Eastern District of Wisconsin
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Justice Department Secures Settlement in Sexual Harassment Lawsuit Against Green Bay LandlordRead the Press Release
The Justice Department announced today that David Jones and D Jones Properties LLC have agreed to pay $50,000 to resolve a lawsuit alleging that Jones sexually harassed a female tenant in violation of the Fair Housing Act (FHA).
The Justice Department’s lawsuit was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Wisconsin on July 24, 2025. The complaint alleges that Jones — who manages multiple rental properties in Green Bay, Wisconsin — engaged in severe, pervasive, and unwelcome sexual harassment of a female tenant by, among other things, making unwelcome sexual comments, grabbing the tenant without her consent, entering the tenant’s home without her permission, and moving to evict her when she asserted her rights under the FHA.
“Women should never feel unsafe in their own homes,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “The Justice Department will vigorously protect the rights of vulnerable tenants subjected to sexual harassment and hold housing providers accountable when they violate the law.”
“This settlement sends a clear message that sex discrimination in housing will not be tolerated,” said U.S. Attorney Brad D. Schimel for the Eastern District of Wisconsin. “No one should have to endure sexual harassment to keep a roof over their head.”
“As the Trump Administration’s top fair housing official, I am committed to ending the scourge of sexual harassment in housing and obtaining compensatory justice for the victims who have had to endure it,” said Assistant Secretary for Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity Craig W. Trainor of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. “This settlement makes clear that Secretary Turner’s HUD will aggressively pursue Fair Housing Act violators while ensuring women feel safe and secure in their homes.”
Under the settlement agreement, Defendants must pay $50,000 to the tenant. The agreement also requires Jones to attend fair housing training and provides for a two-year monitoring period by the Justice Department.
The case was referred to the Division after the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) received a complaint, completed an investigation, and issued a charge of discrimination.
If you are a victim of sexual harassment by a landlord or property manager or have suffered other forms of housing discrimination, call the Justice Department’s Housing Discrimination Tip Line at 1-800-896-7743 or submit a report online to the Department of Justice or to the Department of Housing and Urban Development. More information about the Civil Rights Division and the laws it enforces is available at www.justice.gov/crt. This settlement is part of the Justice Department’s Sexual Harassment in Housing Initiative. The initiative, which the Department launched in October 2017, seeks to address and raise awareness about sexual harassment by landlords, property managers, maintenance workers, loan officers and other people who have control over housing. Since launching the initiative, the department has filed 52 lawsuits alleging sexual harassment in housing and recovered more than $19 million for victims of such harassment.
Justice Department Secures Settlement in Sexual Harassment Lawsuit Against Green Bay LandlordRead the Press Release
The Justice Department announced today that David Jones and D Jones Properties LLC have agreed to pay $50,000 to resolve a lawsuit alleging that Jones sexually harassed a female tenant in violation of the Fair Housing Act (FHA).
The Justice Department’s lawsuit was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Wisconsin on July 24, 2025. The complaint alleges that Jones—who manages multiple rental properties in Green Bay, Wisconsin—engaged in severe, pervasive, and unwelcome sexual harassment of a female tenant by, among other things, making unwelcome sexual comments, grabbing the tenant without her consent, entering the tenant’s home without her permission, and moving to evict her when she asserted her rights under the FHA.
“Women should never feel unsafe in their own homes,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “The Justice Department will vigorously protect the rights of vulnerable tenants subjected to sexual harassment and hold housing providers accountable when they violate the law.”
“This settlement sends a clear message that sex discrimination in housing will not be tolerated,” said U.S. Attorney Brad D. Schimel for the Eastern District of Wisconsin. “No one should have to endure sexual harassment to keep a roof over their head.”
Under the settlement agreement, Jones and D Jones Properties must pay $50,000 to the tenant. The agreement also requires Jones to attend fair housing training and provides for a two-year monitoring period by the Justice Department.
The case was referred to the Division after the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) received a complaint, completed an investigation, and issued a charge of discrimination.
“As the Trump Administration’s top fair housing official, I am committed to ending the scourge of sexual harassment in housing and obtaining compensatory justice for the victims who have had to endure it,” said Assistant Secretary for Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity Craig W. Trainor of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. “This settlement makes clear that Secretary Turner’s HUD will aggressively pursue Fair Housing Act violators while ensuring women feel safe and secure in their homes.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Nia Schmaltz for the Eastern District of Wisconsin handled the matter.
If you are a victim of sexual harassment by a landlord or property manager or have suffered other forms of housing discrimination, call the Justice Department’s Housing Discrimination Tip Line at 1-800-896-7743 or submit a report online to the Department of Justice or to the Department of Housing and Urban Development. More information about the Civil Rights Division and the laws it enforces is available at www.justice.gov/crt. This settlement is part of the Justice Department’s Sexual Harassment in Housing Initiative. The initiative, which the Department launched in October 2017, seeks to address and raise awareness about sexual harassment by landlords, property managers, maintenance workers, loan officers and other people who have control over housing. Since launching the initiative, the department has filed 52 lawsuits alleging sexual harassment in housing and recovered more than $19 million for victims of such harassment.
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For further information contact:
Public Affairs Officer Steve Caballero
(414) 297-1700
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Two Individuals Convicted of Operating Illegal Multimillion-Dollar Pyramid SchemesRead the Press Release
A federal jury in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, convicted an Illinois woman and man for running illegal multimillion-dollar pyramid schemes in at least four different states.
“Today’s verdict holds Candice Cunningham and Joseph Johnson Jr. accountable for their lies to steal from victims through their pyramid schemes,” said Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “The defendants stole millions of dollars from victims across America with false guarantees of earnings and refunds. This trial conviction reflects the dedicated work of the prosecutors and agents who brought this case to vindicate the victims. The Criminal Division will continue to investigate and prosecute those who prey on, trick, and defraud people.”
“The defendants ran illegal pyramid schemes in multiple states over several years that caused millions of dollars in losses to victims,” said Special Agent in Charge Alan Karr of the FBI Milwaukee Field Office. “The losses sustained by the victims resulted in financial and emotional devastation that will bring lasting harm. The FBI remains steadfast in our commitment to working with our partners to combat financial fraud schemes."
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Candice V. Cunningham, 38, and Joseph E. Johnson Jr., 53, both of Chicago, operated a series of pyramid schemes that were advertised to victims under various names including Wealth Partners Publishing, Wealth Wise, Zero to Profit, 30 Day Success Formula, Lav Label, Beckett Group, and Dreams To Reality Group. Marketing materials for the pyramid schemes misrepresented that if a victim-participant invested money in one of the schemes, that victims would receive payments from other participants he or she recruited.
The materials also falsely promised that if a victim did not receive payments from other participants, the victim was guaranteed that his or her initial investment would be fully refunded. Most victims did not receive any payments from other participants and were denied the return of their initial investment. Cunningham, Johnson, and others generated $5 million in proceeds as a result of these schemes.
Cunningham and Johnson were each convicted of one count of conspiracy to commit mail fraud and six counts of mail fraud. If convicted, they each face a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison for each count. They are scheduled to be sentenced on June 23. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The FBI investigated the case with assistance from the United States Postal Inspection Service and the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection.
Trial Attorneys Christopher Berridge and Kashan Pathan of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section are prosecuting the case with assistance from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Wisconsin.
Pennsylvania Man Sentenced to 15 years in Prison for Exploitation of Oshkosh MinorRead the Press Release
Brad D. Schimel, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on February 23, 2026, Zachary J. Vogt (age: 20) of West Chester, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 180 months’ imprisonment by U.S. District Court Judge Byron B. Conway following his conviction for Production of Child Pornography, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2251(a).
According to court documents, in October 2024, Vogt began corresponding online with a minor child located in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. The exchanges between the two quickly became sexual in nature. The child’s parents discovered the online activity and warned the minor and Vogt that all interaction must cease. Vogt ignored that warning. In June 2025, despite knowing that the child was underage, Vogt travelled from Pennsylvania to Wisconsin to engage in sexual activity with the child. Vogt sexually abused the child and recorded the abuse on his cellular phone. Law enforcement subsequently recovered the images, and Vogt was arrested.
In determining that 180 months’ imprisonment was an appropriate sentence, Judge Conway noted the incredibly serious nature of the offense and highlighted that the defendant had been warned to cease contact with the child. Judge Conway cited strong need to deter others from enticing children online and found a need to protect the public from online sexual predators like Vogt. Following the defendant’s release from federal prison, he will spend 15 years on supervised release. He will also be required to register as a sexual offender under state and federal law.
“This defendant is clearly a sick and dangerous individual,” said U.S. Attorney Schimel. “He was given the chance to terminate his online sexually explicit activity with the child but ignored that warning and escalated his criminal conduct by crossing multiple states to sexually exploit the child. The only way to keep the community safe from him is to lock him up. The law enforcement community has no higher priority than to protect our kids, and if you harm them, we are coming for you.”
This case was investigated by the City of Oshkosh Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Daniel R. Humble.
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 U.S. Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (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 www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
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For further information contact:
Public Affairs Officer Steve Caballero
(414) 297-1700
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Former Omro Alderman Sentenced for Receipt of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Brad D. Schimel, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on February 20, 2026, Jason A. Reeves (age: 44), of Omro, Wisconsin, was sentenced to 66 months’ imprisonment after pleading guilty to a charge of Receipt of Child Pornography in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2252A(a)(2)(A).
According to court documents, Reeves, then a City of Omro Alderman, was the subject of a CyberTip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. Based on that CyberTip, law enforcement obtained and executed a search warrant at Reeves’ residence resulting in the discovery of numerous videos and images of child sexual abuse material (child pornography) which he received via various internet platforms. Reeves resigned his elected position following his arrest.
U.S. District Court Judge Byron B. Conway noted the serious nature of the offense committed by Reeves and the profound effect that such crimes have on the child victims, even many years after their abuse has stopped. Judge Conway concluded significant prison is necessary to deter this behavior and protect the public. Following his prison term, Reeves will spend 10 years on supervised release and will be required to register as a sexual offender under state and federal law.
“Even though this offender never had direct contact with any of the children abused in the images he accessed, his conduct directly caused long-lasting, severe harm to those children. Every time someone accesses, views or downloads child pornography, they are directly contributing to a worldwide industry that is profiting off the ongoing sexual abuse of children,” stated U.S. Attorney Schimel. “Anyone who does this belongs in prison, no matter who they are.”
“Mr. Reeves was an elected official who violated the trust of the residents he was elected to serve,” said FBI Milwaukee Special Agent in Charge Alan Karr. “The FBI is committed to protecting children from exploitation. The FBI will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to combat the exploitation and victimization of children.”
“Protecting the most vulnerable members in our community remains a top priority of the Sheriff's Office and working with our federal partners maximizes our resources” said Winnebago County Sheriff John Matz.
This case was investigated by the Winnebago County Sheriff’s Office with the assistance of the Green Bay Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Daniel R. Humble.
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 U.S. Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (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 www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
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For further information contact:
Public Affairs Officer Steve Caballero
(414) 297-1700
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Chicago Man Sentenced to Ten Years’ Imprisonment for Armed RobberiesRead the Press Release
Brad D. Schimel, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on February 19, 2026, Rumeal Campbell, aka “Melo,” (age: 34) was sentenced to ten years’ imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, by Chief United States District Judge Pamela Pepper.
Publicly filed documents reflect that Campbell and his accomplices committed two armed robberies of businesses, little more than an hour apart, on the evening of January 30, 2022. During one robbery, Campbell fired his weapon into the ceiling, jumped across the checkout counter, and placed his firearm into a clerk’s back, while forcing her to open the cash register. During the other robbery, Campbell held his firearm to another clerk’s head to force him to part with the store’s cash. Campbell and his associates ultimately stole over $23,000 that evening.
The robberies remained unsolved until December of 2022, when law enforcement determined that the same weapon Campbell fired in January was used during a third robbery. Campbell ultimately pled guilty, only days before his scheduled trial, to two counts of Hobbs Act robbery, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1951(a), and use of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A)(ii).
When imposing sentence, Chief Judge Pepper emphasized the grievous harm Campbell had caused his victims. Chief Judge Pepper noted that Campbell, in his greed, had changed his victims’ lives forever. The judge reflected that “these sorts of robberies constitute a form of torture,” because the victims do not know if they will ever see their families again, and their mental anguish carries on long after the crime itself has ended. Chief Judge Pepper also noted that two robberies less than an hour apart do not represent a mistake, but rather, a “terrible, terrible choice” by Campbell with the power to destroy lives, including his own.
“The sentence imposed by the Court reflects the gravity of these offenses and the lasting impact on the victims,” said U.S. Attorney Schimel. “Armed robbery is a violent crime that reverberates far beyond the moment it occurs, leaving emotional scars long after the physical scene is cleared. Through strong partnerships with our law enforcement agencies, we will continue to protect the public by aggressively prosecuting those who threaten the safety and security of our communities.”
“Rumeal Campbell and his accomplices terrorized the victims of these robberies and placed innocent lives in danger during his violent crime spree in the Milwaukee area. The FBI is committed to crushing violent crime and holding accountable those who threaten public safety,” said FBI Milwaukee Special Agent in Charge Alan Karr. “The FBI will continue working together with our law enforcement partners to ensure justice is served.”
“The West Allis Police Department thanks the FBI and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for working in partnership with us to hold a violent criminal accountable,” said West Allis Police Chief Patrick Mitchell.
This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the West Allis Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Porchia Lewand and Kevin Knight.
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For further information contact:
Public Affairs Officer Steve Caballero
(414) 297-1700
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California Man Sentenced to 19 Years in Federal Prison for Drug Trafficking and Money Laundering ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Brad D. Schimel, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on February 10, 2026, Joathan Colula (age: 33) was sentenced to 228 months in federal prison for conspiracy to distribute controlled substances and for conspiracy to commit money laundering. A jury had found Colula guilty of both charges on July 17, 2025, following a nine-day trial. After completing his prison sentence, Colula will be on supervised release for an additional 60 months.
According to court documents, Colula was a source of supply for an organization that had distribution hubs throughout the Midwest, including in Milwaukee, Minneapolis/St. Paul, the greater Chicago area, and Northern Indiana. From these hubs, Colula and his fellow conspirators distributed kilogram quantities of cocaine, thousands of fentanyl pills, and pounds of methamphetamine. To disguise his illegal activity, Colula laundered the proceeds of his drug trafficking through various business bank accounts. Colula also coordinated the receipt of hundreds of thousands of dollars in cash payments that were flown from the Midwest to California.
On November 29, 2022, case agents arrested fifteen individuals associated with the organization and executed search warrants at locations in Wisconsin, Minnesota, Illinois, and California. The search warrants resulted in the seizure of over 10 kilograms of fentanyl, approximately 7.5 kilograms of cocaine, more than a kilogram of methamphetamine, nearly 2 kilograms of heroin, ecstasy, oxycodone, approximately 170 pounds of marijuana, marijuana edibles, over $450,000 in cash, and 19 firearms.
In pronouncing sentence, Chief United States District Judge Pamela Pepper noted this was a large-scale, multi-state, multi-drug operation in which Colula played an integral role. She also noted that Colula was one of the longest running members of the group.
A co-defendant, Michael Williams, also was found guilty at July 2025 trial. Williams operated the organization’s primary stash location in Minneapolis. He and others mixed, tested, and packaged controlled substances, including kilogram quantities of fentanyl. He was sentenced to 240 months’ imprisonment for his role in the conspiracy.
“Virtually everyone knows someone whose life has been utterly destroyed by the extraordinarily dangerous drugs that have inundated our communities of every shape and size,” said U.S. Attorney Schimel. “Modern day drug traffickers have dramatically changed the very nature of our world with the violence, crime and death that follows in their wake. The judge sent the clear message that our community has had enough of the suffering wrought by these criminals.”
"The Milwaukee Police Department (MPD) is proud of the role our officers played in this case and grateful for the dedication and hard work of everyone involved in this investigation. Drug traffickers bring great harm to our community and must be held accountable.” said Milwaukee Police Chief Jeffrey Norman. “MPD values our collaboration with federal, state and local law enforcement partners in criminal cases like this to build a safer city for everyone to live, work and play.”
“This sentence reflects the seriousness of the harm caused by large-scale drug trafficking operations and the meaningful accountability that follows,” said DEA Chicago Field Division Special Agent in Charge Todd Smith. “Through close coordination with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, the North Central High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area and our federal, state and local law enforcement partners, we dismantled a multi-state organization responsible for distributing dangerous drugs throughout the Midwest."The case was investigated by agents and officers from the Drug Enforcement Administration, Milwaukee Police Department, West Allis Police Department, South Milwaukee Police Department, Wisconsin Department of Justice - Division of Criminal Investigation, and Homeland Security Investigations. The Internal Revenue Service and the Apple Valley Police Department also participated in the investigation. Assistant United States Attorneys Elizabeth Monfils and Erica Lounsberry prosecuted the case. The investigation was supported by the North Central High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA).
The HIDTA program is an Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) sponsored counterdrug grant program that coordinates and provides funding resources to multi-agency drug enforcement task forces to disrupt or dismantle local, multi-state and international drug trafficking organizations.
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For further information contact:
Public Affairs Officer Steve Caballero
(414) 297-1700
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Violent Sex Trafficker Sentenced to 262 Months in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brad D. Schimel announced today that United States District Court Judge J.P. Stadtmueller sentenced Morrell D. Johnson (35), a.k.a. “Money,” a notorious human trafficker on Milwaukee’s south side, to 262 months in prison. The sentence followed Johnson’s guilty pleas on November 5, 2025, to Sex Trafficking involving six adult survivors, Maintaining a Drug-Involved Premise, and Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person.
According to court records, Johnson was a drug trafficker who sold heroin, cocaine, and fentanyl. Johnson recruited addicted women to perform commercial sex acts, promising them housing, protection, and reliable access to the drugs upon which they were dependent. Johnson then used the women’s addictions as leverage over them, taking all of the proceeds from the commercial sex acts while adding the cost of the drugs to an ever-mounting debt he claimed they had to repay. If a victim refused to work, tried to leave, or broke Johnson’s rules, he used physical violence and the forcible administration of Narcan as punishments.
Prosecutors argued at sentencing that Johnson used every weapon available to manipulate and terrorize these women, from lies and false promises, to hands, fists, feet, threats, needles, and guns. He even killed a dog to intimidate them. Most infamously, Johnson punished one woman by stripping her naked, beating her, having her sexually assaulted by multiple men, and imprisoning her in a dog cage. At the time of these crimes, Johnson was on community supervision after serving a prison sentence for a prior Kenosha County heroin distribution conviction.
U.S. Attorney Schimel observed that, “Human trafficking is modern-day slavery and is among the most damaging and dehumanizing of any crime. It is also the most difficult for which to hold offenders accountable due to the intense manipulation, fear, and violence inflicted on the survivors. Several survivors came forward in this case, and some even were present for sentencing. Our community is free from a truly evil predator thanks to the courage and strength of these survivors and the remarkable work of the FBI Human Trafficking Task Force agents and the incredible prosecutors and crime victim advocates who made such a successful conclusion possible.”
During the sentencing hearing, Judge Stadtmueller repeatedly underscored the “despicable and wild” nature of Johnson’s conduct. He described the “unspeakable manner in which the victims were treated and preyed upon,” finding that Johnson “treat[ed] them like dirt—literally dirt.” Judge Stadtmueller declared that he intended Johnson’s sentence to “ring like a clarion bell across this community and every other,” informing the public that those who engage in this conduct will face “a day of reckoning and it will fall hard.”"Today's sentencing comes on the heels of National Human Trafficking Prevention Month. This case is an example of the exploitation and abuse that occurs in trafficking situations. Mr. Johnson's crimes were egregious and the substantial sentence he received holds him to account for preying upon vulnerable people for his own profit," said FBI Milwaukee Special Agent in Charge Alan Karr. "The FBI will continue to work tirelessly to seek justice for victims of human trafficking by joining forces with our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners to protect our Wisconsin communities.”
“Human trafficking is something that impacts our communities more than we realize. This case was particularly heinous, and no one should be subjected to such violence. We worked together with our local, state, and federal partners to ensure Johnson answered for his crimes” said Chief David Stecker, Oak Creek Police Department. “We are grateful for the survivors’ strength to help secure a lengthy sentencing, and hope this will help the survivors heal and move on from this. We will continue to combat these crimes and ensure our communities remain safe.”“Human trafficking is a serious problem across the country, including here in our community. We value our partnership with federal agencies, which is essential to holding those responsible for these crimes accountable. These investigations can be complex, and collaboration is essential to successfully bringing these cases forward," said Chief Chris Davis, Green Bay Police Department.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Oak Creek Police Department with assistance from the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office and the Green Bay Police Department.
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Public Affairs Officer Steve Caballero
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Milwaukee Man Sentenced to 12 Years in Federal Prison for Armed RobberyRead the Press Release
Brad D. Schimel, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on January 29, 2026, Chief United States District Judge Pamela Pepper sentenced Dametri G. Horton (age: 34) to 12 years’ imprisonment for his commission of an armed robbery and illegal possession of a firearm.
On May 7, 2025, after a two-day trial, a federal jury found Horton guilty of committing a commercial business armed robbery. The evidence established that on November 20, 2022, Horton entered a Walgreens in the City of Milwaukee, approached a cashier, brandished a firearm, and demanded money. When the cashier backed away in fear, Horton reached across the counter and stole $385.44 from the register drawer.
The Milwaukee Police Department apprehended Horton approximately two weeks later after Horton led officers on a vehicle pursuit that lasted nearly 10 miles. As police sought to arrest Horton, he discarded a loaded, Taurus semi-automatic pistol. Horton has prior State of Wisconsin felony convictions for burglary, fleeing, recklessly endangering safety, and theft. As a convicted felon, he was federally prohibited from possessing a firearm. Prior to his armed robbery jury trial, Horton entered a guilty to plea to being a felon in possession of a firearm.
“This case demonstrates the power of strong partnerships between federal and local law enforcement, along with a dedicated prosecution team” said U.S. Attorney Schimel. “Working together with FBI’s Milwaukee Area Violent Crime Task Force and Milwaukee Police Department, we ensured that a dangerous, repeat offender was held fully accountable, and this sentence sends a clear message that armed robbery and illegal firearm possession will be aggressively prosecuted and met with serious consequences.”
“Mr. Horton’s brazen and reckless conduct put Milwaukee residents at risk - from an armed robbery at a drug store to a vehicle pursuit,” said FBI Milwaukee Special Agent in Charge Alan Karr. “The FBI is committed to crushing violent crime and identifying criminals who threaten our communities. The FBI and our partners on the Milwaukee Area Violent Crime Task Force will continue to aggressively pursue our mission to ensure public safety.”
This case was investigated by the FBI’s Milwaukee Area Violent Crime Task Force and City of Milwaukee Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Benjamin Wesson and Robert Brady.
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Public Affairs Officer Steve Caballero
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Four Wisconsin Residents Charged with Fraud in Embezzlement SchemeRead the Press Release
Brad D. Schimel, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on February 3, 2026, a federal grand jury indicted Brandi Ellis (45), Jason Flanders (51), Ramon Hernandez (45), and Jezlia Barajas (39), in a fifteen-count indictment related to an embezzlement scheme perpetrated against a Milwaukee-area non-profit.
According to the indictment, Ellis, the finance director of the non-profit, and Flanders, the non-profit’s Chief Financial Officer, engaged in a scheme to issue unauthorized checks to themselves and third parties on the non-profit’s bank accounts. The indictment also charges that Ellis used the non-profit’s credit cards to make personal purchases, including at Gucci and the Venetian/Palazzo in Las Vegas.
The Indictment charges Ellis with six counts of Bank Fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1344, one count of Money Laundering Conspiracy, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1956(h), one count of Aggravated Identity Theft, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1028A, two counts of Wire Fraud, in violation of Title 18 United States Code, Section 1343, and one count of Intimidation of a Witness, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1512.
The Indictment charges Flanders with three counts of Bank Fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1344, and one count of making False Statements, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1001.
The Indictment charges Hernandez and Barajas each with one count of Bank Fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1344, and one count of Money Laundering Conspiracy, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1956(h).
If convicted of the Bank Fraud charges, each defendant faces up to 30 years’ imprisonment and a fine up to $1,000,000 per count. If convicted of the Wire Fraud, Money Laundering, or Intimidation charges, the defendants face up to 20 years’ imprisonment and a fine up to $250,000. If convicted of the False Statement charge, Flanders faces up to 5 years’ imprisonment and a fine up to $250,000.
Four other individuals were charged in related cases, via Information, on the same day.
This case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigations. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Julie F. Stewart.
An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. The defendants are presumed innocent and are entitled to a fair trial at which the government must prove them guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
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Public Affairs Officer Steve Caballero
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Federal Jury Delivers Speedy Verdicts Convicting Green Bay Man of Fentanyl TraffickingRead the Press Release
Brad D. Schimel, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on February 3, 2026, a federal jury in Green Bay convicted Ricky Q. Chambers, a/k/a “Goldi” (age: 29) of Conspiracy to Distribute Fentanyl and Distribution of Fentanyl, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841 and 846. Given very strong evidence, the jury required less than 15 minutes to reach a verdict.
Evidence at trial demonstrated that Chambers frequently traveled to Phoenix, Arizona, where he purchased large quantities of fentanyl pills. Chambers then shipped the pills to various cities throughout the Midwest before distributing them in the Green Bay, Wisconsin area. On July 25, 2024, law enforcement officers in Minneapolis, Minnesota intercepted a package sent by Chambers containing more than 55,000 fentanyl pills.
Further evidence showed that Chambers spent many thousands of dollars on luxury travel and expensive jewelry. Jurors also reviewed photographs and videos depicting Chambers flashing tens of thousands of dollars in cash. In some of those videos, agents determined that serial numbers on the bills Chambers displayed matched prerecorded currency used in controlled purchases of fentanyl from Chambers.
Testimony revealed that highly connected traffickers can purchase tens of thousands of fentanyl pills in Phoenix for as little as 50 cents per pill and then sell them in Green Bay for up to $20 per pill. An expert also testified that seven out of ten fentanyl pills tested at DEA crime laboratories contained a potentially lethal dose of fentanyl.
Chambers is one of eight defendants convicted as part of this fentanyl trafficking conspiracy. The remaining defendants charged in the case pleaded guilty. Over the course of the investigation, law enforcement seized more than 175,000 fentanyl pills linked to this drug trafficking organization.
Chambers will be sentenced by Senior District Judge William C. Griesbach on May 11, 2026. He faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years in prison and a maximum of life in prison.
This case was investigated by the Brown County Drug Task Force, the Dakota County (Minnesota) Drug Task Force, the MSP Airport Police Department, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) – Green Bay Resident Office and Phoenix Division, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Alex Duros and Tim Funnell.
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Public Affairs Officer Steve Caballero
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Menasha Man Sentenced to 90 Months in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Brad D. Schimel, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on January 29, 2026, Todd E. Grimm (age: 57) of Menasha, Wisconsin, was sentenced to 90 months in federal prison by Senior United States District Judge William C. Griesbach.
In April of 2025, in response to a CyberTip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (“NCMEC”), law enforcement sought and received a warrant to search Grimm’s residence and electronic devices. That search uncovered a flash drive containing over 12,500 images and videos of child sexual abuse material (“CSAM”) downloaded off the internet. The flash drive was in an envelope hidden behind a desk drawer. The flash drive also contained “stories” authored by Grimm depicting the drugging and sexual assault of young children.
At sentencing, Judge Griesbach noted the serious nature of the charge, the effect these crimes have on their victims, and the need for just punishment. Following his release from prison, Grimm will spend 15 years on supervised release. Grimm will also be required to register as a sex offender under state and federal law.
“Child pornography monetizes children being sexually abused and robbed of their innocence,” said U.S. Attorney Brad Schimel. “The worldwide multi-billion-dollar child pornography industry is directly supported by people like this defendant who perpetuate sexual violence against children every time they seek out, view or share these materials. Justice for those children demands that we lock up these predators.”This case was investigated by the City of Menasha Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Daniel R. Humble.
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 U.S. Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (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 www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
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Menasha Man Sentenced to 15 Years’ Imprisonment for Production of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Brad D. Schimel, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on January 30, 2026, Lawrence J. Chase (age: 22) of Menasha, Wisconsin, was sentenced to 180 months’ imprisonment for the offense of Production of Child Pornography in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2251(a).
In March 2025, Chase began engaging online with an 11-year-old child located in the State of Maryland. Chase knew he was messaging with a minor and coerced the child into sending sexually explicit images of the child’s genitalia, which constituted child sexual abuse material under state and federal law. Chase also sent inappropriate and obscene images of himself to the child while engaging in sexualized conversations.
At sentencing, U.S. District Court Judge Byron B. Conway noted the serious nature of the offense. Judge Conway found the victim’s age to be an aggravating factor requiring significant punishment. Judge Conway also noted that Chase’s prior state convictions for crimes against children had resulted in reduced charges and no jail time in either case. After weighing the evidence and arguments, Judge Conway determined that 15 years’ imprisonment was a fair and just sentence. Following his release from federal prison Chase will be required to spend 10 years on supervised release and will be required to register as a sex offender under state and federal law.
“This defendant took the innocence of a child who will never get that part of their childhood back,” said U.S. Attorney Brad Schimel. “As a consequence, he will lose a decade and a half of his life to a federal penitentiary. Every pedophile that harms our children should know law enforcement is working night and day to catch them and punish them.”“Holding individuals responsible for their despicable acts involving innocent children is our top priority.” said Winnebago County Sheriff John Matz. “Working with our federal partners we were able to ensure accountability and protect our children from this predator in the future.”
“Mr. Chase preyed on an 11-year-old minor and the sentence he received reflects the severity of the crime committed,” said FBI Milwaukee Special Agent in Charge Alan Karr. “The FBI is committed to working with our law enforcement partners to investigate and combat violent crimes against children.”
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Winnebago County Sheriff’s Office. It was be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Daniel R. Humble.
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 U.S. Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (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 www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
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Delafield Man Sentenced to 18 Months’ Imprisonment for Conspiracy to Pay Healthcare KickbacksRead the Press Release
Brad D. Schimel, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on January 30, 2026, United States District Judge J.P. Stadtmueller sentenced Bruce Johnson (age 72) to 18 months’ incarceration for conspiracy to pay healthcare kickbacks, in violation of the Anti-Kickback Statute (AKS).
Johnson and his co-defendant, Michael Comino, owned Kestrel Medical LLC, a company in Oconomowoc, Wisconsin, that supplied durable medical equipment (DME), including orthotic devices such as braces for ankles, knees, backs, and shoulders. Johnson signed certifications on behalf of Kestrel stating that he would abide by all Medicare laws and regulations, including the AKS. In 2018, Johnson began paying kickbacks to multiple companies purporting to provide marketing services to Kestrel. The payments to the companies were for signed prescriptions for DME that Kestrel submitted to Medicare.
In February 2020, Comino became a fifty percent owner of Kestrel, which continued to offer and pay kickbacks for signed doctors’ orders. As a result of the conspiracy, Medicare paid over $2 million to Kestrel. Prior to Kestrel’s bankruptcy proceeding, Johnson also made two transfers totaling $150,000 to one of Comino’s companies as a way to divest Kestrel of assets.
At sentencing, Judge Stadtmueller noted the serious nature of Johnson’s criminal conduct and the need to deter others who might commit similar offenses. Judge Stadtmueller also ordered Johnson to serve three years on supervised release after his prison term and to pay over $2 million in restitution to Medicare. Johnson’s co-defendant, Comino, pled guilty to the same charge last year and was sentenced to 22 months’ imprisonment, as well as supervised release and restitution.
U.S. Attorney Schimel stated, “Fraudsters like these are stealing directly from all of us out of utter greed. As our nation debates how to make health care affordable, a critical first step is to stop fraud. Federal investigators and prosecutors have made it a top priority to get those who commit public benefits fraud locked up.”
“Mr. Johnson and his co-conspirator devised a scheme to defraud the American people. This sentencing and restitution order sends a clear message that healthcare kickback schemes will not be tolerated,” said FBI Milwaukee Special Agent in Charge Alan Karr. “The FBI will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to combat and prevent healthcare fraud.”
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General, investigated the case, which Assistant U.S. Attorney John Scully prosecuted.
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Wisconsin Man Pleads Guilty After Requesting Person in Philippines Sexually Abuse a Child and Record the AbuseRead the Press Release
Bradley D. Hounsell, 44, of Oshkosh, Wisconsin, pleaded guilty today to one count of coercing and enticing a minor to engage in unlawful sexual conduct.
As detailed in the plea agreement, Hounsell communicated with an individual in the Philippines on a social media platform, seeking sexually explicit videos and images of children. In November 2023, the individual informed Hounsell that the individual had access to a 13-year-old child, and Hounsell asked the individual to produce and send him a video of the individual sexually abusing the child. Hounsell paid the individual and the child via an online payment platform and in exchange, the individual sent him a video depicting the sexual abuse of the child, performing the acts that Hounsell requested. A later review by law enforcement of Hounsell’s online communications with this individual revealed Hounsell’s repeated requests for sexualized images of minors.
Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division and U.S. Attorney Brad D. Schimel for the Eastern District of Wisconsin made the announcement.
This case was investigated by the FBI with the assistance of the Winnebago County Sheriff’s Office. Trial Attorney William G. Clayman of the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS) and Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel R. Humble for the Eastern District of Wisconsin are prosecuting the case.
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 www.justice.gov/psc.
Surgeon Sentenced to 6 Years in Federal Prison for Distribution of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Brad D. Schimel, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on January 29, 2026, Dr. Calvin Eriksen (age: 47) of Wauwatosa, Wisconsin, was sentenced to 72 months in federal prison by United States District Judge Brett H. Ludwig.
Four CyberTips were referred to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (“NCMEC”) regarding user accounts on the Kik online platform that had received and distributed Child Sexual Abuse Material (“CSAM”). Those tips led investigators to Dr. Eriksen’s home and workplace. Search warrants at those locations revealed CSAM, including images that depicted the abuse of infants and toddlers. Eriksen was also discovered to have been communicating online with an undercover law enforcement agent (“UC”) who was posing as the mother of an 8-year-old daughter. Eriksen repeatedly expressed an interest in sexually assaulting the UC’s daughter and sent a naked photo of himself.
At sentencing, Judge Ludwig noted that Eriksen’s sexually deviant behavior was disturbing and that his conduct contributed to a market which perpetuates the abuse of children. Upon completion of his prison sentence, the defendant will spend seven years on supervised release and will have to register as a sex offender under state and federal law.
According to United States Attorney Brad Schimel, “We have no higher priority in the criminal justice system than to protect children, and we will continue to devote substantial resources to catching and punishing those who steal their innocence. This case demonstrates the troubling reality that people who prey on children for sexual gratification can come from all walks of life.”
“This case is a disturbing example of criminal conduct that scars children for life and compromises the feeling of safety and security that all parents, families and communities deserve to enjoy” said Chief Christopher Garcia of the Brookfield Police Department.
“The City of Brookfield Police Department is thankful for the efforts of Homeland Security Investigations and the United States Attorney’s Office. I am proud to have such outstanding criminal justice partners who are committed to protecting our children and holding people accountable for such egregious crimes.”
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations offices in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and West Palm Beach, Florida, as well as the City of Brookfield Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Megan J. Thomas.
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 U.S. Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (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 www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
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Milwaukee Woman Pleads Guilty to Aiding in the Preparation of False Tax ReturnsRead the Press Release
Brad D. Schimel, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on January 28, 2026, Jasmeika Simon, (age 33) of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, pled guilty to one count of Aiding in the Preparation of False Tax returns, in violation of Title 26, United States Code, Section 7206(2).
According to the plea agreement, Simon worked as a tax preparer who prepared and filed federal tax returns for clients for a fee. For the 2021, 2022, and 2023 tax years, Simon electronically filed approximately 361 federal tax returns with the IRS. Of those, approximately 331 contained indicators and evidence of fraud. Most of the 1040 tax returns filed by Simon on behalf of her clients reported materially false income related to business income and losses, household employee wages, and/or ordinary dividends. They also reported a variety of materially false refundable credits and other payments including sick and family leave credits, child and dependent care credits, fuel tax credits, IRC Section 1341 credits, and/or false income tax withholdings. As a result of Simon’s material misrepresentations, her clients received larger refunds to which they were not entitled, which increased Simon’s commissions. Throughout the course of her scheme, Simon intended a loss to the IRS of approximately $3,337,051, and caused an actual tax loss, based on fraudulent refunds paid, of $1,832,477. As a result of her fraudulent conduct, Simon also obtained approximately $234,508 in fees and commissions to which she was not entitled.
Simon faces up to 3 years imprisonment and a fine of up to $250,000. She will be sentenced by United States District Court Judge Brett H. Ludwig on June 8, 2026.
This case was investigated by the IRS Criminal Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Peter J. Smyczek.
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Manitowoc Woman Receives Prison Time for Money Laundering Scheme Involving MillionsRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brad D. Schimel announced that on January 27, 2026, Cherie Campion (age: 64) was sentenced to eighteen months’ imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, by United Stated District Judge Lynn Adelman. Campion was also ordered to pay over $10 million in restitution.
Campion, through her temporary staffing agency, generated and submitted thousands of fraudulent invoices, causing respective losses of $5,000,000 and $5,389,371.51 for the two companies she deceived. Campion pled guilty to two counts of money laundering, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1956(a)(1)(B)(i).
While imposing sentence, Judge Adelman emphasized that this was “significant” misconduct, involving large dollar amounts and lies that continued over the course of years. Judge Adelman also noted that Campion’s crimes were sophisticated and involved “intricate operations,” including the generation of fake financial records; the creation of a fictitious persona to deceive her victims; and Campion’s employment of a “voice modulator” to facilitate her deception. Although Judge Adelman concluded that Campion was unlikely to reoffend, given her age and lack of prior criminal history, Judge Adelman nevertheless believed an imprisonment term was necessary to “promote general deterrence,” and hopefully dissuade other would-be white-collar criminals.
“As the Judge said, this should be a message to all would-be fraudsters and embezzlers that they will be caught and imprisoned,” said U.S. Attorney Schimel. “I am proud of the very capable and hard-working investigation and prosecution team that brought this offender to justice.”
“Cherie Campion devised an elaborate fraud scheme which caused significant loss to the victims. The sentencing of Campion and the accompanying restitution order of more than $10 million serves justice for the victims of this fraud scheme,” said FBI Milwaukee Special Agent in Charge Alan Karr. “The FBI is committed to working with our law enforcement partners to diligently pursue those who defraud and exploit others for personal gain.”
“Today’s sentencing of Campion demonstrates our commitment to pursuing those who engage in deception and fraud,” said Adam Jobes, IRS Criminal Investigation Special Agent in Charge of the Chicago Field Office. “IRS Criminal Investigation provides financial investigative expertise in our joint work with our law enforcement partners. Pooling the skills of each agency creates a formidable team to uncover wrongdoing. Today’s actions highlight our collective efforts to enforce the law and protect the public’s trust.”
“The U.S. Postal Inspection Service works diligently to preserve the integrity of the U.S. Mail,” said Mary T. Johnson, Acting Inspector in Charge of the Chicago Division of the United States Postal Inspection Service. “This sentencing reflects the successful teamwork across many federal law enforcement agencies. We want the public to know that Postal Inspectors will aggressively pursue anyone who attempts to use the Postal Service for criminal activity. We will not allow the U.S. Mail to be used to commit fraud, and we aim to keep the mail safe and secure for the American public."
“Ms. Campion’s fraud caused significant losses to the two affected companies,” said Special Agent in Charge Vincent Zehme, of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Office of Inspector General (FDIC OIG), Chicago Regional Office. “This type of sophisticated fraud scheme not only causes losses to the victim companies but also undermines the integrity of our Nation’s banks when fraud proceeds are laundered through our financial systems. Her prison sentence and significant restitution of over $10 million should send a message that FDIC OIG will continue to work tirelessly with our law enforcement partners to bring these schemes to a halt.”This matter was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation, the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation-Office of Inspector General, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kevin Knight.
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Eastern District of Wisconsin Recognizes National Human Trafficking Prevention MonthRead the Press Release
Brad D. Schimel, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that the Eastern District of Wisconsin joins the United States Department of Justice (DOJ) in observing National Human Trafficking Prevention Month and reaffirming the administration’s commitment to combating all forms of human trafficking and protecting survivors.
“This Department of Justice is working tirelessly alongside our partners to dismantle human trafficking networks, help survivors, and protect vulnerable populations from being exploited,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. In the Eastern District of Wisconsin, those partners include fellow members of a law enforcement human trafficking task force headed by the FBI, as well as the multidisciplinary Wisconsin Human Trafficking Task Force, led by the Wisconsin Department of Justice Division of Criminal Investigation.
The investigation and prosecution of human trafficking cases is both a national and a local district priority. Since the inception of the Trafficking Victims Protection Act in 2000, dozens of traffickers have been prosecuted in the Eastern District of Wisconsin for sex trafficking and forced labor. District court judges in the Eastern District of Wisconsin have often observed at sentencing hearings that trafficking cases are among the most serious of offenses charged in federal court, and the sentences imposed reflect this.
One of the district’s more recent and significant sex trafficking trials was that of Samuel Spencer, a 52-year-old Milwaukee man convicted of trafficking numerous Milwaukee area women over a 15-year period by manipulating their cocaine and heroin dependencies, controlling them financially, and physically abusing them. Spencer was convicted at trial of all counts and sentenced to 45 years in federal prison. At sentencing, Chief Judge Pamela Pepper emphasized that Spencer had used some of the worst violence and coercive tactics that she had ever seen to deprive his victims of “their human agency.”
The United States Attorney’s Office continues to prosecute human traffickers, including as recently as earlier this month when a grand jury indicted a 35-year-old Union Grove man, Hector Duarte, with sex trafficking and interstate transportation for prostitution. Duarte is alleged to have used force, threats of force, and fraud to cause an adult victim to engage in commercial sex acts between approximately May 31, 2025, and June 25, 2025, in Wisconsin and Illinois. Duarte is presumed innocent until proven guilty, but upon conviction, he would face a mandatory minimum 15 years and up to life in prison. Duarte was ordered detained pending his trial.
U.S. Attorney Schimel observed, “human trafficking is the most insidious and difficult to uncover among the crimes we see. Coordination between federal, state and local law enforcement and social service providers is critical. Traffickers rob survivors of their very dignity by exploiting vulnerabilities like addiction, poverty, and the basic need for human connection. They often commit their crimes in plain sight right before our eyes, because survivors are terrified of seeking help based upon the extreme violence and psychological manipulation to which they are subjected. Each of us has a responsibility to educate ourselves about the threat, to protect those at risk of victimization, and to report known or suspected trafficking for investigation and intervention.” The National Human Trafficking Hotline number for tips and requests for assistance is 888-373-7888.
This month, DOJ has designated heightened resources to fight and raise awareness about human trafficking. One of DOJ’s current nationwide initiatives, designed to assist in the financial recovery of sex trafficking survivors, is the Backpage Remission Program. This program allows victims who were advertised on commercial sex advertisement sites Backpage.com and CityXGuide.com, which were seized and shuttered by DOJ in 2018 and 2020 respectively, to make claims for compensation. More information can be found here. Petition forms are due by March 31.
The DOJ’s Office of Justice Programs is also soliciting grant applications to help communities combat human trafficking and to serve adults and children who have been victimized. Funding opportunities currently available are focused on housing assistance, integrated services for minor victims, prevention of the trafficking of girls, supporting survivor engagement in anti-trafficking programming, enhanced collaborative model task forces, improving outcomes for child and youth victims, and general trafficking victim services. More information can be found at here.
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Cartel Member Convicted of Fentanyl Distribution and ObstructionRead the Press Release
Brad D. Schimel, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on January 22, 2026, Jose Cardenas-Salcido (age: 43), of Arizona, was convicted after a bench trial before the Honorable J.P. Stadtmueller of distribution of fentanyl, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(A); use of the mail to facilitate a felony, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Section 843(b); attempted obstruction involving physical violence, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1512(a)(2)(B)(i); and attempted obstruction involving corrupt persuasion, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1512(b)(1).
According to the trial evidence, the investigation of Cardenas-Salcido began after law enforcement determined he was responsible for an October 2022 shipment containing over 5,000 pills containing fentanyl. At trial, witnesses described how Cardenas-Salcido supplied pills containing fentanyl to lower-level distributors selling in the Milwaukee metro area. The evidence also showed that the defendant was an admitted member of the Sinaloa cartel, with familial connections to the same.
The evidence further showed that after Cardenas-Salcido was detained pending this trial, he attempted to obstruct justice, in multiple ways. First, the defendant offered to supply a fellow inmate with guns and drugs from the cartel, if that inmate would provide the defendant with false exculpatory affidavits. Next, the defendant offered a cartel connection to a different inmate, if that same inmate would kill the witnesses set to testify against him. And finally, the defendant attempted to intimidate the witnesses against him, by sending threatening letters, mentioning his cartel connections, to the witness’s families.
In announcing his verdict, Judge Stadtmueller emphasized that this “stand out case” was only made possible by the “gum shoe detective work” of the lead case agent, a Detective Sergeant of the West Allis Police Department, and his colleagues.
The defendant will be sentenced on April 24, 2026, by Judge Stadtmueller.
This matter was investigated by the West Allis Police Department, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the United States Postal Inspection Service. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Katherine Halopka-Ivery and Kevin Knight.
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Owner of Defunct Prenatal Care Coordination Company Sentenced to 111 Months’ Imprisonment for Healthcare Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
Brad D. Schimel, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on January 20, 2026, Precious Cruse (32), was sentenced to 111 months’ incarceration for committing a Healthcare Fraud Scheme through which she stole $780,600.07 from a Medicaid benefit meant to help at-risk pregnant women and women with young children.
On September 22, 2025, a federal jury convicted Cruse of nine counts of healthcare fraud, two counts of false statements related to healthcare matters, two counts of violating the anti-kickback statute, one count of money laundering, and two counts of aggravated identity theft.
In announcing the sentence, Chief United States District Judge Pamela Pepper focused on the “significant and extensive” evidence of Cruse’s guilt. Chief Judge Pepper described the evidence as “overwhelming” and noted the significant impact that Cruse’s scheme had on both the taxpayers and the people she was supposed to help. Chief Judge Pepper explained that the significant sentence of incarceration was necessary to account for the seriousness of Cruse’s conduct and to send a message of deterrence to others considering engaging in fraud against hard-working taxpayers.
In addition to the 111-month period of incarceration, Chief Judge Pepper issued a money judgment of forfeiture in the amount of $780,600.07 and ordered Cruse to pay restitution to Medicaid in the same amount.
“The lengthy prison sentence and immediate remand of the defendant into custody are clear messages to anyone who steals from social service programs designed to help our most vulnerable neighbors: we are coming after you and you will be held accountable,” said United States Attorney Brad Schimel. “The investigators from the FBI and prosecutors from the Office of the United States Attorney did amazing work to bring this defendant to justice.”
"Healthcare fraud schemes that exploit federal programs erode public trust and steal from the American people. Precious Cruse defrauded taxpayers and diverted resources that were meant to provide assistance to those who need it most, pregnant women and children,” said FBI Milwaukee Special Agent in Charge Alan Karr. “The FBI will continue to work aggressively with our partners to combat and prevent healthcare fraud.”The Federal Bureau of Investigation along with the Medicaid Fraud and Elder Abuse Control Unit investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorneys Julie F. Stewart and Kate M. Biebel prosecuted the case.
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Chicago Man Sentenced to 19 Years’ Imprisonment for Two Armed Carjackings and an Armed RobberyRead the Press Release
Brad D. Schimel, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on January 21, 2026, Donte Patterson (age 33) was sentenced to 19 years in federal prison for his role in armed carjackings in Chicago and Milwaukee and an armed robbery in West Milwaukee.
According to court records, Patterson committed an armed carjacking in Chicago on August 20, 2025, and then traveled to Milwaukee where, on the following day, Patterson committed a second armed carjacking and then an armed robbery in West Milwaukee. During each of the carjackings and the armed robbery, Patterson brandished a firearm.
At his sentencing hearing, Chief District Judge Pamela Pepper focused on the serious nature of the offenses, noting that Patterson’s crimes imposed “psychological torture” on his victims. Chief Judge Pepper also noted the need to protect the public.
“Donte Patterson is an extremely dangerous offender who has spent nearly all of his adult life in prison and committed this violent crime spree only 6 months after release from his prior prison sentence,” said U.S. Attorney Schimel. “There is clearly only one way for society to be safe from Patterson: lock him up. Thanks to the hard work of the law enforcement and prosecution team, our communities will get a much-needed break from his violent behavior.”
"One of the FBI’s top priorities is crushing violent crime. The significant sentence for Donte Patterson reflects the seriousness of his criminal offenses and his status as a repeat offender,” said FBI Milwaukee Special Agent in Charge Alan Karr. “The FBI is committed to working with our law enforcement partners to identify criminals who prey upon our communities and bring them to justice."The matter was investigated by FBI’s Milwaukee Area Violent Crime Task Force, including the Milwaukee Police Department, as well as the West Milwaukee Police Department, and the Chicago Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Julie F. Stewart.
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Shawano Man Sentenced to 15 Years’ Imprisonment for Production of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Brad D. Schimel, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on January 20, 2026, Brandon M. Boogren (Age: 29) of Shawano, Wisconsin, was sentenced by Senior U.S. District Judge William C. Griesbach to 180 months’ incarceration in federal prison after pleading guilty to one count of Production of Child Pornography, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2251(a).
According to court documents, in June of 2025, the FBI office in Green Bay was contacted by the FBI office in Houston alerting them that a search of a Texas suspect’s phone revealed videos of child pornography created and transferred by an individual in the Shawano, Wisconsin, area. The videos depicted a two-and-a-half-year-old child being sexually assaulted by Boogren at the request of an “online model” in Houston. The “online model” was, in fact, a man posing as a woman to “catfish” the defendant.
At the sentencing hearing, Judge Griesbach described the defendant’s crime as “horrendous” and “extremely serious.” He further stated that Boogren’s criminal acts called for strong punishment. After his 15-year prison sentence, the defendant will serve 5 years on supervised release. He will further be required to register as a sex offender under state and federal law.
This case was investigated by the Houston and Green Bay offices of the FBI with the assistance of the Shawano Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Daniel R. Humble.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 U.S. Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (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 www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
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Nurse Sentenced to 6.5 Years in Federal Prison for Distribution of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Brad D. Schimel, United States Attorney of the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on January 13, 2026, Troy Schaden (age: 43), a nurse from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, was sentenced to 78 months in federal prison by United States District Judge Brett H. Ludwig.
According to court records, Schaden was purchasing Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM) from an individual in the United Kingdom. After reviewing electronic devices seized during the execution of a search warrant at Schaden’s home, law enforcement discovered that Schaden also distributed images of CSAM to users on an application called Teleguard between February 2025 and March 2025. Some of those images depicted the abuse of infants and toddlers.
At his sentencing hearing, Judge Ludwig described Schaden’s offense as very serious and one that perpetuated the abuse of children. Upon completion of his federal prison sentence, the defendant will spend five years on supervised release. He also will be required to register as a sex offender under state and federal law.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Megan J. Thomas.
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 U.S. Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (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 www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
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Milwaukee Man Pleads Guilty to Aiding in Preparation of False Tax ReturnsRead the Press Release
Brad D. Schimel, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on January 6, 2026, U.S. District Judge Brett Ludwig accepted the guilty plea of Cameron Summers to two counts of aiding and assisting in the preparation of false tax returns, in violation of 26 U.S.C. § 7206(2).
According to the information and plea agreement, Summers worked at a tax preparation business in Milwaukee beginning in 2018. From 2020 through 2022, he filed with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) over 400 individual income tax returns (Forms 1040) for clients, using his name, preparer tax identification number, and business name. Summers repeatedly used false items on clients’ tax returns to inflate refund amounts, including false business expenses, Sick and Family Leave Credits, Fuel Credits, and Educational Tax Credits. Summers made notations stating that he had “boosted” the refund amount on some returns, and told the IRS, Criminal Investigation Division, in an interview that he did everything he could to get a big refund, such as using whatever numbers were available and maximizing credits on the returns. The loss to the IRS totaled over $1.1 million.
Sentencing is scheduled for May 5, 2026, at 9:00 a.m., before Judge Ludwig. At sentencing, Summers faces up to three years in prison and up to a $250,000 fine on each count, as well as a term of supervised release after completing any period of imprisonment.
The IRS, Criminal Investigation Division, investigated the case, which Assistant U.S. Attorney John P. Scully is prosecuting.
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Former Wisconsin Prison Employee Pleads Guilty to Conspiring to Commit BriberyRead the Press Release
Brad D. Schimel, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on January 15, 2026, Luz Naranjo (age: 46) of Beaver Dam, Wisconsin, pleaded guilty to conspiring to commit federal programs bribery, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 371 and 666(a)(1)(B).
According to court documents, Naranjo, a former correctional officer at Waupun Correctional Institution (WCI), received two bribe payments of $3,000 for smuggling contraband—including tobacco, cellular phones, and controlled substances—into WCI for an inmate.
Naranjo is scheduled to be sentenced on April 15, 2026, and faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated the case.
Assistant United States Attorneys Zachary J. Corey and Kevin C. Knight for the Eastern District of Wisconsin are prosecuting the case. Trial Attorney Aaron L. Jennen, of the Criminal Division’s Public Integrity Section, substantially contributed to the investigation.
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Public Affairs Officer Steve Caballero
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Franklin Woman Pleads Guilty to Aiding in the Preparation of False Tax ReturnsRead the Press Release
Brad D. Schimel, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on January 16, 2026, Jahnell Easly, 29, of Franklin, Wisconsin, pled guilty to one count of Aiding in the Preparation of False Tax returns, in violation of Title 26, United States Code, Section 7206(2).
According to the plea agreement filed in court, Easly worked as a tax preparer who prepared and filed federal tax returns for clients for a fee. For the 2020, 2021, and 2022 tax years, Easly electronically filed approximately 424 federal tax returns with the IRS. Of those, approximately 386 contained indicators and evidence of fraud. Most of the 1040 tax returns filed by Easly on behalf of her clients reported materially false income related to business income and losses, household employee wages, and/or ordinary dividends. They also reported a variety of materially false refundable credits and other payments including sick and family leave credits, child and dependent care credits, fuel tax credits, IRC Section 1341 credits, and/or false income tax withholdings. As a result of Easly’s material misrepresentations, her clients received larger refunds to which they were not entitled, which increased Easly’s commission well beyond what she was entitled to receive. Throughout the course of her scheme, Easly intended a loss to the IRS of approximately $3,499,253, and caused an actual tax loss, based on fraudulent refunds paid, of $1,397,947. As a result of her fraudulent conduct, Easly also obtained approximately $253,712.89 in fees and commissions to which she was not entitled.
Easly faces up to 3 years imprisonment and a fine of up to $250,000. She will be sentenced before federal Chief District Court Judge Pamela Pepper on May 21, 2026.
This case was investigated by the IRS Criminal Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Peter J. Smyczek.
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Bayside Man Charged with Cyberstalking and Transmitting Interstate ThreatsRead the Press Release
Brad D. Schimel, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on December 16, 2025, a federal grand jury indicted Bradley S. Rose, 41, of Bayside, Wisconsin, with two counts of cyberstalking in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2261A, and one count of transmitting interstate threats, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 875(c). Rose appeared in court today for his initial appearance and arraignment.
According to the indictment, Rose used an electronic communication service and system of interstate commerce to engage in a course of conduct that placed two victims in reasonable fear of death or serious bodily injury, and caused, and attempted to cause, substantial emotional distress to the victims. The indictment also alleges that Rose transmitted in interstate commerce a series of Apple iMessages containing a threat to injure one of the same victims.
If convicted, Rose faces up to 5 years’ imprisonment and a fine of up to $250,000 for each count.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Milwaukee Field Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Peter J. Smyczek.
An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. The defendant is presumed innocent and is entitled to a fair trial at which the government must prove his guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
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Union Grove Man Indicted for Human TraffickingRead the Press Release
Brad D. Schimel, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on January 6, 2026, a two-count federal indictment was returned that charged Hector L. Duarte (age 35) of Union Grove, Wisconsin, with sex trafficking by force, fraud, or coercion, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 1591(a)(1) and 1591(b)(1), and interstate transportation for the purpose of prostitution, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2421(a).
According to the indictment, Duarte is alleged to have used force, threats of force, and fraud to cause an adult victim to engage in commercial sex acts between approximately May 31, 2025, and June 25, 2025, in the Eastern District of Wisconsin and Northern District of Illinois.
If convicted of sex trafficking, Duarte faces a mandatory minimum 15 years’ imprisonment, and up to life imprisonment. If convicted of interstate transportation for the purpose of prostitution, he faces a maximum of 10 years’ imprisonment. He may also be fined up to $250,000 on each count.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation – Milwaukee Field Office and the Cudahy Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Abbey M. Marzick.
An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. The defendant is presumed innocent and is entitled to a fair trial at which the government must prove his guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
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Oklahoma Woman Charged with Sexual Abuse Crimes Against a Northeast Wisconsin MinorRead the Press Release
Brad D. Schimel, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on December 23, 2025, Randi L. Cook (age: 24) of Tahlequah, Oklahoma, was charged in a criminal complaint with interstate travel with intent to engage in a sexual act with a minor, production of child pornography, and coercing or enticing a minor for unlawful sexual activity, all in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 2251(a), 2422(b), and 2423(b).
According to the criminal complaint, between November 7, 2025, and December 16, 2025, Cook began communicating with a Northeast Wisconsin minor and convinced the child to send sexually explicit images of the minor’s genitalia via the internet. Cook also travelled to the Eastern District of Wisconsin on more than one occasion and sexually abused the minor at a hotel and a short-term rental property.
If convicted of interstate travel with intent to engage in a sexual act with a minor, Cook faces up to 30 years of imprisonment. If Cook is convicted of the production of child pornography charge, she faces a mandatory minimum of 15 years and up to 30 years of imprisonment. If convicted of coercion and enticement, Cook will face a mandatory minimum of 10 years and up to life of imprisonment. Each charge also carries up to a $250,000 fine and a minimum of 5 years and up to life of supervised release. A conviction of any of the three charges would also require Cook to register as a sexual offender.
This case was investigated by the Winnebago County Sheriff’s Office. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Daniel R. Humble.
A criminal complaint is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. The defendant is presumed innocent and is entitled to a fair trial at which the government must prove her guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
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 U.S. Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (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 www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
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Menasha Man Charged with Production of Child Pornography and Obscenity CrimesRead the Press Release
Brad D. Schimel, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on December 23, 2025, Zakaria H. Adam (age: 20) of Menasha, Wisconsin, was charged in a criminal complaint with production of child pornography and transfer of obscene matter to a minor in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 2251(a) and 1470.
According to the criminal complaint, between April 15, 2025, and April 24, 2025, Adam began communicating via a popular social media application with a 13-year-old minor in upstate New York. Zakaria sent sexually explicit images of his genitalia to the child and convinced the child to send sexually explicit images in return.
If convicted of the production of child pornography charge, Zakaria faces a mandatory minimum15 years and up to 30 years of imprisonment. The charge also carries up to a $250,000 fine and a minimum of 5 years and up to life of supervised release. The transfer of obscene matter to a minor charge carries up to 10 years of imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to 3 years of supervised release. A conviction on either charge would also require Adam to register as a sexual offender.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Green Bay Resident Agency. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Daniel R. Humble.
A criminal complaint is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. The defendant is presumed innocent and is entitled to a fair trial at which the government must prove his guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
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 U.S. Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (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 www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
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Public Affairs Officer Steve Caballero
(414) 297-1700
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Fox Valley Nurse Practitioner Sentenced to Federal Prison for Unlawful PrescribingRead the Press Release
Brad D. Schimel, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on December 18, 2025, United States District Judge J.P. Stadtmueller sentenced Jessica Friday, an Advanced Practice Nurse Practitioner from Appleton, Wisconsin, to 16 months’ imprisonment.
On August 13, 2025, Friday pleaded guilty to one count of distribution of controlled substances outside the usual course of professional practice and without a legitimate purpose. The charges stem from Friday’s unlawful prescribing between 2020 and 2024. According to court records, during that period, Friday issued prescriptions for opioids, including Oxycodone, without a demonstration of medical necessity. Friday issued these prescriptions based on an arrangement with her patients whereby the patients agreed to fill the unlawful prescriptions and provide half, or more, of the pills to Friday for her personal use.
Friday was aware, while she was engaging this conduct, that the people to whom she was prescribing did not need the opiates, that they were vulnerable for reasons of their mental health and addiction, and that they were selling at least some of the pills they retained from Friday’s unlawful prescriptions.
In announcing his sentence, Judge Stadtmueller noted Friday’s serious abuse of a position of a trust, the “staggering” volume of prescriptions Friday issued without medical need, and the need to promote deterrence among medical professionals who may be tempted to engage in similar unlawful prescribing practices.
“Rather than providing legitimate care as a medical professional, this defendant fueled and supplied her own addiction,” said U.S. Attorney Schimel. “In the process, she simply became another drug dealer – another source of supply for putting highly addictive substances in the hands of others for no medical purpose. My office remains committed to working with DEA and all of our law enforcement partners to combat this epidemic.”
"Medical professionals are entrusted with extraordinary authority to heal, not to harm,” said John McGarry, Assistant Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Milwaukee District Office. “When they abuse that trust by illegally dispensing controlled substances, they put lives at risk and undermine the integrity of the entire medical system. DEA will continue to hold accountable any practitioner who chooses profit or convenience over patient safety and the law.”
Upon completion of her 16-month prison sentence, Friday will serve a three-year term of supervised release.
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration – Diversion Control Division. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Julie F. Stewart.
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United States Thanks Jurors for their Service and Urges Peaceful Response to VerdictRead the Press Release
Brad D. Schimel, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, issued the following statement in response to the conviction of Judge Hannah Dugan.
“There are several important messages that would be the same no matter the verdict: First, we all owe a debt of gratitude to the jurors for their service and dedication – our justice system is not always perfect, but it is the best the world has ever known. Much of the credit for that belongs to citizens who sacrifice to serve as jurors, and our justice system would not work without their service.
Second, we all need to keep this case in proper perspective. Some have sought to make this about a larger political battle. While this case is serious for all involved, it is ultimately about a single bad day in a public courthouse. It was a criminal case like the many that make their way through this courthouse every day, and we all must accept the verdict peacefully.
Third, although much of the work on this case took place prior to my appointment, I have witnessed the hard work and extraordinary talent of the team here that put the final pieces of this case together over the last month. I am immensely proud of them. The three seasoned trial attorneys worked tirelessly to prepare the presentation of this case, and based upon my experience, they tried it masterfully.
Many other attorneys and our very capable litigation support staff also worked long hours to put this together. Many thanks to the Federal Bureau of Investigation for their astounding investigative efforts. On behalf of the people of the United States that we serve, I thank all of them for their diligent efforts.
I reiterate that ALL of us need to keep this case in proper perspective and peacefully accept the verdict. This was a serious matter for which it was necessary to seek to hold Judge Dugan accountable. We have all heard the phrase, “no one is above the law”. It is apt in this case. A judge holds a high position of public trust, and Judge Dugan’s actions violated that trust. Her own recorded words demonstrate that she knew what she was doing was wrong.
Experience and common sense, as well as the evidence presented in this case, demonstrate that the safest place to execute this arrest warrant can often be within the public area of a courthouse, such as the Milwaukee County Courthouse, where there is security screening to ensure that none who enter are armed. That is why federal law enforcement agents sought, as law enforcement does every day, to utilize that safer environment to accomplish this arrest.But the Defendant’s actions provided an opportunity for a wanted subject to flee outside the courthouse, which led to a dangerous foot chase through automobile traffic and eventually to an agent taking the subject to the ground, which is always hazardous for both the officer and the suspect. There was certainly the potential for many other dangers, as well. Thankfully, no one was injured.
Law enforcement work is fraught with dangers and our law enforcement officers put their lives on the line every day. Here they were carrying out their sworn responsibility to execute an arrest warrant. Whenever they perform their duties, they should reasonably be entitled to do so in the safest possible conditions. When someone, especially a sworn public official, puts them in unnecessary danger by obstructing those efforts to make an arrest as safely as possible, they must be held accountable.
The Defendant exercised her constitutional right to put the government to its proof. We met that burden, and the jury has found the defendant guilty of a felony. It will now be up to the Judge to determine the appropriate sentence.”
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Oshkosh Sex Offender Indicted on Federal Child Sex OffensesRead the Press Release
Brad D. Schimel, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on December 16, 2025, a federal grand jury issued a four-count indictment alleging that on two different dates in September of 2025, Dustin K. Gildemeister (Age: 39) of Oshkosh, Wisconsin, distributed obscene visual depictions of the sexual abuse of children in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1466A. The indictment also alleges that he did so as an individual required to register as a sexual offender in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2260A.
If convicted of one of the distribution of obscene depictions charges, the defendant faces a mandatory minimum 15-year and a maximum of 40 years’ imprisonment. Should the jury find he committed one of those charges while required to register as a sexual offender, the defendant faces an additional mandatory 10 year-sentence that must be imposed consecutive to any other sentence. The defendant may also be required to pay a fine of up to $250,000 and faces a mandatory term of 5 years on supervised release and a maximum term of life on supervised release.
The defendant is alleged to be on the Wisconsin Sex Offender Registry based upon his convictions in 2015 in the Winnebago County Circuit Court for child exploitation and possession of child pornography.
This case was investigated by the Winnebago County Sheriff’s Office with the assistance of the Wisconsin Department of Corrections, Division of Community Corrections. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Daniel R. Humble.
An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. The defendant is presumed innocent and is entitled to a fair trial at which the government must prove his guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
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 U.S. Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (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 www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
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For further information contact:Public Affairs Officer Steve Caballero
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Milwaukee Man Sentenced to 13 Years in Prison for Trafficking Drugs in OshkoshRead the Press Release
Brad D. Schimel, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on December 15, 2025, United States District Judge Byron B. Conway sentenced Aquanis M. Williams (a/k/a “Pirate”) to 156 months’ imprisonment for distributing controlled substances in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, and possessing firearms as a convicted felon.
According to court records, from January through May of 2025, Williams distributed methamphetamine, fentanyl, and cocaine in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. On May 29, 2025, agents searched Williams’ residence and seized three firearms, hundreds of rounds of ammunition, approximately $4,500 cash, over 700 grams of methamphetamine, over 100 grams of cocaine, and 27 grams of fentanyl. Williams admitted to possessing the firearms and controlled substances and stated that he planned to purchase one kilogram of fentanyl later that day.
Williams has a significant prior criminal record, including three prior convictions for possessing a firearm as a convicted felon and a prior conviction for pointing a firearm at a law enforcement officer.
This case was investigated by the Oshkosh Police Department – Vice and Narcotics Unit, with assistance from the Lake Winnebago Area Metropolitan Enforcement Group – Drug Unit (LWAM), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Milwaukee Police Department, and North Central High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA). It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Alex Duros.
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Middleton Police Officer Indicted on Federal Child Sex OffenseRead the Press Release
Brad D. Schimel, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on December 16, 2025, a federal grand jury issued an indictment alleging that between approximately November 5, 2025, and November 9, 2025, Myles S. Schumaker (Age: 26) of Sun Prairie, Wisconsin, coerced or enticed a minor for unlawful sexual activity in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2422(b).
At the time of his arrest, the defendant was employed as a patrol officer with the Middleton Police Department. If convicted of the charge alleged, the defendant faces a mandatory minimum 10-year sentence and up to a lifetime in federal prison. Additionally, he may be required to pay a fine of up to $250,000 and will face a mandatory 5-year term of supervised release and up to a lifetime term of supervised release.
This case was investigated by the Winnebago County Sheriff’s Office. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Daniel R. Humble.An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. The defendant is presumed innocent and is entitled to a fair trial at which the government must prove his guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
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 U.S. Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (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 www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
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For further information contact:Public Affairs Officer Steve Caballero
(414) 297-1700
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Man and Woman Indicted for Child Abuse and Child Neglect on Menominee Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
Brad D. Schimel, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on December 9, 2025, a federal grand jury returned a two-count indictment against a man and woman allegedly involved in child abuse and child neglect on the Menominee Indian Reservation. The indictment named Louis A. Tucker (age: 23) and Nyomi L.M. Acosta (age: 21) of Neopit.
Count One of the indictment charges both defendants with Child Abuse in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 1153(a) and 2(a), and Wis. Stat. § 948.03(3)(a). If convicted, the defendants face a maximum of 10 years in prison. Count Two charges the defendants with Child Neglect in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 1153(a) and 2(a), and Wis. Stat. §§ 948.21(2) and 948.21(3)(b)(1). If convicted of this offense, the defendants face up to 7 ½ years in prison. The defendants would also face potential fines, a special assessment, and terms of supervised release at the end of any sentence imposed.
According to the indictment, between about September 29, 2025, and October 20, 2025, the defendants, who are Native American Indians, recklessly caused great bodily harm to a Native American Indian child by striking the child about the head and body. This caused bruising and other marks. The defendants are also charged with fracturing the child’s left radius and ulna and burning the child’s back and torso. Count Two alleges that during this time the defendants, for reasons other than poverty, negligently failed to provide necessary care and necessary medical care for the child, and seriously endangered the child’s physical, mental, and emotional health. The indictment further alleges that the child suffered great bodily harm as a result of this failure.
The Menominee Tribal Police Department and FBI investigated the case with assistance from Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin. Assistant United States Attorney Andrew J. Maier will prosecute the case in United States District Court in Green Bay.
An indictment is only a charge and not evidence of guilt. The defendants are presumed innocent and are entitled to a fair trial at which the government must prove their guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
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Three Chinese-Owned Companies to Pay More Than $7.3 Million to Resolve False Claims Act Allegations Relating to Paycheck Protection Program LoansRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Greenland LA Metropolis Hotel Development LLC, Greenland US Management LLC, and Greenland LA Metropolis Development III (together, the Greenland USA Entities), have agreed to pay $7,312,283.36 to resolve allegations that they violated the False Claims Act by submitting false claims to obtain Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans for which they were not eligible.
Congress created the PPP in March 2020 to provide emergency financial assistance to Americans suffering from the economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Under the PPP, eligible businesses could receive forgivable loans guaranteed by the Small Business Administration (SBA). Regulations provide various eligibility requirements for the PPP, including limitations on the number of individuals the borrower and its affiliated entities employed. In January 2021, SBA announced that certain parties that had previously received PPP loans were eligible to apply for a second loan. In their loan applications for both PPP rounds, borrowers were required to certify that they were eligible for the PPP and that the information they provided was accurate.
The Greenland USA Entities own and develop real estate projects and are part of a large multinational corporation ultimately owned by the Greenland Holding Group Company Limited, a Chinese company with tens of thousands of employees worldwide.
In applying for their PPP loans, the Greenland USA Entities certified that they were eligible for the PPP. The United States alleges that the Greenland USA Entities were not eligible for their first- or second-round PPP loans because they were affiliated with other companies in the United States and China, and together with their affiliates across the globe, the Greenland USA Entities employed more individuals than permitted by SBA’s size standard for their industry. Additionally, the United States alleges that the Greenland USA Entities were not eligible for their second-round PPP loans because they are more than 20 percent owned by entities created and organized in the People’s Republic of China.
“Congress created the PPP to help American small businesses during the pandemic, not to fund large Chinese-owned corporations. Here, however, the defendants are alleged to have provided false information to the SBA to obtain government funds to which they were not entitled,” said U.S. Attorney Brad D. Schimel. “This settlement demonstrates that the U.S. Attorney’s Office takes seriously its obligation to combat fraud and protect American taxpayers.”
The civil settlement includes the resolution of claims brought under the qui tam or whistleblower provisions of the False Claims Act, which permit private parties to file an action on behalf of the United States and receive a portion of any recovery. This settlement resolves claims in two related qui tam lawsuits filed by GNGH2 Inc. and Aidan Forsyth. In connection with the settlement, GNGH2 Inc. will receive $697,757.80 and Forsyth will receive $33,470.53.
The resolution obtained in this matter was the result of a coordinated effort between the Justice Department’s Civil Division, Commercial Litigation Branch, Fraud Section, and the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, with assistance from the SBA’s Office of General Counsel and Office of the Inspector General.
Trial Attorney Lindsey Roberts of the Civil Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Carter for the Eastern District of Wisconsin handled the matter.
The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only. There has been no determination of liability.
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Minnesota Man Sentenced to 20 years in Federal Prison for Drug Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Brad D. Schimel, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on December 9, 2025, Michael Williams (age: 44) received a sentence of 240 months in federal prison for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute controlled substances. The sentence, imposed by Chief United States District Judge Pamela Pepper, came after a federal jury found Williams guilty of the charge on July 17, 2025, following a nine-day trial. After completing his prison sentence, Williams will be on supervised release for an additional 60 months.
According to court documents, Williams manufactured and distributed kilogram quantities of fentanyl, cocaine, and heroin, and he also distributed pound quantities of methamphetamine and marijuana. Williams was part of a drug trafficking conspiracy that had established distribution hubs throughout the Midwestern United States, including Milwaukee, Minneapolis, and St. Paul, the greater Chicago area, and Northern Indiana.
Court documents further indicate that Williams operated the drug trafficking organization’s primary drug stash location in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Here, he and others mixed, tested, and packaged controlled substances, including kilogram quantities of fentanyl. On November 29, 2022, when Williams’ stash location was searched, authorities located approximately 1,700 grams of fentanyl, over 700 grams of heroin, 650 grams of methamphetamine, 2,700 grams of cocaine, and 760 grams of marijuana. Williams’ residence was also searched the same day, at which time authorities located 2 loaded firearms and approximately $154,000.
In pronouncing sentence, Judge Pepper noted the sheer volume of very dangerous drugs that the defendant was mixing and selling. She also noted Williams’ criminal history, which included multiple felonies, and his pattern of re-offending after serving time in custody.
A co-defendant, Joathan Colula, was also found guilty on July 17, 2025, following the trial. Colula sourced the drug trafficking organization with kilograms of cocaine, fentanyl pills, and methamphetamine. He was based out of California. His sentencing is scheduled for February 10, 2026.
“This is just one of many examples of the highly successful collaboration that occurs every day between local, state and federal authorities to identify, arrest and convict dangerous drug traffickers,” said U.S. Attorney Schimel. “Our nation has never faced a greater public safety or public health crisis than the fentanyl epidemic that threatens our communities of all sizes. I am proud of the hard working and talented people who put this case together and took out these dangerous criminals.”"This 20-year sentence sends a clear message that those who traffic in fentanyl and other dangerous drugs will be held fully accountable,” said DEA Chicago Field Division Special Agent in Charge Shane R. Catone. “Working alongside the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, the North Central High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area, and our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners, we disrupted a multi-state trafficking operation that moved massive quantities of narcotics across the Midwest. DEA and our partners remain committed to dismantling drug trafficking organizations and protecting our communities.”
"The Milwaukee Police Department (MPD) is proud of the role our officers played in this case and grateful for the dedication and hard work of everyone involved in this investigation. Drug traffickers bring great harm to our community and must be held accountable.” said Milwaukee Police Chief Jeffrey Norman. “MPD values our collaboration with federal, state and local law enforcement partners in criminal cases like this to build a safer city for everyone to live, work and play.”
The case was investigated by the North Central High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area, comprised of officers and agents from the Milwaukee Police Department, West Allis Police Department, South Milwaukee Police Department, Wisconsin Department of Justice—Division of Criminal Investigation, and the United States Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations. The Internal Revenue Service and the Apple Valley Police Department also participated in the investigation of the case. Assistant United States Attorneys Elizabeth Monfils and Erica Lounsberry prosecuted the case.
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Westmoor Country Club Agrees to Pay $1.25 Million to Resolve Claim It Wrongfully Obtained Paycheck Protection Program LoanRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Wisconsin has announced a settlement agreement with Westmoor Country Club, whereby the club will pay $1,250,000.00 to settle claims that it improperly obtained a loan through the Paycheck Protection Program (“PPP”) administered by the United States Small Business Administration (“SBA”).
The PPP loan program, enacted in March 2020, provided emergency financial assistance to Americans suffering from the economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. The program allowed eligible small businesses and non-profits to receive loans guaranteed by the federal government and, if the borrower spent the funds on qualified expenses, the federal government would repay the loan on the borrower’s behalf.
Congress directed the SBA to guarantee PPP loans “under the same terms, conditions, and processes” as ordinary small business loans administered by the agency. 15 U.S.C. § 636(a)(36)(B). With respect to loan eligibility, Congress expressly endorsed the SBA’s regulation explaining what entities would be ineligible for loans. 15 U.S.C. § 636(a)(37)(A)(iv)(III)(aa). For decades, this regulation has explained that “[p]rivate clubs and businesses which limit the number of memberships for reasons other than capacity” are not eligible for loans through the SBA. 13 C.F.R. § 120.110(i).
Westmoor Country Club operates a private country club, which is open only to its members. According to the government, at the time Westmoor Country Club applied for a PPP loan and for loan forgiveness, the club limited its membership for reasons other than capacity and, therefore, was ineligible to participate in the PPP.
“The favorable settlement in this case is the product of enhanced efforts by federal agencies such as the Small Business Administration working with the U.S. Attorney’s Office and other federal law enforcement agencies to recover the product of this fraud as well as penalties,” said SBA General Counsel Wendell Davis.
Assistant United States Attorney Aaron R. Wegrzyn represented the government in connection with this matter, in coordination with Kandace Zelaya in the SBA’s Office of Litigation and Office of General Counsel. While the settlement resolves the government’s allegations against Westmoor Country Club with respect to its PPP loan, the club does not admit liability and no court has made any determination as to liability.
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Muskego Man Indicted for Child Exploitation CrimesRead the Press Release
Brad D. Schimel, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on December 9, 2025, a three-count federal indictment was issued alleging that Justin D. Kagerbauer (age: 46) of Muskego, Wisconsin, committed three federal felonies: (1) Count One: attempted interstate or foreign travel with the intent to engage in a sexual act with a minor, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2423(b); (2) Count Two: using a computer to attempt to persuade, induce, or entice a minor to engage in unlawful sexual activity, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2422(b); and (3) Count Three: distribution of child pornography, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2252A(a)(2)(A).
According to court documents, Kagerbauer was the target of an undercover operation originating in the United Kingdom (“UK”). He is alleged to have communicated online with an adult individual in the UK from March 2025 through late November 2025, with the intent that Kagerbauer travel to the United Kingdom to sexually assault a nine-year-old female child.
If convicted of Count One, Kagerbauer faces up to 30 years’ imprisonment. If convicted of Count Two, he faces a mandatory 10 years’ imprisonment, up to life imprisonment. If convicted of Count Three, he faces a mandatory five years’ imprisonment, up to 20 years’ imprisonment. Kagerbauer may also be fined up to $250,000 on each count. He also may be required to register as a sex offender under state and federal law.
This case was investigated by law enforcement in the United Kingdom and Department of Homeland Security – Homeland Security Investigations in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Abbey M. Marzick.
An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. The defendant is presumed innocent and is entitled to a fair trial at which the government must prove his guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
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 U.S. Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (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 www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
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For further information contact:
Public Affairs Officer Steve Caballero
(414) 297-1700
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Greenville Man Indicted for Armed Robbery and Firearms Offenses at Bear Creek BankRead the Press Release
Brad D. Schimel, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on December 9, 2025, a federal grand jury returned a two-count indictment against a man allegedly involved in the armed robbery of a bank in Bear Creek in northwestern Outagamie County. The indictment named Martin M. Muniz-Lara (age: 43) of Greenville, Wisconsin.
Count One of the indictment charges Muniz-Lara with Armed Bank Robbery in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 2113(a) and 2113(d). If convicted, Muniz-Lara faces a maximum of 25 years in prison. Count Two charges Muniz-Lara with Brandishing a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 924(c). If convicted, Muniz-Lara faces up to life in prison, with a 7-year mandatory minimum sentence that must be consecutive to any other sentence. Muniz-Lara would also face fines, a special assessment, and terms of supervised release at the end of any sentence imposed.
According to the indictment, on or about October 17, 2025, the defendant forcefully took money from a federally insured bank in Bear Creek and brandished a firearm while committing the robbery.
The Outagamie County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case with assistance from the FBI, Oshkosh Police Department, and Outagamie County District Attorney’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Andrew J. Maier will prosecute the case in United States District Court in Green Bay.
An indictment is only a charge and not evidence of guilt. The defendant is presumed innocent and is entitled to a fair trial at which the government must prove his guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
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For further information contact:Public Affairs Officer Steve Caballero
(414) 297-1700
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United States Citizen Successfully Extradited from South Africa After Kidnapping His Children in 2021Read the Press Release
Brad D. Schimel, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that a federal grand jury has returned an indictment charging a Wisconsin man, Clyde Lewis Springfield (41) with the crime of international parental kidnapping.
According to a criminal complaint previously filed in the case, on or about October 29, 2021, Springfield left the United States with his four children and failed to return two of them on November 3, 2021, in accordance with their child custody agreement. Travel records showed that the defendant took his children to South Africa and did not return them to the United States on their scheduled return flight. Authorities obtained a federal criminal complaint against Springfield on November 24, 2021.
On March 16, 2022, through combined efforts of the Department of Justice and law enforcement, the children were located, rescued, and returned safely to the United States. Through an international extradition process, Springfield was returned to the United States on November 20, 2025, and arrested.If convicted of international parental kidnapping, he faces up to three years of prison, up to a $250k fine, and up to one year of supervised release.
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the West Allis Police Department, the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI), and the United States Marshall’s Service (USMS) are investigating this case. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs worked with law enforcement partners in South Africa to secure the arrest and November 20 extradition to the United States of Lewis-Springfield. Assistant U.S. Attorney Megan J. Thomas is prosecuting the case.This investigation is a 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 www.justice.gov/psc.
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For further information contact:Public Affairs Officer Steve Caballero
(414) 297-1700
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40-month Prison Sentence for Menominee Man Convicted of Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily InjuryRead the Press Release
Brad D. Schimel, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on December 1, 2025, Darryl D. Smith (age: 53), formerly of Keshena, received a 40-month sentence for a violent crime on the Menominee Indian Reservation. The sentence, imposed by Senior United States District Judge William C. Griesbach, came after Smith entered a guilty plea to assault resulting in serious bodily injury on December 1, 2025. After his prison sentence, Smith will be on supervised release for an additional 36 months.
According to court documents, Smith, a former girlfriend, and her children were temporarily residing at a shelter on the reservation when Smith and his former girlfriend began arguing. Smith punched the woman in the nose, causing fractures and displacement to nasal bones and significant pain. The woman received medical treatment for her injuries.
In sentencing the defendant, Senior Judge Griesbach noted Smith’s lengthy criminal history and the seriousness of the offense. Judge Griesbach specifically pointed out Smith’s previous convictions in Wisconsin and Menominee Tribal Court involving violence against others, and abuse of alcohol as a contributing factor in nearly all the previous convictions. Judge Griesbach described the offense as “impulsive” yet “horrible,” and referred to the amount of pain the defendant caused. Judge Griesbach noted the need to protect the public from the defendant and to send a message to others that violence will not be tolerated and will result in punishment.
The case was investigated by the Menominee Tribal Police and Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Andrew J. Maier prosecuted the case in U.S. District Court in Green Bay.
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For further information contact:Public Affairs Officer Steve Caballero
(414) 297-1700
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Former Omro Alderman Enters Guilty Plea to Charge of Receiving Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Brad D. Schimel, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on November 21, 2025, Jason A. Reeves (age: 44) of Omro, Wisconsin, pled guilty to a charge of receipt of child pornography stemming from his online conduct in April of 2025, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2252A(a)(2)(A).
Reeves faces a mandatory 5 years’ imprisonment and up to 20 years of incarceration. He may also be fined up to $250,000 and would be required to register as a sexual offender under state and federal law. He will be sentenced before federal District Court Judge Byron B. Conway on February 20, 2026.
According to documents filed with the court, a CyberTip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (“NCMEC”) was sent to the Wisconsin Department of Justice. That tip was then forwarded to the Winnebago County Sheriff’s Office based on the IP address associated with the CyberTip. The tip alleged the distribution of child pornography on October 16, 2024. Law enforcement continued its investigation and on April 29, 2025, they executed a search warrant at Reeves’ residence, which resulted in the recovery of child pornography.
This case was investigated by the Winnebago County Sheriff’s Office and the Green Bay Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Daniel R. Humble.
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 U.S. Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (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 www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
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For further information contact:
Public Affairs Officer Steve Caballero
(414) 297-1700
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Federal Jury Finds Markita Barnes Guilty of Healthcare Fraud, Aggravated Identity Theft, Providing Unlawful Kickbacks, Obstruction, and Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
Brad D. Schimel, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on November 21, 2025, Markita Barnes, the owner and operator of a now-defunct Prenatal Care Coordination Company called Here for You, was convicted of twenty federal charges, including Healthcare Fraud, False Statements related to Healthcare Matters, Anti-Kickback Statute violations, Aggravated Identity Theft, Obstruction of a Healthcare Fraud Investigation, and Money Laundering.
The evidence presented at trial established that Barnes and her employees exploited vulnerable pregnant women and young mothers by luring them into the company’s prenatal care coordination program with kickbacks in the form of cash enrollment bonuses and free baby items such as car seats, pack ‘n plays, diapers, and wipes. Once enrolled, Barnes’s company unlawfully used the women’s personal information to submit claims to Medicaid for services that were never provided, often backdating the claims to months before anyone at the company had met or enrolled the client. In reality, participants often received only occasional deliveries of diapers and wipes, and in some cases, nothing at all. The evidence also demonstrated that Barnes used her fraud proceeds to finance a lavish lifestyle, including luxury travel, designer clothing, and even a $75,000 Mercedes.
The defendant is scheduled to be sentenced on March 17, 2026, by United States District Court Chief Judge Pamela Pepper. Markita Barnes faces a mandatory minimum 2-year sentence on the aggravated identity theft charges, and a maximum 20 years’ imprisonment for each of the healthcare fraud charges.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation along with the Medicaid Fraud and Elder Abuse Control Unit investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorneys Julie F. Stewart and Kate M. Biebel prosecuted the case.
# # # #Brad D. Schimel Appointed as Interim United States Attorney for the Eastern District of WisconsinRead the Press Release
Milwaukee – Brad D. Schimel has been appointed as the Interim United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin. United States Attorney Schimel was appointed to the position by United States Attorney General Pamela Bondi. Today, Mr. Schimel has taken the oath of office – administered by Chief U.S. District Court Judge Pamela Pepper.
As Interim United States Attorney, Mr. Schimel is the Chief Federal Law Enforcement Officer for the Eastern District of Wisconsin. He supervises the prosecution of all federal crimes and the litigation of all civil matters for the United States within the district. He leads an office of approximately 82 prosecutors, civil litigators, support personnel and professional staff members.
Mr. Schimel said, "I am deeply honored to be appointed Interim United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin. For more than three and a half decades, public service has been my calling - first as a young prosecutor in Waukesha County, then as District Attorney, Attorney General, and most recently as a judge. In every one of those roles, I’ve had the privilege of working alongside dedicated professionals who believe, as I do, that justice isn’t just a system - it’s a promise we make to the people we serve.
I want to thank everyone who has placed their trust in me once again. I am grateful for the opportunity to lead an office filled with exceptional attorneys, investigators, and staff whose work often goes unseen, but whose impact is felt every single day in communities across this district. I am well aware that the word “interim” appears in front of my title. I am optimistic that this will become a longer-term opportunity, but whatever the case, I intend to work hard to support the team here to do great things for the people we serve."Richard G. Frohling, who had served in an acting capacity, will return to his position as First Assistant United States Attorney.
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For further information contact:
Public Affairs Officer Steve Caballero
(414) 297-1700
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Menominee Man Sentenced to 30 years in federal prison for Assault with Intent to Murder and BurglaryRead the Press Release
Richard G. Frohling, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on November 10, 2025, Neegee J. Cloud (age: 34), formerly of Neopit, received a total sentence of 360 months in federal prison for committing assault with intent to commit murder and burglary on the Menominee Indian Reservation. The sentence, imposed by Senior United States District Judge William C. Griesbach, came after a federal jury found Cloud guilty of the charges on August 7, 2025, following a multi-day trial. After completing his prison sentence, Cloud will be on supervised release for an additional 36 months.
According to court documents, Cloud broke into a home in Neopit on the Menominee Indian Reservation on September 20, 2024. Once inside, Cloud violently assaulted his girlfriend by punching her, stomping on her head and neck, and kicking her. Cloud also slammed the woman’s face into the floor. Her resulting injuries included multiple facial fractures, a traumatic brain injury, and swelling to her neck and throat that necessitated spending nearly two weeks in an intensive care unit and a month at the hospital. The woman survived due to rapid response by law enforcement and medical personnel, who were alerted after the homeowner remotely witnessed some of Cloud’s actions which were recorded on the home’s surveillance cameras.
In sentencing the defendant, Judge Griesbach noted the seriousness of the offense, which he described as a “horrible, horrible crime” that involved “a wanton infliction of brutality.” He also noted Cloud’s lengthy criminal history, which included seven prior convictions involving violence against others.
The case was investigated by the Menominee Tribal Police and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorneys Andrew J. Maier and Alexander E. Duros prosecuted the case.
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Financial Advisor Sentenced for Investment Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
Richard G. Frohling, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on November 5, 2025, Robert C. Starnes (age: 66) was sentenced to 40 months’ incarceration for an investment fraud scheme that resulted in a loss of more than $3 million to more than a dozen victims.
According to court records, Starnes operated Robert C. Starnes Financial Services in Wauwatosa, holding himself out as a legitimate investment broker and retirement advisor. Over the course of years, Starnes convinced friends, friends of friends, and family members to invest their retirement savings with him. He promised that he would increase the value of their retirement savings through his investment strategies. As part of his scheme, Starnes gave his victims fake statements, showing that their investments were growing. In reality, Starnes accepted checks from his victims and simply deposited them in his personal bank account, where he then used the funds to pay for his own expenses.
At his sentencing hearing, United States District Judge Lynn Adelman noted that Starnes had not invested any funds on behalf of his victims. Judge Adelman also noted that Starnes’s victims were not wealthy, but ordinary, hard-working families.
In addition to the 40-month period of incarceration, Starnes was ordered to pay restitution to his victims in the amount of $3,093,304.17, and to serve a period of 3 years supervised release.
“The sentence in this case takes into account both the significant financial losses caused by the defendant’s scheme and the fact that he abused the trust of his victims,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Frohling. “The United States Attorney’s Office remains committed to working with its federal, state, and local law enforcement partners to pursue justice for victims and to hold those who engage in fraud schemes fully accountable for their actions.”
"Illegal activity involving the investment industry has brought financial ruin to many Americans. IRS Criminal Investigation is proud to bring our forensic accounting skills to this joint venture and help put a stop to this and other types of white-collar crime.", said Special Agent in Charge Adam Jobes of IRS Criminal Investigation. “Today's sentencing demonstrates how law enforcement will work together to help put an end to the criminal behavior of those who prey on investors for their personal financial gain.”
“Defrauding people out of savings for retirement is reprehensible,” said Attorney General Josh Kaul. “Perpetrators of fraud should be held accountable. I’m thankful to those who worked on this case.”
The Wisconsin Department of Justice, Division of Criminal Investigation and the IRS Criminal Investigation investigated the case, and it was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Carter B. Stewart.
For further information contact:Public Affairs Officer Steve Caballero
(414) 297-1700
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Sex Offender Sentenced to 28 Years in Federal Prison for Receipt of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Richard G. Frohling, Acting United States Attorney of the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on October 1, 2025, David E. Dejanovich (age: 52) of Oshkosh, Wisconsin, was sentenced to 336 months in federal prison by Senior United States District Judge William C. Griesbach.
According to court records, Dejanovich is a lifetime registrant on the Wisconsin Sexual Offender Registry based on prior convictions in Dodge County, specifically two convictions for second degree sexual assault of a child and also for first degree sexual assault of a child conviction. In addition, Dejanovich was previously convicted in federal court in 2015 for possession of child pornography, for which he was sentenced to 10 years’ imprisonment followed by 15 years of supervised release. While serving that term of supervised release, Dejanovich again was found to be in possession of child pornography after downloading it from the internet.
At his sentencing hearing, Judge Griesbach said his crime was very serious and there was a strong need for deterrence. The judge cited Dejanovich’s disturbing history of abusing children as a factor that contributed to the need for a significant punishment. Upon completion of his federal prison sentence, the defendant will spend the remainder of his life on supervised release. He will continue to have to register as a sex offender under state and federal law.
This case was investigated by the Oshkosh Police Department and the Green Bay Office of United States Probation and Parole. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Daniel R. Humble.
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 U.S. Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (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 www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
# # #For further information contact:
Public Affairs Officer Steve Caballero
(414) 297-1700
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