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Newest first across public DOJ and U.S. Attorney press releases.
Monday 11 May 2026
Edmond Doctor Pays $110,000 to Settle Civil Penalty Claims Stemming from Allegations of Controlled Substance Recordkeeping ViolationsRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – Edward Shadid, MD (“Dr. Shadid”), paid $110,000 to settle civil penalty claims stemming from allegations that he violated the Comprehensive Drug Abuse Prevention and Control Act of 1970 (“Act”) and its regulations, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
Recordkeeping is a vital part of managing controlled substances. Complete and accurate records help avoid diversions and losses of controlled drugs. A Drug Enforcement Administration (“DEA”) registrant who transfers controlled substances between locations must comply with the applicable requirements as well as register with the DEA for each principal place of business or professional practice where controlled substances are stored. Registrants must also follow the inventory requirements when purchasing and storing controlled substances. Failure to do so subjects the registrant to civil monetary penalties.
Dr. Shadid is a board-certified spinal surgeon who operates the Spine & Pain Care of Oklahoma clinic in Edmond, Oklahoma (“Spine & Pain Edmond”) and the Spine & Pain Care of Oklahoma clinic in Lawton, Oklahoma (“Spine & Pain Lawton”). The United States alleges that from January 2024 through July 2025, Dr. Shadid failed to use DEA Form 222s when transferring Schedule II controlled substances from Spine & Pain Edmond to Spine & Pain Lawton. Dr. Shadid also failed to maintain accurate records of transfers of Schedule IV controlled substances between the same clinic locations. In addition, Dr. Shadid failed to obtain a separate DEA registration for Spine & Pain Lawton and maintain a biennial inventory of the controlled substances stored at the clinics. To resolve these allegations, Dr. Shadid agreed to pay $110,000 to the United States.
In reaching this settlement, Dr. Shadid did not admit liability, and the government did not make any concessions about the legitimacy of the claims. The agreement allows the parties to avoid the delay, expense, inconvenience, and uncertainty involved in litigating the case.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Office of Diversion Control. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ronald R. Gallegos and Amanda R. Johnson prosecuted the case.
Eden Prairie Man Sentenced to 15 Years for Setting Fire to a Townhome with Children InsideRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS –An Eden Prairie man has been sentenced to 180 months in prison for setting fire to a townhome while five people, including an infant, were inside, announced U.S. Attorney Daniel N. Rosen.
According to court documents, on May 31, 2024, at 11:27 a.m., the Eden Prairie Fire Department responded to a fire in a townhome. When the fire started, there were five people in the house, including one adult man and four children. When emergency responders arrived, they met the adult male occupant and three children outside, but the fourth child, a nine-month-old baby (Minor A), was still in the burning house. Eden Prairie firefighters entered the residence and found Minor A, who survived the fire but needed to be transported by ambulance to the hospital.According to court documents and the record at sentencing, Abdirahman Abdi Abdullahi, 23, was on probation for violating a restraining order that prohibited him from contacting Minor A’s mother, who lived in the burned home. Two days before the fire, Abdullahi sent a threatening
message to Minor A’s mother stating, “when I see u I’m smoke u.” On that same day, Abdullahi arrived at the door of the house and threatened to kill Minor A’s mother. The day of the fire, Abdullahi used rental car rented by a third party. He traveled to a nearby gas station with a red gas can, which he filled with gasoline. He then parked the car in a parking lot down the street from the burned home where it was hidden by a row of hedges. Wearing plastic gloves, he carried the gas can and a large plastic bag, later found to be full of clothes, through the hedges to the victim’s home. A fire investigation showed that Abdullahi used that gas can to douse the bag of clothes, which he set fire to at the entrance of the home. The flames collapsed the garage roof, melted the front doorknob, and ultimately destroyed the home. The fire damaged neighboring townhomes, as well.
Abdullahi pleaded guilty to Arson Resulting in Personal Injury as charged in the Indictment. At sentencing, the Court found that Abdullahi’s intended to cause the death of Minor A’s mother when he set the fire. The Court noted Abdullahi’s level of planning and his “calculated, cold” preparation. As a result, the sentence for Arson followed the sentencing guidelines for Attempted Murder.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Minnesota State Fire Marshal, the Eden Prairie Police Department, and the Eden Prairie Fire Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys William C. Mattessich and Matthew C. Murphy prosecuted the case.Department of Justice Files Complaint Against B.E.S.T. GDR, LLC, Doing Business as Premium Home Service, and its CEO Yosef Bernath for Violations of the FTC Act and Related LawsRead the Press Release
The Department of Justice, acting on a referral from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), along with the Attorney General of Illinois and the U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, announced today the filing of a civil complaint to stop an Illinois company and its owner from deceiving consumers in connection with the sale of home repair and improvement services in violation of federal and state law. The matter was investigated by the FTC and the Office of the Illinois Attorney General.
The Department of Justice filed the complaint in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, against B.E.S.T. GDR, LLC, doing business as Premium Home Service, and its founder and CEO, Yosef Bernath. As alleged in the complaint, the defendants orchestrated a nationwide scheme which deceived consumers who sought local home services, such as plumbing, heating, or electrical work. According to the complaint, the defendants fabricated local identities nationwide by creating over 15,000 fake business profiles on Google Search and Maps. These profiles allegedly used brick-and-mortar addresses often belonging to unrelated businesses and local phone numbers that routed to overseas call centers. The complaint further alleges that the defendants posted fake consumer reviews which praised their fake business profiles. In doing so, the defendants allegedly misappropriated the images of people from the staff directories of unrelated websites.
According to the complaint, the defendants collected fees by claiming to be a local company that provided services directly to the consumer. Instead, the defendants referred the work to third-party contractors. Posing as the defendants’ employees, many of these contractors lacked proper qualifications, performed substandard work, arrived late, or failed to appear at all. The complaint alleges that this conduct violates the FTC Act, the FTC Rule on the Use of Consumer Reviews and Testimonials, the Illinois Consumer Fraud and Deceptive Business Practices Act, and the Illinois Uniform Deceptive Trade Practices Act. Additionally, the complaint alleges that the defendants violated the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act because they obtained consumers’ debit and credit card numbers by making false statements or representations about the nature and value of the defendants’ fees.
“When Americans shop for home services, they are not just choosing the lowest price; they are investing in their home and assessing the reliability of the person they let through the front door,” said Assistant Attorney General Brett A. Shumate of the Department of Justice’s Civil Division. “The Department of Justice is committed to working with the FTC to protect consumers from businesses that misrepresent their identities and the quality and reliability of their services.”
“Premium Home Service’s use of fake business profiles and reviews violates federal and state laws, harming consumers and businesses,” said Christopher Mufarrige, Director of the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection. “The Trump-Vance FTC is committed to addressing deceptive conduct that harms the American people and undermines competition.”
“Premium Home Service spent years establishing fake businesses with fake reviews to lure in customers who were in need of home repairs,” said Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul. “Individuals who scam the unsuspecting public have no place in our communities, and I appreciate the partnership of the Federal Trade Commission and the Department of Justice in working to hold this company accountable.”
The complaint seeks a permanent injunction to prohibit the defendants from future violations, monetary civil penalties, and redress for injury caused to consumers.
The United States is represented in this action by Assistant Director Patrick R. Runkle, Senior Trial Attorney James T. Nelson, and Trial Attorneys Cadesby B. Cooper and Colin W. Trundle, from the Civil Division’s Enforcement and Affirmative Litigation Branch. The FTC is represented in this action by William J. Hodor and Karen D. Dodge. The Office of the Illinois Attorney General is represented by Assistant Attorneys General Amanda Palmer, Dale Lichtenstein, Thomas P. James, and Janice Parker.
Additional information about the Enforcement and Affirmative Litigation Branch and its enforcement efforts may be found at www.justice.gov/civil/enforcement-affirmative-litigation-branch.
Dangerous Felon Sentenced After SWAT StandoffRead the Press Release
INDIANAPOLIS- Al Stevenson McGhee, 47, of Indianapolis, has been sentenced to two years and seven months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, after pleading guilty possession of firearms by a felon. His federal sentence will run consecutively to any sentence imposed in his pending Marion County case, which includes charges of criminal confinement with a deadly weapon, intimidation, criminal recklessness for shooting into a building, and unlawful carrying of a handgun.
According to court documents, on November 6, 2024, McGhee pointed a silver revolver at his girlfriend when she returned home from work. After threatening to shoot her if she left her bedroom, the victim escaped through a window, fled down the street, and contacted her sister, who called 911.
Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department officers responded to investigate the reported intimidation and confinement. When officers attempted to contact McGhee, he refused to respond. A perimeter was established, and repeated attempts were made to gain compliance. As IMPD SWAT officers approached to breach the door, McGhee threatened to shoot them and fired multiple rounds, including one that struck near the front door of the home. The standoff continued for several hours, during which McGhee repeatedly threatened officers and fired additional shots, including at a police drone. He was taken into custody in the early morning hours of November 7, 2024, without officers discharging their weapons.
A search of the residence revealed four rounds fired above the doorway where officers had been standing and a bullet hole within two feet of their position. No officers were harmed during the standoff.
McGhee has a troubling criminal history, including convictions for cruelty to an animal, invasion of privacy involving a protected victim, carrying a handgun without a license, and felony criminal recklessness with a deadly weapon. During the last incident, officers had responded to multiple reports of shots fired. Witnesses reported McGhee making threatening statements from his porch, and neighbors provided videos showing him brandishing and waving weapons. A search warrant executed at his residence uncovered approximately 35 spent casings scattered outside and multiple firearms inside, including an assault-style pistol, several handguns, and a revolver. McGhee had been discharged from probation for this prior felony conviction on November 23, 2023.
“McGhee poses an extreme danger - not only to the community at large, but to the individuals he targets, ranging from neighbors to romantic partners to law enforcement officers. He is an unpredictable, violent felon with a history of rapidly escalating situations through threats and the reckless use of firearms,” said Tom Wheeler, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “Thank you to the brave IMPD officers for protecting both the victim and the general public, along with the ATF for holding McGhee accountable.”
“The ATF is pleased with the outcome of this case and relieved that no one was injured during this dangerous incident. We remain committed to supporting the IMPD and all our local law enforcement partners in holding violent armed offenders accountable and ensuring the safety of our communities,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge, Jorge Rosendo.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and IMPD investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Court Chief Judge James R. Sweeney II.
U.S. Attorney Wheeler thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Pamela Domash, who prosecuted this case.
The case was brought as part of the LEATH Initiative (Law Enforcement Action to Halt Domestic Violence), named in honor of Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) Officer Breann Leath, who was killed in the line of duty while responding to a domestic disturbance call. A partnership among the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), the IMPD, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Indiana, the LEATH Initiative focuses federal, state, and local law enforcement resources on domestic violence offenders who illegally possess firearms.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
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Convicted Felon Pleads Guilty to Possessing Fully Automatic Firearm and Drum Magazine While on Supervised ReleaseRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City man has pleaded guilty in federal court today for illegal possession of a firearm.
Terrquan J. Beasley, 27, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Beth Phillips to one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm.
According to court documents, on Jan. 16, 2026, officers from the Sugar Creek Police Department attempted to conduct a traffic stop on a car Beasley was driving because it had a license plate belonging to a different car. Beasley fled from law enforcement and crashed his vehicle into trees during the flight. After his arrest, officers located a loaded Glock handgun in Beasley’s vehicle, which had a machine gun conversion device (MCD) attached to the slide, making the Glock a fully automatic weapon. The Glock also had a 50-round drum magazine attached to it, loaded with 26 rounds in it. Beasley admitted to possessing that firearm.
At the time he had this firearm, Beasley had already been convicted of being a felon in possession and was on supervised release for that offense.
Under federal statutes, Beasley is subject to a sentence of up to 15 years in federal prison without parole. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentence of the defendant will be determined by the court based upon the advisory sentencing guidelines and other factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sean Foley. It was investigated by the Sugar Creek, Missouri Police Department and the United States Marshals Service.
Operation Take Back America
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
Cleburne County Man Sentenced to 36 Years in Prison for Transportation of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
ANNISTON, Ala. – A Cleburne County man has been sentenced for his involvement in crimes against children, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Catherine L. Crosby.
U.S. District Judge Corey L. Maze sentenced Magnus Clark, 31, of Heflin, Alabama, to 432 months in prison, followed by a life term of supervised release. In January, Clark pleaded guilty to one count of transportation of child pornography and one count of possession of child pornography. These convictions will require Clark to register as a sex offender in accordance with the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act (SORNA).
According to the plea agreement, between November 2023 and June 2024, Clark uploaded child sexual abuse material (CSAM) to Snapchat and Kik social media applications. During a federal search warrant for Clark’s residence executed in June 2024, Clark admitted to federal agents that he viewed CSAM and used various file sharing applications to trade CSAM videos and images with others. A forensic analysis of Clark’s devices revealed more than 1,000 videos and 761 images of CSAM.
FBI Birmingham’s Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force investigated the case along with the ALEA SBI, and the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney R. Leann White prosecuted the case.
If you suspect or become aware of the possible sexual exploitation of a child, please contact law enforcement. To alert the FBI Birmingham Office, call 205-326-6166. Reports can also be filed with the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC) or online at www.cybertipline.org.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched by the Department of Justice in May 2006 to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s 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 and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
Canadian Illegal Alien and Co-Conspirator Charged in $13 Million Cryptocurrency Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
MIAMI – A federal grand jury in the Southern District of Florida returned an indictment charging a Canadian illegal alien and his alleged co-conspirator for their roles in a cryptocurrency fraud and money laundering scheme that caused more than $13 million in losses.
According to court documents, Trenton Richard David Johnston, 19, of Canada, who overstayed his visa and remained in the U.S. unlawfully, operated a sophisticated fraud scheme while living in the Miami area. Johnston and other co-conspirators allegedly impersonated support representatives from a popular search engine and cryptocurrency-related companies to gain unauthorized access to victims’ digital accounts and cryptocurrency wallets. Once access was obtained, the conspirators allegedly transferred victims’ cryptocurrency holdings for their own benefit. Investigators estimate that victims have suffered losses exceeding $13 million, with additional victims continuing to be identified.
The indictment further alleges that Brandon Michael Tardibone, 28, of Miami, knowingly harbored Johnston while Johnston was unlawfully present in the U.S. by providing him lodging at a luxury Miami-area residence in an effort to evade immigration authorities.
In addition, Johnston and Tardibone are accused of laundering proceeds of the fraud scheme through a series of financial transactions designed to conceal the nature and source of the funds. Trenton and Tardibone allegedly used more than $1 million in illicit proceeds to lease luxury vehicles, purchase high-end jewelry, and finance an extravagant nightlife and entertainment lifestyle.
Johnston is charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud and conspiracy to commit money laundering. Tardibone is charged with conspiracy to commit money laundering and harboring an alien in the U.S. If convicted, Johnston faces up to 20 years in prison on the conspiracy to commit wire fraud and money laundering counts. Tardibone faces up to 20 years in prison on the money laundering conspiracy charge and up to 10 years in prison on the harboring charge.
U.S. Attorney Jason A. Reding Quiñones for the Southern District of Florida and Acting Special Agent in Charge José R. Figueroa of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Miami made the announcement.
HSI Miami is investigating the case, with assistance from the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Office of Inspector General, Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, and the Golden Beach Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jackson K. Dering V and Robert F. Moore are prosecuting the case.
An indictment/complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.sdfl.uscourts.gov or at http://pacer.sdfl.uscourts.gov, under case number 26-cr-20181.
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Canadian American Man Pleads Guilty for Role in Deadly Alien Smuggling ConspiracyRead the Press Release
A dual Canadian American Citizen pleaded guilty today for his role in a human smuggling conspiracy that resulted in the deaths of a family, including two children under the age of three, in the St. Lawrence River.
According to court documents, Timothy Oakes, 35, from the Akwesasne Mohawk Indian Territory in Canada, was a key facilitator in a human smuggling organization (HSO) that smuggled aliens from Canada into northern New York. Oakes, working with the HSO, routinely smuggled aliens into the United States by piloting boats across the St. Lawrence River. Additionally, Oakes used his home on Cornwall Island, Ontario as a staging area for aliens before the HSO smuggled them into the United States. Oakes earned approximately $1,000 for every alien whom he smuggled into the United States.
Beginning in and around 2023, the defendant worked with an HSO that smuggled aliens from mainland Cornwall, Ontario, Canada to Cornwall Island and through the Akwesasne Mohawk Indian reserve into the Northern District of New York. The organization routinely smuggled aliens from various countries, to include Romania and India. The organization arranged for aliens to stay in local motels in Cornwall before they were transported to the border area of the reserve. The organization would then transport aliens from mainland Cornwall to Cornwall Island and stage the aliens along the banks of the St. Lawrence River. Other members of the organization would then transport the aliens by boat over the St. Lawrence River to drivers who transported them further into the Northern District of New York. The defendant’s role in the organization was to stage aliens at his home and, at times, transport the aliens by boat across the river.
On the night of March 29, 2023, Oakes transported a family of four Romanian nationals to a public boat launch on the tip of Cornwall Island.At approximately 9:30 p.m., Oakes brought his boat to the boat launch where he left it and the Romanian family for his brother Casey Oakes to use to bring the aliens across the river into the United States. While in transit, and shortly thereafter, the boat capsized due to severe weather. As a result, the Romanian family and Casey Oakes died. The defendant proceeded with the transport despite members of the alien smuggling organization being aware of the dangerous weather conditions on the St. Lawrence River, specifically high winds, freezing temperatures, and limited visibility.
Oakes pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit alien smuggling, four counts of alien smuggling for financial gain, and four counts of alien smuggling resulting in death. He is scheduled to be sentenced on Sept. 11 and faces a minimum penalty of five years and a maximum penalty of life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Co-conspirators Dakota Montour, 32, and Kawisiiostha Celecia Sharrow, 45, both of the Akwesasne Mohawk Indian reserve, New York, and Janet Terrance, 46, of Hogansburg, New York, entered guilty pleas on Jan. 23, 2025, Oct. 8, 2024, and March 6, 2025, respectively. Co-conspirators Stephanie Square, 53, and Rahsontanohstha Delormier, also known as Storm, 31, both of the Akwesasne Mohawk Indian Territory in Canada, were extradited to the United States from Canada in 2025 at the request of the U.S. government and are awaiting trial.
Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, First Assistant U.S. Attorney John A. Sarcone III for the Northern District of New York and Special Agent in Charge Erin Keegan of the Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Buffalo Field Office made today’s announcement.
HSI Massena engaged in an extensive years-long investigation of the case, with assistance from the U.S. Border Patrol, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), HSI’s Human Smuggling Unit in Washington, D.C., CBP’s National Targeting Center International Interdiction Task Force, New York State Police, Canada Border Services Agency, Akwesasne Mohawk Police Service, St. Regis Mohawk Tribal Police Department, Ontario Provincial Police, Sûreté du Québec, St. Lawrence County Sheriff’s Department, Royal Canadian Mounted Police and the Cornwall Police Service. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs provided significant assistance in securing the arrest and extradition of Square and Delormier.
The investigation and indictment were supported and prosecuted by Joint Task Force Alpha (JTFA), the Department’s lead effort in combating high-impact human smuggling and trafficking committed by cartels and Transnational Criminal Organizations (TCOs). A highly successful partnership between the Department of Justice and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), JTFA investigates and prosecutes human smuggling and trafficking and related immigration crimes that impact public safety and border security. JTFA’s mission is to target the leaders and organizers of Cartels and TCOs involved in human smuggling and trafficking throughout the Americas. The Attorney General has elevated and expanded JTFA to target the most prolific and dangerous human smuggling and trafficking groups operating not only in Mexico and the Northern Triangle countries of Guatemala, El Salvador, and Honduras, but also in Canada, the Caribbean and the maritime border, and elsewhere. Led by the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section and supported by the Money Laundering, Narcotics and Forfeiture Section, the Office of International Affairs, and the Office of Enforcement Operations, among others, JTFA has dedicated Assistant U.S. Attorney-detailees from the Southern District of California; District of Arizona; District of New Mexico; Western and Southern Districts of Texas; Southern District of Florida; Northern District of New York; and District of Vermont. JTFA also partners with other USAOs throughout the country and supports high-priority cases in any district. All JTFA cases rely on substantial law enforcement resources from DHS, including ICE/HSI and CBP/BP and OFO, as well as FBI and other law enforcement agencies. To date, JTFA’s work has resulted in more than 455 domestic and international arrests of leaders, organizers, and significant facilitators of alien smuggling and/or trafficking; more than 400 U.S. convictions; and more than 350 significant jail sentences imposed, and forfeitures of substantial assets.
Trial Attorney Lindsey Roberson of the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey Stitt for the Northern District of New York are prosecuting the case.
Bath Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Stealing $225,200 from an Elderly Disabled VeteranRead the Press Release
Bath Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Stealing $225,200 From an Elderly Disabled Veteran
CONCORD – A Bath man was sentenced today in federal court for stealing $225,200 from an elderly disabled veteran, U.S. Attorney Erin Creegan announces.
Donald Estes, 49, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Paul J. Barbadoro to 21 months in prison and 1 year of supervised release. He was also sentenced to pay $225,200 in restitution. On February 2, 2026, Estes pleaded guilty to one count of bank fraud.
“The defendant stole almost a quarter million dollars from an elderly disabled veteran to squander on things like a snowmobile and jewelry. Today’s sentence shows that those who victimize the men and women who served our country face federal imprisonment,” said U.S. Attorney Creegan.
“Every American owes a debt of gratitude to those who served our country, and this sentence sends a clear message that individuals who commit fraud against veterans will be held accountable,” said Special Agent in Charge Christopher Algieri with the Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General’s Northeast Field Office. “The VA OIG thanks the U.S. Attorney’s Office and our law enforcement partners for their efforts on this investigation.”
“Postal Inspectors, alongside our federal law enforcement partners, uncovered Donald Estes’ egregious scheme to steal from a vulnerable victim, all to line his own pockets and bank accounts with money he stole from a veteran,” said Acting Inspector in Charge Jason Buckley of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service’s Boston Division. “Today’s outcome reinforces our resolve to pursue those who exploit our service members. We remain committed to investigating those who prey on our veterans instead of respecting the sacrifices they have made for this country.”
The victim was an elderly disabled veteran who was living in a nursing home. The victim was unable to manage his own money or make decisions. Each month, the Department of Veterans Affairs deposited disability benefits into the victim’s bank account. Initially, the victim’s mother served as the victim’s legal guardian until she passed away. After, the victim’s nursing home reached out to Estes asking whether he would serve as the victim’s legal guardian. Estes never applied to serve as the victim’s legal guardian. Instead, Estes had the victim sign an agreement adding Estes to the victim’s bank account. Between August 2020 and December 2023, Estes proceeded to steal $225,200 from the bank account. Estes misspent the stolen funds on items such as a snowmobile, jewelry, and vacation, and deposited approximately $85,000 of the stolen funds into bank accounts he controlled.
The Department of Veterans Affairs’ Office of the Inspector General and U.S. Postal Inspection Service led the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexander S. Chen prosecuted the case.
Arcadia, California, Mayor Federally Charged with Acting as Illegal Agent of the People’s Republic of ChinaRead the Press Release
The mayor of Arcadia, California, has been charged in federal court with acting as an illegal agent of the People’s Republic of China (PRC), the Justice Department announced today.
Eileen Wang, 58, of Arcadia, is charged via information with one count of acting in the United States as an illegal agent of a foreign government.
In a related filing, Wang has agreed to plead guilty to the felony count, which comes with a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison.
She is expected to make her initial appearance this afternoon in U.S. District Court in downtown Los Angeles. Wang is expected to plead guilty in the coming weeks.
Wang was elected in November 2022 to the Arcadia City Council, a five-person governing body from which the mayor is selected on a rotating basis.
“Individuals elected to public office in the United States should act only for the people of the United States that they represent,” said Assistant Attorney General for National Security John A. Eisenberg. “It is deeply concerning that someone who previously received and executed directives from PRC government officials is now in a position of public trust at all, but particularly so because that relationship with that foreign government had never been disclosed.”
“Individuals in our country who covertly do the bidding of foreign governments undermine our democracy,” said First Assistant U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli for the Central District of California. “This plea agreement is the latest success in our determination to defend the homeland against China’s efforts to corrupt our institutions.”
“By her own admission, Eileen Wang secretly served the interests of the Chinese government,” said Assistant Director Roman Rozhavsky of the FBI’s Counterintelligence and Espionage Division. “Let this serve as a clear warning: individuals who act on behalf of foreign governments to influence our democracy will be identified, investigated, and brought to justice. Protecting the rule of law and the transparency of our democratic process remains at the core of the FBI’s mission, and we will continue working alongside our partners to safeguard the integrity of our elections and keep hostile actors from undermining the voices of the American people.”
According to her plea agreement, from late 2020 through 2022, Wang and Yaoning “Mike” Sun, 65, of Chino Hills, California, worked at the direction and control of PRC government officials and coordinated with U.S.-based individuals to promote the PRC’s interests by, among other things, promoting pro-PRC propaganda in the United States. Sun is serving a four-year federal prison sentence after he pleaded guilty in October 2025 to acting as an illegal agent of a foreign government.
Wang and Sun worked together to operate U.S. News Center, a website that purported to be a news source for the local Chinese American community. Wang and Sun received and executed directives from PRC government officials to post pro-PRC content on the website.
For example, in June 2021, a PRC official contacted Wang and other individuals via the WeChat encrypted messaging application with pre-written news articles, including a PRC official-written essay in the Los Angeles Times that stated: “China’s Stance on the Xinjiang Issue – There is no genocide in Xinjiang; there is no such thing as ‘forced labor’ in any production activity, including cotton production. Spreading such rumor to do defame China, destroy Xinjiang’s safety and stability, weaken local economy, suppress China’s development[.]”
Minutes later, Wang posted the article on her own website and responded to the PRC official with a link to the article on her website. The others in the group chat did the same. The PRC official responded: “So fast, thank you everyone.”
In August 2021, Wang and three other members of the same group chat shared links to the same article on their respective “news” websites, after which the PRC official thanked them for their “reporting.” At the PRC official’s request, Wang made edits to the article, sent the official a link to the article reflecting the requested change, then sent the official a screenshot showing the article had been viewed 15,128 times. In response, the official messaged, “Great!,” Wang replied, “Thank you leader.”
In November 2021, Wang communicated with John Chen, a high-level member of the PRC intelligence apparatus, who regularly attended elite Chinese Communist Party functions, including military parades, and met personally with PRC President Xi Jinping, according to court documents. Wang asked Chen to post a “news” article from her website, and wrote, “This is what the Ministry of Foreign Affairs wants to send.”
Chen was sentenced in November 2024 to 20 months in federal prison after pleading guilty in the Southern District of New York to acting as an illegal agent of the PRC and conspiracy to bribe a public official.
Wang admitted in her plea agreement that she did not notify the Attorney General that she was acting in the United States as an agent of the PRC, that she was located in the United States when she engaged in these acts, and that did she not disclose on her website that some of its content had been posted at the direction of members of the PRC government.
The FBI is investigating this matter.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Amanda B. Elbogen for the Central District of California is prosecuting this case, with assistance from Trial Attorney Garrett Coyle of the Counterintelligence and Export Control Section in the Department of Justice’s National Security Division.
Arcadia Mayor Federally Charged with Acting as Illegal Agent of the People’s Republic of ChinaRead the Press Release
LOS ANGELES – The mayor of Arcadia has been charged in federal court with acting as an illegal agent of the People’s Republic of China (PRC), the Justice Department announced today.
Eileen Wang, 56, of Arcadia, is charged via information with one count of acting in the United States as an illegal agent of a foreign government.
In a related filing, Wang has agreed to plead guilty to the felony count, which comes with a statutory maximum sentence of 10 years in federal prison.
She is expected to make her initial appearance this afternoon in United States District Court in downtown Los Angeles. Wang is expected to plead guilty in the coming weeks.
Wang was elected in November 2022 to the Arcadia City Council, a five-person governing body from which the mayor is selected on a rotating basis.
“Individuals in our country who covertly do the bidding of foreign governments undermine our democracy,” said First Assistant United States Attorney Bill Essayli. “This plea agreement is the latest success in our determination to defend the homeland against China’s efforts to corrupt our institutions.”
“Individuals elected to public office in the United States should act only for the people of the United States that they represent,” said Assistant Attorney General for National Security John A. Eisenberg. “It is deeply concerning that someone who previously received and executed directives from PRC government officials is now in a position of public trust at all, but particularly so because that relationship with that foreign government had never been disclosed.”
“By her own admission, Eileen Wang secretly served the interests of the Chinese government,” said Assistant Director Roman Rozhavsky of the FBI’s Counterintelligence and Espionage Division. “Let this serve as a clear warning: Individuals who act on behalf of foreign governments to influence our democracy will be identified, investigated, and brought to justice. Protecting the rule of law and the transparency of our democratic process remains at the core of the FBI’s mission, and we will continue working alongside our partners to safeguard the integrity of our elections and keep hostile actors from undermining the voices of the American people.”
"All Americans should be alarmed to learn an elected official was brazenly spreading propaganda on behalf of the Chinese government," said Patrick Grandy, the Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI's Los Angeles Field Office. "The FBI is dedicated to rooting out those illegally acting as agents of a foreign government as they do the bidding of America’s adversaries."
According to her plea agreement, from late 2020 through 2022, Wang and Yaoning “Mike” Sun, 65, of Chino Hills, worked at the direction and control of PRC government officials and coordinated with U.S.-based individuals to promote the PRC’s interests by, among other things, promoting pro-PRC propaganda in the United States. Sun is serving a four-year federal prison sentence after he pleaded guilty in October 2025 to acting as an illegal agent of a foreign government.
Wang and Sun worked together to operate U.S. News Center, a website that purported to be a news source for the local Chinese American community. Wang and Sun received and executed directives from PRC government officials to post pro-PRC content on the website.
For example, in June 2021, a PRC official contacted Wang and other individuals via the WeChat encrypted messaging application with pre-written news articles, including a PRC official-written essay in the Los Angeles Times that stated: “China’s Stance on the Xinjiang Issue – There is no genocide in Xinjiang; there is no such thing as ‘forced labor’ in any production activity, including cotton production. Spreading such rumor to do defame China, destroy Xinjiang’s safety and stability, weaken local economy, suppress China’s development[.]”
Minutes later, Wang posted the article on her own website and responded to the PRC official with a link to the article on her website. The others in the group chat did the same. The PRC official responded: “So fast, thank you everyone.”
In August 2021, Wang and three other members of the same group chat shared links to the same article on their respective “news” websites, after which the PRC official thanked them for their “reporting.” At the PRC official’s request, Wang made edits to the article, sent the official a link to the article reflecting the requested change, then sent the official a screenshot showing the article had been viewed 15,128 times. In response, the official messaged, “Great!,” Wang replied, “Thank you leader.”
In November 2021, Wang communicated with John Chen, a high-level member of the PRC intelligence apparatus, who regularly attended elite Chinese Communist Party functions, including military parades, and met personally with PRC President Xi Jinping, according to court documents. Wang asked Chen to post a “news” article from her website, and wrote, “This is what the Ministry of Foreign Affairs wants to send.”
Chen was sentenced in November 2024 to 20 months in federal prison after pleading guilty in the Southern District of New York to acting as an illegal agent of the PRC and conspiracy to bribe a public official.
Wang admitted in her plea agreement that she did not notify the Attorney General that she was acting in the United States as an agent of the PRC, that she was located in the United States when she engaged in these acts, and that did she not disclose on her website that some of its content had been posted at the direction of members of the PRC government.
The FBI is investigating this matter.
Assistant United States Attorney Amanda B. Elbogen of the National Security Division is prosecuting this case, with assistance from Trial Attorney Garrett Coyle of the Counterintelligence and Export Control Section in the Department of Justice’s National Security Division.
Apopka Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for COVID-19 FraudRead the Press Release
Orlando, FL – Emmet Bowens (57, Apopka) has been sentenced by U.S. District Judge Dalton to 63 months in federal prison for wire fraud and money laundering. As part of his sentence, the court also entered an order of forfeiture in the amount of $739,582, the proceeds of the offenses. Bowens pleaded guilty on January 26, 2026. U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement.
According to court documents, on May 5, 2020, in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, Bowens submitted a fraudulent Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan application claiming to own the business “Buccaneer Technologies.” The PPP was a provision of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act enacted to provide immediate assistance to individuals, families, and organizations affected by the COVID-19 emergency. Under the terms of the program, the loans were backed by the United States Small Business Administration and the full principal amount of could qualify for forgiveness.
As part of his application, Bowens certified that Buccaneer Technologies had 102 employees with an average monthly payroll of $295,883. In support of his loan application, Bowens submitted fraudulent tax records. Bowens also filed Articles of Incorporation for his sham business six days after his loan application was filed. The IP address used to submit the loan application was registered to Bowens’ residential address. The application information included Bowens’ social security number and a copy of his drivers license.
The loan was approved in the amount of $739,582 which was disbursed to Bowens’ personal checking account. Bowens then further distributed the funds into various accounts, including funding three new accounts with $250,000, $250,000 and $115,000, respectively. Bowens spent some of the funds on across-country road trip, during which he and his wife were captured on bank surveillance withdrawing $44,000 in cash.
After being charged and released on bond conditions, Bowens cut off his ankle monitor and fled the jurisdiction. Bowens was a fugitive for a year and a half before being located and arrested in the Northern District of Mississippi.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with the assistance of the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation and the U.S. Small Business Administration. It was prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Rachel S. Lyons and Assistant U.S. Attorney Megan Testerman. The forfeiture was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicole Andrejko.
On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division. The core mission of the Fraud Division is to zealously investigate and prosecute those who steal or fraudulently misuse taxpayer dollars. Department of Justice efforts to combat fraud support President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.
Albuquerque Man Convicted of Fentanyl Trafficking Following Multi-City High-Speed PursuitRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – After a four-day trial, a federal jury convicted an Albuquerque man of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl following a high-speed pursuit through multiple New Mexico cities.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Tevin King, 33, was the subject of an active federal arrest warrant on August 19, 2024, related to a supervised release violation. Surveillance indicated King was in Hobbs, New Mexico, where agents observed a black Malibu departing a residence and tracked it as it traveled to Portales, New Mexico.
Law enforcement followed the vehicle to a Stripes gas station in Portales. There, the passenger exited the driver’s seat and entered the store, creating an opportunity for agents to move in on the vehicle. King, who had been concealed inside, then moved into the driver’s seat and fled as agents attempted to contain the car.
During the pursuit, King drove at high speed while attempting to evade law enforcement. As agents followed closely, King discarded canvas tote bag from the driver’s side window near Eastern New Mexico University. The bag was observed by law enforcement and also by a civilian who retrieved the bag and delivered it to campus police. The bag contained approximately 16,000 fentanyl pills.
The pursuit continued into Clovis, New Mexico, where King’s vehicle collided with a law enforcement unit in a residential area, ending the chase and resulting in King’s arrest.
King was convicted of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl. Following the verdict, the Court ordered that King remain in custody pending sentencing, which has not been scheduled. At sentencing, King faces no less than 10 years and up to life in prison.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Acting Special Agent in Charge Taekuk Cho of Homeland Security Investigations El Paso made the announcement today.
Homeland Security Investigations El Paso investigated this case with assistance from the U.S. Marshals Service, Portales Police Department, Clovis Police Department, the Lea County Drug Task Force, and the Region V Drug Task Force. Assistant United States Attorneys Sarah Mease and Natasha Moghadam are prosecuting this case.
Friday 8 May 2026
“Operation Red Card”Read the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Over the past week, federal, state, and local law enforcement officers, with the help of prosecutors, cleared 442 warrants, most of which are for violent crimes.
Today, the U.S. Department of Justice announced the results of “Operation Red Card”, a multi-agency law enforcement operation that identified, apprehended, and initiated prosecution against some of the most violent offenders in the Greater Kansas City, Mo. metro area. Its mission was straightforward: use existing Missouri and Kansas City-based law enforcement resources in a coordinated way to serve warrants across partner agencies, arrest individuals wanted for serious crimes and identify additional evidence that supports successful prosecution.
This effort resulted in 442 warrants being cleared, and 170 defendants charged with various offenses, involving firearms and narcotics. During the investigations into these matters, law enforcement seized a total of 8.8 pounds of fentanyl, 418 pounds of methamphetamine, 247 firearms, 52 pounds of ketamine, 15 pounds of MDMA, 6 pounds of cocaine, and $460,872. In addition, five warrants were cleared for individuals wanted for homicide,
“Operation Red Card represents the tremendous progress that occurs when federal, state, and local agencies collaborate and align their priorities, resources, and focus to confront violent crime,” said U.S. Attorney R. Matthew Price for the Western District of Missouri. “Through this unified effort, people across greater Kansas City, and visitors this summer, can rest easier knowing that dangerous individuals have been removed from our streets.”
U.S. Attorney Price thanks the partner agencies in this coordinated effort including:
- Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives
- Drug Enforcement Administration
- Federal Bureau of Investigation
- Homeland Security Investigations
- Independence Police Department
- Jackson County Drug Task Force
- Jackson County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office
- Kansas City Kansas Police Department
- Kansas City Missouri Police Department
- United States Marshals Service
- And the United States Postal Inspection Service
“The idea behind Operation Red Card is simple. When company is coming over, our home should be a place where guests feel welcomed and able to safely enjoy themselves. We are doing no different on both sides of the state line here in Kansas City with this operation.” said U.S. Attorney Ryan A. Kriegshauser. “Since becoming the U.S. Attorney for the District of Kansas, I’ve prioritized strengthening the relationship between the federal government and our local and state law enforcement partners. Operation Red Card has continued these efforts by reinforcing that unified communication and combined muscle memory in anticipation of the World Cup. The entire Kansas City metropolitan area can rest assured that we are doing everything in our power to ensure we have a safe and historic international sporting event.”
Operation Take Back America
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
The charges contained in any charging document are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.
Woonsocket Man Sentenced for Possessing Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE – A Woonsocket man was sentenced in federal court in Rhode Island for receiving, possessing, and accessing with intent to view child sexual abuse material (CSAM).
Jerry Lee Davenport, 51, was sentenced by Chief U.S. District Court Judge John J. McConnell, Jr., to ten years of imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release. He was ordered to pay $6000 restitution to the victims.
Davenport pleaded guilty on November 10, 2025, to possessing child pornography.
According to court documents, in March 2023, members of Homeland Security Investigations and the Rhode Island Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force received information that Davenport had received and viewed images containing child sexual abuse material. During a search of Davenport’s Woonsocket residence, law enforcement located several thumb drives in a locked drawer in Davenport’s bedroom containing numerous images of CSAM.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Paul F. Daly, Jr.
The matter was investigated by members of Homeland Security Investigations and the Rhode Island Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc
To report suspected online child sexual exploitation and/or abuse, call the Know2Project Tipline at 1-833-591-KNOW (5669) or visit the NCMEC CyberTipline® at https://report.cybertip.org/
Woman Indicted and Arrested for Lying to the FBIRead the Press Release
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico – On April 30, 2026, a federal grand jury in the District of Puerto Rico returned an indictment charging a San Juan woman with providing false statements to the FBI. According to court documents, Joely Rodríguez-Villega, 28, willfully and knowingly made materially false, fictitious, and fraudulent statements and representations in a matter within the jurisdiction of the executive branch of the Government of the United States, all in violation of Title 18, USC, Section 1001. Rodríguez-Villega is charged with lying to FBI Agents regarding her whereabouts during the evening hours of March 29, 2024.
The defendant made her initial court appearance today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mariana Bauzá of the U.S. District Court for the District of Puerto Rico. If convicted, she 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.
U.S. Attorney W. Stephen Muldrow of the District of Puerto Rico; and Carlos Goris, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI made the announcement.
The FBI and the Puerto Rico Police Department are investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Laura Díaz-González and Joseph Russell from the Gang Section are prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Vsoft Corporation Agrees to Pay Nearly $2.3 Million to Resolve Allegations It Improperly Obtained A PPP LoanRead the Press Release
CHARLOTTE, N.C. – U.S. Attorney Russ Ferguson announced today that VSoft Corporation (VSoft), a banking and payment solutions provider located in Atlanta, Georgia, has agreed to pay $2,291,927.07 to resolve allegations that it violated the False Claims Act by providing false information to obtain a Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan for which it was not eligible.
This settlement resolves allegations that VSoft misrepresented that it was a small business with less than 300 employees on its application for a second round PPP loan of $1,259,732.00—when instead, VSoft was part of an international corporation with multiple locations worldwide, totaling well over the 300-employee limit for second round PPP loans.
This matter arose from a lawsuit filed under the qui tam or whistleblower provision of the False Claims Act, which permits private parties to file suit on behalf of the United States for false claims and share in a portion of the government’s recovery. The qui tam lawsuit is captioned United States ex rel. GHGH2, Inc. v. Vsoft Technologies Corporation; Case No. 3:24-cv-999 (W.D.N.C.).
The government’s investigation was led by Assistant U.S. Attorney Seth Johnson.
Individuals with information about allegations of fraud involving COVID-19 are encouraged to report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721, or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only. There has been no determination of liability.
Vermont United States Attorney’s Office Recognizes National Police WeekRead the Press Release
BURLINGTON – National Police Week will be observed from Sunday, May 10, 2026, to Saturday, May 16, 2026. National Police Week is set aside each year to recognize the significant contributions and extraordinary work by law enforcement in keeping our communities safe. The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont thanks all federal, state, county, and local law enforcement officers in Vermont for their service and sacrifice.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan A. Ophardt stated: “Police officers are vital guardians, essential to maintaining the thriving communities within which we live. Over 1,000 police officers, sheriff’s deputies, troopers, and agents work tirelessly across Vermont to prevent the victimization of the vulnerable and apprehend those who commit crime. These law enforcement officers face dangerous and challenging situations on a daily basis, and their commitment to serving and protecting our community is truly inspiring. I invite all Vermonters to honor the courageous law enforcement professionals who serve the public and call on good men and women to join them in the ranks of this noble profession.”
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Based on data compiled by the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund (NLEOMF), 109 law enforcement officers died in the line of duty in 2025.
Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office encourages Vermonters and citizens across the country to remember and honor those who gave their lives so the rest of us can live safely.
As stated on NLEOMF’s website, the names of all officers killed in the line of duty are engraved on the walls of the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington D.C. and will be read aloud during the annual Candlelight Vigil on the National Mall, on May 13, 2026. This year, U.S. Border Patrol Agent David “Chris” Maland’s name will be added to the Memorial. Agent Maland was shot and killed in the line of duty on January 20, 2025, in Coventry, Vermont.
The schedule of National Police Week events is available on NLEOMF’s website.
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Reference to any specific organization or service(s) offered by an organization is for the information and convenience of the public, and does not constitute endorsement, recommendation, or favoring by the United States Department of Justice.
Veazie Man Sentenced for Enticing Minors and Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
BANGOR, Maine: A Veazie man was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Bangor for two counts of enticing a minor and one count of possessing child pornography.
U.S. District Judge Stacey D. Neumann sentenced Austin Cocchiaro, 24, to 10 years in prison to be followed by 10 years of supervised release. Cocchiaro pleaded guilty on September 30, 2025.
According to court records, in 2022 and again in 2024, Cocchiaro used his cell phone to induce a minor to participate in the production of child pornography. He also offered to pay for images using an online payment application. On November 14, 2024, the FBI executed a search warrant at Cocchiaro’s home in Veazie resulting in the discovery of additional child pornography on two cell phones he owned.
The FBI investigated the case.
To report an incident involving the possession, distribution, receipt or production of child pornography: Child sexual abuse material – referred to in legal terms as "child pornography" – captures the sexual abuse and exploitation of children. These images document victims’ exploitation and abuse, and they suffer revictimization every time the images are viewed. In 2023, the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children received 36 million reports of the possession, manufacture, or distribution of child sexual abuse materials. To file a report with NCMEC, go to https://report.cybertip.org or call 1-800-843-5678. If you are in Maine and you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted or abused, you can get help by calling the free, private 24-hour statewide sexual assault helpline at 1-800-871-7741.
Project Safe Childhood: 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 the Department’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, 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, visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-me/psc.
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U.S. Attorney’s Office Filed 83 Border-Related Cases This WeekRead the Press Release
SAN DIEGO – Federal prosecutors in the Southern District of California filed 83 border-related cases this week, including charges of bringing in aliens for financial gain, reentering the U.S. after deportation, and importation of controlled substances.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of California is the fourth-busiest federal district, largely due to a high volume of border-related crimes. This district, encompassing San Diego and Imperial counties, shares a 140-mile border with Mexico. It includes the San Ysidro Port of Entry, the world’s busiest land border crossing, connecting San Diego (America’s eighth largest city) and Tijuana (Mexico’s second largest city).
In addition to reactive border-related crimes, the Southern District of California also prosecutes a significant number of proactive cases related to terrorism, organized crime, drugs, white-collar fraud, violent crime, cybercrime, human trafficking and national security. Recent developments in those and other significant areas of prosecution can be found here.
A sample of border-related arrests this week:
- On May 1, Alexis Rios, a U.S. citizen, was arrested and charged with Bringing in Aliens for Financial Gain. According to a complaint, Customs and Border Protection officers found two unauthorized immigrants from Guatemala concealed in a non-factory compartment beneath the spare tire wheel well of the defendant’s car at the San Ysidro Port of Entry.
- On May 4, Juan Manuel Quintana Amador, a Mexican national, was arrested and charged with Importation of a Controlled Substance. According to a complaint, Customs and Border Protection officers found more than 25 pounds of cocaine concealed in the bathroom wall of a commercial passenger bus applying for entry to the U.S. at the San Ysidro Port of Entry.
- On May 5, Jose Miguel Carcamo Maradiaga, a citizen of Honduras, was arrested and charged with Deported Alien Found in the United States. According to a complaint, Border Patrol agents found the defendant hiding in the brush approximately one mile north of the border and six miles west of the Tecate Port of Entry He was previously deported to Honduras in August 2024 through Alexandria, Louisiana.
The immigration cases were referred or supported by federal law enforcement partners, including Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations (ICE ERO), Customs and Border Protection, U.S. Border Patrol, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the U.S. Marshals Service (USMS), and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), with the support and assistance of state and local law enforcement partners.
Indictments and criminal complaints are merely allegations and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
U.K. Executive Pleads Guilty to Tax Fraud ConspiracyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Jay Clayton, announced that RODERIC SAGE pled guilty today to conspiring to defraud the United States in connection with a scheme to help high-value U.S. taxpayer-clients conceal more than $60 million in income and assets held in undeclared, offshore bank accounts and evade U.S. income taxes. SAGE was presented yesterday and pled guilty earlier today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Valerie Figueredo. The case has been assigned to U.S. District Judge Gregory H. Woods.
“As admitted, Roderic Sage helped U.S. taxpayers conceal more than $60 million in offshore accounts through a scheme designed to hide assets from the IRS,” said U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton. “For years, Sage and his co-conspirators used layers of nominee accounts and offshore entities to disguise the true ownership of these funds and evade U.S. taxes. Offshore schemes are not beyond the reach of American law enforcement, and this case shows the strength of international cooperation in identifying and dismantling complex financial fraud schemes. It is straightforward: tax fraud is a fraud on your fellow Americans, and they want tax fraudsters brought to justice.”
According to the allegations in the Indictment, court filings, and statements made in Court:
SAGE was the founder and CEO of a Hong Kong financial services firm. From in or about 2008 to in or about 2014, SAGE and his co-conspirators defrauded the IRS by concealing income and assets of high-value U.S. taxpayer-clients with undeclared bank accounts at Privatbank IHAG Zurich AG (“IHAG”), a Swiss private bank. In order to assist the U.S. taxpayer-clients, SAGE and his co-conspirators devised and implemented a scheme dubbed the “Singapore Solution” to fraudulently conceal the bank accounts of the U.S. taxpayer-clients, their assets, and their income from U.S. authorities. In furtherance of the fraudulent scheme, SAGE and his co-conspirators conspired to transfer more than $60 million from undeclared IHAG bank accounts of the U.S. taxpayer-clients through a series of nominee bank accounts in Hong Kong and other locations before returning the funds to newly opened accounts at IHAG in the name of a Singapore-based asset management firm that a co-conspirator helped establish. The U.S. taxpayer-clients paid large fees to IHAG and others to help them conceal their funds and assets and evade taxes.
SAGE was arrested on May 7, 2025, in the United Kingdom and extradited to the United States.
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SAGE, 73, of Gloucestershire, United Kingdom, pled guilty to one count of conspiracy to defraud the United States, which carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison. SAGE is scheduled to be sentenced by Judge Woods on July 30, 2026.
The maximum potential sentence in this case is prescribed by Congress and provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the judge.
Mr. Clayton praised the outstanding work of IRS-CI. Mr. Clayton also thanked the Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs, Interpol, and the United Kingdom’s National Extradition Unit and the Crown Prosecution Service for their assistance in the arrest and extradition of the defendant. Mr. Clayton further thanked the Justice Department’s Criminal Division for their partnership on this case.
This prosecution is being handled by the Complex Frauds and Cybercrime Unit and the Tax Section of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Olga I. Zverovich and Matthew Weinberg and Senior Litigation Counsel Mark F. Daly of the Tax Section are in charge of the prosecution.
On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division (“Fraud Division”). The Fraud Division is laser-focused on investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.
Tyler Toomey Sworn in as the Public Affairs Specialist for the U.S. Attorney’s OfficeRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – On May 4, 2026, Tyler Toomey was sworn in as the Public Affairs Specialist for the Northern District Of New York U.S. Attorney’s Office.First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III stated: “I am proud to welcome Tyler Toomey to our team and look forward to utilizing his experience and expertise in media relations and community affairs to highlight the good work the men and women of the United States Attorney’s Office and our Federal partners are doing.”
Toomey, a Syracuse-area native who resides in Oswego County, will lead communication and public outreach efforts on behalf of First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District. In this role, he will coordinate media relations and assist in issuing communications about major prosecutions and public safety initiatives in support of the Department of Justice mission. Toomey comes to the U.S. Attorney’s Office after serving as a staffer in the New York State Assembly for former Minority Leader William Barclay and most recently Minority Leader Ed Ra.
Two Men Charged for Illegal Firearms after Harrisonville Traffic StopRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Two members of Outlaw Motorcycle Gangs were charged by criminal complaint after they were stopped in Harrisonville, Mo. while armed with firearms.
Marvin Paup, aka “Bandido Marv,” 52 and Joseph McCollum, 63, were charged in a two-count criminal complaint. Both individuals are charged with being felons in possession of a firearm.
According to an affidavit filed in support of the criminal complaint, a Harrisonville police officer observed motorcycles which were traveling together. The officer observed Paup pull out from a stop sign and cut off a vehicle. The vehicle had to slam on its brakes to avoid colliding with Paup. The officer continued to follow the motorcycles and observed Paup cross the center line and then conducted a traffic stop of the motorcycles.
During the stop, both Paup and McCollum stated they were carrying firearms inside their “cuts” (leather vests). Paup’s cut identified him as the vice president of the Bandidos Motorcycle Club, El Dorado, Kan. Chapter. McCollum’s cut identified him as the vice president of the Avispon Motorcycle Club, El Dorado chapter. Both Paup and McCollum were interviewed and admitted to possessing their respective firearms. Both Paup and McCollum were previously convicted of felony offenses.
Under federal law, it is illegal for anyone who has been convicted of a felony to be in possession of any firearm or ammunition.
The charges contained in this complaint are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.
This case was investigated by the Harrisonville, Missouri Police Department and the Independence, Missouri Police Department.
Project Safe Neighborhoods
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Two Illegal Immigrants Indicted in Homeland Security Task Force Investigation, Accused of Hiring at Least 10 OthersRead the Press Release
ST. LOUIS – Two illegal immigrants from Honduras were indicted Wednesday and accused of hiring at least 10 other illegal aliens.
Oscar Ruiz-Oliva, 41, and Jorge Manuel Oliva-Paguada, 37, were indicted on one count each of knowingly and intentionally engaging in a pattern of hiring unauthorized aliens, knowingly hiring at least ten unauthorized aliens in a 12-month period and illegal re-entry into the United States after being deported. Ruiz-Oliva was deported in 2009 near Phoenix and Oliva-Paguada was deported in 2013 near Houston. Oliva-Paguada also faces one count of being an illegal alien in possession of a firearm, namely a .40-caliber pistol.
A motion to have Ruiz-Oliva held in jail until trial says he employed at least 25 illegal aliens.
Charges set forth in an indictment are merely accusations and do not constitute proof of guilt. Every defendant is presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys John Ware and Kyle Bateman are prosecuting the case.
This prosecution is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF St. Louis comprises agents and officers from the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE); Homeland Security Investigations (HSI); Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI); Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF); Untied States Marshal Service (USMS); Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA); Internal Revenue Service (IRS); and United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Missouri.
Three-time deported illegal alien arrested and charged after assaulting federal immigration officers in the Eastern District of TexasRead the Press Release
PLANO, Texas – A Mexican national, illegally living in Lewisville, has been arrested and charged following an assault on federal immigration officers in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.
Jose Andres Hernandez Medina, 38, a Mexican national illegally living in the United States, was charged by complaint with assaulting or impeding federal officers in the Eastern District of Texas. Hernandez Medina was in court on May 8, 2026, for an initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Bill Davis.
The federal complaint alleges that on April 30, 2026, federal officers with Immigration and Customs Enforcement were conducting a law enforcement operation near an apartment complex in Lewisville when they identified and attempted to stop a vehicle driven by Hernandez Medina on the I-35 frontage road. The federal officers, in three separate vehicles, all with activated red and blue emergency lights and sirens, attempted to box in Hernandez Medina. Hernandez Medina attempted to flee and aggressively accelerated, rammed one of the law enforcement vehicles, and caused significant injuries to the federal officer, causing the officer to be immediately transported to the hospital. Hernandez Medina continued to evade the stop and collided again with another law enforcement vehicle, causing significant damage and seriously injuring a second federal officer. This officer was also hospitalized. Hernandez Medina then continued to flee, hitting multiple unoccupied vehicles before attempting to flee on foot. A passenger in the vehicle was also apprehended and remains in custody on an immigration hold. A third occupant remains at large.
According to immigration records, Hernandez Medina has been deported from the United States to Mexico on at least three different occasions. Hernandez Medina faces up to 20 years in federal prison if convicted.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and to protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
This case is being investigated by the FBI and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Calli Bailey.
A federal complaint is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Three men sentenced to federal prison for illegal firearms possessionRead the Press Release
SAVANNAH, Georgia: Three men, including a man charged after a Savannah mall shooting, have been sentenced to federal prison.
The sentences before U.S. District Court Chief Judge R. Stan Baker were announced by Margaret E. “Meg” Heap, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Georgia. They include:
- Aujawan T. Hymon, 21, of Savannah, sentenced to 41 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release and fined $1,200 after pleading guilty to Illegal Possession of a Machine Gun. Savannah Police officers responded July 2, 2025, to the Oglethorpe Mall after gunshots were reported. Three people were wounded during the exchange of gunfire, including Hymon, who was seen by witnesses and on surveillance cameras carrying a pistol. The footage also showed Hymon discarding a gun in a mall trash can where investigators later recovered the weapon, a .40-caliber Glock Model 22, modified with a “Glock switch” to convert it into a machine gun. Hymon, who was on state probation, did not appear to have fired the pistol.
- Antonio Owens, 30, of Savannah, sentenced to 39 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release after pleading guilty to Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon. Owens was a passenger in a vehicle stopped for traffic violations in June 2025 when Savannah police found a pistol in his possession.
- Ishaq Williams, 44, of Savannah, sentenced to 24 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release after pleading guilty to Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon. Savannah police officers found a pistol in a backpack belonging to Williams during a March 2024 traffic stop.
There is no parole in the federal system.
“Getting guns out of the hands of felons, and keeping illegal machine guns off the streets, is fundamental to making our community safer,” said U.S. Attorney Heap. “We applaud the work of our law enforcement partners for their vigilance in investigating these cases.”
The Savannah Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the cases, which were prosecuted for the United States of America by Southern District of Georgia Assistant U.S. Attorneys Makeia R. Jonese, Bradley R. Thompson, and Darron J. Hubbard.
Three Men Charged with Attempted Smuggling of 89 FirearmsRead the Press Release
United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Jay Clayton, Assistant Director in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”), James C. Barnacle, Jr., and Special Agent in Charge of the New York Field Division for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (“ATF”), Bryan DiGirolamo, announced today the arrest of MALIK BROMFIELD, FAIZAN ALI, and KAMAL SALMAN, who are charged with multiple offenses relating to the transporting of 89 firearms, including at least 17 that were reported stolen, and attempting to smuggle those firearms to Canada. BROMFIELD, ALI, and SALMAN were presented before U.S. Magistrate Judge Judith C. McCarthy in White Plains federal court, and detained.
“As alleged, Malik Bromfield, Faizan Ali, and Kamal Salman were caught transporting more than 80 guns, including short-barreled rifles and stolen firearms, to smuggle them out of the country,” said U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton. “It is critically important to New Yorkers and Americans to keep illegal weapons out of the hands of criminal actors. The trafficking of dangerous weapons will be relentlessly pursued by this Office.”
“These three defendants, including two foreign nationals, allegedly endangered our communities as they attempted to smuggle 89 firearms—17 of which were stolen—into Canada,” said FBI Assistant Director in Charge James C. Barnacle, Jr. “The FBI is committed to working with our federal and state law enforcement partners to take illegal guns off our streets.”
“Illegal firearms trafficking threatens the safety of our communities and fuels violent crime,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Bryan DiGirolamo. “ATF New York’s Hudson Valley personnel were proud to assist the FBI-led investigation alongside the New York State Police to help prevent dozens of firearms, including stolen weapons, from reaching the streets.”
As alleged in the Complaint:[1]
On or about May 7, 2026, personnel with the New York State Police (“NYSP”) initiated a traffic stop of a white Ford Explorer (the “Subject Vehicle”) after observing the vehicle commit traffic violations while driving on State Route 17 near exit 90. Upon approaching the Subject Vehicle, troopers encountered BROMFIELD, ALI, and SALMAN. After asking the occupants to exit the vehicle, the troopers observed that the occupants gave inconsistent and evasive accounts in response to NYSP questioning. During the interview, ALI consented to a roadside search of his person, during which a trooper recovered an expired Pakistani National Driving Permit issued to an Afghan national in another name concealed in ALI’s buttocks.
An NYSP canine conducted a sweep of the exterior of the Subject Vehicle and alerted to the potential presence of narcotics. During a preliminary search of the Subject Vehicle, the troopers observed an unusually heavy suitcase, which was found to contain a large cache of firearms:
Additional firearms were recovered in the backseat area of the Subject Vehicle:
* * *
BROMFIELD, 22, a citizen of Canada, ALI, 25, a citizen of Pakistan, and SALMAN, 22, a citizen of Canada, the United States, and Jordan, are each charged with one count of smuggling from the United States, which carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison; one count of unlicensed dealing in firearms, which carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison; one count of transporting stolen firearms in interstate commerce, which carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison; and one count of unlawful possession of firearms, which carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison. BROMFIELD is also charged with unlawful possession of a firearm by an alien, which carries a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison.
The statutory maximum sentences in this case are prescribed by Congress and provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the judge.
Mr. Clayton praised the efforts of the New York State Police - Troop F, Community Stabilization Unit, FBI’s New York Hudson Valley Safe Streets Task Force, and the ATF.
The prosecution is being handled by the Office’s White Plains Division. Assistant U.S. Attorney John Sarlitto is in charge of the prosecution.
[1] As the introductory phrase signifies, the entirety of the text of the Complaint and the description of the Complaint set forth herein constitute only allegations, and every fact described should be treated as an allegation.
Three Affiliated Skilled Nursing Facilities to Pay $300,000 to Resolve False Claims Act Allegations Related to Medically Unnecessary Rehabilitation ServicesRead the Press Release
Three affiliated skilled nursing facilities in Illinois have agreed to resolve allegations that they violated the False Claims Act by submitting or causing the submission of false claims to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services for medically unnecessary rehabilitation services. Under the agreement, Symphony Jackson Square LLC doing business as Symphony of Chicago West, Symphony Park South LLC doing business as Symphony of Morgan Park, and Symphony Midway LLC will pay the United States a total of $300,000. The settlement is based on their ability to pay.
Prior to October 2019, Medicare reimbursed skilled nursing facilities for therapy services to patients based on a patient’s resource utilization group (RUG). The RUG was to be determined by the amount of therapy and other services provided to the patient. The more therapy a patient received each week, the higher the RUG category, and the higher reimbursement a facility received. The United States alleged that, between Jan. 1, 2014, and Sept. 30, 2019, the skilled nursing facilities billed Medicare for physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech pathology services provided to patients for longer than medically necessary and without regard for patients’ individual medical needs. These actions resulted in the submission of false claims based on inflated RUG levels.
“We expect nursing facilities to provide their patients, which include some of our most vulnerable citizens, reasonable and appropriate amounts of skilled rehabilitation therapy services,” said Assistant Attorney General Brett A. Shumate of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “The Department is committed to holding accountable skilled nursing facilities that provide services based on their financial interests rather than the clinical needs of their patients.”
“Providing unnecessary medical services endangers the health of patients and raises the cost of treatment and insurance premiums for hard-working taxpayers,” said U.S. Attorney Andrew S. Boutros for the Northern District of Illinois. “The Chicago U.S. Attorney’s Office will remain vigilant in our efforts to deter those who seek to exploit critically important federal health care programs that are intended to help people in need — not cheats who seek to abuse and misuse our nation’s generosity.”
“Skilled nursing facilities that place profits above patient care betray the trust placed in them by vulnerable beneficiaries and the Medicare program,” said Acting Deputy Inspector General for Investigations Scott J. Lampert of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS‑OIG). “HHS‑OIG will not tolerate the provision or billing of medically unnecessary services. We will continue working with our law enforcement partners to protect vulnerable beneficiaries and ensure taxpayer‑funded health care dollars are used appropriately.”
“The FBI is committed to ensuring that the nation’s nursing facilities are poised to provide top-notch, medically necessary care, not putting vulnerable patients at-risk or increasing the costs for vital health care,” said Special Agent in Charge Douglas DePodesta of the FBI Chicago Field Office. “While greed and fraud are often uncovered in law enforcement investigations, the FBI is uniquely poised with the personnel and resources to ensure that critical programs like Medicare and Medicaid are protected. Today’s announcement underscores the importance of the work that the FBI and our law enforcement and prosecutorial partners engage in to ensure offenders face accountability. We would especially like to thank the Defense Criminal Investigative Service and the U.S. Office of Personnel Management - Office of Inspector General for their partnership in this investigation.”
The allegations resolved by the settlement arose from a qui tam or whistleblower lawsuit filed by Integra Med Analytics LLC. Under the False Claims Act, private parties can sue on behalf of the government and receive a portion of any recovery. The case is captioned United States ex rel. Integra Med Analytics LLC v. Symphony Healthcare LLC et al., No. 20-CV-0348 (N.D. Ill.). The whistleblower will receive $45,000 of the recovered funds.
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, the United States Attorneys’ Office for the Northern District of Illinois, HHS-OIG, and the FBI.
The matter was handled by Fraud Section Attorney Rachel Karpoff and Assistant U.S. Attorney Linda Wawzenski for the Northern District of Illinois.
The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only and there has been no determination of liability.
Note: This release has been updated to reflect the contributions of additional law enforcement partners.
The Fraud Division Announces Enforcement Actions from Across the Country Representing Nearly $1 Billion in FraudRead the Press Release
The Justice Department’s National Fraud Enforcement Division continued to advance its mission to fight fraud and protect taxpayers. Just on Monday, two men were sentenced to 151 months and 36 months in prison, respectively, for their roles in submitting over $522 million in fraudulent claims for medically unnecessary genetic tests in a scheme to defraud Medicare, Medicaid, and private health insurance companies.
"The Fraud Division continues to grow its footprint and aggressively prosecute fraud schemes, no matter the size,” said Assistant Attorney General Colin McDonald of the National Fraud Enforcement Division. “Every day, prosecutors and law enforcement partners across the country are working to protect Americans from fraudsters who want to steal citizens’ hard-earned prosperity.”
Benefits Program Fraud
A defendant was sentenced to 144 months in prison in the Middle District of Pennsylvania for fraudulently obtaining $59 million in public benefits and laundering the proceeds to China.
A defendant in Florida pleaded guilty to one count of receiving approximately $250,000 in stolen U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (“VA”) disability compensation and benefits. The defendant falsely represented to the VA that he was legally blind and that his vision conditions prevented him from driving, working, and performing various daily functions.
A defendant pleaded guilty in Michigan to wire fraud and aggravated identity theft related to a decade-long, multi-million-dollar federal student loan fraud scheme. The defendant fraudulently caused more than $16 million in benefits to be awarded, with more than $10 million disbursed.
In Tennessee, a defendant pleaded guilty to wire fraud related to misrepresentations he made on his application for a $159,900 CARES Act loan, which was designed to provide emergency financial assistance to people affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Instead he used the proceeds for personal expenses.
Health Care Fraud
A former NFL player was sentenced to over 16 years in prison for his role in a conspiracy to defraud Medicare and the Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs out of nearly $200 million. The defendant was ordered to pay over $110 million in restitution and to forfeit approximately $17 million that was seized from bank accounts and other assets.
An optometric physician pleaded guilty in Tennessee for her role in defrauding Medicare out of $6.9 million. Over three-and-a-half years, the defendant used her practice to submit false claims seeking reimbursements from Medicare for new wound care products she had not actually purchased or used.
A pharmacy technician in Michigan pleaded guilty to a $5.6 million health care scheme and illegal distribution of Oxycodone. The defendant billed benefit programs, including Medicare and Medicaid, for prescription medications that he never dispensed and provided unlawful prescriptions of oxycodone to drug traffickers in exchange for cash.
A defendant in Oklahoma City was sentenced to 20 months in prison for a $1.1 million health care fraud scheme. The defendant submitted, and caused to be submitted, thousands of false and fraudulent claims to private insurance for behavioral health counseling sessions purportedly provided to family members.
Government Fraud
Four defendants, including two former U.S. Postal Service Employees, pleaded guilty for their involvement in a conspiracy to steal $84 million in U.S. Treasury checks. During the scheme, conspirators stole thousands of envelopes containing U.S. Treasury checks from mail sorting machines and then sold them to buyers around the country.
Tax Fraud
In South Florida, a tax preparer pleaded guilty for submitting false tax forms to support more than 200 fraudulent loan applications under the CARES Act’s Paycheck Protection Program. The defendant and his co-conspirators used false records to seek more than $4.1 million in PPP loans.
Two defendants in Jacksonville, Florida, were sentenced to 57 months’ and 24 months’ imprisonment, respectively, for a $148 million construction payroll scheme that defrauded the IRS and workers’ compensation insurers. All told, the U.S. Treasury lost over $37 million in unpaid payroll taxes.
A tax preparer pleaded guilty in California to filing false tax returns to get substantial refunds for his clients and fraudulently including false information on COVID-19 business-relief loan applications, causing more than $ 25 million in losses to the government.
A Florida defendant was sentenced to 37 months in federal prison for filing a false tax return and was ordered to pay $103,646 in restitution.
Financial Fraud
A New York federal grand jury indicted six defendants in a financial fraud scheme impacting victims across the country. According to the indictment, the defendants obtained stolen United States Treasury tax refund checks that were payable to other persons, and then used fraudulent identification documents to open bank accounts in the names of the persons the tax refund checks were payable.
* * * *
On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division (“Fraud Division”). The Fraud Division is laser-focused on investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.
Tampa Woman Charged in Fraud Scheme to Obtain Social Security and Pension Benefits by Disposing of Aunt’s Body to Conceal her DeathRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – Rebecca Stewart Vaughn (64, Tampa) has been charged by federal indictment with four counts of wire fraud and one count of theft of government money. If convicted, Vaughn faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison on each wire fraud count and up to 10 years for the theft of government money. The indictment also notifies Vaughn that the United States is seeking the forfeiture of more than $75,000, the proceeds of the charged criminal conduct. U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement.
According to the indictment, Vaughn engaged in a fraud scheme to obtain Social Security benefits and City of New York pension benefits that did not belong to her. The benefits were being paid to Vaughn’s aunt, J.C. When J.C. died, Vaughn concealed her death by wrapping J.C.’s body in layers of blankets, sheets, and plastic bags, placing her body in a mattress bag, and disposing of the body in a wooded lot adjacent to a wastewater treatment plant. Vaughn also falsely represented to law enforcement officers that J.C. was still alive. By concealing J.C.’s death, Vaughn fraudulently induced the Social Security Administration and the Teacher’s Retirement System of the City of New York to continue to pay monthly benefits for J.C., which Vaughn then spent on herself and others.
An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
This case was investigated by the Social Security Administration Office of the Inspector General and the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Matthew Del Mastro.
On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division. The core mission of the Fraud Division is to zealously investigate and prosecute those who steal or fraudulently misuse taxpayer dollars. Department of Justice efforts to combat fraud support President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.
Suburban Chicago Man Sentenced to Five Years in Prison for Stealing More Than $10 Million in Interstate ShipmentsRead the Press Release
CHICAGO — A suburban Chicago man has been sentenced to five years in federal prison for stealing more than $10 million in goods, including liquor and commercial-grade copper, from interstate shipments.
From 2020 to 2023, AIVARAS ZIGMANTAS used various aliases to falsely pose as a representative of real and fictitious carriers and brokers that offered to transport shipments across state lines. After fraudulently inducing individuals and entities to release shipments of goods to him, Zigmantas and others diverted the shipments from their intended destinations and stole the goods.
Zigmantas and others intended to steal at least $14.6 million in goods and successfully stole more than $10.1 million.
Zigmantas, 41, of Elk Grove Village, Ill., pleaded guilty in December 2025 to a federal wire fraud charge. U.S. District Judge Elaine E. Bucklo imposed the 60-month prison sentence during a hearing on Wednesday in federal court in Chicago.
The sentence was announced by Andrew S. Boutros, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, Matthew Scarpino, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago office of Homeland Security Investigations, and Michael J. Pfeiffer, Acting Director of Field Operations of U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
“Over the course of three years, defendant stole more than $10 million in shipments of copper and liquor by fraudulently posing as employees of both legitimate and fictitious logistics companies,” Assistant U.S. Attorney Kate McClelland argued in the government’s sentencing memorandum. “He had the ability to make different choices, but refused to do so, resulting in increasingly serious criminal conduct and substantial losses to his victims.”
This case was prosecuted as part of the Department of Justice’s Trade Fraud Task Force, which vigorously pursues enforcement actions against parties who seek to evade or otherwise undermine federal customs laws. The Department of Justice recently selected the Chicago U.S. Attorney’s Office to be a lead prosecutorial partner on the Trade Fraud Task Force. In addition, on April 7, 2026, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division (“Fraud Division”). The Fraud Division is laser-focused on investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.
Slovakian Administrator of Darknet Market that Sold Drugs and Stolen Personal Information Sentenced to 200 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
ST. LOUIS – U.S. District Judge Cristian M. Stevens on Thursday sentenced a Slovakian man who aided the operation of a darknet market to 200 months in prison.
Alan Bill, 33, of Bratislava, pleaded guilty in January to one felony count of conspiracy to distribute controlled substances and admitted involvement in the operation of Kingdom Market, a darknet marketplace that operated between March 2021 and December 2023. Kingdom facilitated thousands of transactions wherein hundreds of vendors offered dangerous illegal drugs, stolen financial information, fraudulent identification documents, counterfeit currencies and computer malware throughout the world. Buyers made their purchases via cryptocurrency and anonymous or semi-anonymous accounts.
As part of his plea, Bill admitted assisting others in maintaining or operating Kingdom by providing or procuring web-administration services. He also admitted receiving cryptocurrency from a wallet associated with Kingdom, assisting with the creation of Kingdom’s forum pages on websites such as Reddit and Dread, having access to Kingdom usernames that made postings on behalf of Kingdom on social media accounts and communicating with others regarding certain Kingdom transactions.
Although Bill attempted to minimize his role with Kingdom Market in a day-long hearing Thursday, Judge Stevens found that evidence showed that Bill was a leader and/or organizer of the criminal conspiracy and was aware of what vendors were selling.
Kingdom servers show that there were more than 1,500 sales of heroin by dozens of vendors and nearly 600 sales of what sellers claimed was Oxycodone. Bill and his co-conspirators knew that fentanyl was being slipped into other products, a sentencing memo filed by the government says. “The dangerous drugs trafficked by defendant through Kingdom caused harm to untold numbers of people across the world,” the memo says.
After announcing the sentence Thursday, Judge Stevens said, “It’s hard to even imagine the amount of misery that the defendant’s actions have caused.”
Undercover federal investigators bought fentanyl, meth and a United States passport from Kingdom that were shipped to the Eastern District of Missouri. Bill was arrested Dec. 15, 2023, at Newark Liberty International Airport in possession of electronic devices that contained evidence of his involvement with Kingdom.
As part of his plea agreement, Bill also agreed to forfeit five different types of cryptocurrency, as well as the Kingdommarket.live and Kingdommarket.so domains, which have been shut down by authorities.
“Alan Bill helped run a darknet market that sold stolen identity and financial information, counterfeit currency and illegal drugs, including bogus prescription drugs containing fentanyl,” said U.S. Attorney Thomas C. Albus. “This sentence should send a message that serious crimes will be punished harshly, no matter where they occur or how hidden they appear to be.”
“Life is a series of good and bad choices. Mr. Bill made a bad choice to start a darknet marketplace that sold misery in the form of illegal drugs, stolen financial information and fake or stolen identification documents,” said IRS-Criminal Investigation St. Louis Special Agent in Charge William Steenson. “IRS-CI is committed to using the financial expertise of our special agents to track down and stop criminal organizations such as Kingdom Market. We’re grateful to our partners at the U.S. Attorney’s Office for their aggressive prosecution of this case.”
“Distributing deadly and highly addictive narcotics is extremely dangerous and has been a major contributor to the ongoing drug epidemic that is destroying communities across the country,” said Acting Inspector in Charge, Nicholas Bucciarelli, who leads the Chicago Division of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, which includes the St. Louis Domicile Office. “Leveraging USPIS unique cross-border authorities and expertise in cyber and narcotics investigations, Inspectors were able to pierce the veil of anonymity that these drug traffickers falsely believed they possessed by operating on the dark web, to expose their conspiracy and hold them accountable for their actions.”
“People often feel a false sense of security and anonymity, like they’re able to get away with something if they conduct business on the dark web,” DEA St. Louis Field Division Special Agent in Charge Michael Davis said. “That couldn’t be further from the truth. Our investigators and agents are well versed in the field of cyber transactions and work routinely to dismantle those organizations looking to profit off others with the sale of illegal drugs.”
IRS Criminal Investigation, the FBI, Homeland Security Investigations, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Social Security Administration Office of Inspector General, the Bureau of Diplomatic Security and the Missouri Department of Revenue investigated the case. The investigation also involved numerous foreign law enforcement agencies, including the German Federal Criminal Police, or Bundeskriminalamt, the Frankfurt am Main Public Prosecutor's Office - Central Office for Combating Internet Crime (ZIT) as well as law enforcement agencies from Switzerland, the Republic of Moldova and Ukraine. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kyle Bateman, John Ware and Justin Ladendorf prosecuted the case.
Seven Additional Canadian Nationals Charged in Connection with Nationwide Multimillion-Dollar “Grandparent Scam” Following Homeland Security Task Force InvestigationRead the Press Release
BURLINGTON – The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont announced that on November 18, 2025, a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging the following seven Canadian nationals with participation in a “Grandparent Scam” that defrauded elderly individuals in Vermont and more than 40 other states:
Evangelos Lohaitis, a.k.a. “Bucky,” (36 – Saint-Eustache, Québec)
Mitchell Burnett-Guarna, a.k.a. “Juice,” (39 – Dorval, Québec)
Kyle Lesser, a.k.a. “Brock,” (34 – Notre-Dame-de-l’Île-Perrot, Québec)
Luca Santalucia, a.k.a. “Rocco,” (27 – Montreal, Québec)
Glen Crossley, a.k.a. “Buju,” (56 – Kirkland, Québec)
Cody Jodouin-King, a.k.a. “Lids,” (28 – Vaudreuil-Dorion, Québec)
Panagiota Fountotos, a.k.a. “Nike,” (29 – Laval, Québec)All seven defendants were arrested in Canada on May 7, 2026. The charges relate to a separate indictment charging 25 other defendants, including Gareth West, with participation in the same Grandparent Scam.
According to the indictment, which was unsealed on May 7, 2026, between the summer of 2021 and June 4, 2024, the defendants engaged in a “Grandparent Scam” involving phone calls made from call centers in and around Montreal, Québec. During these phone calls, defendants falsely claimed to be an elderly victim’s relative, typically a grandchild, who had been arrested following a car crash and needed money for “bail.” Other defendants posed as an “attorney” representing the elderly victim’s relative. Elderly victims were often told that there was a “gag order” in place to prevent the elderly victim from telling anyone about their family member’s supposed arrest. Elderly victims were convinced to provide bail money to an individual falsely posing as a bail bondsman, who would come to the elderly victim’s home to collect the money. This money was later transmitted to Canada following cash deliveries and financial transactions, sometimes involving cryptocurrency, which, the indictment alleges, obscured the source of the money and the identities of defendants.
The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that an indictment contains allegations only and that the defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. The defendants face up to 20 years of imprisonment if convicted. The actual sentences, however, would be determined by the District Court with guidance from the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines and the statutory sentencing factors.
First Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan A. Ophardt commended the investigatory efforts of Homeland Security Investigations, Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, as well as Customs and Border Protection. First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ophardt also acknowledged the contributions of numerous other local, state, and federal investigators and agencies across the United States who assisted the investigation, and recognized the contributions of the United States Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs as well as Justice Canada.
The prosecutors are Assistant United States Attorneys Nate Burris, Michelle Arra, and Nicole Cate. Santalucia is represented by David Sleigh, Esq. The other defendants have not yet retained or been appointed counsel in the United States.
This prosecution is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF Vermont comprises agents and officers from Homeland Security Investigations, the FBI, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Diplomatic Security Service, the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation, and state and local partner agencies, with prosecutions being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont.
Serial Felon Pleads Guilty to Illegal Possession of FirearmRead the Press Release
Gainesville, Florida – Curtis Lee Smith-Carter, 28, of Gainesville, Florida, pleaded guilty in federal court to possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. The plea was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “Removing this serial felon from our streets achieves one of the key goals of Operation Take Back America, which devotes the full might of the Department of Justice toward protecting our communities from violent criminals. My office will continue to aggressively prosecute and seek maximum punishments for repeat offenders, like this defendant, to deliver the safe streets and neighborhoods the citizens of the Northern District of Florida deserve!”
Court documents reflect that on November 8, 2025, shortly after midnight, the defendant attempted to flee from police as they approached him behind a Gainesville convenience store near an open fire. At that time, the defendant was in possession of a loaded .32 caliber pistol, which he threw over a fence. The defendant has been convicted of nine prior felony offenses, including possession of a weapon by a convicted felon.
Smith-Carter faces up to 15 years’ imprisonment.
The case involved a joint investigation by the Gainesville Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Adam Hapner.
Sentencing is scheduled for July 21, 2026, at the United States Courthouse in Gainesville before United States Chief District Judge Allen C. Winsor.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl.
Scott County Man Sentenced for Methamphetamine TraffickingRead the Press Release
FRANKFORT, Ky. – A Georgetown, Ky., man, Ricky Helton, 48, was sentenced on Tuesday to 180 months by U.S. District Judge Gregory F. Van Tatenhove for possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine.
According to his plea agreement, on October 24, 2024, Helton met an individual in Lexington to purchase methamphetamine. When law enforcement approached Helton’s vehicle, they located one pound of methamphetamine. Prior to this, law enforcement conducted four controlled purchases of methamphetamine from June through August 2024.
Helton previously was convicted of attempted manufacturing methamphetamine in U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Kentucky in 2005.
Under federal law, Helton must serve 85 percent of his prison sentence. Upon his release from prison, he will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for 10 years.
Jason Parman, First Assistant United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; Jim Scott, Special Agent in Charge, DEA, Louisville Field Division; and Phillip J. Burnett, Jr., Commissioner of the Kentucky State Police, announced the sentence.
The investigation was conducted by DEA and KSP. Assistant U.S. Attorney James T. Chapman is prosecuting the case on behalf of the United States.
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Sacramento Gang Member Sentenced to over 18 Years in Prison for Trafficking MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Jose Miguel Hernandez, 27, of Sacramento, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Dena Coggins to 18 years and four months in prison for a conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, U.S. Attorney Eric Grant announced.
According to court documents, Hernandez was a member of a violent Sacramento street gang that distributed massive amounts of lethal drugs in the Sacramento region during 2024. As part of his guilty plea, Hernandez admitted to conspiring with other gang members to distribute methamphetamine in Sacramento between Jan. 26, 2023, and May 10, 2024. During the conspiracy, Hernandez sold a total of 8 pounds of methamphetamine to a confidential source. Hernandez pleaded guilty on Sept. 9, 2025.
The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Sacramento Police Department, the Yuba County Sheriff’s Department, and the California Highway Patrol conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jason Hitt is prosecuting the case.
The Court previously sentenced co-defendants Johnny Bobby Truong to 19 years in prison and Michael Hutchison to 15 years in prison.
Defendant Julio Sarabia pleaded guilty and is scheduled to be sentenced on Aug. 14, 2026.
The remaining defendants, Mulan Keophimanh, Tanya Lawson, and Guadalupe Cervantes, are scheduled for a status conference on June 5, 2026. The charges are only allegations; the defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
Registered sex offender charged with possession of child pornographyRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, KAN. – A federal grand jury in Kansas City, Kansas, returned an indictment charging a convicted sex offender with possession of child sexual abuse material (CSAM).
According to court documents, Jesse William Laws, 46, of Leavenworth was indicted on one count of possession of child pornography.
Laws is accused of knowingly viewing or accessing CSAM in November 2025 and therefore allegedly a violation of his terms of release related to a previous conviction in the U.S. District Court for the District of Montana for receipt of child pornography and possession of child pornography in 2006, and a conviction in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Missouri for possession of child pornography in 2017.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Audrey McCormick is prosecuting the case.
Project Safe Childhood
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.OTHER INDICTMENTS
Adrian German Marrufo-Morales, 43, an illegal alien from Mexico, was indicted on one count of unlawful reentry after deportation. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Larry Fadler is prosecuting the case.
James D. Hall, 35, of Kansas City, Kansas, was indicted on one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime and one count of felon in possession of a firearm. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) is investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney David Zabel is prosecuting the case.
Raul Leyva-Ramirez, 45, an illegal alien from Mexico, was indicted on one count of unlawful reentry after deportation. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ola Odeyemi is prosecuting the case.
Sergio Manuel Martinez-Sanchez, 53, an illegal alien from Mexico, was indicted on one count of reentry by a previously removed alien. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Taylor Hines is prosecuting the case.
Obed Rocha-Flores, 41, an illegal alien from Mexico, was indicted on one count of unlawful reentry after deportation. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Larry Fadler is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Raleigh County Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Federal Drug CrimeRead the Press Release
BECKLEY, W.Va. – John Thompson, 50, of White Oak, was sentenced today to 10 years in prison, to be followed by 5 years of supervised release, for aiding and abetting the distribution of 50 grams or more of methamphetamine.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on March 18, 2024, Thompson oversaw the sale of approximately 205 grams of methamphetamine to a confidential informant in exchange for $2,500. As part of his guilty plea, Thompson admitted that he arranged the transaction after meeting with the confidential informant and that co-defendant Sharee Woodson conducted it. Thompson further admitted that he sold quantities of methamphetamine on February 28, 2024, and March 1, 2024, and quantities of fentanyl on March 4, 2024, and March 13, 2024, each time to the confidential informant.
Woodson, 46, of Beckley, was sentenced on March 27, 2026, to 10 years in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release, after pleading guilty to possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine.
United States Attorney Moore Capito made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Beckley/Raleigh County Drug and Violent Crime Unit, which consists of officers from the West Virginia State Police, the Raleigh County Sheriff’s Office, and the Beckley Police Department.
Chief United States District Judge Frank W. Volk imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Brian D. Parsons prosecuted the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 5:25-cr-116.
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Pryor man sentenced to over 7 years in prison for sexual abuse on Blackfeet and Northern Cheyenne Indian ReservationsRead the Press Release
BILLINGS – A Pryor man who sexually abused two females on the Blackfeet and Northern Cheyenne Indian Reservations was sentenced today to 87 months of imprisonment, followed by 10 years of supervised release, Acting U.S. Attorney Tim Racicot said.
Esaias Stops Pretty Places, 22, pleaded guilty in November 2025 to two counts of sexual abuse.
U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided.
The government alleged in court documents that Stops Pretty Places raped a woman in May 2023 on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation. He and the victim had been driving around with other people drinking alcohol and eventually ended up at a residence on the reservation, where Stops Pretty Places ignored the victim’s objections and raped her. The victim left the house after the assault and immediately called the police.
A few months later, in July 2023, Stops Pretty Places and another victim were at a house in Lame Deer on the Northern Cheyenne Reservation. Stops Pretty Places made sexual advances toward the victim and eventually made her perform oral sex in him.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case. The FBI and BIA conducted the investigation.
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Parmelee Man Acquitted of AssaultRead the Press Release
PIERRE - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Parmelee, South Dakota, man was acquitted of Assault with a Dangerous Weapon, Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury, and Using and Carrying a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence following a federal jury trial in Pierre, South Dakota, on May 7, 2026.
Joey Kills Plenty, age 26, was indicted by a federal grand jury in November 2025.
The charges related to an allegation that Kills Plenty assaulted a man with a firearm in August 2025, in Todd County in the Rosebud Sioux Indian Reservation.
This matter was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office because federal law mandates that certain violent crimes alleged to have occurred in Indian Country be prosecuted in Federal court as opposed to State court.
The investigation was conducted by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. The U.S. Attorney's Office prosecuted the case.
Paisas gang member sentenced for human smuggling while on supervised release in joint HSTF/JTFA effortRead the Press Release
LAREDO, Texas – A 25-year-old Laredo resident has been ordered to federal prison for transporting illegal aliens following a failed smuggling attempt near the La Bota Ranch area, announced Acting U.S. Attorney John G.E. Marck.
Duilio Ivan Selgado pleaded guilty Feb. 3.
U.S. District Judge Diana Saldana has now ordered Selgado to serve 41 months in federal prison as well as a consecutive 14 months for violating his supervised release. The total 55-month term of imprisonment will be immediately followed by two years of supervised release.
During the hearing, the court heard additional evidence detailing Selgado’s extensive criminal history involving violence and other conduct that placed the public at risk, including assaults, arson and high-speed flights from law enforcement. In imposing the sentence, Judge Saldana commented on the distressing criminal history and noted that this marked Selgado’s sixth arrest for alien smuggling and the second time he violated a term of supervised release by committing the very same offense for which he was already under supervision.
On Nov. 10, 2025, authorities were conducting surveillance in the La Bota Ranch area of Laredo. They observed approximately 20 illegal aliens cross the Rio Grande and walk towards a nearby boat ramp. Shortly after, a Ford Expedition and Ford F-150 picked up the aliens.
Law enforcement-initiated pursuit of the Expedition and observed Selgado exit the vehicle from the front passenger side. As they approached, several aliens fled on foot.
One illegal alien stated he paid to be smuggled into the United States. After crossing the river, the group was directed to walk up a boat ramp to be picked up. He also said Selgado was on the phone receiving directions.
Selgado admitted to being a member of the Paisas prison gang.
He has been and will remain in custody pending transfer to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Day prosecuted the case.
This operation is now part of the Homeland Security Task Force initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of U.S. law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF South Texas comprises agents and officers from Immigration and Customs Enforcement-Homeland Security Investigations; FBI; Drug Enforcement Administration; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; U.S. Marshals Service; U.S. Postal Inspection Service; Department of Transportation/IRS; Interpol/Department of State and the Naval Criminal Investigative Service with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Texas leading the prosecution. Border Patrol and Texas Department of Public Safety also provided assistance in the case.
The investigation and charges are also a result of coordinated efforts of Joint Task Force Alpha, a partnership with Department of Homeland Security which has been elevated and expanded with a mandate to target cartels and transnational criminal organizations to eliminate human smuggling and trafficking networks operating in Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Panama and Colombia that impact public safety and the security of our borders. JTFA currently comprises detailees from U.S. Attorneys’ Offices along the southwest border, including the Southern District of California, Districts of Arizona and New Mexico and Western and Southern Districts of Texas. Dedicated support is provided by the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, led by the Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section and supported by the Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section, Office of Enforcement Operations and the Office of International Affairs, among others. JTFA also relies on substantial law enforcement investment from DHS, FBI, DEA and other partners.
To date, JTFA’s work has resulted in more than 455 domestic and international arrests of leaders, organizers and significant facilitators of alien smuggling and/or trafficking; more than 400 U.S. convictions; more than 350 significant jail sentences imposed and forfeitures of substantial assets.
Operation Take Back America efforts continue with 267 more charged in the Southern District of TexasRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – A total of 256 cases have been filed for immigration and border security-related crimes from May 1-7, announced Acting U.S. Attorney John G.E. Marck.
The charges include 40 people allegedly involved in human smuggling. A total of 46 criminal complaints were filed for illegal entry, while another 180 people face charges of felony reentry after prior removal. The remaining case includes another immigration violation. Most of those charged this week have prior felonies such as narcotics, violent crime, immigration offenses and more.
Three of the filed cases allegedly involve illegal aliens found in the McAllen area. One individual is Armando Montoya-Cardozo from Bolivia, according to the charges. The criminal complaint alleges he has a prior conviction for carnal knowledge of a minor before he was removed from the United States, and that law enforcement discovered him near Roma with no authorization to be in the United States.
Also found near Roma was Juan Jose German-Carrillo despite having been removed Jan. 8, according to the complaint against him. The Mexican national was previously convicted of injuring a child or the elderly and possession of a controlled substance. Another Mexican national with prior drug convictions is Rene Villarreal-Carmona, according to his charges. Authorities discovered him near Escobares despite having been previously removed from the country.
If convicted, all three men face up to 20 years in federal prison.
In addition to the new cases, a three-time DUI offender illegally in the United States was ordered to federal prison in Houston federal court. Mexican national Jose Alejandro Luna-Rangel was previously removed from the United States in July 2016 following his conviction for driving under the influence with a child in the vehicle. However, he illegally returned and was convicted for assault-family violence and felony driving while intoxicated (third offense). He was ordered to serve 40 months for the federal illegal reentry after prior removal conviction.
The cases are referred or supported by federal law enforcement partners, including Immigration and Customs Enforcement - Homeland Security Investigations, ICE - Enforcement and Removal Operations, Border Patrol, Drug Enforcement Administration, FBI, U.S. Marshals Service and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with additional assistance from state and local law enforcement partners.
The cases are part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
Under current leadership, public safety and a secure border are the top priorities for this district. Enhanced enforcement both at the border and in the interior of the district have yielded aliens engaged in unlawful activity or with serious criminal histories, including convictions for human trafficking, sexual assault and violence against children.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Texas remains one of the busiest in the nation. It represents 43 counties and more than 10 million people covering 44,000 square miles. Assistant U.S. Attorneys from all seven divisions including Houston, Galveston, Victoria, Corpus Christi, Brownsville, McAllen and Laredo work directly with our law enforcement partners on the federal, state and local levels to prosecute the suspected offenders of these and other federal crimes.
An indictment or criminal complaint is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.
One Sentenced, One Convicted for Conspiring with Annandale-Based Doctor to Illegally Distribute Promethazine-Codeine and other Controlled SubstancesRead the Press Release
ROANOKE, Va. – A pair of Maryland men who conspired with Dr. Rotimi Iluyomade, an Annandale-based doctor convicted of distributing more than 7,000 oxycodone pills, 34,000 milliliters of hydrocodone-chlorpheniramine solution (also known as “Tussionex”), and 107,000 milliliters of promethazine-codeine solution (“also known as lean”), had court appearances today in U.S. District Court in Roanoke.
Obioma Alozie Ndubuka, 32, a.k.a. “Bank Roll” of Derwood, Maryland, was sentenced today to 24 months in federal prison. Ndubuka pled guilty in February to one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute Schedule II controlled substances and to acquire promethazine-codeine solution by fraud.
In addition, Kenechukwu Brian Okwara, 29, a.k.a. “Kene” of Bowie, Maryland, pled guilty today to one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute Schedule II controlled substances and to acquire promethazine-codeine solution by fraud.
Also charged in the conspiracy are Cameron Isaiah Lewis, 23, of Bowie, Maryland; Elhadj Malick Diallo, 31, of Silver Spring, Maryland; Zion Oluwademilade Adeduwon, 24, of Bowie, Maryland; and Yared Michael Tesfaye, a.k.a. “Yar,” 28, of Montgomery Village, Maryland, and Raymono Alfonzo Russel II, 25, of Bowie, Maryland. Zion Adeduwon was sentenced to 42 months in March.
According to court documents, in at least 2023 and 2024, Iluyomade and the co-conspirators entered into an agreement to distribute oxycodone pills and hydrocodone-chlorpheniramine solution to pharmacies in multiple states, including California, Colorado, Nebraska, Arizona, Missouri, Florida, Pennsylvania, Maryland, New Jersey, Delaware, Rhode Island, Georgia, Wisconsin, Texas, West Virginia, and in the Eastern and Western Districts of Virginia. At least 70 of the illegal controlled substance prescriptions were transmitted to and/or filled at pharmacies in the Western District of Virginia.
As part of the conspiracy, multiple individuals visited Iluyomade’s medical clinic to obtain fraudulent prescriptions. The individuals provided Iluyomade with lists of multiple “patients” with fake identifying information or different variations of names and false addresses, and requested prescriptions be sent to pharmacies throughout the United States for the “patients” on the lists.
Ndubuka traveled to various pharmacies to pick up fraudulent prescriptions written by Iluyomade, which he then distributed for profit, often posting pictures on his social media accounts to facilitate drug sales. Iluyomade transmitted at least 134 fraudulent prescriptions using variations of the “Ndubuka” surname. The prescriptions listed 56 different residential addresses but the same patient home phone number. Ndubuka paid approximately $300 per fraudulent prescription.
Okwara visited Iluyomade at Crossover Medical Center in Annadale, Virginia to obtain fraudulent prescriptions for promethazine-codeine and hydrocodone-chlorpheniramine. Okwara was one of the first co-conspirators to obtain fraudulent prescriptions from Iluyomade, and shortly thereafter began selling “slots” with Iluyomade to other co-conspirators that they used to obtain fraudulent prescriptions.
The investigation began on September 2, 2023, when Russell attempted to pick up a fraudulent promethazine-codeine solution prescription transmitted by Iluyomade at a pharmacy in Honaker, Virginia. Russell was arrested and a search of his vehicle revealed multiple controlled substance prescription bottles in various ‘patient’ names, all from Iluyomade, filled at pharmacies in Roanoke, Radford, Tazewell, and Floyd, Virginia.
The Drug Enforcement Administration, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Virginia State Police, Russell County Sheriff’s Office, Salisbury, Maryland Police Department, Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office, Nebraska State Police, HHS-OIG, and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lena Busscher and Randy Ramseyer are prosecuting the case.
North Carolina Man Arrested on Federal Charges of Threatening to Kill U.S. Officials in Charge of Immigration Enforcement and PolicyRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – A Forsyth County man was arrested today on charges of threatening to kill federal immigration officials.
According to court documents, in June 2025, Richard David Warren, 61, formerly of Brunswick County, allegedly mailed letters to two government officials leading the United States’ immigration enforcement and related policies, in which he threatened to kill them. Warren also allegedly threatened to kill the family of one official and blow up and burn down the house belonging to the other.
Warren is charged with three counts of violating 18 U.S.C. § 115(a)(1) (threatening to murder a federal official or his family) and two counts of violating 18 U.S.C. § 876(c) (mailing a threatening communication to a federal official). He faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison if convicted of any of these charges.
“The safety and security of our personnel and their families is paramount. Threats of violence against federal officials—no matter the source or method—will be investigated with the utmost seriousness and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law,” said the Special Agent in Charge of ICE’s Office of Professional Responsibility. “This case should serve as a clear warning: those who allegedly seek to intimidate or harm government officials in the performance of their duties will face consequences. The Department of Homeland Security will not tolerate attempts to undermine the rule of law or threaten those who serve and protect our nation.”
“The successful execution of this arrest warrant reflects the professionalism, courage, and unwavering commitment of our Deputy United States Marshals,” said United States Marshal for the Eastern District of North Carolina Glenn McNeill. “Threats against public officials strike at the foundation of public service and the rule of law. I commend every member involved for their disciplined response, teamwork, and dedication to protecting our communities and ensuring accountability.”
Ellis Boyle, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, made the announcement. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Office of Professional Responsibility, within the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, is investigating the case.
A copy of this press release is located on our website. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 7:26-CR-26.
An indictment is merely an accusation. The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Newport News woman sentenced to over seven years in prison for COVID era unemployment insurance fraud schemeRead the Press Release
NEWPORT NEWS, Va. – A Newport News woman was sentenced today to seven years and four months in prison for conspiracy to commit mail fraud and aggravated identity theft involving the filing of unemployment insurance (UI) claims in the names of prison inmates and others.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the federal government expanded and extended UI benefits for impacted workers. The Virginia Employment Commission (VEC) administers unemployment compensation in Virginia.
According to court documents, from May 2020 to October 2021, Lakeia Simone Grant, aka Lakeia Shepperd, Lakeia Williams, Lakeia Miles, or Chris Lover, 40, schemed to defraud the expanded unemployment eligibility by using the personal identifying information or prison inmates and others to file fraudulent claims for UI benefits, falsely attesting that the beneficiaries were ready, willing, and able to work and that they lost their jobs due to COVID-19.
Grant filed fraudulent claims with VEC for inmates and coordinated to obtain, transfer, and expend proceeds. Grant conspired with inmate recruiters to obtain the personally identifying information of inmates to file such claims. She also filed fraudulent UI claims for non-inmates either by using stolen personally identifying information or in exchange for a percentage of money obtained by the applicants.
Grant and her co-conspirators filed approximately 38 successful UI claims in the names and information of inmates, resulting in payments totaling approximately $546,576 in benefits. VEC was able to recover some of the funds, resulting in an actual loss to VEC of approximately $480,392.76. Grant and her co-conspirators also applied for at least four successful UI claims for non-inmates resulting in an additional fraud loss of approximately $107,670.
Grant is a five-time convicted felon. In November 2005, Grant was convicted of obstruction of justice and petit larceny in Newport News Circuit Court after she was caught shoplifting, attempted to hit the loss prevention officer, and threatened to burn down the business and blow it up. In July 2008, Grant was convicted of unlawful wounding for attacking a victim at a night club. Grant was convicted in April 2010 and again in October 2014 in Chesterfield Circuit Court for conspiring to obtain money by false pretense and obtaining money by false pretense. In April 2019, she was convicted for conspiring to commit financial card fraud in Wake County District Court in Raleigh, North Carolina. In December 2019, she was convicted for failing to return a rental car from Enterprise.
The FBI’s Norfolk Field Office; U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General; and Department of Homeland Security, Office of Inspector General investigated this case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Mack Coleman prosecuted the case.
On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division. The core mission of the Fraud Division is to zealously investigate and prosecute those who steal or fraudulently misuse taxpayer dollars. Department of Justice efforts to combat fraud support President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.
Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 4:24-cr-80.
New Jersey Man Sentenced to 18 Months in Prison for Transporting Aliens from Ireland Who Entered the United States Unlawfully on Vermont-Canadian BorderRead the Press Release
BURLINGTON – The United States Attorney’s Office stated that on May 7, 2026, Tyshan Murray, 44, of Elizabeth, New Jersey, was sentenced by Chief United States District Judge Christina Reiss to a sentence of 18 months’ imprisonment, to be followed by a 3-year term of supervised release. Murray previously pleaded guilty to unlawfully transporting aliens in furtherance of their unlawful entry into the United States.
According to court records, on September 8, 2024, nine citizens of Ireland had illegally crossed into the United States in the vicinity of Drew Road in Richford, Vermont. Murray picked up the five adults and four children near the U.S.-Canada border. U. S. Border Patrol Agents had been alerted to an unlawful crossing in the area, responded to investigate, and stopped Murray’s SUV in the vicinity of the unlawful crossing. During the traffic stop, a Border Patrol Agent observed three adults and three young children in the rear seats, and two additional young children in the rear cargo compartment sitting on luggage.
At sentencing, the government requested a 33-month sentence, noting Murray’s reckless endangerment of the unrestrained children and his extensive criminal history, which includes multiple previous sentences of incarceration.
First Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan A. Ophardt commended the investigatory efforts of the United States Border Patrol. He added: “The smuggling of aliens across our northern border creates significant national security risks and endangers the lives of the people unlawfully entering our country. Those like Tyshan Murray, who reap illicit profit from alien smuggling, should receive significant punishment.”
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Andrew C. Gilman. Murray was represented by Assistant Federal Public Defender Barclay Johnson.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
New Braunfels Woman Indicted for Attempted Arson of Comal County Republican HeadquartersRead the Press Release
SAN ANTONIO – A federal grand jury in San Antonio returned an indictment this week charging a New Braunfels woman with actual and attempted malicious damage by fire to property involved in interstate or foreign commerce, announced U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Texas, Justin R. Simmons.
According to court documents, on Jan. 14, Grace Carol Brown, 22, attempted to set fire to a New Braunfels building that houses the Comal County Republican Party Headquarters and two other commercial businesses. An indictment alleges Brown broke a window of the building and threw a backpack inside. She was then allegedly unsuccessful in her attempt to climb into the building through the broken window and decided to light a rolled magazine on fire and through it inside the building.
Image Credit: U.S. v. Brown Case #5:26cr210Brown allegedly left a note at the scene. The backpack found inside the building allegedly contained, among other items, one container of ethanol, two containers of gasoline, a lighter and matches. An investigation determined that Brown displayed antipathy through writings and actions, toward the goals and activities of the Comal County Republican Party Headquarters, law enforcement elements of the United States government to include ICE, and certain Executive Branch officials whom she allegedly referred to as “Enemies of the U.S. Constitution.”
Brown was arrested on Jan. 22 and charged in Comal County with burglary of a building and arson. She now faces federal charges as well and, if convicted, faces five to 20 years in federal prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The FBI is investigating the case with assistance from the New Braunfels Police Department and New Braunfels Fire Marshal’s Office.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Mangels is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Med Spa Owner Pleads Guilty to Performing Illegal Injections Using Unapproved Prescription DrugsRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Quincy, Mass. man pleaded guilty in federal court in Boston to injecting clients of his business, Rodrigo Beauty Inc., with unapproved botulinum toxin obtained from illegitimate sources outside the United States, resulting in numerous severe cases of botulism.
Rodrigo de Medeiros Siqueira, 33, pleaded guilty to one count of misbranding of a drug after shipment in interstate commerce with the intent to defraud or mislead. U.S. District Court Judge Richard G. Stearns scheduled sentencing for Aug. 12, 2026. Medeiros Siqueira was arrested and charged by complaint in October 2025.
Beginning in or around August 2022, Medeiros Siqueira offered various cosmetic injection procedures, including the injection of botulinum toxin prescription drugs, to clients of Rodrigo Beauty, despite not being licensed to prescribe, dispense, or administer prescription drugs or perform injections. Medeiros Siqueira falsely represented to clients that he was a licensed medical professional authorized to perform injections and made false statements to clients regarding the identity and source of the botulinum toxin products he was using for their injection procedures. Beginning in or around late May 2025, numerous Rodrigo Beauty clients were diagnosed with botulism as a result of injections Medeiros Siqueira performed using unapproved botulinum toxin.
Botulism is a rare and dangerous illness that can result from, among other things, the injection of botulinum toxin. Iatrogenic botulism is caused by botulinum toxin circulating in the blood and spreading beyond the injection site, potentially resulting in life-threatening symptoms, including blurred or double vision, drooping eyelids, slurred speech, and/or difficulty swallowing or breathing. While botulinum toxin is generally safe when administered by trained medical professionals, improper dosing, administration technique, or use of non-FDA-approved products can result in severe cases of botulism.
If you or a family member believe you received services involving illegal injections and/or unapproved drugs or devices from Medeiros Siqueira or Rodrigo Beauty, please complete the questionnaire located on the FDA’s website at: https://www.fda.gov/inspections-compliance-enforcement-and-criminal-investigations/criminal-investigations/oci-vw-assistance-rodrigo-beauty. Information about the status of the case is located on the U.S. Attorney’s Office website: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ma/victim-and-witness-assistance-program/united-states-v-rodrigo-de-medeiros-siqueira.
The charge of misbranding of a drug after shipment in interstate commerce with the intent to defraud or mislead provides for a sentence of up to three years in prison, one year of supervised release and a fine of $250,000 or twice the gross gain or loss from the offense, whichever is greater. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Fernando McMillan, Special Agent in Charge of the Food and Drug Administration, Office of Criminal Investigations, New York Field Office made the announcement today. The Massachusetts Department of Public Health also provided valuable assistance in the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Leslie A. Wright of the Health Care Fraud Unit is prosecuting the case.
Marion County Drug Trafficker Pleads GuiltyRead the Press Release
Pensacola, Florida – Frederick Donnell McLean Jr., 39, of Citrus Springs, Florida, pleaded guilty in federal court to one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, cocaine and fentanyl. The plea was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “This is yet another successful prosecution under the Department of Justice’s Operation Take Back America, which devotes our substantial prosecutorial might toward eradicating drug trafficking from our communities to deliver the safe, drug-free streets our citizens deserve. We will continue sending drug traffickers like this defendant to federal prison until they realize the Northern District of Florida has zero-tolerance for criminality.”
On April 28, 2024, the defendant was traveling from Marion County to Okaloosa County with a supply of methamphetamine, cocaine, and fentanyl. The vehicle was stopped by Florida Highway Patrol in Okaloosa County, and a subsequent search revealed 890 grams of methamphetamine, 27.9 grams of cocaine, and 28.2 grams of fentanyl.
The defendant faces at least 25 years’ imprisonment, and up to life imprisonment.
The case involved a joint investigation by the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office, the Florida Highway Patrol, and the Drug Enforcement Administration, with assistance from the Gulf Coast High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA). The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jeffrey M. Tharp.
Sentencing is scheduled for July 16, 2026, in Pensacola, Florida before United States District Judge T. Kent Wetherell, II.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida, visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl.
Man Sentenced to Nearly 16 Years in Prison for Attempting to Traffic MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
ROCKFORD — A Sterling, Ill., man has been sentenced to more than fifteen years in federal prison for attempting to traffic methamphetamine from California to Illinois.
TONY CLAPP, 62, pleaded guilty in 2025 to one count of attempting to possess with intent to distribute more than 50 grams of methamphetamine. On Thursday, U.S. District Judge Iain D. Johnston sentenced Clapp to 15 years and eight months in federal prison.
In his plea agreement, Clapp admitted that in February 2022 he arranged for the purchase and delivery of approximately three kilograms of pure methamphetamine from a source in California. This crime was committed while Clapp was serving a term of court-supervised release following a 2008 federal prison sentence for distribution of cocaine—a fact that the Court found to be an aggravating factor in sentencing Clapp.
The sentence was announced by Andrew S. Boutros, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, and Shane R. Catone, Special Agent in Charge of the Chicago Division of the Drug Enforcement Administration. The government was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert S. Ladd.