counties east of the Cascade mountains in Washington. “Steph Van Marter has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to justice and public safety in all of her work, from transnational drug cases to complicated Indian Country matters,” said Tom Atkinson, the Deputy Associate Director of the Division of Drug Enforcement for the Bureau of Indian Affairs. “Her strong support for the BIA and her unwavering collaboration with tribal, federal, and local partners continues to make a real impact in the communities that make up the Eastern District. We fully support her appointment as Acting U.S. Attorney and are confident she will continue to champion tribal sovereignty, safety, and justice for all.”
Van Marter succeeds Richard R. Barker, who concludes his service as Acting U.S. Attorney but leaves the leadership of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in experienced hands. “Through her years of service, Steph Van Marter has built outstanding relationships with law enforcement and community members and has brought unmatched dedication to the mission of this office,” Barker said.
Van Marter looks forward to building on the legacy established by the United States Attorneys who have come before her. “This office has an incredibly rich tradition of outstanding leadership. From Jim Connelly, Jim McDevitt, Mike Ormsby, and Joseph Harrington, from whom I learned so much in the early part of my career, through the late Bill Hyslop, to Vanessa Waldref and Richard Barker, the U.S. Attorneys in this District have laid a strong foundation upon which I am eager to build. I am privileged to have been mentored by these incredible leaders and to have seen firsthand the vast talent of so many Assistant United States Attorneys who have worked and sacrificed for the good of this office and the people in this District. I am grateful for the high standards set by those who have come before me, and I am humbled to be able to follow their examples.”
Van Marter also highlighted her excitement about continuing the great work done by her team at the U.S. Attorney’s Office: “We will build on our already-strong and important relationships with law enforcement and community partners throughout this District. We will keep seeking justice by bringing a one team approach; to combine and expand our resources together so we can bring the most impactful cases that help our community to be safer. We will continue to stand for those impacted by crime. I am so grateful to have this opportunity to continue to strengthen Eastern Washington and secure justice for those who call this beautiful and special place home.”
Richard R. Barker Concludes Service as Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of WashingtonRead the Press Release
Spokane, Washington – On July 7, 2025, Richard R. Barker stepped down as the Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington. Barker will be returning to private practice in Spokane after a distinguished career in public service.
Acting United States Attorney Barker has over a decade of experience as a career prosecutor, serving as an Assistant United States Attorney since 2014. During his career, Barker has held the positions of First Assistant United States Attorney, Tribal Liaison, Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Coordinator, Digital Asset Coordinator, and Public Affairs Officer. From 2014 – 2019, Barker served as an Assistant United States Attorney in the nation’s capital, where he served as a dedicated homicide prosecutor. In early 2019, Barker joined the Eastern District of Washington, serving as an Assistant United States Attorney (“AUSA”) in the Spokane office.
Acting United States Attorney Barker has dedicated his career to serving victims of violent crime, while handling numerous homicide and violent crime cases. Late last year, Barker was lead counsel with AUSA Michael J. Ellis in the trial of Zachery Holt and Dezmonique Tenzsley for the double murder of two Tribal members and the attempted murder of a federal officer on the Colville Indian Reservation. In 2023, Barker successfully prosecuted Ronald Craig Ilg, who attempted to hire hitmen on the dark web to harm his wife and a former work colleague. Earlier this year, Barker was lead counsel with AUSA Nowles Heinrich and Echo Fatsis in the successful trial of Luis Esquival Balonos, who was convicted on multiple drug trafficking charges stemming from more than one hundred pounds of illegal drugs being distributed on and around the Colville Indian Reservation and into Montana. Barker, who carried an active caseload while leading the office, was the first Eastern Washington U.S. Attorney in nearly two decades to try a case to a verdict while serving in the U.S. Attorney role.
Throughout his career, Acting United States Attorney Barker also handled several significant drug trafficking prosecutions. In 2023, Barker, with co-counsel AUSA Stephanie Van Marter, prosecuted the “Fetty Bros” Drug Trafficking Organization, which was distributing hundreds of thousands of fentanyl pills and other drugs into Eastern Washington and using extreme violence to insulate their organization. In his efforts to further address the fentanyl crisis, Barker worked with now former U.S. Attorney Waldref and the City of Spokane to create a Special U.S. Assistant Attorney position focused on prosecuting those responsible for illegal narcotics impacting the Spokane area.
As First Assistant United States Attorney, Barker supervised the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s litigating units, which include the Criminal, Civil, and Appellate Divisions. As the Chief Deputy to the U.S. Attorney, Barker helped establish the District’s dedicated Appellate Division and worked closely with the Office’s administrative team to obtain additional DOJ resources for increasing public safety throughout Eastern Washington.
Throughout his service, Former Acting U.S. Attorney Barker built strong relationships with Washington’s Native American communities and worked tirelessly to honor federal treaty rights with Tribal Nations in Eastern Washington and address the crisis of missing or murdered indigenous people. In early 2024, Barker played a key role in hiring the district’s first MMIP AUSA, who is fully dedicated to prosecuting cases of Missing or Murdered Indigenous People. For Barker’s dedication to working with Native American communities and improving public safety, he received a Department of Justice Director’s Award in 2024.
“Serving as a federal prosecutor has been the highlight of my career,” said Barker. “It has been an honor to represent the United States and seek justice for victims and their families. Spokane has truly become home for me and my family, and I look forward to remaining active in the legal community as I return to private practice right here in Eastern Washington.”
Former U.S. Attorney Vanessa R. Waldref stated, “Acting U.S. Attorney Barker is an exceptional leader, a talented trial attorney, and a fearless advocate for justice. His service to the Department of Justice and dedication to protecting the communities of Eastern Washington is second to none. He led the District with distinction, focusing every day on doing the right thing for victims and the community and maintaining an unwavering commitment to upholding the rule of law.”
Outside the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Barker will continue to serve as an adjunct professor at Gonzaga University School of Law, where he has taught courses in Trial Advocacy and Conflicts of Law. Barker also serves as a Lawyer Representative to the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals.
Stephanie Van Marter will be assuming the role of Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington. “I’m honored to pass the torch to Acting U.S. Attorney Van Marter,” said Barker. “Steph has dedicated her career to the Department of Justice, and she will lead this office with the same honor, integrity, and commitment to justice as those who have served before her.” A formal announcement from the U.S. Attorney’s Office regarding Ms. Van Marter’s new role will be issued in the coming days.
Nespelem Man Sentenced to Four Years in Prison for Assaulting His Intimate Partner with a Firearm and Attempted Witness TamperingRead the Press Release
Spokane, Washington – Acting United States Attorney Richard R. Barker announced that Jered Shay Picard, age 35, of Nespelem, Washington, was sentenced after pleading guilty to Assault with a Dangerous Weapon in Indian Country and Attempted Witness Tampering. United States District Judge Thomas O. Rice sentenced Picard to 48 months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release.
According to court documents and information presented at the sentencing hearing, on December 13, 2024, Picard got into a fight with the victim, his intimate partner. The victim locked herself inside a pickup truck to get away from Picard. Picard then pointed a rifle at the victim’s face before firing a shot into the sky. When the victim tried to start the truck and escape, Picard shot out the front driver side tire so she could not leave. The victim recorded the incident on video.
The next morning, the Colville Tribal Police Department located and arrested Picard and booked him into jail.
During several jail telephone calls with the victim, Picard told her to tell investigators she did not want to press charges, avoid meeting with the FBI, delete the video of the incident, and tell investigators she and Picard were drunk at the time of the incident. Picard also implied the victim should not show up to court if the case was federally prosecuted.
“Mr. Picard’s actions were both life-threatening and deeply disturbing,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Richard R. Barker. “He used a firearm to terrorize his intimate partner and then attempted to manipulate her into obstructing justice. This sentence reflects the grave danger posed by armed domestic abusers—not only to their current victims, but to future partners and to the integrity of the justice system itself.”
“Mr. Picard's violent and intimidating actions were inexcusable, continuing in an aggressive and dangerous pursuit even when his victim tried to flee in a vehicle. He then compounded his crimes by continuing to intimidate the victim in a brazen attempt to avoid accountability for his actions,” said W. Mike Herrington, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Seattle field office. “I hope this sentence provides the first steps to closure and reinforces our commitment to combatting violent crime in all its forms. Along with our partners, the FBI is dedicated to making our state's tribal lands a safer place.”
Data shows that offenders with domestic violence in their past pose a high risk of homicide. In fact, domestic violence abusers with a gun in the home are five times more likely to kill their partners, and in addition to their lethality, firearms are used by abusers to inflict fear, intimidation, and coercive control. Additionally, when a violent intimate partner has access to a firearm, nonfatal abuse may increase in severity, even when firearms are not directly used in a violent incident.
This case was investigated by the FBI and the Colville Tribal Police Department. It was prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Michael L. Vander Giessen.
2:25-cr-00013-TOR
Inchelium Man Sentenced to 57 Months in Prison for Beating and Strangling His Intimate PartnerRead the Press Release
Spokane, Washington – Acting United States Attorney Richard R. Barker announced that Rodney Alan Signor, 49, of Inchelium, Washington, was sentenced after pleading guilty to Assault Resulting in Substantial Bodily Injury to a Spouse, Intimate Partner, or Dating Partner in Indian Country. United States District Judge Thomas O. Rice imposed a sentence of 57 months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release.
According to court documents and information presented at the sentencing hearing, on June 9, 2022, Signor assaulted his intimate partner by striking her and causing her to suffer bruising. In addition to beating his victim, Signor also strangled her, which caused her to lose consciousness. Signor also gagged his victim, wielded a knife toward her, and threatened to kill her.
“This case raised serious concerns for the victim’s safety, and I’m incredibly proud of the FBI’s swift and decisive response once the crime came to light,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Barker. “Our office remains firmly committed to protecting victims and holding domestic abusers accountable through aggressive prosecution.”
“Mr. Signor treated his former partner reprehensibly, endangering her safety in multiple violent attacks. We hope this sentence sends a clear message to Mr. Signor and others like him that violent crime will not be tolerated. The FBI is committed to continuing our work to reduce violent crime in tribal communities alongside our tribal partners,” said W. Mike Herrington, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Seattle field office.
Compared to all other groups in the United States, Native American women experience some of the highest rates of domestic violence. Particularly pervasive among violent crime is nonfatal strangulation by intimate partners. Nearly half of domestic violence victims report being choked. Although nonfatal strangulation often leaves few visible signs of injury, it can cause severe physical, neurological, and psychological complications and too often forebodes future domestic homicide. A woman who has been nonfatally strangled is over seven times more likely to be killed by the same intimate partner. The recent increased focus on the dangers of nonfatal strangulation confirms what survivors of it have known for years—that many domestic violence perpetrators do not strangle their intimate partners to kill them; they strangle them to let them know they can kill them any time they wish.
This case was investigated by the FBI and the Colville Tribal Police Department. It was prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Michael L. Vander Giessen and Assistant United States Attorney Nowles H. Heinrich.
2:23-cr-00145-TOR
Repeat Sex Offender Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Possessing Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
Spokane, Washington – Acting United States Attorney Richard R. Barker announced that Jonathan Ray Stocker, age 44, of Sprague, Washington, was sentenced after pleading guilty to possessing image and video files depicting the sexual abuse of a young children. United States District Judge Thomas O. Rice imposed a sentence of 10 years in prison to be followed by a lifetime of supervised release. Additionally, Judge Rice ordered Stocker to pay $45,000 in restitution to his victims.
According to court documents and information presented at the sentencing hearing, on July 1, 2023, the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Department learned from a third party that they had seen images and videos of children being sexually abused stored on Stocker’s computer.
Law enforcement executed a search warrant at Stocker’s home on September 1, 2023, and seized several electronic devices, including two computers belonging to Stocker. Agents located more than 9,000 images and 184 videos of children under the age of 12 being sexually abused.
Stocker has a prior federal conviction for Possession of Child Pornography. In 2012, he was sentenced to 48 months in prison and 5 years of supervised release.
“The United States Attorney’s Office remains committed to holding accountable those who sexually abuse and exploit children. Mr. Stocker’s prior conviction did not deter his conduct, and today’s sentence—along with lifetime supervision—is necessary to protect vulnerable members of our Eastern Washington communities,” said Acting United States Attorney Barker.
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 https://www.justice.gov/psc.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Ann T. Wick.
2:24-cr-00054-TOR
Wellpinit Man Sentenced to Prison for Violent AssaultRead the Press Release
Spokane, Washington – Acting United States Attorney Richard R. Barker announced that James Ray Hill Jr., age 46, of Wellpinit, Washington, was sentenced after pleading guilty to one count of Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury in Indian Country. United States District Judge Thomas O. Rice imposed a sentence of 48 months in prison to be followed by 3 years of supervised release.
According to court documents and information presented at the sentencing hearing, on December 3, 2023, Hill punched his girlfriend in the face while they were sitting in her car on the Spokane Indian Reservation. The assault caused the victim’s face to swell up and her injuries were painful. The victim went to hospital for treatment. Doctors found multiple broken bones, including around her eye and nose. The injuries were so severe, the victim underwent surgery to repair the damage to her face.
“My office’s partnership with Tribal nations and communities is integral to the work we do within the U.S. Attorney’s Office. While the federal government has not always lived up to its treaty and trust obligations, we can and must do better moving forward. Ensuring public safety is a top priority for my office, and I am so grateful for the work we have been able to do over the past several years to rebuild trust with the Tribal nations within the Eastern District of Washington.”
This case was investigated by the FBI and the Spokane Tribal Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael J. Ellis.
2:24-cr-00005-TOR
Tri-Cities Man Who Strangled and Assaulted His Girlfriend Sentenced to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Yakima, Washington – Acting United States Attorney Richard R. Barker announced that Jordan Michael Gunlock, age 33, was sentenced after pleading guilty to strangling and assaulting his girlfriend. United States District Judge Mary K. Dimke imposed a sentence of 24 months in prison to be followed by 3 years supervised release.
According to court documents and information presented at the sentencing hearing, in November 2023, Gunlock got into an argument with his girlfriend at her home in Wapato, Washington, after she moved his jacket. During the argument, Gunlock grabbed his girlfriend by the back of the head and pulled her hair, injuring her. After Gunlock stopped pulling her hair, the girlfriend told Gunlock to leave her home. Gunlock initially refused, but fled the residence after his girlfriend called for law enforcement to respond.
In November 2024, Gunlock and his girlfriend were staying at the Legends Hotel Casino in Toppenish, Washington. While in their room, Gunlock put his hands on his girlfriend’s neck and strangled her. After Gunlock stopped strangling his girlfriend, she left the hotel room and went to the hotel lobby. While sitting in the hotel lobby, the girlfriend was crying and gasping for air. Legends employees approached the girlfriend and called for law enforcement to respond. Gunlock’s strangulation assault left red marks on her neck that were still visible to law enforcement later that evening.
In asking for the 2-year sentence, Assistant United States Attorney Bree Black Horse noted that Gunlock has repeatedly assaulted and threatened to harm his girlfriend and members of her family if she left Gunlock or did not act had he directed. AUSA Black Horse argued that the 2-year sentence of imprisonment in a federal facility followed by 3 years of supervised release as well as a federal no-contact order with his girlfriend would deter future acts of Intimate Partner Violence perpetrated by Gunlock against his girlfriend.
At the sentencing hearing Judge Dimke noted that at the time of his arrest, Gunlock was located at his girlfriend’s residence in violation of a state court domestic violence protection order and that he had pressured her not to cooperate with state and federal authorities pursuing domestic violence assault charges against him. The Court specifically noted text messages from Gunlock indicating that he believed if his girlfriend did not show up to court that domestic violence charges against him would be “dropped.” In sentencing Gunlock to 2 years imprisonment, the Court stated it wanted to send a message that it takes domestic violence crimes on the Yakama Nation Indian Reservation seriously, and that interfering with the criminal justice system and demonstrating a lack of respect for court orders would result in serious consequences.
“Protecting victims and ensuring their safety is a top priority for our office, particularly in cases involving intimate partner violence in Indian Country,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Richard R. Barker. “This prosecution reflects our ongoing commitment to working with Tribal partners to hold offenders accountable and to disrupt cycles of abuse that threaten the safety and well-being of Native women. Prosecution of MMIP-adjacent cases like this one is critical to protecting our Tribal communities throughout Eastern Washington.”
“Mr. Gunlock’s sentencing demonstrates the FBI’s continued commitment to the safety of the state’s tribal communities,” said W. Mike Herrington, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Seattle field office. “Domestic violence cannot and will not be tolerated, and the FBI will continue to work diligently with our partners to bring justice for the victims of these deplorable crimes.”
This case is part of the Department of Justice’s Missing or Murdered Indigenous Persons (MMIP) Regional Outreach Program, which aims to aid in the prevention and response to missing or murdered Indigenous people through the resolution of MMIP and MMIP-related cases and communication, coordination, and collaboration with federal, Tribal, state, and local partners. The Department views this work as a priority for its law enforcement components. Through the MMIP Regional Outreach Program, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify MMIP cases and issues in Tribal communities and develop comprehensive solutions to address them.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Bree Black Horse.
1:25-cr-02005-MKD
Repeat Domestic Abuser Sentenced to Federal Prison for Assaulting and Strangling His PartnerRead the Press Release
Yakima, Washington – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Washington announced today that Anthony John Maldonado, age 32, was sentenced after pleading guilty to assaulting his partner. Chief United States District Judge Stanley A. Bastian imposed a sentence of 15 months to be followed by 3 years of supervised release. The Court also issued a 3-year federal no-contact order for the protection of the victim following Maldonado’s term of imprisonment.
According to court documents and information presented at the sentencing hearing, on April 6, 2024, Maldonado and his partner E.J., were at E.J.’s apartment in Wapato, Washington, when they began to argue in a bedroom. During the argument, Maldonado punched E.J in the head and she fell to the floor. Maldonado kicked and punched E.J. while she was on the floor. Maldonado then began to strangle E.J. once she was on the ground. E.J. then bit Maldonado on the arm and escaped to the kitchen where she called the police.
Maldonado consistently assaulted and harassed E.J. during their eight-year relationship resulting in domestic violence charges and convictions in Yakama Nation Tribal Court. Just two months before the assault that resulted in federal charges, Maldonado entered into a Deferred Sentence Agreement in Yakama Nation Tribal Court on domestic violence charges that included a requirement that he not “harm or harass E.J.” At sentencing, U.S. District Court Chief Judge Bastian found that the Yakama Nation Tribal Court “no harm or harass order” in place at the time of the strangulation assault represented a “court protection order” under the Violence Against Women Act.
At sentencing, MMIP Assistant United States Attorney Bree Black Horse stated “an assault involving non-fatal strangulation is a very serious offense,” explaining that “research shows a history of non-fatal strangulation is one of the most accurate predictors for the subsequent homicide of victims of domestic violence.” ASUA Black Horse also highlighted that “Indigenous women like the victim in this case experience crime victimization and Intimate Partner Violence at higher rates than non-Indian people,” and that “Intimate Partner Violence is an important factor in the rates of homicide in Tribal communities, particularly for Indigenous women and girls.”
“The pattern of traumatic abuse and domestic violence Mr. Maldonado inflicted on his partner is unconscionable, and the FBI will remain steadfast in its dedication to rooting out this type of violence in our tribal communities,” said W. Mike Herrington, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Seattle field office. “I am proud of the work of our investigators and Tribal partners to ensure Mr. Maldonado was held accountable for his actions.”
This case is part of the Department of Justice’s Missing or Murdered Indigenous Persons (MMIP) Regional Outreach Program, which aims to aid in the prevention and response to missing or murdered Indigenous people through the resolution of MMIP and MMIP-related cases and communication, coordination, and collaboration with federal, Tribal, state, and local partners. The Department views this work as a priority for its law enforcement components. Through the MMIP Regional Outreach Program, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify MMIP cases and issues in Tribal communities and develop comprehensive solutions to address them.
This case was investigated by the FBI. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Bree R. Black Horse.
1:24-cr-02057-SAB
Omak Man Who Shot at a Person on the Colville Reservation Sentenced to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Spokane, Washington – Acting United States Attorney Richard R. Barker announced that William Luquin Xhurape, 34, of Omak, Washington, was sentenced after pleading guilty to a charge of Felon in Possession of a Firearm. United States District Judge Thomas O. Rice imposed a sentence of 57 months in prison to be followed 3 years of supervised release.
According to court documents and information presented at the sentencing hearing, on April 1, 2024, Xhurape, who is a convicted felon and not allowed to possess firearms, pulled out a .22 caliber handgun and fired six shots into the ground outside the front door of a trailer on the Colville Reservation. Xhurape then pointed the firearm at the head of a person inside the trailer and fired two shots. The person quickly moved to avoid the shots.
“I am grateful for the excellent partnership between the FBI, Tribal Police, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office on this case,” stated Acting U.S. Attorney, Rich Barker. When we share information and work together, we can achieve so much in our efforts toward public safety within Eastern Washington’s incredible Native American nations and communities.
“As a convicted felon, Mr. Xhurape was well aware of the consequences of possessing a firearm,” said W. Mike Herrington, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Seattle field office. “His reckless use of a weapon nearly ended in tragedy, and I am thankful no one was injured. The FBI and our partners continue to strive together towards making our state’s tribal lands a safer place.”
This case was investigated by the FBI and the Colville Tribal Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael J. Ellis.
2:24-cr-00078-TOR
Mexican Drug Trafficker Caught with 84 Pounds of Methamphetamine and Thousands of Fentanyl Pills Sentenced to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Yakima, Washington – Acting United States Attorney Richard Barker announced that Jose Bautista Andrade, age 46, of Mexico, was sentenced after pleading guilty to fentanyl trafficking charges. Chief United States District Judge Stanley A. Bastian imposed a sentence of 132 months in prison to be followed by 5 years of supervised release.
According to court documents and information presented at the sentencing hearing, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) developed information that Andrade was working for drug dealer based in Mexico. Andrade would make regular trips to pick up dugs in California, store the drugs at his home and storage units in the Yakima area, then deliver the drugs to customers in Western Washington and accept payment from customers.
In October and November 2023, the FBI conducted two controlled purchases for total of four pounds of methamphetamine from Andrade. Both purchases took place at the Tacoma mall.
On February 6, 2024, law enforcement agents executed search warrants at Andrade’s home and a storage unit. In total, agents located nearly 5 pounds of fentanyl pills, approximately 84 pounds of methamphetamine, and four firearms.
At the sentencing hearing Chief Judge Bastian noted the large amount of drugs in this case and that Andrade was a major player in the drug trafficking operation.
“Assistant U.S. Attorney Ben Seal did an outstanding job bringing this case to a successful resolution,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Richard R. Barker. “His meticulous preparation and tenacious advocacy ensured that a major fentanyl and methamphetamine trafficker was held accountable. Prosecuting cases like this—where the scale of drug trafficking threatens the health and safety of entire communities—is essential to our mission, and AUSA Seal’s work exemplifies the dedication and excellence we strive for in the Eastern District of Washington.”
“Even in small quantities, fentanyl and other dangerous drugs can kill, destroying lives and devastating communities. However, Mr. Bautista Andrade was found to possess not small quantities but several dozen pounds of methamphetamine and thousands of fentanyl pills,” said W. Mike Herrington, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Seattle field office. “By removing this drug trafficker and his supplies from the streets, our investigators have undoubtedly made Yakima a safer place. I am grateful to them for their diligent work on this case and continued dedication to removing this toxin from our neighborhoods.”
This case was investigated by the FBI, the Yakima County Sheriff’s Office, and the Thurston County Narcotics Task Force. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Benjamin D. Seal.
1:24-cr-02064-SAB
Hanford Contractor, Washington River Protection Solutions (WRPS), Agrees to Pay $6.5 Million to Resolve Allegations of FraudRead the Press Release
Richland, Washington – Today Acting United States Attorney Richard R. Barker announced that federal contractor Washington River Protection Solutions, LLC (WRPS), has paid $6,500,000to the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) as part of a settlement agreement resolving allegations that WRPS fraudulently overcharged the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) for millions of dollars in labor hours.
According to court documents, the False Claims Act claim arose from allegations that WRPS’ management was aware of and failed to prevent inflated labor hours being charged to DOE, including labor hours in which WRPS employees, paid for with federal funds, were not scheduled or assigned sufficient work to perform. Under the cost-plus-award-fee contract with DOE for the management and operation of the Hanford Site’s “Tank Farms,” which consist of 176 large underground storage tanks holding millions of gallons of mixed hazardous and radioactive waste, WRPS was able to receive reimbursement for its claimed allowable costs, including labor. According to the allegations filed in court, WRPS fraudulently inflated reimbursable costs by failing to provide its employees with work assignments sufficient to fill an entire shift and then directed those same employees to record their time as if they had worked the entire shift. This false recording of time resulted in WRPS knowingly submitting false claims for the payment of those labor hours.
Under the settlement agreement entered into with the U.S. Attorney’s Office, WRPS has now admitted that between October 1, 2017, and December 31, 2024, it sought and received reimbursement from DOE for labor hours made up of unallowable excessive idle time. WRPS has further admitted in the settlement agreement that it did not schedule or assign sufficient work to be performed by its personnel. WRPS has paid a total settlement amount of $6,500,000, of which $3,000,000 is restitution, meaning that WRPS has had to pay more than double the damage it caused to DOE and the taxpayers.
“This is unfortunately not the first time that WRPS has settled allegations of committing fraud on the Tank Farms Contract,” stated Acting U.S. Attorney Barker, referring to a 2017 False Claims Act settlement with WRPS where it paid $5.275 million to resolve allegations that it knowingly submitted false claims to DOE for overtime and premium pay as well as that it had failed to comply with its internal audit requirements. “As a result of its past record, and its more recent conduct, WRPS has had to admit to that conduct and has been forced to pay more than twice as much as the money taken from DOE and the taxpayers. This is appropriate where the falsely charged labor hours were based, in part, on WRPS’ failure to assign and provide sufficient work to its employees, which were paid for with federal taxpayer money.”
In December 2022, a WRPS employee came forward with allegations of labor mischarging. This whistleblower, known as a “Relator,” filed a qui tam complaint under seal in the U.S. District Court (EDWA) under the False Claims Act. When a relator files a qui tam complaint, the False Claims Act requires the United States to investigate the allegations and elect whether to intervene and take over the action or to decline to intervene and allow the relator to go forward with the litigation on behalf of the United States. The relator is generally able to then share in any recovery. As part of the settlement agreement, the relator will receive $1,400,000 of the settlement amount and is entitled to have WRPS pay attorney fees.
“The relator-whistleblower in this case is to be commended,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Barker. “This individual came forward with serious and credible allegations of fraud that were then investigated for years. We are able to uncover fraud and hold fraudsters accountable only when good people come forward and report it to law enforcement, whether that’s through the filing of an under seal qui tam complaint or stepping forward as a witness,” continued Barker.
“The Office of Inspector General is committed to ensuring the integrity of Department contracts by detecting and holding accountable those who choose to engage in false claim schemes. This settlement is a result of our staff’s dedicated work to ensure public funds are used for the mission-related purposes for which they are intended,” stated Assistant Inspector General for Investigations Lewe Sessions. “We appreciate the efforts of the Department of Justice in pursuing this matter and will continue to work collaboratively with them to aggressively investigate those who seek to defraud Department programs.”
The settlement was the result of an investigation jointly conducted by the United States Attorney’s Office (USAO) and the Department of Energy Office of Inspector General. The USAO’s investigation and prosecution was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Tyler H.L. Tornabene. The Relator was represented by the law firms of Mehri & Skalet PLLC, Teller & Associates, PLLC, and Smith & Lowney, PLLC.
The settlement agreement can be viewed at the link below:
fully_executed_wrps_0.pdfWapato Man Sentenced to 45 Years in Prison for Sexually Abusing Three ChildrenRead the Press Release
Yakima, Washington - Acting United States Attorney Richard Barker announced that Jose Antonio Saldana, age 43, of Wapato, Washington, was sentenced on three counts of Abusive Sexual Contact and of Aggravated Sexual Abuse. Saldana was found guilty on March 12, 2025, following a jury trial. United States District Judge Mary K. Dimke sentenced Saldana to 45 years in prison to be followed by a lifetime of supervised release.
Based on court documents and evidence presented at trial and sentencing, beginning in August 1999, and continuing to January 2014, Saldana sexually abused three children under the age of 13 in Wapato, Washington. During trial, the victims recounted the abuse they suffered, which included Saldana touching them under their clothing and attempting to sexually abuse one of the victims.
“Mr. Saldana’s significant sentence reflects the seriousness of his conduct. I want to commend the brave victims who testified to the abuse they suffered and identified Mr. Saldana as their abuser,” stated Acting United States Attorney Barker. “My office will continue working closely with our law enforcement partners to hold offenders accountable and support survivors on their path to healing.”
This case was investigated by the FBI and the Yakama Nation Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael Murphy.
1:24-cr-02040-MKD
Mexican Drug Trafficker Caught with Tens of Thousands of Fentanyl Pills, Cocaine, Heroin, and Stolen Guns Sentenced to Federal Prison in Washington StateRead the Press Release
Spokane, Washington – Acting United States Attorney Richard R. Barker announced that Jose Efrain Gonzalez-Rodriguez, age 24, of Mexico, who was unlawfully present in the United States, was sentenced after pleading guilty to drug trafficking and firearm charges. United States District Judge Thomas O. Rice imposed a sentence of 120 months in prison to be followed by 5 years of supervised release.
According to court documents and information presented at the sentencing hearing, in May and June of 2024, the Drug Enforcement Administration developed information that Gonzalez-Rodriguez was working for a drug trafficking organization out of Mexico that was responsible for transporting drugs from California to Spokane and distributing them across Eastern Washington.
On June 24, 2024, after execution of a search warrant on Gonzalez-Rodriguez’s vehicle, agents located almost 2 pounds of methamphetamine and 6,855 fentanyl pills. Investigators also executed a search warrant at Gonzalez-Rodriguez’s apartment in Spokane where they located an additional 59,529 fentanyl pills, almost 3 pounds of methamphetamine, more than 1 pound of cocaine, and a quantity of heroin. Additionally, 4 four pistols were found in the kitchen wrapped in tape and plastic for transport. Two of the firearms had been reported stolen.
“Fentanyl is killing people across Eastern Washington. Those who traffic in this poison—along with other deadly drugs and illegal firearms—will be held accountable,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Richard R. Barker. “Mr. Gonzalez-Rodriguez brought significant quantities of poison and stolen weapons into our community, putting lives at risk. This sentence reflects the seriousness of his crimes and the commitment of our office and law enforcement partners to disrupt violent drug trafficking networks.”
“This case highlights the intersection of drug trafficking, firearms, and illegal immigration,“ said David F. Reames, Special Agent in Charge, DEA Seattle Field Division. “Mr. Gonzalez Rodriguez endangered our community on all three of these fronts and this sentence ensures his accountability, thanks to DEA and our partners.”
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration with assistance from the Spokane Regional Anti-Violence Enforcement and Narcotics (RAVEN) task force and the United States Border Patrol.
Case 2:24-cr-00091-TOR
Veterans Affairs Contractor Agrees to Pay $4.3 Million to Resolve Claims of Overbilling for ProductsRead the Press Release
Spokane, Washington – Omnicell, a company based in Delaware, has agreed to pay $4,366,660 to resolve claims that it fraudulently overbilled the United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) for medical device hardware and software, announced Richard R. Barker, the Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington.
Between January 2017 and February 2023, Omnicell held a federal contact with the VA to sell and lease products at a set price or negotiated discounted price.
According to the settlement agreement, a False Claims Act (FCA) claim arose from allegations that Omnicell did not always charge the correct prices for products purchased and leased by federal agencies.
When Omnicell became aware of certain pricing issues related to specific individual orders, including when federal government customers raised concerns and questions, Omnicell at times issued credits or otherwise corrected prices charged to federal government customers. However, Omnicell did not always timely correct the known issues in its sales and pricing system in a systemic way, nor did Omnicell undertake an analysis to determine whether other federal government customers that may have been previously overcharged due to the pricing issues in order to provide those customers with refunds of overcharges.
In August 2023, a former Omnicell employee came forward with allegations of fraudulent product overcharging. This individual, known as a “Relator,” filed a qui tam complaint under seal in the U.S. District Court (EDWA). When a relator files a qui tam complaint, the False Claims Act requires the United States to investigate the allegations and elect whether to intervene and take over the action or to decline to intervene and allow the relator to go forward with the litigation on behalf of the United States. The relator is generally able to then share in any recovery. As part of the settlement agreement, the relator will receive $785,998.80 of the settlement amount. $2,183,330 of the settlement amount has been designated as restitution, meaning that it will be returned to the VA.
“Veterans who served our country deserve the best health care possible. It is important that companies who do business with the VA and the federal government are accurate in how they charge for goods and services,” stated Acting United States Attorney Barker. “I am grateful that Omnicell quickly accepted responsibility and has taken steps to comply with its billing obligations going forward.”
“This settlement sends a clear message that the VA OIG will actively investigate allegations involving contractors overbilling for products provided to VA,” said Special Agent in Charge Dimitriana Nikolov with the Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General’s Northwest Field Office. “The VA OIG will continue to work with the US Attorney’s Office to ensure the integrity of VA programs and services.”
The settlement was the result of an investigation jointly conducted by the United States Attorney’s Office (USAO) and the VA Office of Inspector General. The USAO’s investigation and prosecution was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Jacob E. Brooks.
Yakima Man Who Used Snapchat and Instagram to Solicit Minors Sentenced to 22 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Yakima, Washington – Acting United States Attorney Richard R. Barker announced that Bryan Christopher Stevenson, 43, of Yakima, Washington, was sentenced after pleading guilty to soliciting minors to send him sexually explicit content. United States District Judge Mary K. Dimke sentenced Stevenson to 22 years in prison to be followed by 10 years of supervised release.
According to court documents and information presented at the sentencing hearing, between October 2020 and August 2022, Stevenson used social media to communicate with at least eight minors, living in three different states, who law enforcement could identify. Stevenson offered to send money to some minors in exchange for pictures and videos of the minors performing sexual acts. In several instances, Stevenson used different personas on Snapchat and Instagram, including by pretending to be a minor female and teenage boy, to communicate with his victims and to encourage them to send him explicit pictures and videos.
In one case, Stevenson contacted a minor, and claimed he had nude videos of the minor. Stevenson threatened to send the videos to the minor’s parents and members of their church unless they provided him with additional videos.
Investigators reviewing Stevenson’s iPad found 172 images and 45 videos of minors, including one victim who was between 4 and 6 years old, engaging in sexually explicit conduct and being sexually abused.
“Mr. Stevenson’s conduct was predatory, calculated, and devastating in its impact on vulnerable children,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Rich Barker. “He used the anonymity of social media to deceive, manipulate, and harm young victims across multiple states. His actions underscore the dangers children face online and the lasting trauma these crimes inflict. To those who use technology to target and exploit children, you will face serious consequences. I strongly urge parents, guardians, and community members to remain vigilant in monitoring their children’s social media activities and to engage in open conversations about online safety.”
Acting U.S. Attorney Barker continued, “While Social media companies are posting record profits; far too many families are coping with the devastating impact of online exploitation. Social media companies like Snapchat and Instagram have the responsibility to do more to ensure their products do not endanger the most vulnerable members of our communities.”
“Today’s sentencing is a powerful reminder that those who exploit and terrorize children through threats and manipulation will be held fully accountable,” said ICE Homeland Security Investigations Seattle Acting Special Agent in Charge Matthew Murphy. “This subject’s deliberate actions inflicted lasting trauma on vulnerable victims. Today’s outcome reflects HSI’s relentless commitment to protecting children and ensuring that predators are identified, apprehended, and prosecuted – no matter where they operate or how they hide.”
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the Yakima Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael D. Murphy.
1:23-cr-02071-MKD
Spokane Dermatologist Agrees to Pay $1.4 Million to Resolve Claims of Fraudulently Obtaining COVID-19 FundsRead the Press Release
Spokane, Washington – The United States Attorney’s Office announced William Philip Werschler, age 66, of Spokane, Washington, along with his businesses Spokane Dermatology Clinic, Premier Clinical Research L.L.C., and 3rd and Sherman Plaza L.L.C., have agreed to pay $1,400,000 to resolve claims under the False Claims Act related to alleged mis-spending of funds intended to benefit struggling businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic.
On March 27, 2020, the President signed into law the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. The CARES Act provided a number of programs through which eligible small businesses could request and obtain relief funding intended to mitigate the economic impacts of the pandemic for small and local businesses. One such program, the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program, provided low interest loans that could be deferred until the conclusion of the pandemic to provide “bridge” funding for small businesses to maintain their operations during shutdowns and other economic circumstances caused by the pandemic. EIDL funds were to be used solely as working capital to alleviate economic injury to a business caused by the COVID-19 disaster, such as paying payroll, health insurance premiums, rent, utilities, and fixed debt payments. EIDL funds were not to be used for personal purposes or to obtain real property or to refinance indebtedness which was incurred prior to the disaster event is a prohibited use of EIDL funding.
According to the settlement agreement, beginning no later than April 2020 and continuing until at least July 2022, Werschler applied for EIDL loans for his businesses: Spokane Dermatology Clinic, Premier Clinical Research, and 3rd and Sherman Plaza L.L.C.
Shortly after receiving EIDL funds, Werschler made personal purchases of a 2011 Porsche 911 GT3 and a 1997 Porsche Carrera for a total of $252,375.00. Werschler also used $553,143 to purchase two properties across from his Spokane Dermatology Clinic. The purchase of personal automobiles and real property are both contrary to the proper use of EIDL funds. The global resolution entered into by Werschler and his companies also resolved related criminal charges.
This case was investigated by the IRS Criminal Investigations, the FBI, and the Small Business Administration Office of Inspector General.
The settlement agreement can be viewed at the link below.
settlement_agreement.pdfTwo People Sentenced for Stealing Nearly $300,000 in COVID-19 Relief MoneyRead the Press Release
Yakima, Washington – Acting United States Attorney Richard R Barker announced that David Kurt Schneider, of Kennewick, Washington and Kelly Jo Driver, of South Carolina, were sentenced after pleading guilty to COVID-19 relief fraud. Chief United States District Judge Stanley A. Bastian sentenced Schneider to 12 months in prison and Driver to 5 years of probation. Chief Judge Bastian also ordered restitution of $121,762.
Co-defendant, Leif Gerald Larsen, of Pasco, Washington, has pleaded guilty to wire fraud and will be sentenced July 30, 2025, in Yakima.
On March 27, 2020, the President signed into law the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (“CARES”) Act. The CARES Act provided a number of programs through which eligible small businesses could request and obtain relief funding intended to mitigate the economic impacts of the pandemic for small and local businesses. One such program, the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), provided government-backed funding to small businesses which could be forgiven so long as the proceeds were used for payroll and other eligible expenses. Another program, the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program, provided low interest loans that could be deferred until the conclusion of the pandemic to provide “bridge” funding for small businesses to maintain their operations during shutdowns and other economic circumstances caused by the pandemic. The PPP and EIDL programs have provided billions of dollars in aid, the vast majority of which have not been paid back, including hundreds of millions of dollars disbursed within Eastern Washington.
According to court documents and information presented at the sentencing hearing, Schneider, Driver, and Larsen submitted funding applications in the name of Larsen Firearms, owned by Larsen, and Solar Mobility LLC, RealNZ Water LLC, and Tempest Tactical Solutions, LLC, all owned by Schneider. Driver created fraudulent payroll and tax forms that were submitted in support of the applications, and that, for her part in the scheme, Driver received 10% of the funds disbursed by the SBA and participating lenders.
In total, Schneider, Driver, and Larsen fraudulently obtained at least $292,000 in CARES Act funding through the PPP and EIDL programs and submitted fraudulent applications seeking at least an additional $560,000 in CARES Act funding that were ultimately not approved.
“Pandemic relief programs were created to support workers, small businesses, and communities struggling through an unprecedented crisis – not to enrich fraudsters,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Rich Barker. “By stealing nearly $300,000 intended for legitimate businesses, these defendants diverted critical resources at a time when many businesses were fighting to survive. The SBA, FBI, the U.S. Attorney’s Office will continue to hold accountable those who exploit government aid for personal gain.”
“Those who exploited SBA’s pandemic relief programs for personal gain will be held accountable,” said SBA OIG’s Western Region Assistant Special Agent in Charge, Tim Larson. “SBA OIG continues to prioritize fraud investigations involving pandemic-era programs, working closely with the U.S. Attorney’s Office and our law enforcement partners to protect taxpayer funds and uphold the integrity of federal relief efforts.”
This case was investigated by the Eastern District of Washington COVID-19 Fraud Strike Force and by FBI and SBA OIG. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Jeremy J. Kelley and Frieda K. Zimmerman.
4:24-cr-06004-SAB
Jamaal Antwan Pimms Sentenced to Federal Prison for His Role in the Murder of Rosenda StrongRead the Press Release
Yakima, Washington – Acting United States Attorney Richard R. Barker announced that Chief United States District Judge Stanley A. Bastian sentenced Jamaal Antwan Pimms, age 44, to 26 months in prison for Misprision of a Felony related to his role in the 2018 murder of Rosenda Strong. Chief Judge Bastian also imposed 1 year of supervised release.
According to court documents and information presented at the sentencing hearing, Jedidah Iesha Moreno shot and killed Rosenda Strong on or about October 5, 2018, following an argument at a residence, known as the House of Souls in Wapato, Washington. Following the murder, Moreno asked for help disposing of Strong’s body. Pimms and Andrew Norris Zack assisted Moreno by rolling Strong’s body into a freezer. The freezer, and other appliances, were loaded onto the back of a truck. The body, still inside the freezer, was then dumped near M&R Towing, which is off Highway 97 in Toppenish, Washington.
On July 4, 2019, approximately nine months after Strong’s tragic death, a citizen discovered human remains, which later were identified through dental records as belonging to Strong. Pimms did not report the crime to Federal law enforcement, even when interviewed by FBI Special Agents in July, 2019.
“Jamaal Pimms had the opportunity – and even the obligation – to come forward with the truth about Rosenda Strong’s death when the FBI interviewed him in 2019,” stated Acting United States Attorney Rich Barker. “Instead, Mr. Pimms chose silence, compounding the harm to Ms. Strong’s family and delaying justice for years. His failure to speak denied a grieving family and community the answers they deserved, and allowed uncertainty and anguish to linger far too long.”
"Coping with the loss of a loved one is always a painful process. It can be even more so when, as in this instance, she is the victim of a crime about which so much remained unknown for so long,” said W. Mike Herrington, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Seattle field office. “Not only did Mr. Pimms help dispose of the victim’s body, but he also actively concealed vital information that unfairly deprived a grieving community of answers for nearly six years. I commend the investigators and our partners from Yakama Nation for their steadfast work in seeking justice in this case, as we are committed to do for all others like it on our state's reservations."
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from the Yakama Nation. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Thomas J. Hanlon and Michael D. Murphy.
Defendant Andrew Norris Zack, pleaded guilty to charges in this case. He is scheduled to be sentenced on October 21, 2025.
23-CR-02037-SAB
Yakama Man Sentenced to Prison for Assault with a Dangerous WeaponRead the Press Release
Yakima, Washington – Acting United States Attorney Richard R. Barker announced that United States District Judge Mary K. Dimke sentenced, Joey Anthony Andy, age 44, to 63 months in prison for assault with a dangerous weapon. Judge Dimke also imposed 3 years of supervised release. Andy was convicted of this crime on May 15, 2024, following a jury trial.
According to court documents and information disclosed at trial and at the sentencing hearing, on April 4, 2023, a victim, an enrolled member of the Yakama Nation, was leaving Noah’s Ark Homeless shelter in Wapato, Washington. As the victim was walking away from the shelter, he was confronted by Andy. Andy was upset with the victim because Andy believed the victim had stolen his Bluetooth speaker. Andy then shoved the victim. After the victim stepped back, Andy pulled out a knife, lifted the sleeve on this hooded sweatshirt (presumably to ensure he did not get blood on his clothing), and lifted the knife, and then swung the knife at the victim’s head. As the victim attempted to dodge the blow, the knife hit the victim, leaving a four-inch laceration to the side of the victim’s head. The laceration cut down to the victim’s skull and required fourteen staples to close.
The victim ran back to Noah’s Ark for help. There, employees rendered first aid and called police. Wapato Police later located Andy in the neighborhood near Noah’s Ark. Although Andy attempted to flee, officers took Andy into custody without incident after a short chase.
At the sentencing hearing, MMIP AUSA Black Horse argued that a maximum guideline sentence was necessary to afford adequate deterrence and to protect the public from further crimes of the Defendant. “This assault occurred outside the doors of Noah’s Ark Shelter, a low barrier shelter and service center for chronically homeless persons based in downtown Wapato. Noah’s Ark Shelter is the only low-barrier shelter and service center of its kind in the lower Yakima Valley, and Native American individuals comprise a significant portion of its clientele,” MMIP AUSA Black Horse told the court. She further noted that “individuals who frequent Noah’s Ark Shelter are inherently at risk, experience marginalization, and a reduced sense of personal safety based on their unhoused status. The Defendant’s violent knife assault outside of Noah’s Ark Shelter only compounds these circumstances, and more importantly, may have a chilling effect on unhoused vulnerable persons seeking out the critical services provided by Noah’s Ark Shelter.”
“Mr. Andy attacked his victim without provocation or justification,” stated Acting U.S. Attorney Barker. “Because of the tremendous law enforcement response from our federal, state, local, and Tribal partners, the victim’s voice was heard and Mr. Andy will be held to account for this attack.”
This case is part of the Department of Justice’s Missing or Murdered Indigenous Persons (MMIP) Regional Outreach Program, which aims to aid in the prevention and response to missing or murdered Indigenous people through the resolution of MMIP and MMIP-related cases and communication, coordination, and collaboration with federal, Tribal, state, and local partners. The Department views this work as a priority for its law enforcement components. Through the MMIP Regional Outreach Program, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify MMIP cases and issues in Tribal communities and develop comprehensive solutions to address them.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Bree R. Black Horse and Todd Swensen.
1:23-cr-02054-MKD
Two Washington Men Sentenced to 70 Years in Prison for Producing and Distributing Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
Spokane, Washington – Acting United States Attorney Richard R. Barker announced that on May 27, 2025, Tony J. Bolen, age 44, and Casey Allen Greer, age 48, were sentenced for Production of Child Pornography, Conspiracy to Produce Child Pornography, and Commission of a Felony Sex Offense by an Individual Required to Register as a Sex Offender. Greer was additionally sentenced for Distribution of Child Pornography, and Bolen was sentenced for Receipt and Transportation of Child Pornography. Bolen and Greer were convicted of these crimes on November 25, 2024, following a jury trial. United States District Judge Mary K. Dimke sentenced both men to 70 years in prison, followed by a life term of supervised release. Judge Dimke also imposed a $5,000 assessment under the Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act, as to both men, and ordered Greer to pay $18,500 in restitution to victims.
According to court documents and information disclosed at trial and sentencing, beginning in October 2021, and continuing to December 2021, Bolen and Greer worked together to produce image and video files depicting the sexual abuse of a young child that Greer had sexually abused as early as May 2021. Bolen and Greer discussed when Greer would have access to the minor and how Greer would medicate the victim to ensure the victim’s compliance during the sexual abuse. During one such communication, Greer advised that the medication he had administered to the victim had not worked. He stated that he needed something like chloroform to keep the victim from fighting him. Nonetheless, Greer repeatedly sent images and videos of the sexual abuse to Bolen. In written text messages, Bolen directed Greer to sexually abuse the victim in a specific way, record the abuse, and send it to him.
Bolen and Greer both have prior Washington State convictions for Child Molestation. Because of these convictions, Bolen and Greer were required under state and federal law to register as sex offenders at the time of the above-listed offenses.
At sentencing, Judge Dimke advised both defendants that the conduct they engaged in was heinous and victimized both the child involved, the child’s family, and the community at large. She stated that the intention of the 70-year sentence imposed for each defendant is to ensure that neither man was ever released back into the community. She spoke directly to the victim and the victim’s family, thanking them for their confidence and patience with the justice system. Judge Dimke also spoke directly to the victim, stating, “You are strong. You are brave…this does not define you. You have a very bright future ahead of you.”
“The defendants’ actions in this case were nothing short of horrific. They subjected a young child to unspeakable abuse, using sleep-inducing substances to control and exploit their victim,” stated Acting U.S. Attorney Barker. I am deeply grateful to Assistant United States Attorneys Ann Wick and Laurel Holland, whose tireless efforts and personal sacrifices were instrumental in bringing these offenders to justice. Trials like this one are emotionally grueling, but AUSAs Wick and Holland remained unwavering in their commitment to the victim and to the pursuit of justice. Because of this extraordinary dedication, Mr. Bolen and Mr. Greer will never again have the opportunity to harm another child.”
AUSA Ann Wick, one of the lead prosecutors, added, “I am profoundly moved by the bravery of victims in cases like this one. Their courage in this case has ensured that two repeat sex offenders will no longer have the chance to harm innocent children. Justice was served because of the victim’s strength.”
“These significant sentences represent a step toward justice for the immense harm these two individuals inflicted on the victim and their family,” said ICE Homeland Security Investigations Seattle acting Special Agent in Charge Matthew Murphy. “HSI and our partners remain steadfast in our commitment to protecting the most vulnerable, and we will continue to ensure that those who commit such heinous crimes are held fully accountable.”
“Exceptional sentencing is appropriate for exceptionally heinous criminal acts. Certainly, those who take sexual advantage of our young and vulnerable must be removed from our streets and communities and the Washington State Patrol appreciates the many agencies involved in the successful investigation, capture, and prosecution of these dangerous individuals,” stated Washington State Patrol Chief John Batiste.
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 https://www.justice.gov/psc.
This case was investigated jointly by Homeland Security Investigations, the Washington State Patrol, and Spokane Police Department, as part of the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Ann T. Wick and Laurel J. Holland.
The United States Attorney’s Office and City of Spokane Announce Appointment of a Special Assistant United States Attorney to Prosecute Drug Trafficking in the City of SpokaneRead the Press Release
Spokane, Washington – The United States’s Attorney’s Office and the City of Spokane jointly announced today the appointment of a Special Assistant United States Attorney (SAUSA) for the Eastern District of Washington. The SAUSA, Annika Tangvald, will prosecute cases in federal court relating to illegal narcotics impacting the City of Spokane. Ms. Tangvald was sworn into office by Acting United States Attorney Rich Barker on May 19, 2025.
In making this announcement, Acting U.S. Attorney Barker reiterated his office’s commitment to combating the opioid epidemic. “We see the impact of fentanyl and other drugs in almost every case we prosecute – including violent crime, firearms trafficking, prosecution of transnational gangs and cartels, and even in some of our fraud and human trafficking cases. Having a dedicated prosecutor for these cases allows the U.S. Attorney’s Office to bring more cases specifically focused on the City of Spokane. SAUSA Tangvald, who I worked with as an AUSA in this office, is a talented lawyer and she will be working with some of the finest prosecutors in the United States to ensure those who distribute large amounts of drugs into the Spokane community are held responsible.” Acting U.S. Attorney Barker added, “I am so grateful to the City for their collaboration to make this joint vision a reality.”
“The City of Spokane Prosecutor’s Office is committed to a multi-prong approach to end the fentanyl epidemic our community faces,” stated Justin Bingham, Prosecutor for the City of Spokane. “Partnering with the U.S. Attorney’s Office will greatly strengthen our current efforts to hold drug-related offenders accountable. I’m excited to see the positive impacts this joint position will bring to Spokane.”
“Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Tangvald will help fill a critical gap in our system. Her role in prosecuting fentanyl-related crimes is a vital step forward in our fight against the opioid crisis,” Mayor Lisa Brown said. “With dedicated resources and sharper focus, this move will protect our community, hold traffickers accountable, and ultimately save lives.”
(L to R: City of Spokane Prosecutor Justin Bingham, Spokane Mayor Lisa Brown, Acting U.S Attorney Richard Barker)
SAUSA Tangvald is a Spokane native with deep roots in Eastern Washington. Since 2023, Tangvald has served as a Deputy Prosecuting Attorney for Spokane County where she prosecuted criminal cases in Spokane County Superior Court. Prior to her time as a county prosecutor, Tangvald was a law clerk at the U.S Attorney’s Office in the Eastern District of Washington. She is a graduate of the Gonzaga University School of Law.
“I am honored to be returning to the U.S. Attorney’s Office and to serve in this unique role,” stated SAUSA Tangvald. “Becoming a federal prosecutor has been a dream of mine, and I look forward to working with the City and with the United States Attorney’s Office to improving public safety in the city I love.”
About the U.S. Attorney’s Office
The United States Attorney's Office is responsible for representing the federal government in almost all litigation involving the United States in the Eastern District of Washington, which is comprised of the 20 Washington counties east of the Cascade Mountains. The U.S. Attorney’s Office handles all criminal prosecutions for violations of federal law, as well as civil lawsuits by and against the U.S. government. It is the mission and the pledge of the U.S. Attorney’s Office to represent the United States with determination, professionalism, and integrity. The District’s headquarters is located in Spokane, Washington, with branch offices in Richland and Yakima.
About the City of Spokane
The City of Spokane, home to more than 229,000 people, is located in the heart of the Inland Northwest. Our 2,000 employees strive to deliver efficient and effective services that facilitate economic opportunity and enhance the quality of life for all our residents. For more information, visit www.spokanecity.org and follow us @spokanecity on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
The Spokane City Council unanimously approved funding for the SAUSA position in late 2024.
Woman Caught Dealing Drugs While on Supervised Release Sentenced to 15 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
Yakima, Washington – Acting United States Attorney Richard R. Barker announced that Gabriela Abundiz, age 45, was sentenced after pleading guilty to distributing methamphetamine. Chief United States District Judge Stanley A. Bastian imposed a sentence of 180 months to be followed by 10 years of supervised release.
According to court documents and information presented at the sentencing hearing, in 2017 Abundiz was convicted of selling drugs in Montana and sentenced to 70 months in prison. Following her sentence, and during the period of her supervised release in that case, Abundiz was found to be selling drugs in the Eastern District of Washington. A warrant was issued for her arrest.
On April 2, 2024, officers and detectives with the Omak Police Department (OPD) saw Abundiz go into an apartment. OPD obtained a warrant to enter the apartment and arrest Abundiz. Inside the apartment OPD located two backpacks that contained methamphetamine, 2,649 fentanyl pills, fentanyl powder, marijuana, a digital scale, and a pipe used for smoking drugs. Abundiz had two cellphones when she was arrested. One of the phones contained pictures of large sums of cash, fentanyl pills, and text conversations regarding illegal drugs.
“Ms. Abundiz returned to drug trafficking even while under federal supervision for a prior conviction,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Richard R. Barker. “Her continued criminal conduct, especially involving fentanyl, posed a serious threat to the safety and health of Eastern Washington communities. Her sentence reflects the consequences of violating the Court’s trust and our office’s continuing commitment to combating drug trafficking in communities and neighborhoods throughout Eastern Washington.”
“DEA’s core mission is to protect Americans from drug traffickers like Ms. Abundiz and we will go to any legal length to ensure traffickers like her are accountable for their crimes,” said David F. Reames, Special Agent in Charge, DEA Seattle Field Division. “Despite serving a lengthy prison term, Ms. Abundiz would not stop selling poison to her community and ultimately paid a heavy price for continuing her wicked ways.”
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Omak Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael Murphy.
2:24-cr-00071-SAB
Man Who Made Bomb Threat on a Flight to Seattle Sentenced to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Spokane, Washington – Acting United States Attorney Richard R. Barker announced that United States District Judge Thomas O. Rice sentenced Brandon L. Scott, age 40, to 22 months in prison for making a bomb threat onboard a flight to Seattle. Judge Rice also imposed 3 years of supervised release and $79,449.47 in restitution to Alaska Airlines and the Spokane International Airport.
According to court documents and information presented at the sentencing hearing, On July 5, 2023, Scott was a passenger on an Alaska Airlines flight from Atlanta to Seattle. During the flight, Scott handed a flight attendant a note that said in part:
“There is a bomb on the plane. This is not a joke. Several pounds of homemade explosives are in my carry-on bag. I have a detonator with me. Handle this matter carefully and exactly how I say, otherwise I will detonate the explosives and kill everyone on board. You are to alert the pilot to this note and keep the issue to yourself. Many innocent lives are in your hands, do as I demand and everyone will live. Deviate and the consequences will be deadly for all of us. I have nothing left to lose.”
The note included instructions to reroute the plane from its destination in Seattle and land at another airport. The flight attendant alerted the captain and co-pilot to the threat who then alerted Air Traffic Control. Air Traffic Control diverted the flight to the Spokane International Airport. The airport placed a ground stop on all aircraft, resulting in significant delays to other departing and arriving aircraft and passengers.
The plane landed at Spokane International Airport and Scott was taken into custody and admitted to what he had done. No explosive materials or devices were found on the plane.
“Threatening the safety of a commercial flight is a serious federal crime that puts lives at risk, disrupts national air travel, and drains emergency resources,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Richard R. Barker. “Mr. Scott’s actions caused widespread disruption and alarm, and this case underscores our commitment to protecting the safety of passengers and airline personnel in Eastern Washington and across the country.”
“The threat made by Mr. Scott ended up being a hoax, but he is finding it had real-life consequences,” said W. Mike Herrington, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Seattle field office. “Fortunately, his actions did not result in anyone being hurt. I am grateful that the flight landed without incident in this case and applaud the flight crew for the professional manner in which they handled a potentially dangerous situation.”
This case was investigated the FBI. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Tyler H.L. Tornabene and Patrick J. Cashman.
2:23-cr-00084-TOR
Members of a Drug Trafficking Organization Run by Murder Convict at the Spokane County Jail Sentenced to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Yakima, Washington – Acting United States Attorney Richard R. Barker announced that United States District Judge Mary K. Dimke sentenced Alexandro Aguilar 33, to 30 years in prison, Kassandra M. Montelongo, 27, to 10 years in prison, and Luis Lara, 25, to 10 years in prison on drug trafficking charges.
According to court documents and information presented at the sentencing hearing, in August 2022, Aguilar was being held at the Spokane County Jail, following state court conviction for murder. Deputies with the Spokane County Sheriff’s Office developed information Aguilar was regularly communicating from jail with Montelongo, who was acting as his agent for a drug trafficking operation on the outside. Investigators also developed information that Lara and another man, Jose Garcia, were also involved in the drug operation.Between December 2022 and January 2023, agents conducted several controlled drug purchases in Spokane Valley, from Aguilar’s drug operation totaling 7,700 fentanyl pills and more than 7 pounds of methamphetamine. Federal law enforcement additionally obtained cocaine through these controlled purchases, which involved convert purchases under law enforcement supervision of illegal drugs to use as evidence against the defendants.
On June 7, 2023, federal agents executed a search warrant at Montelongo’s home in Sunnyside, Washington. During the search, agents located approximately 11 pounds of methamphetamine, a small scale, and ziplock bags. Additionally, agents located multiple high-capacity magazines, bulk ammunition in various calibers, one AR-15 style rifle, two pistols, and cash.
On January 24, 2025, Garcia was sentenced to 10 years in prison on one count of methamphetamine distribution.
“Drug trafficking continues to devastate families and communities across Eastern Washington, especially in our most vulnerable and underserved areas,” stated Acting United States Attorney Rich Barker. “Our office will continue to pursue those who profit of off addiction and violence, and we will continue to support law enforcement efforts to stop the flow of deadly narcotics like fentanyl and protect the people we serve.”
"Dangerous drugs, such as those circulated by this trafficking organization, have the potential to destroy lives and devastate entire populations whether by the pill or by the pound.” said W. Mike Herrington, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Seattle field office. “Mr. Aguilar ran the conspiracy from behind bars and I am thankful for the work of our investigators and local partners putting an end to it. The FBI remains committed to holding accountable all those responsible for enabling, supporting, and profiting from the distribution of these poisons within our community.”
This case was investigated by the FBI Spokane Regional Safe Streets Task Force and the Spokane County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Nowles H. Heinrich and Patrick J. Cashman.
1:23-cr-02039-MKD
Chinese National Who Stole $326,000 in Fraud Scheme Involving Counterfeit iPads Sentenced to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Spokane, Washington – Acting United States Attorney Richard R. Barker announced that United States District Judge Rebecca L. Pennell sentenced Zhango Liang, 24, of Fuzhou City, China, to 264 days in prison on a fraud charge connected to a fraud scheme involving counterfeit iPads. At sentencing Judge Pennell acknowledged Liang served 101 days on related charges in Skagit County, Washington, for a total of one year in prison. Judge Pennell also imposed 3 years of supervised release and restitution of $326,000. The state and federal convictions for the fraud scheme are Liang’s first criminal convictions.
According to court documents, in the Summer of 2023, Liang was approached by a friend who offered him a job using gift cards to make purchases at Target stores. The items would then be delivered to another person.
Beginning in December 2023, Liang was instructed to start doing returns of counterfeit iPads. As part of the scheme, Liang would purchase authentic iPads from Target stores in the Eastern District of Washington and elsewhere, remove them from their boxes, place counterfeit iPads in the boxes, then reseal the boxes. Liang would then return the counterfeit iPads and receive a refund on a Target gift card. Liang would use the gift cards to purchase additional items from Target, including more iPads that they would replace with counterfeit goods for subsequent returns.
Between January 2024 and June 2024, Liang returned at least 140 iPads to Target stores and was refunded approximately $163,000. Because Target both lost the authentic iPad in the scheme and reimbursed the purchase amount to a gift card, the loss amount to Target was approximately $326,000.
“Mr. Liang participated in a calculated scheme that exploited retail return systems for substantial personal gain, resulting in hundreds of thousands of dollars in losses,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Richard R. Barker. “This type of fraud undermines the integrity of commerce and ultimately affects everyday consumers by raising prices for everyone. I am so grateful for the diligent work of Homeland Security Investigations and our partners throughout this investigation to protect everyday consumers, who live and work in Eastern Washington.”
“Today’s sentencing delivers a message: individuals who engage in sophisticated fraud schemes will be aggressively pursued and held accountable,” said ICE Homeland Security Investigations Seattle Acting Special Agent in Charge Matthew Murphy. “The defendant manipulated weaknesses in the retail return system to steal high-value electronics, defrauding not only a major corporation but also the consumers who ultimately shoulder the cost. We remain steadfast in our commitment to working alongside our law enforcement and corporate partners to identify financial crimes and ensure those responsible face justice."
Liang’s co-defendant, Linda You, pleaded guilty to a fraud charge and will be sentenced on June 23, 2025, in Spokane.
The case was referred for federal investigation by the Washington Attorney General’s Office Organized Retail Crime Task Force and the Skagit County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, highlighting the important and successful partnership between federal and state law enforcement agencies to address organized retail crimes.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jeremy J. Kelley.
4:24-cr-06024-RLP
Michigan Man Sentenced to Decades in Prison for Production and Distribution of Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
Spokane, Washington – Acting United States Attorney Richard R. Barker announced that United States District Judge Thomas O. Rice sentenced Daniel Augustine Solis, age, 33, to 40 years in federal prison for producing and distributing child sexual abuse material. Judge Rice also imposed a lifetime of supervised release and restitution of $615.00
Judge Rice presided over a criminal trial for Solis, which began November 4, 2024. On the second day of trial, Solis pleaded guilty after the United States presented evidence of a text conversation between Solis and his co-defendant regarding the sexual abuse of a child.
According to court documents and information presented at the trial and sentencing hearing, in the fall of 2019, Solis lived with his girlfriend in Eastern Washington. Solis was abusive and manipulative, which included monitoring his girlfriend’s actions through logging on to her social media and various phone applications.
Solis eventually moved to Michigan, where he continued his pattern of manipulation. In attempt to appease Solis, his girlfriend agreed to create sexually explicit videos involving a minor child and send them to Solis.
In February 2020, Solis became angry when he learned that his girlfriend told her mother Solis had access to the family cell phone plan. For the next several hours, Solis threatened to report his girlfriend to police based on the previously created videos, unless she created more explicit videos involving the minor child. Solis gave her specific instructions regarding the content and time length for the videos.
After the creation of the videos, the two continued texting. At some point, Solis again became upset with his girlfriend. This time, instead of demanding another video, Solis logged into his girlfriend’s phone account, using the name and password he used to monitor her activity, and sent the explicit videos to his girlfriend’s co-workers and friends.
“Daniel Solis committed acts of unimaginable cruelty and exploitation,” stated Acting U.S. Attorney Rich Barker. “His manipulation and abuse caused profound harm, and today’s sentence reflects the seriousness of those crimes. The Department of Justice remains steadfast in its commitment to protecting the most vulnerable in our communities—our children—and to holding predators accountable wherever they are found.”
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.
This case was investigated by the FBI, the Spokane County Sheriff’s Office, and the Kalamazoo Township Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Alison L. Gregoire and Rebecca R. Perez with assistance from the Spokane County Prosecutor’s Office.
2:20-cr-00179-TOR
Toppenish Man Pleads Guilty to Assault and Firearm Charges for Shooting at Law EnforcementRead the Press Release
Yakima, Washington – Acting United States Attorney Richard R. Barker announced that Leland James Vijarro, age 26, of Toppenish, Washington, pled guilty in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Washington to assault and firearm charges for shooting at federal officers.
Based on court documents and information presented at the change-of-plea hearing, at around 9 p.m. on February 10, 2024, law enforcement in Toppenish, Washington, responded to reports that two vehicles were chasing one another. According to these reports, the vehicles’ occupants were firing gunshots at one another
When officers responded to the scene and stopped one of the vehicles involved, Vijarro, who was a passenger in the vehicle, got out and ran from the scene, armed with a .45 caliber pistol and ammunition. Vijarro then fled into a nearby home in attempt to hide from law enforcement. At this point, law enforcement set up a permitter around the home where Vijarro was apparently hiding.
Just before 11p.m., Vijarro walked into the backyard of the home and fired three shots at law enforcement. Vijarro then stood on top a pallet in the backyard, took up a shooting stance while aiming at law enforcement, and fired two more shots. Two Yakima County Sheriff’s Office vehicles were hit by bullets fired by Vijarro.
Vijarro eventually surrendered to law enforcement after breaking into a home next door and barricading himself inside. These events, including the shots fired at law enforcement, occurred on the Yakama Nation Indian Reservation. Mr. Vijarro is not an enrolled member of the Yakama Nation.
At the change-of-plea hearing, Vijarro admitted that he intentionally fired at law enforcement officers, who had set up a perimeter around the home he had barricaded himself in.
“Firing at law enforcement officers is an intolerable act of violence that puts lives at risk and undermines public safety,” stated Acting United States Attorney Rich Barker. Mr. Vijarro’s reckless and dangerous actions could have resulted in tragedy. I commend the officers involved for their professionalism and restraint. The U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to working closely with our federal, state, local, and Tribal partners to hold violent offenders accountable and protect our communities.”
“During Police Week, we are especially reminded of how law enforcement place themselves daily in harm’s way to protect us. FBI Seattle and our partners are committed to combatting violent crime to keep our communities safe, including on tribal lands,” said W. Mike Herrington, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Seattle field office. “From the vehicle chase to the hiding in houses, so many parts of this scenario were dangerous and could have resulted in far worse results than the damaged sheriff’s office vehicles. We are thankful no one was injured by Mr. Vijarro’s actions.”
United States District Judge Mary K. Dimke accepted Vijarro’s plea and set sentencing for August 11, 2025.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Bree R. Black Horse.
1:24-cr-02055-MKD
Man Who Supplied Illegal Drugs in Eastern Washington Sentenced to More than 16 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Spokane, Washington – Acting United States Attorney Richard R. Barker announced that United States District Judge Thomas O. Rice sentenced David Velasquez Jr., age 32, to 200 months in federal prison for Conspiracy to Distribute 400 Grams or More of Fentanyl. Judge Rice also imposed 5 years of supervised release.
According to court documents and information presented at the sentencing hearing, In November 2022, The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) developed information that Velasquez was the source of supply for a large amount of illegal drugs in Eastern Washington. FBI agents later learned that Velasquez and a man named David Fulmer had met multiple times in Utah for the purpose of transporting drug shipments from Arizona to Eastern Washington. Velasquez provided Fullmer with at least 10,000 fentanyl-laced pills during each meeting. Fullmer later was arrested and sentenced to federal prison on drug trafficking charges.
On September 19, 2023, the FBI obtained a federal arrest for Velasquez and on October 13, 2023, Velasquez’s phone was tracked to Iowa. He was subsequently pulled over driving a truck near Dallas County, Iowa. He was arrested and law enforcement recovered 39,095 fentanyl pills hidden in the truck’s tailgate. Two loaded handguns were found in the glove compartment and a third handgun was found under the rear seat.
“Fentanyl is a deadly drug that continues to devastate communities across Eastern Washington and the nation,” stated Acting U.S. Attorney Barker. “Mr. Velasquez trafficked tens of thousands of fentanyl-laced pills into our region, putting numerous lives at risk. My office will continue to hold drug traffickers accountable, and we are committed to working with our law enforcement partners to keep Eastern Washington communities safe.”
“Mr. Velasquez was the source of large amounts of Fentanyl flowing into the Spokane area.” said W. Mike Herrington, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Seattle field office. “Knowing this poison can easily kill its users, countless lives may have been saved by taking him off the streets. The FBI and our partners will continue the work of keeping these illegal drugs out of the communities we all call home.”
This case was investigated by the FBI. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Nowles Heinrich and Patrick J. Cashman.
2:23-cr-00102-TOR
Lewiston Man Sentenced for Making Violent Threats to Kill Local Prosecutor, Defense Attorney, and Commit Mass MurderRead the Press Release
Spokane, Washington –United States District Judge Thomas O. Rice has sentenced Trevor J. Lunney, 39, of Lewiston, Idaho, to 60 months in prison for making threats to kill his lawyer, his prosecutor, and members of the public. Judge Rice also imposed 3 years of supervised release. Lunney was convicted of this crime on December 10, 2024, following a jury trial.
According to court documents and information disclosed at trial and at the sentencing hearing, in July of 2022, while on Washington State community custody for a previous conviction involving threats to kill, Lunney texted his state Department of Corrections (DOC) community corrections officer, among other threatening statements, that “. . . in 19 days, mass violence becomes inevitable.” Lunney also discussed with his DOC officer his plan to commit a school shooting at an Asotin County School District School, and to commit a mass shooting at a parade at the Asotin County Fair. Upon being contacted by DOC officers, on July 18, 2022, Lunney continued to make specific threats regarding his plans to commit a mass shooting and, upon being evaluated by a mental health professional, issued additional threats including his five-year-plan to “right injustice” by going to the Asotin County Fair Parade and live streaming his opening fire on a crowd. Lunney also made repeated statements regarding his access to firearms at that time.
Later that same day, July 18, 2022, Lunney was arrested by the Clarkston Police Department for his threats to commit mass shootings and was taken into custody at the Asotin County Jail where he remained in custody on felony charges, brought by the Asotin County Prosecutor’s Office, for his threats.
Over a period of months while in the Asotin County Jail on the charges for the July threats, Lunney made a series of calls and emails and sent letters to family members and others, all of which he was told were being closely monitored at that time by law enforcement. In these monitored in custody communications, Lunney repeatedly expressed his anger towards the criminal justice system in general and the assigned Asotin County deputy prosecutor as well as his own defense attorney. Lunney also repeatedly discussed his plans to obtain an AR-15 and commit mass murder based upon his specific plans to “do pure evil to countless souls.”
On December 5th, 2022, while awaiting trial for the July threats, Lunney’s anger towards the local criminal justice system culminated in an email he sent from the Asotin County Jail where he stated, “I want to have a murder-suicide with my lawyer when I leave here. . .” and “I want to kill my lawyer and the prosecutors when I get out. . .” referencing “attacking a crowd” and that stating that “I can’t even say what I have planned.”
“I want to thank the victims and witnesses who bravely came forward and testified, helping to hold Mr. Lunney accountable for his deeply disturbing threats,” said Acting United States Attorney Rich Barker. “Lunney not only threatened to carry out mass violence, including a school shooting he chillingly described as ‘Sandy Hook Part II,’ but also targeted the very individuals working to ensure justice—his own attorney and the prosecuting attorneys. I am grateful to the FBI for intervening before Mr. Lunney could carry out his violent plans, and to the Assistant United States Attorneys who prosecuted this case with outstanding professionalism, diligence, and resolve.”
“Mr. Lunney’s threats were alarming, disturbing, and terrifying in nature. They instilled fear not only in the targeted victims but an entire community,” said Special Agent in Charge Mehtab Syed of the Salt Lake City FBI. “The FBI takes all threats of violence seriously and will take necessary steps to ensure public safety.”
This case was investigated by the FBI. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Tyler H.L. Tornabene and former Assistant United States Attorney Dan Fruchter.
2:23-cr-00083-TOR
21 Armed and Violent Drug Traffickers and Gang Members from Spokane Area Facing Federal Drug and Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
Spokane, Washington – Today, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Washington announced that 21 individuals have been charged following the return of 15 separate indictments alleging dozens of charges against these defendants. Certain of the individuals indicated are not yet in federal custody.
The arrests follow a long-term joint federal investigation that began in October 2024, led by the by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. This 7-month long investigation has targeted violent individuals and armed drug traffickers in Spokane as well as individuals operating in what has become nothing less than an open-air drug market on Division Street downtown.. These individuals have been problems in multiple states, impacting multiple communities during their lifetimes, in not only Washington State, but also Texas, Nevada, North Dakota, Montana, Alabama, Idaho, Oregon, and California.
Upon release of the latest indictment, which was unsealed earlier today upon the arrest of several additional suspects, Acting United States Attorney Rich Barker stated, “I am grateful for the coordinated efforts of so many law enforcement agencies, who worked together to coordinate the takedown of this alleged drug trafficking operation.” Acting U.S. Attorney Barker continued, “It is an honor work with our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners on such important prosecutions, which help remove illegal drugs and firearms from our community. Our community and nation are safer, because of the work of our law enforcement and prosecution teams.”
To date, agents seized just shy of 14-pounds of methamphetamine, over 1 kilogram of heroin, over 16,000 fentanyl pills, over 5.5 pounds of fentanyl powder, almost $60,000 in drug proceeds, as well as four vehicles and 36 firearms. In connection with the prosecution, the United States has filed a civil forfeiture complaint in the Eastern District of Washington against a local Spokane apartment complex located near North Central High School, which allegedly was being used to distribute illegal drugs and a place for individuals to obtain firearms. Properties such as this one are not only a community safety issue as a free for all of illicit activity, they are also a drain on public resources that could be used elsewhere. For example, in the last 2.5 years, records show there have been approximately 58 separate calls for service at the address.
According to unsealed charging documents, the following individuals, many of whom have ties to various street gangs and who have a history of violence, have been charged in connection with the investigation. Additionally, the names of others indicted in connection with this investigation will be unsealed upon the arrest of those individuals.
Andrew Vincent Auerbach, charged with Distribution of 50 Grams or More of Actual (Pure) Methamphetamine, Felon in Possession of a Firearm, Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of Drug Trafficking. Auerbach has a prior federal conviction for Felon in Possession of a Firearm.
Daryl Edward Boone, 45, charged with Possess with Intent to Distribute 50 Grams or More of Actual (Pure) Methamphetamine, Possess with Intent to Distribute 40 Grams or More of Fentanyl, Distribution of 5 Grams or More of Actual (Pure) Methamphetamine
James M. Ferguson, 33, charged with Unlawful Possession of a Short-Barreled Shotgun
Jonathan Jacob Inglis, 40, pleaded guilty to Possession with Intent to Distribute 500 Grams or More of Methamphetamine and Possession with Intent to Distribute 400 Grams or More of Fentanyl. On January 30, 2025, he was sentenced to 151 months in prison.
Nathan Carlson Johnson, 44, charged with Distribution of 50 Grams or More of Actual (Pure) Methamphetamine.
James Lelacheur, 56, charged with Distribution of 50 Grams or More of Actual (Pure) Methamphetamine.
Christopher Wayne O’Neal, charged with Distribution of 5 Grams or More of Actual (Pure) Methamphetamine. O’Neal is currently in Spokane County Jail stemming from a separate drug trafficking investigation.
Gabriella Sherif Rizkalla, charged with multiple counts of Distribution of 50 Grams or More of Actual (Pure) Methamphetamine, and Conspiracy to Distribute 50 Grams or More of Actual (Pure) Methamphetamine
Roland Dewayne Sanders, 36, charged with Distribution of Fentanyl, Distribution of 40 Grams or More of Fentanyl. Sanders was on federal supervised release at the time of his offense and utilized his minor child to assist in the distribution of fentanyl.
Bernie Ray Shaw Jr., 45, charged with Distribution of Fentanyl
Courtney A. Wheeler, charged with Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of Drug Trafficking and Conspiracy to Possess a Firearm in Furtherance of Drug Trafficking
Andrew Lee Williams, charged with Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of Drug Trafficking and Conspiracy to Possess a Firearm in Furtherance of Drug Trafficking
Anthony Dale Williams, charged with Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of Drug Trafficking and Conspiracy to Possess a Firearm in Furtherance of Drug Trafficking, multiple counts of Distribution of 50 Grams or More of Actual (Pure) Methamphetamine, Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine, and Distribution of Cocaine.
Certain of the individuals will be arraigned at the Spokane Federal Courthouse on May 9, 2025, at 10:00am.
The case was investigated under the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF). OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. For more information about Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces, please visit Justice.gov/OCDETF.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives conducted the investigation along with the Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, Moses Lake Police Department, Border Patrol, and the Washington Department of Corrections. Additional assistance was provided by the United States Marshals Service and the Spokane County Sheriff’s Office.
An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
WILLIAMS et al - 2:25-CR-75-RLP
SANDERS – 2:25-CR-15-MKD
LELACHER – 2:24-CR-16-MKD
FERGUSON – 2:24-CR-158-RLP
JOHNSON – 2:24-CR-159-MKD
AUERBACH – 2:25-CR-16-TOR
INGLIS – 2:23-CR-56-TOR
SHAW – 2:24-CR-163-MKD
BOONE – 2:24-CR-164-RLP
United States of America v. Real Property Known as 625 West Maxwell Avenue Spokane Washington et al, 2:25-cv-00148-RLP
Washington Man Sentenced to 12 Years in Prison for Distributing Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
Spokane, Washington – Acting United States Attorney Richard R. Barker announced that United States District Judge Thomas O. Rice sentenced Donald Eugene Griffin, Jr., age 43, to 144 months in prison on charges of distributing child sexual abuse material. Judge Rice also imposed a lifetime of supervised release. Griffin will also be required to register as a sex offender.
According to court documents and information presented in the sentencing hearing, in November 2019, the FBI developed information that Griffin was in possession of images of children being sexually abused.
In March 2020, the FBI executed a warrant at Griffin’s home and seized Griffin’s electronic devices. Investigators found multiple images of child sexual abuse material on those devices, and Griffin admitted to using online platforms to access and obtain child sexual abuse material. Griffin also admitted to discussing having sex with a child and to distributing and receiving images of children being sexually abused.
Agents investigated Griffin’s online accounts and uncovered chats between Griffin and individuals who appeared younger than 18. On several occasions, Griffin sent child sexual abuse material or solicited it, from those individuals. Griffin also consistently spoke to others about having sex with minors.
In early 2024, a civilian contacted investigators and said they had been posing as an 11-year-old girl on Instagram and chatting with Griffin. Griffin sent naked photos of himself to this person he believed was a child and discussed having sex with her.
“Mr. Griffin’s conduct was predatory and depraved. He not only trafficked in images of children being sexually abused – he actively sought out opportunities to engage with minors online in ways that were both explicit and dangerous,” said Acting United States Attorney Richard R. Barker. “I’m grateful to the FBI and AUSA Rebecca Perez for their outstanding work on this case and for bringing Mr. Griffin to justice.”
“Not only did Mr. Griffin possess and distribute disturbing images depicting child sexual assault, but he was even engaging in sexually explicit chats with someone he believed to be a minor.” said W. Mike Herrington, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Seattle field office. “It is apt this sentence is being handed down on the final day of Child Abuse Prevention Month. Protecting and finding justice for child victims remains a priority of the FBI, both in the State of Washington and nationwide.”
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 https://www.justice.gov/psc.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Rebecca R. Perez.
2:24-cr-00065-TOR
Yakima Man Subject to a Domestic Violence No Contact Order Sentenced to Prison for Possessing More Than a Dozen FirearmsRead the Press Release
Yakima, Washington – Acting United States Attorney Richard R. Barker announced that United States District Judge Mary K. Dimke sentenced Benjamin D. Cliett, age 44, of Yakima, Washington, to 2 years in federal prison on one count of Person Subject to a Court Order in Possession of Firearms. Judge Dimke also imposed 3 years of supervised release.
According to court documents and information presented at the sentencing hearing, on July 23, 2022, officers with the Yakima Police Department (YPD) were dispatched to Cliett’s residence in Yakima. Dispatch told the YPD that neighbors had called to report screaming and other loud noises coming from the residence.
Aware that Cliett was subject to a domestic violence no-contact order, and fearing that a domestic violence incident was occurring inside, YPD entered the residence. Cliett’s partner was in the house, and YPD conducted a protective sweep of the residence. Inside, offices located Cliett hiding in a doghouse in the backyard. Cliett was arrested for violating the no-contact order.
While conducting the sweep, YPD observed a tall gun safe in the bedroom. Officers later returned with a search warrant and found ammunition and magazines spread throughout the home and eighteen firearms in the gun safe.
“Victims of domestic violence often feel trapped in abusive relationships, where they face higher risks of being shot or killed by their abuser than the general public,” stated Acting U.S. Attorney Barker. “This is why it is so important to enforce laws that keep guns out of the hands of domestic abusers—it really can save lives.”
“Mr. Cliett made many wrong choices that day,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Blais. “He knew that he had a no-contact order and that prohibited him from having access to firearms. We hope that this prison sentence will give Mr. Cliett time to think about his actions and turn his life around.”
This case was investigated by the ATF and the Yakima Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael J. Ellis.
1:22-cr-02111-MKD
Armed Felon Who Led Spokane County Sheriff’s Deputies on a Chase with His Child in the Car Sentenced to More Than Six Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
Spokane, Washington – Acting United States Attorney Richard R. Barker announced that on April 23, 2025, United States District Judge Mary K. Dimke sentenced Keith Lamarr Williams, age 43, to 80 months in prison on one count of Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition. Judge Dimke also imposed 3 years of supervised release.
According to court documents and information presented at the sentencing hearing, on October 18, 2022, deputies with the Spokane County Sheriff’s Office responded to a call of a domestic disturbance involving a weapon in Spokane Valley. K.D., who is Williams’ ex-girlfriend, with whom Williams shares children, told deputies that during the previous two weeks Williams had been parking and watching their daughter walk to school. On the day of the incident, Williams had been sitting in a parked vehicle with a view to the family’s apartment. When K.D. and her husband confronted and told Williams to leave, Williams pulled a gun, pointed it at K.D. and her husband, and demanded to see his daughter before leaving in his vehicle.
Deputies found the vehicle Williams was driving and attempted a traffic stop, but Williams fled. Deputies pursued the vehicle until Williams crashed. Williams tried to escape on foot, but deputies took him into custody. Williams’ two-year-old son was in the vehicle during the pursuit and collision.
Inside the vehicle, investigators located a Glock 9mm pistol with a bullet in the chamber. Deputies also located a Glock 9mm magazine that was loaded with 12 rounds of ammunition.
Williams was previously convicted in federal court in Eastern Washington on drug charges and served 80 months in prison. He was released from prison on February 18, 2022. As a result of his felony conviction, Williams was not allowed to possess a firearm.
“This case could have ended in tragedy,” stated Acting United States Attorney Barker. “Mr. Williams put his own family and others in danger by fleeing from law enforcement with a loaded gun in the car. Felons, who possess firearms are a threat to public safety, and we will continue to hold them accountable—especially when children are placed in harm’s way.”
“Mr. Williams’s actions were extremely dangerous to the community, and in particular to his 2-year-old son,” said ATF Seattle Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Blais. “He knew he wasn’t supposed to possess firearms, yet he chose to carry a loaded pistol in the car with him and his child. This sentence was well deserved.”
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, as well as the Spokane County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Michael L. Vander Giessen and Alison L. Gregoire.
2:23-cr-00060-MKD
Washington Man Indicted for Abusive Sexual Contact and Possession of Child Sexual Abuse MaterialsRead the Press Release
Spokane, Washington – Acting United States Attorney Richard R. Barker announced that on April 2, 2025, a federal grand jury for the Eastern District of Washington returned an indictment charging Michael R. Trout, 45, with Abusive Sexual Contact of a Minor, Receipt and Possession of Child Pornography, and Commission of a Felony Sex Offense by an Individual Required to Register as a Sex Offender.
Trout was arrested by federal and state law enforcement officers and made his initial appearance in federal court on April 4, 2025.
In late January 2025, the Investigative Services Branch of the National Park Service received a report of an assault that had occurred between July 18 and July 23, 2024, in Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area.
Trout has prior Washington State convictions for Rape and Burglary with Sexual Motivation. Because of these convictions, Trout was required under state and federal law to register as a sex offender.
If members of the public have any information regarding related crimes that Trout may have committed, they are encouraged to call the NPS crime tip line at 888-653-0009, email [email protected], or submit a tip online.
This case is being investigated jointly by Nation Park Service, Homeland Security Investigations, the Washington State Patrol, and Spokane Police Department, as part of the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Ann T. Wick.
An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
2:25-cr-00050-TOR
Washington Jury Finds Spokane Valley Couple Guilty of Fraud Charges in Connection to COVID-19 Relief LoanRead the Press Release
Spokane, Washington – A federal jury returned a guilty verdict in the trial of a Raymond Joe and Jennifer Lynn Hilderbrand, both age 54, of Spokane Valley, Washington. The Hilderbrands were found guilty on multiple fraud charges.
United States District Judge Thomas O. Rice presided over the trial, which began April 21, 2025. At sentencing, which is set for July 23, 2025, the Hilderbrands face a maximum term of 20 years in prison as well as restitution for fraudulently-obtained funds.
On March 27, 2020, the President signed into law the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. The CARES Act provided a number of programs through which eligible small businesses could request and obtain relief funding intended to mitigate the economic impacts of the pandemic for small and local businesses. One such program, the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program, provided low interest loans that could be deferred until the conclusion of the pandemic to provide “bridge” funding for small businesses to maintain their operations during shutdowns and other economic circumstances caused by the pandemic. The EIDL program have provided billions of dollars in aid, the vast majority of which have not been paid back, including hundreds of millions of dollars disbursed within Eastern Washington.
The evidence presented at trial established that the Hilderbrands engaged in elaborate scheme to obtain money from the Small Business Administration (SBA) to spend on their entertainment business called Poweline Enterprise LLC (Powerline), even though in September of 2021, the SBA had declined to fund a loan for the company.
To execute this scheme, in January of 2022, Raymond Hilderbrand completed a EIDL application in the name of Hilderbrand Auto Services, which was an automotive repair business, owned by the Raymond Hilderbrand, located at 10423 E. Trent Avenue, Spokane Valley. In the application he told the SBA the EIDL funds would be used as working capital for Hilderbrand Auto Services, and would not be used for another company. However, in February 2022, when SBA sent $320,000 to Hilderbrand Auto to be used by that business to alleviate economic injury caused by the pandemic, the Hilderbrands immediately transferred $311,000 to Powerline. The Hilderbrands then used $295,000 of the EIDL funds to purchase the Trent Avenue property in the name of Powerline, with Jennifer Hilderbrand as the only owner.
The Hilderbrands continued to attempt to obtain additional EIDL funds in the name of Powerline by making false representations about the company’s revenue on their EIDL application. The SBA declined the reconsideration of the Powerline EIDL application in early May of 2022. Shortly thereafter, the Hilderbrands requested a modification for the EIDL loan for Hilderbrand Auto. The SBA approved the request, and Raymond Hilderbrand again promised to use the money solely for Hilderbrand Auto. On May 17, 2022, the SBA disbursed an additional $43,000 in EIDL funds to the Hilderbrand Auto bank account, $35,000 of which was immediately withdrawn by check and transferred to Powerline.
In May 2022, the Hilderbrands submitted an application on behalf of Powerline for a license to sell alcohol and food at the Trent Avenue Property. Then, in the summer of 2022, the Hilderbrands began to host concerts at the Trent Avenue property. The advertisements billed the property as “The YARD, A New Upcoming Outdoor Venue in Spokane WA!” that included beer gardens and food vendors. The advertisement also indicated the concert was “brought to you by” “Powerline Enterprises” along with other companies.
In September 2022, the Hilderbrands applied for a new application for a snack bar license on behalf of Powerline for the Trent Avenue Property. During an interview with a license investigator, Raymond Hilderbrand stated the company’s hope was to host swap meets and multiple activities, with a snack bar inside a building with outside seating. Mr. Hilderbrand was asked if Powerline shared the property with any other businesses and he responded, “No,” even though the property was shared with Hilderbrand Auto. Mr. Hilderbrand also acknowledged that Powerline had bought the property for $295,000. The investigator asked if any of the funds for the purchase were “gifted or loaned from a business source,” to which Hilderbrand falsely responded “no.”
“I am grateful for the prosecutors and investigators that worked together to seek justice in this case,” stated Acting United States Attorney Rich Barker. “Our incredible trial team worked closely with the SBA to present a compelling case, establishing that both Raymond and Jennifer Hilderbrand were held accountable for the lies they told to obtain funding that was designed for small businesses in need of a lifeline. As a result of the Hilderbrands’ fraud, other small businesses were unable to obtain the help they needed during the COVID-19 pandemic.”
"These guilty verdicts demonstrate the commitment of the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA) to investigate and bring to justice those who victimize the American taxpayer," said Daniel Dahl, TIGTA Acting Special Agent-in-Charge. “Fraudulently applying for loans through a federal program meant to assist Americans in need will be met with aggressive investigation and prosecution. I want to thank our law enforcement partners and the U.S. Attorney's Office for their commitment to this goal."
“Today’s verdict is a testament to the OIG’s unwavering commitment to bringing fraudsters targeting SBA’s programs to justice,” said SBA OIG’s Western Region Assistant Special Agent in Charge Wil Barras. I want to thank the U.S. Attorney’s Office, and our law enforcement partners for their diligence and pursuit of justice.”
This case was investigated by the Eastern District of Washington COVID-19 Fraud Strike Force and by TIGTA, SBA OIG, and IRS-CI. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Frieda K. Zimmerman, Jeremy J. Kelley, and Jacob Brooks.
2:23-cr-00114-TOR
Six Individuals Indicted on Charges of Criminal Conspiracy Involving Illegal Drugs and FirearmsRead the Press Release
Yakima, Washington – The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Washington announced today that six people are in federal custody following the return of an indictment alleging 20 criminal counts involving drug trafficking and firearms.
On April 22, 2025, the Drug Enforcement Administration; Federal Bureau of Investigation; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; Homeland Security Investigations, and the Moses Lake Police Department executed a number of federal search warrants at several locations, seizing nine firearms. The guns were seized as part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation into a drug trafficking network operating in Eastern Washington.
According to unsealed charging documents, the following individuals have been charged in connection to the investigation. In addition, the names of others indicted in connection with this investigation will be unsealed upon the arrest of those individuals.
- Jose Luis Martinez-Parra, charged with Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine and Fentanyl, Distribution of 50 Grams or More of Actual (Pure) Methamphetamine, Distribution of Fentanyl, Distribution of 40 Grams or More of Fentanyl
- Alexander Martinez-Mendoza, 18, charged with Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine and Fentanyl, Distribution of 40 Grams or More of Fentanyl
- Luis Martin Navarro-Ceballos, 29, charged with Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine and Fentanyl, Distribution of 50 Grams or More of Actual (Pure) Methamphetamine, Carrying Firearm During Drug Trafficking, Alien in Possession of a Firearm
- Maria Zamora-Cuevas, 33, charged with Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine and Fentanyl
- Rosa Zamora, 41, charged with Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine and Fentanyl
- Triston David Duplichan, 29, Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine and Fentanyl, Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl
The individuals were arraigned at the Yakima Federal Courthouse on Wednesday, April 23, 2025.
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).
The Drug Enforcement Administration, Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Moses Lake Police Department investigated this case. Additional assistance was provided by the Yakima Police Department, the U.S. Marshals Service and the Bureau of Indians Affairs. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Benjamin D. Seal.
An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
1:25-CR-2049-SAB
Felon with Stolen Firearm Sentenced to More Than Six Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Yakima, Washington – Acting United States Attorney Richard R. Barker announced today that United States District Judge Mary K. Dimke sentenced Damian Iniguez, 31, of Yakima, Washington, to 75 months in prison on one count of Felon in Possession of a Firearm. Judge Dimke also imposed 3 years of supervised release.
According to court documents and information presented at the sentencing hearing, on September 8, 2023, a Zillah Police Officer noticed a suspicious vehicle parked at a gas station. It had been parked at the gas station for two hours and the vehicle was running.
When the officer approached the vehicle, the officer saw Iniguez slumped over in the driver’s seat. The vehicle’s gear shift was in “drive” and Iniguez’ foot was on the brake. When Iniguez woke up, he was uncompliant with commands of law enforcement to put the vehicle in park and turn the car off.
Iniguez ultimately was placed under arrest, and during a subsequent pat down, the officer located a firearm in Iniguez’s sweatshirt pocket. The firearm was a loaded Glock .40 caliber semi-automatic pistol with an extended magazine. Further investigation showed the firearm had been stolen from Oregon in 2021.
Iniguez had been convicted of a crime previously and was not allowed to possess a firearm.
“The unlawful possession of firearms by convicted felons poses a threat to the safety of our communities,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Richard R. Barker. “Mr. Iniguez’s case highlights the critical work of our local and federal law enforcement partners in removing firearms from the hands of those who are prohibited from having them. We will continue to pursue accountability for those who disregard federal firearm laws and endanger public safety.”
“Felons know they should not possess firearms,” said ATF Seattle Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Blais. “Yet, Mr. Iniguez chose to possess a firearm – a stolen one, even worse. This sentence should serve to show that ATF will investigate, and the U.S. Attorney will prosecute, those who violate federal firearms laws in Washington.”
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Zillah Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Benjamin D. Seal and Courtney R. Pratten.
1:23-cr-02068-MKD
18-Year-Old Man Who Led Law Enforcement on Dangerous High-Speed Chase Sentenced to 12 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
Yakima, Washington – Acting United States Attorney Richard R. Barker announced that United States District Judge Mary K. Dimke sentenced Angel Omar Zuniga-Soriano, age 18, to 144 months in prison on one count of Felon in Possession of a Firearm. Judge Dimke also imposed 3 years of supervised release.
According to court documents and information presented at the sentencing hearing, on June 29, 2024, Zuniga-Soriano, who is involved with the Sureno street gang, was driving a vehicle matching the description of a vehicle used in a robbery earlier that same day in Wapato, Washington. When a police officer in Toppenish, Washington, spotted the vehicle, he activated his overhead lights and attempted to stop the vehicle. Instead, Zuniga-Soriano sped-off and led police on a high-speed chase. Zuniga-Soriano drove on the busy interstate between Toppenish, Sunnyside, and Zillah at speeds of more than 100 miles per hour. During the pursuit, Zuniga-Soriano fired one bullet out of the driver’s side window.
Ultimately, Zuniga-Soriano pulled into a convenience store parking lot in Zillah, attempting to drive thru the lot. In an effort to reduce risk to the public, a law enforcement officer then rammed his police vehicle into the vehicle Zuniga-Soriano was driving. As a result, the sergeant driving the police vehicle was injured.
Even still, Zuniga-Soriano was undeterred. He took off running, throwing a Glock pistol into a nearby yard. After a lengthy foot pursuit, law enforcement tackled Zuniga-Soriano in a nearby field. When the Glock pistol was recovered, law enforcement observed that the gun had a “Glock switch,” which is a modification that attaches to the rear of a Glock handgun and is designed to convert it from semi-automatic firearm into an automatic machine gun.
Zuniga-Soriano subsequently provided a recorded statement to law enforcement. Zuniga-Soriano stated that he used to be a “demonic demon” and explained that he used to try to drown puppies in his toilet. He further advised that he tries to stay away from certain people; otherwise, he ends up falling back to his old ways and “my demonic self comes into me.” Zuniga-Soriano explained that he was not actual a gang member, but was a gang associate. When asked about the instant case, Zuniga-Soriano stated he had ingested marijuana, blacked out, and could only recall part of what had happened.
In that same interview, Zuniga-Soriano attempted to claim that he was not actually firing at law enforcement. Rather, according to Zuniga-Soriano, he was going to commit suicide during the pursuit. He claimed that he put the gun to his head, but dropped it, which caused the gun to discharge. When the detective advised Zuniga-Soriano that a Glock firearm does not discharge when you drop it, Zuniga-Soriano recanted and then claimed that he tried to take the gun apart during the pursuit, which caused it to discharge.
Ultimately, an extended firearm magazine was recovered from inside the vehicle Zuniga-Soriano was driving. Law enforcement subsequently test-fired the Glock firearm and discovered that it was capable of firing multiple rounds by a single trigger press.
At the sentencing hearing, Judge Dimke pointed out that despite Zuniga-Soriano only being 18 years of age this was his third firearm conviction. Judge Dimke also explained that she took into account the dangerousness of the instant offense in pronouncing the twelve-year sentence.
“The seriousness and nature of this offense cannot be understated,” Acting U.S. Attorney Rich Barker said. “I am grateful for the courage of the brave law enforcement officers, who ensured Mr. Zuniga-Soriano would not escape apprehension that day. Obviously firing a gun from a vehicle is extremely dangerous. However, attempting to elude police officers at such high rates of speed on public roadways presents an equally dangerous risk to our citizens. Had it not been for a sergeant with the Toppenish Police Department, who put his own life at risk to immediately stop the pursuit, innocent lives of motorists and their families could have been tragically lost. I also am grateful for Assistant United States Attorney Tom Hanlon’s excellent work on this case. For decades, AUSA Hanlon has dedicated his career to seeking justice and handling many of the most challenging and significant cases within our Yakima office.”
“It is amazing that more people were not injured, or worse, by Mr. Zuniga-Soriano’s reckless actions.” said W. Mike Herrington, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Seattle field office. “It is clear from his blatant disregard for the welfare of innocent people that the community will be safer with him behind bars. I commend the brave actions of our partners who were able to bring him into custody despite his irresponsible and dangerous attempts to evade accountability.”
Based on severity of the Zuniga-Soriano’s actions, and due to the nature of the type of firearm utilized in the offense, the Southeast Washington Safe Streets Task Force was contacted. The Southeast Washington Safe Streets Task Force consists of law enforcement officers from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the United States Border Patrol, the Yakima County Sheriff’s Office, and the Toppenish Police Department. Along with the Safe Streets Task Force, the case was investigated by the Toppenish Police Department, the Yakima County Sheriff’s Office, the Yakama Nation Police Department, the Granger Police Department, the Wapato Police Department, the Washington State Patrol, the Zillah Police Department, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney and Yakima Branch Manager Thomas J. Hanlon.
Case 1:24-cr-02069-MKD
Yakama Man Sentenced to 72 Months in Prison for Sexual Abuse in Indian Country of an Incapacitated TeenagerRead the Press Release
Yakima, Washington – Acting U.S. Attorney Richard R. Barker announced that on April 14, 2025, United States District Judge Mary K. Dimke sentenced Darius Morningstar Speedis, age 20, of the Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation, to 72 months in federal prison for Sexual Abuse in Indian Country. Judge Dimke also imposed 10 years of supervised release and required Speedis to register as a sex offender.
According to court documents and information presented at the sentencing hearing, in early November 2022, Speedis sexually assaulted a 16-year-old Native American woman who had become intoxicated and incapacitated. The assault occurred after several teenagers, including the victim and Speedis, consumed alcohol – at least some of which was provided by Speedis. The sexual assault occurred on the Yakama Nation.
Although the victim had no independent recollection of the sexual assault, Speedis had recorded the assault and then sent a video to the victim. That video, however, later was deleted and was not recovered by law enforcement.
At sentencing, Judge Dimke took into account the abuse of trust involved in the sexual assault, including the recording of the sexual assault, as well as Speedis’ age and reported remorse before pronouncing sentence. Judge Dimke also noted the “epidemic” of sexual abuse occurring on the Yakama Nation Indian Reservation.
“Sexual violence has no place in any community, and it is especially devastating when it targets vulnerable victims and occurs within communities already impacted by an epidemic of abuse,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Richard R. Barker. “This sentence reflects the seriousness of Mr. Speedis’ conduct and our unwavering commitment to seeking justice for victims of sexual assault. My office will continue working closely with our Tribal partners to hold offenders accountable and support survivors on their path to healing.”
“Not only did Mr. Speedis sexually assault this victim, he recorded that assault and then sent it to her.” said W. Mike Herrington, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Seattle field office. “I hope his acknowledgement of guilt can aid in the victim’s recovery from this disturbing episode. The FBI is committed to justice for Native Women, who too often are targets of crimes of violence.”
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Yakama Nation Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Letitia A. Sikes.
1:24-cr-02043-MKD.
Washington Man Who Distributed Large Amounts of Fentanyl in the Tri-Cities Sentenced to 9 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
Spokane, Washington – Acting United States Attorney Richard Barker announced that United States District Judge Mary K. Dimke sentenced Ricardo Cantu, age 26, to 108 months in prison on drug trafficking charges. Judge Dimke also imposed 4 years of supervised release.
According to court documents and information provided at the sentencing hearing, in September 2023, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) developed information that Cantu, who was a source of supply for methamphetamine and fentanyl laced pills, was distributing large quantities in and around the Tri-Cities with the assistance of several co-defendants to include Julio Gaspar Iniguez, Veronica Martinez and Daniel Mora.
Between September and October 2023, the DEA conducted two controlled purchases of fentanyl and methamphetamine from Cantu and Gaspar totaling nearly two pounds of methamphetamine and over 3,041 fentanyl pills. Cantu and Mora were armed with firearms during each transaction.
On December 7, 2023, Agents executed search a warrant at Cantu’s home. Cantu and another man were smoking fentanyl in the garage at the time, and as a result, law enforcement and children inside the home were exposed to the fumes from this dangerous controlled substance.
During a search of Cantu’s bedroom, agents located 10,000 pink fentanyl-laced pills in a child’s Hello Kitty bag. Inside the closet, there were another 2,000 fentanyl-laced pills, a digital scale, and loaded Glock firearm, which previously had been reported stolen. During a search of the garage, agents located another 1,500 fentanyl pills, 3 digital scales and other evidence of drug distribution.
Agents also executed a search warrant at Gaspar’s home, recovering 5 pounds of marijuana and a loaded 9mm firearm that has been associated with two shootings in the Yakima Valley. Agents also located a loaded privately made firearm, or Ghost gun, with a loaded magazine. During a search of Gaspar’s Jeep, agents located a loaded pistol in the center console.
On March 26, 2025, Gaspar pleaded guilty to drug trafficking charges. He will be sentenced on June 25, 2025, in Spokane.
“Distributing and using fentanyl and methamphetamine in our communities – especially in places where children are present – is both reckless and deeply dangerous,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Richard Barker. “Mr. Cantu not only trafficked deadly narcotics but did so while armed and in the presence of children, putting lives at risk. I commend the DEA and our law enforcement partners for their work in removing these dangerous drugs and firearms from Eastern Washington communities.”
“Mr. Cantu put the entire community at risk by trafficking fentanyl and methamphetamine while armed,” said David F. Reames, Special Agent in Charge, DEA Seattle Field Division. “This sentence conveys the seriousness of the danger Mr. Cantu posed to law enforcement and other members of the community poised to get caught in the crossfire of his drug trafficking enterprise.”
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie Van Marter.
Case 2:23-cr-00132-MKD
Washington Jury Finds Mexican National with Ties to the Jalisco Cartel Guilty of Trafficking in Hundreds of Pounds of Fentanyl, Heroin, Methamphetamine, and Cocaine in Eastern Washington and MontanaRead the Press Release
Spokane, Washington – A federal jury returned a guilty verdict in the trial of Luis Esquivel-Bolanos (a/k/a “Colorado”), age 45, of Guerrero, Mexico. Esquivel-Bolanos was found guilty on multiple drug trafficking and firearms charges.
United States District Judge Thomas O. Rice presided over Esquivel-Bolanos’s trial, which began April 14, 2025. At sentencing, which is set for July 16, 2025, Esquivel-Bolanos faces a maximum term of imprisonment of life in prison. He may also face removal from the United States.
The evidence presented at trial established that in January 2023, the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) identified Esquivel-Bolanos as a member of a drug trafficking organization, which had flooded the Eastern District of Washington, including the Oroville area and the Colville Indian Reservation, with methamphetamine and fentanyl. The organization spread as far as central Montana, where many of the illegal drugs were being sold on Tribal land, including on the Crow, Northern Cheyenne, Rocky Boy’s, Fort Belknap, and Flathead Reservations. Within Eastern Washington, the organization was run by Esquivel-Bolanos and his co-defendant, Erubey Arciga Medrano. Esquivel-Bolanos was directly below Medrano, who previously pled guilty to his role in the drug trafficking conspiracy.
The evidence at trial further established that the organization used threatening tactics to maintain control over their drug-distribution activities. In one instance, the organization threatened that the Jalisco Cartel, who supplied drugs to Esquivel-Bolanos and his associates, would kill a confidential informant, who was strip searched when the informant was accused of being a “snitch.” On a separate occasion – not long before police were able to intervene and shut down the organization – Esquivel-Bolanos and others arranged for members of the organization to go to the home of a person suspected of stealing more than thirty pounds of methamphetamine from the organization and to threaten to kill that the suspected thief.
On April 19, 2023, BIA, DEA, the North Central Washington Narcotics Task Force, and other Federal, State, Local, and Tribal law enforcement, executed a series of federal search warrants at a number of homes in rural Okanogan County, near Oroville, Washington. In total, investigators seized approximately 161,000 fentanyl-laced pills (to include Mexi-blues and rainbow-colored pills), approximately 80 pounds of methamphetamine, approximately 6 pounds of heroin, and more than 2 pounds of cocaine. The BIA, DEA, and their partners also seized approximately 12 firearms. Many of these drugs were obtained inside a trailer, where Esquivel-Bolanos was living at the time.
“I was able to work on this case and the investigation from the outset,” stated Acting U.S. Attorney Richard Barker, who tried the case along with his colleagues Nowles Heinrich and Echo Fatsis. Acting U.S. Attorney Barker continued, “The volume of drugs removed from Eastern Washington and Montana communities, including from Tribal land, is staggering. At the time of Mr. Esquivel-Bolanos’s arrest, and even now, the seizure from the Medrano-Bolanos drug trafficking organization was one of the largest ever in rural Washington. I am grateful for the tremendous law enforcement efforts by the BIA, DEA, and others, who put an end to the dangerous and threatening tactics used by Mr. Esquivel-Bolanos and his associates.”
“Those who traffic drugs into our tribal communities need to know that they will be caught and prosecuted to full extent of the law. I want to thank Acting U. S. Attorney Barker, the BIA Division of Drug Enforcement, the DEA, and all of the law enforcement agencies and AUSAs in Montana and Washington for their dedicated work on these cases,” said Kurt Alme, U. S. Attorney for Montana.
“The conviction of this drug trafficker, who was part of a Mexican Cartel, is the result of intense collaboration and coordination between many Tribal, Federal, State, and Local law enforcement agencies. These agencies came together to address the drug trafficking occurring across many communities in Eastern Washington and Montana, including seven different Indian Reservations,” said Deputy Associate Director Tom Atkinson of the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Division of Drug Enforcement. “This investigation revealed the purposeful and specific exploitation of Indian Country by the members of this criminal network, illustrating the importance of continued vigilance and cooperation among law enforcement agencies. This conviction sends a strong message that drug trafficking and the exploitation of vulnerable communities will not be tolerated. The Bureau of Indian Affairs remains committed to empowering tribal law enforcement and to working with its partners to ensure the safety and well-being of all communities affected by drug trafficking.”
“Mr. Esquivel- Bolanos was second in command of the drug trafficking ring responsible for flooding the Oroville area and Colville Indian Reservation with deadly fentanyl and meth,” said David F. Reames, Special Agent in Charge, DEA Seattle Field Division. “Drug traffickers who purposely prey on our tribal communities are the worst offenders, and with the help of the jury this Mexican National will be held accountable.”
This case was prosecuted under the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) program. The OCDETF program provides supplemental federal funding to the federal and state agencies involved in the investigation of transnational drug trafficking and related offenses. The U.S. Attorney’s Office is partnering with federal, state, local, and Tribal law enforcement to specifically identify the criminals responsible for these drug related offenses in the Eastern District of Washington and pursue criminal prosecution.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs Division of Drug Enforcement, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the North Central Washington Narcotics Task Force. The investigation team was assisted by the U.S. Marshals Service, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the Okanogan County Sheriff, Colville Tribal Police Department, and the Kalispel Tribal Police Department. The Eastern Washington cases are being prosecuted by Acting United States Attorney Richard R. Barker, Assistant United States Attorney Nowles H. Heinrich, and Contractor Echo D. Fatsis. Twenty-seven defendants were charged and convicted through a parallel prosecution handled by AUSAs and support staff in the District of Montana.
2:23-cr-00047-TOR
Washington Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Assaulting Federal OfficersRead the Press Release
Spokane, Washington – Acting United States Attorney Richard R. Barker announced that Chief United States District Judge Stanley A. Bastian sentenced Filiberto Santana, age 34, to 84 months in prison for assaulting two federal officers. Chief Judge Bastian also imposed 3 years of supervised release.
According to court documents and information presented at the sentencing hearing, on April 11, 2025, the Columbia River Drug Task Force had requested the United States Marshals Service to assist in the apprehension of Filiberto Santana, who had active state arrest warrants. A United States Marshals Service (USMS) Task Force Officer spotted Santana and a female sitting in a stolen vehicle at a “Park and Ride” in Wenatchee, WA. Santana was seated in the passenger seat and the female was seated in the driver’s seat. The female was also known to law enforcement and had an active state arrest warrant. Although in a parking space, the vehicle’s engine was running. Law enforcement decided to pin the stolen vehicle between two patrol cars to prevent Santana, who had a history of fleeing law enforcement, from avoiding capture.
Law enforcement approached the vehicle and ordered Santana and the female to put their hands up where they could be seen. Instead of complying with the lawful order, the female placed the car in reverse, then shifted to drive, spinning the tires in the snow in a failed attempt to escape. Santana immediately rolled up the front passenger window, which had been down, and began moving as if searching for something in the car. Because law enforcement could not view Santana’s hands and believed he was potentially searching for a weapon, law enforcement broke out the rear passenger window to better see inside the vehicle and access the occupants. Law enforcement continued to order the female to put the car in neutral and for the occupants to put up their hands. Instead, the female pressed the accelerator pedal spinning the tires. Santana momentarily raised his hands, however, he quickly lowered them and resumed searching for something around the floorboards and seat area. After repeated orders to place the car in neutral and to put up their hands were disregarded, officers attempted to tase both the female and Santana. However, Santana and the female had on thick layers of clothing and the taser prongs did not work effectively and both Santana and the female continued to disregard law enforcement’s directions.
Santana then grabbed an object from the seat area where he had been reaching, and with a pistol grip pointed the object at the officers. Initially the officers believed from the manner he grasped the object that it was a firearm, however, an officer closer to the car saw that it was a spray bottle and yelled out to the other officers, “He’s got spray!” Santana sprayed an unknown liquid directly at law enforcement striking a deputy United States Marshal in the eyes. He then climbed to the back seat and fled out the rear driver’s side window in an attempt to escape. He was stopped and taken into custody by law enforcement. After apprehending Santana, officers had to pull the noncompliant female out of the window and were able to handcuff her after a brief struggle outside the vehicle.
The Deputy United States Marshal was treated by medics at the scene. His eyes were bloodshot and burned and remained irritated for several days. A second federal Task Force Officer who was also struck by the spray and had breathed it in suffered from burning in his lungs for several hours after the incident. He did not seek medical treatment.
The spray used by Santana was later found in the vehicle and identified as an interior detailing spray. Law enforcement also located several stolen items in the car, including a Ruger handgun in the driver’s door compartment, as well as multiple magazines for the Ruger. Also found were several magazines from other caliber firearms, a holster, and 9mm ammunition.
“Everyday law enforcement officers take on tremendous dangers; yet, they put their lives on the line to protect our communities,” stated Acting U.S. Attorney Rich Barker. “I am grateful to be able to work closely with federal, state, local, and Tribal law enforcement, who work tirelessly to secure Eastern Washington Communities.”
“Every day, law enforcement officers bravely put themselves in uncertain situations to perform their duties and keep the public safe," said W. Mike Herrington, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Seattle field office. "These subjects were actively resisting arrest and repeatedly refusing to comply. I want to commend these officers for their courage and professionalism in such a dangerous situation, which allowed them to successfully resolve the situation and take the subjects into custody. We are thankful the injuries to the officers were not even worse due to the dangerous actions of the subjects.”
“In bringing fugitives to justice, law enforcement faces the very real threat of assault from violent offenders,” stated U. S. Marshal Craig Thayer. Every effort is made to effectuate these arrests as safely as possible, and with only reasonable and necessary force. However, these offenders will be arrested, and will face justice, as Chief Judge Bastian’s sentencing today demonstrates.”
This case was investigated by the FBI and the Columbia River Drug Task Force.
2:23-cr-00133-SAB