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Friday 24 April 2026
U.S. Attorney Pirro and Mayor Bowser Announce New Legislation to Provide Additional Protections for Victims of Domestic ViolenceRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON - Today, U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro and Mayor Muriel Bowser, and District public safety leaders announced the Protecting Victims Act of 2026, new legislation aimed at protecting victims of domestic violence. The legislation includes measures to strengthen protections for survivors, enhance accountability measures against offenders, and protect privacy and safety. Although violent crime is down in the District year-to-date, domestic violence-connected assault with a dangerous weapon charges have been increasing, making this bill a timely intervention to protect District residents and reverse a concerning trend.
“Even as overall crime declines, the persistence of domestic violence—and the tragic rise in domestic violence homicides—underscores the urgent need for stronger enforcement tools,” said U.S. Attorney Pirro. “Too often, these cases reflect repeated abuse, where prior incidents or pending charges did not stop further harm. The Protecting Victims Act will help ensure that the most dangerous offenders can be identified, detained when appropriate, and held fully accountable under the law. My office remains committed to working alongside our law enforcement and community partners to intervene earlier and prevent violence before it escalates. With these additional tools, prosecutors and judges will be better positioned to protect survivors and prevent further tragedy.”
“This legislation is about making sure that survivors are protected and that their safety and privacy are respected. It’s also about making sure that when someone needs help, they can trust that help will be there, and that when someone breaks the law, there are clear and consistent consequences,” said Mayor Bowser. “With the Protecting Victims Act, we want victims and survivors to know that we are here for them, and we want abusers to know that they will face swift and certain consequences.”
The Protecting Victims Act of 2026 builds on ongoing efforts across the District to close gaps in enforcement and ensure that court-issued protections are meaningful, enforceable, and responsive to the realities survivors face.
Key provisions of the Protecting Victims Act of 2026 include:
Strengthening Enforcement of Court Orders to Protect Victims
- Holds offenders accountable for repeated violations of temporary and civil protection orders by punishing repeated violations as felony offenses.
- Improves enforcement of stay away and no contact orders by providing courts with additional tools to enforce serious violations of release conditions, including a presumption that they should securely hold a defendant when they commit a new crime against the same victim.
- Strengthens consequences for violations of post-conviction stay away and no contact orders in misdemeanor intrafamily offenses and misdemeanor sex offenses by making a violation of these orders a felony with penalties consistent with other felony cases.
Strengthening Pretrial Detention of Domestic Violence Offenders
- Provides courts with improved tools to protect victims of domestic violence by detaining abusers who harm them prior to trial, including:
- Creating a new hold for individuals charged with an intrafamily offense who were, at the time of the offense, released pending trial or sentencing in another intrafamily offense case.
- Giving courts the ability to detain offenders charged with an offense against an intimate partner who have a history of domestic violence or were subject to a protection order at the time of the offense.
- Giving courts the ability to detain offenders charged with a repeat violation of a protection order or felony threats against an intimate partner.
Enhancing Accountability for Domestic Violence Offenders
- Updates language in the District’s kidnapping statute to more clearly state what the prohibited conduct is and to capture criminal conduct that the community would recognize as kidnapping. The new statute also provides multiple tiers of liability to address varied factual scenarios of different severity.
- Creates a felony version of unlawful entry to address circumstances in which an offender who has unlawfully entered a private dwelling or property and then commits an assault or a crime of violence. Currently, DC law provides no criminal liability when a person unlawfully enters the home of another without intent to commit another crime, or refuses to leave that home, and then commits an assault or a crime of violence.
- Creates an enhancement for sentencing purposes that applies to violence and threats where the offender knew or consciously disregarded a substantial and unjustifiable risk that the victim was pregnant.
- Creates a new offense to address circumstances in which the defendant committed certain offenses in the presence of a child, or where the child witnessed the offense, including by sight, sound, or otherwise.
Protecting Victim and Survivor Privacy and Safety
- Amends the Metropolitan Police Department’s public disclosure requirements by providing protection to individuals who are willing to come forward to law enforcement to report that they have been a victim of or witness to a crime.
“As violent crime continues to decrease, domestic violence related incidents are leading to an increase in Assault with a Dangerous Weapon offenses, and account for 30% of this year’s homicides,” said Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) Chief Jeffery Carroll. “MPD has redoubled outreach to domestic violence survivors District-wide. We want all DC residents to know the signs of domestic violence and know the resources offered by MPD and our partners. Most importantly, we want every survivor to know they are not alone.”
Throughout April, MPD has led outreach efforts to highlight domestic violence prevention and resources at more than 20 events across all eight wards, including apartment buildings, places of worship, retail stores, and community centers.
The DC Victim Hotline is available at 844-4-HELP-DC (844-443-5732) and is a 24 hours a day 7 days a week chat- and text-based resource and crisis line for all crime victims in the District of Columbia. Visitors to the hotline receive strength-based and trauma-informed services and referrals in over 200 languages.
Residents and visitors are reminded: if you are in immediate danger, call 911.
U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro highlighted new efforts underway at the U.S. Attorney’s Office, including the creation of the Violent Intimate Partner Emergency Response (VIPER) team, which prioritizes high-risk domestic violence cases and seeks to secure victims’ grand jury testimony as early as possible. This initiative ensures that, at the earliest stages following an arrest, a prosecutor and victim-witness specialist are engaged to support survivors, strengthen evidence collection, and help build cases that do not rely solely on victim testimony. By identifying high-risk cases—including those involving repeated abuse, strangulation, or the presence of children during the offense—VIPER connects victims with time-sensitive resources and supports stronger, more effective investigations. These enhancements are designed to better protect victims, hold offenders accountable, and prevent cases from falling through gaps in the system.
Two Men Plead Guilty to Causing Explosion on Harvard Medical School CampusRead the Press Release
BOSTON – Two Massachusetts men pleaded guilty today in federal court in Boston to conspiring to damage a building on Harvard Medical School’s (HMS) campus using a large commercial firework.
Logan David Patterson, 18, of Plymouth, Mass. and Dominick Frank Cardoza, 21, of Bourne, Mass., each pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to damage, by means of an explosive. U.S. District Court Judge Angel Kelley scheduled sentencings for Aug. 4, 2026. In November 2025, the defendants were arrested and charged.
At approximately 2:23 a.m. on Nov. 1, 2025, surveillance cameras located at Huntington Avenue and Longwood Avenue in Boston captured two males – later identified as Patterson and Cardoza – walking toward the HMS campus wearing face coverings and dark clothing. Surveillance video captured the defendants lighting what appeared to be roman candle fireworks at approximately 2:24 a.m.
At approximately 2:33 a.m., the defendants were seen climbing over a chain-link fence into a construction area surrounding the Goldenson Building and, minutes later, climbing scaffolding beside the building to access the roof. At approximately 2:45 a.m., campus police received a fire alarm alert from an explosion on the fourth floor of the Goldenson Building, which houses a research laboratory within HMS’s Department of Neurobiology. It was determined that the defendants detonated a large, commercial firework inside a wooden locker in the fourth-floor research laboratory.
Subsequent security footage captured the defendants visiting the fifth floor of the building before exiting via a first-floor emergency exit and fleeing in opposite directions; removing and discarding clothing items they had worn on the HMS campus; and returning to the nearby campus of Wentworth Institute of Technology, which they were visiting for Halloween social activities.
The charge of conspiracy to damage, by means of fire or an explosive, provides for a sentence of up to five years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. 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 Ted E. Docks, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney David M. Holcomb of the National Security Unit is prosecuting the case.
Tulsan Sentenced After Jury Convicted Him of Shooting Another ManRead the Press Release
TULSA, Okla. – A Tulsa man was sentenced after being found guilty by a federal jury in December 2024, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson.
U.S. District Judge John D. Russell sentenced Bruce Mitchell Cass, 52, for Assault with a Dangerous Weapon with Intent to do Bodily Harm in Indian Country, Carrying, Using, Brandishing, and Discharging a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence, and being a Felon in Possession of a Firearm. Cass was ordered to serve 166 months imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release.
In December 2024, a federal jury heard evidence and testimony about Cass walking into a home wearing a mask and pointing a gun at several people, including a toddler, before he shot the victim once. In July 2024, Tulsa Police Officers were dispatched to a shooting. When officers arrived on the scene, they found the victim, shot once in the abdomen. Medical personnel rendered aid and transported the victim to a local hospital for emergency surgery. Before surgery, the victim identified Cass as the shooter.
Court dockets show that Cass is a felon and previously convicted of violent crimes in state court, including arson, after pouring gasoline on a grocery store clerk and the counter, then igniting it.
Cass is a citizen of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma. He will remain in custody pending transfer to the U.S. Bureau of Prisons.
The FBI, the Tulsa Police Department, and the Muscogee Creek Nation Lighthorse Police Department investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Aaron Jolly and Ammon Brisolara prosecuted the case.
The Justice Department Takes Actions to Strengthen the Federal Death PenaltyRead the Press Release
Today, the Department of Justice acted to restore its solemn duty to seek, obtain, and implement lawful capital sentences—clearing the way for the Department to carry out executions once death-sentenced inmates have exhausted their appeals. Among the actions taken are readopting the lethal injection protocol utilized during the first Trump Administration, expanding the protocol to include additional manners of execution such as the firing squad, and streamlining internal processes to expedite death penalty cases. These steps are critical to deterring the most barbaric crimes, delivering justice for victims, and providing long-overdue closure to surviving loved ones.
“The prior administration failed in its duty to protect the American people by refusing to pursue and carry out the ultimate punishment against the most dangerous criminals, including terrorists, child murderers, and cop killers,” said Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche. “Under President Trump’s leadership, the Department of Justice is once again enforcing the law and standing with victims.”
On his first day in office, President Trump directed the Department of Justice to prioritize seeking death sentences in appropriate cases, promptly carrying out those sentences, and strengthening the death penalty. Since then, the Department has taken sustained action to implement that directive and reverse the Biden Justice Department’s efforts to erode the death penalty.
The Biden Justice Department, under Attorney General Merrick Garland, broke sharply from its longstanding approach to capital crimes and took extraordinary steps to weaken, delay, and dismantle the death penalty. In doing so, it caused untold harm to the public. Specifically, the Biden Justice Department:
- Imposed an indefinite moratorium on executions based on a deeply flawed analysis asserting that the existing federal practice of execution by lethal injection with pentobarbital could not be carried out without risking “unnecessary pain and suffering.”
- Declined to seek the death penalty in many horrific cases, even where career prosecutors and Biden’s own U.S. Attorneys recommended it, including cases involving child rapists and murderers; racially motivated mass shooters; and gangsters and drug dealers who murdered law enforcement officers, government witnesses, and informants.
- Abandoned capital prosecutions that prior Attorneys General had lawfully authorized and that federal prosecutors were actively litigating—against the wishes of victims’ families and career prosecutors.
- Urged President Biden to effectively empty federal death row by commuting the death sentences of 37 of 40 death-row inmates based on Attorney General Garland’s personal opposition to the death penalty without consulting all the victims’ families.
Under the leadership of President Trump and Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche, the Justice Department is committed to correcting these failures and restoring the lawful administration of the death penalty. The Department has rescinded the Biden-Garland moratorium on federal executions and has authorized seeking death sentences against 44 defendants. Acting Attorney General Blanche has already authorized seeking death sentences against nine of these defendants, including three MS-13 members, two of whom are illegal aliens, accused of murdering a federal witness.
Today, the Justice Department took the following steps to better achieve public safety and deliver justice to victims of the very worst crimes:
- Released the Restoring and Strengthening the Federal Death Penalty Report, which examines the actions of the Biden-Garland Justice Department and, after a thorough analysis, finds that the use of pentobarbital to carry out death sentences is consistent with the Eighth Amendment.
- Directed the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) to reinstate the execution protocol adopted during the first Trump Administration, which relies on pentobarbital as the lethal agent.
- Directed BOP to expand the execution protocol to include additional manners of execution such as the firing squad.
- Directed BOP to examine relocating or expanding federal death row or constructing an additional execution facility to permit additional manners of execution.
- Directed the Office of Legislative Affairs to finalize and deliver a comprehensive legislative proposal to Congress that will improve public safety and better achieve justice for victims.
In the coming weeks, the Department plans to take the following additional steps:
- Consider a rule that will empower states to streamline federal habeas review of capital cases. If adopted, the rule will reduce by years the period between conviction and execution in state capital cases.
- Publish a proposed rule prohibiting capital inmates from submitting clemency petitions, and the Office of the Pardon Attorney from considering such petitions, until court decisions in the inmate’s direct appeal and first collateral attack are final.
- Revise the Justice Manual to return the Department to its historic approach to capital crimes, streamline the process for seeking death sentences, and ensure appropriate consultation with victims’ families.
Read the report here.
Texas Man Sentenced for Fatal High-Speed Flight from Border Patrol Checkpoint While Trafficking MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Texas man who fled a U.S. Border Patrol checkpoint at high speed, drove into oncoming traffic, and killed a motorcyclist while transporting nearly 10 kilograms of methamphetamine has been sentenced to nearly 22 years in prison.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court documents, on November 8, 2023, Jeffery Christopher Saint Louis, 29, approached a U.S. Border Patrol checkpoint on Highway 54 and, after being referred to secondary inspection, fled at a high rate of speed. Law enforcement officers observed Saint Louis driving recklessly, reaching speeds in excess of 100 miles per hour, swerving between vehicles, and ultimately driving into oncoming traffic on the wrong side of the road.
As the pursuit continued, Saint Louis collided head-on with a motorcyclist, killing the victim at the scene. Data recovered from the vehicle later showed that Saint Louis was traveling approximately 71 miles per hour at the time of impact and did not apply his brakes before the crash. After the collision, his vehicle veered off the road into a nearby brush, where responding officers detained him.
Saint Louis' vehicle following head-on collisionA subsequent search of the vehicle, conducted pursuant to a warrant, revealed approximately 9.9 kilograms of pure methamphetamine concealed in the trunk.
Methamphetamine located in Saint Louis’ trunk Methamphetamine recovered from Saint Louis’ vehicle on scaleDuring interviews with law enforcement, Saint Louis admitted he knew the narcotics were in the vehicle and that he intended to distribute them. He further acknowledged fleeing from the checkpoint because of the drugs.
Saint Louis pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and high-speed flight from an immigration checkpoint. Upon his release from prison, Saint Louis will be subject to five years of supervised release.
Acting U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Omar Arellano, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, made the announcement today.
The Drug Enforcement Administration investigated this case with assistance from U.S. Border Patrol, the New Mexico State Police, Alamogordo Police Department, and Otero County Sheriff’s Department. Assistant United States Attorney Devon Aragon Martinez prosecuted the case.
Tallahassee Man Federally Indicted for Forty-Six Counts of FraudRead the Press Release
Tallahassee, Florida – Jonquaris Richardson, 27, of Tallahassee, Florida, has been indicted in federal court for 46 counts of false claims against the United States through fraudulent federal tax forms. John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida, announced the charges.
Richardson appeared for his arraignment in federal court before United States Magistrate Judge Martin A. Fitzpatrick in Tallahassee, Florida. Jury trial is scheduled for June 15, 2026, before District Court Judge Robert L. Hinkle.
If convicted, Richardson faces up to five years’ imprisonment on each count.
The case is being investigated by the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Justin M. Keen.
An indictment is merely an allegation by a grand jury that a defendant has committed a violation of federal criminal law and is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial, during which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.
The Department of Justice has created 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.
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.
Southwest Georgian Sentenced to Prison for Teenage Sextortion CrimeRead the Press Release
VALDOSTA, Ga. – A South Georgia resident was sentenced to fifteen years in prison for attempting to sextort an Ohio teenager he met over Snapchat, threatening her for explicit images.
Cenobio Olguin, Jr., 24, of Lenox, Georgia, was sentenced to serve fifteen years in prison to be followed by ten years of supervised release by Senior U.S. District Judge Louis Sands on April 23. Olguin, Jr. pleaded guilty to one count of attempted production of child pornography on Jan. 27. In addition, Olguin, Jr. will have to register as a sex offender for life upon release from prison. A sentencing date will be determined by the Court. There is no parole in the federal system.
“Child predators targeting children online face harsh penalties, and we are unwavering in our mission to pursue offenders and safeguard children,” said U.S. Attorney William R. “Will” Keyes. “Addressing the serious threat of sextortion demands much more than law enforcement and prosecution. Parents and caregivers must take action to protect and empower young people against online exploitation. You can learn more about recognizing dangers, reporting abuse and having crucial conversations with young people at Know2Protect.gov.”
“This defendant used fear, manipulation and threats to sexually exploit a minor, causing real and lasting harm,” said Marlo Graham, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta. “Sextortion is a predatory crime, and the FBI will aggressively pursue anyone who targets children online. We urge parents, teens and caregivers to report suspicious or coercive online behavior immediately – early reporting can stop abuse and protect victims.”
According to court documents and statements referenced in court, Olguin, Jr. met a 16-year-old female on Snapchat in 2024. He requested that she send snaps of herself at various stages of undress, and she complied. She then blocked Olguin. Months later, Olguin contacted the teenager on Snapchat and sent her the nude photos she had previously shared with him. Olguin threatened to release the photos to her high school friends if she did not continue sending him nude photos.
Olguin, Jr., continued to make various threats to the teenager, including posting her nude photos as a public story on Snapchat. In addition, Olguin, Jr., mentioned another girl he previously extorted. He claimed he sent the nude photos of this other victim to a few boys at her school and ordered the boys to rape her.
The 16-year-old then complied with Olguin, Jr.’s threats and sent additional nude and explicit images on Snapchat. Olguin, Jr. told her if she ever blocked him, un-added him, reported him or talked to the police, she “knew what would happen.”
The Dayton, Ohio, FBI Resident Agency received a tip in December 2024 that the teenager was a victim of sextortion. The victim was interviewed; a subsequent investigation led to Olguin, Jr. A search warrant was issued at Olguin, Jr.’s Berrien County residence in the Middle District of Georgia on May 5, 2025. Agents found 91 images and 29 videos of child pornography on Olguin, Jr.’s cell phone. Agents recovered the Snap messages between the defendant and his teenage victim, including the child sexual assault material Olguin. Jr. sextorted from the victim.
April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month and marks the two-year anniversary of the Department of Homeland Security's national public awareness campaign Know2Protect: Together We Can Stop Online Child Exploitation. Resources are available at www.Know2Protect.gov.
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 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 www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
The FBI Valdosta Resident Agency and the Berrien County Sheriff’s Office are investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Sonja Profit prosecuted the case for the Government.
Southfield Couple Pleads Guilty in $1.2M Pandemic Fraud ConspiracyRead the Press Release
DETROIT – Catherine Spidell-Ferguson pleaded guilty today to participating in a $1.2 million Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) fraud conspiracy, United States Attorney Jerome F. Gorgon Jr. announced. Spidell-Ferguson’s husband, D’Angelo Ferguson, pleaded guilty in January to conspiring to commit bank fraud based on his involvement in the same conspiracy.
Gorgon was joined in the announcement by Jared Murphey, Acting Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations-Detroit.
According to plea documents, D’Angelo Ferguson admitted to participating in the submission of three separate PPP loan applications, which included false representations and fictitious supporting documents. As part of the scheme, D’Angelo Ferguson claimed each company had a certain amount of monthly income, along with monthly payroll expenses for certain employees. Both the number of employees and the monthly payroll expenses were fictitious. The documents used to support the supposed monthly income for the companies were false. Court documents indicate that Catherine Spidell-Ferguson admitted to her participation in the submission of the application for one of these bogus loans. In total, the amount fraudulently obtained by the couple in the scheme was approximately $1.2 million.
“Fraud is a plague on our Nation. It takes many forms—and all of them weaken our economy and steal from the American taxpayer. Name a program, and someone is trying to scam it. It is time to make the scammers pay,” said Gorgon.
Sentencing before United States District Judge Laurie J. Michelson will occur after a presentence report is prepared. Both Ferguson and Spidell-Ferguson face possible maximum sentences of not more than 30 years’ imprisonment without the possibility of parole, fines of not more than $1,000,000, and up to five years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment.
The Department of Justice has created 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.
The case was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jason Dorval Norwood.
Southern Indiana Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Stealing Nearly $600,000 through Multiple Fraud SchemesRead the Press Release
NEW ALBANY- Joseph M. Merk, 38, of Crandall, Indiana, has been sentenced to 4.5 years in federal prison, followed by 2 years of supervised release, after pleading guilty to four counts of wire fraud, one count of bank fraud, one count of aggravated identity theft, and two counts of tax evasion. Merk was also ordered to pay a total of $492,229.14 in restitution.
According to court documents, Merk engaged in a years‑long pattern of fraud—including PPP loan fraud, identity theft, business loan fraud, bank fraud, and tax evasion—resulting in a total loss of $599,439.03.
Merk’s schemes are broken down as follows:
PPP Loan Fraud:
From May 2020 to May 2021, Merk submitted six fraudulent Paycheck Protection Program applications for four entities: Donut Frenzy LLC, The Donut Shop LLC, Merk Logging LLC, and Merk Family Farms LLC. None of the businesses were eligible for PPP funds. Merk used falsified information and counterfeit documents to obtain $157,462, which he spent on personal expenses.
Identity Theft and Wire Fraud:
Between September and December 2023, Merk used the names, dates of birth, and Social Security numbers of two victims, L.P. and A.P., to open bank accounts and apply for three business loans using fabricated companies (“[L.P.’s surname] Automotive” and “Merk Automotive”). He submitted counterfeit bank statements and misrepresented his identity. Lenders in Pennsylvania, New York, and Connecticut approved the applications, disbursing a total of $183,260 into Merk’s accounts.
Between December 2023 and June 2025, Merk submitted 14 additional fraudulent business loan applications. All the applications involved fabricated businesses, and, in some instances, stolen identities. Through these loans, he received an additional $245,796 in fraud proceeds.
Bank Fraud:
In 2021, Merk made 93 debit‑card purchases for a luxury vacation to Hawaii, totaling $18,405.41. Among the disputed charges were several transactions at a Four Seasons resort in Maui. He later falsely disputed the charges as unauthorized. His bank approved 85 of the disputes and credited him approximately $11,180.63.
Tax Evasion:
Merk failed to report approximately $209,992 in income for tax years 2017 through 2021, thereby causing a tax loss of $71,754. For each tax year, he did affirmative acts to evade assessment of tax, including preparing and signing false tax returns, which were submitted to the Internal Revenue Service.
In total, Merk’s fraudulent conduct involved nine identity theft victims, seventeen business victims, and two governmental victims. One of the identity theft victims was sued by a lender after Merk failed to repay a fraudulent loan obtained in the victim’s name, resulting in a lien being placed on the victim’s bank account.
“Merk treated fraud as a way of life. He stole pandemic relief funds, hijacked innocent people’s identities, lied to banks, and cheated on his taxes. Fraud of this magnitude doesn’t just hurt institutions, it disrupts lives, damages credit, and burdens taxpayers” said Tom Wheeler, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “This prosecution makes clear that persistent, brazen fraud will be met with decisive federal action.”
“Through multiple fraudulent schemes, the defendant exploited trust for personal gain,” said FBI Indianapolis Special Agent in Charge Timothy J. O’Malley. “The FBI and our partners will not hesitate to pursue those who target individuals and businesses and remain committed to protecting our communities from financial crime.”
FBI Indianapolis and IRS-Criminal Investigation investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Court Judge Sarah Evans Barker.
U.S. Attorney Wheeler thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew B. Miller, who prosecuted this 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.
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Somerset County Man Indicted for Production of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
WILLIAMSPORT - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Tyler Fuller, age 31, of Somerset County, PA, was indicted yesterday on a superseding indictment charging production, receipt and possession of child pornography.
According to United States Attorney Brian D. Miller, the indictment alleges that Fuller produced, received and possessed child pornography from August 2023 to January 2024.
Homeland Security Investigations, State College Police Department, Ferguson Township Police Department, and the Centre County District Attorney’s Office investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney Alisan V. Martin is prosecuting the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc.
The maximum penalty under federal law for these offenses is 30 years in prison, with a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years in prison, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. A sentence following the finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
Indictments and Criminal Informations are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
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Snyder County Woman Sentenced to 168 Months in Prison for Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
WILLIAMSPORT - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Valerie Rose Tallent, age 40, was sentenced to 168 months in prison to be followed by five years of supervised release on March 26, 2026, by Chief United States District Judge Matthew W. Brann, related to her conviction for possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine, fentanyl, and crack cocaine.
According to United States Attorney Brian D. Miller, during the month of January 2023, law enforcement conducted a controlled purchase of narcotics from Tallent who had professed that she had taken over her incarcerated boyfriend’s drug trafficking business. Law enforcement then obtained a search warrant for the property in which she was living where they recovered approximately 25 grams of fentanyl, 11 grams of crack cocaine and 1.5 pounds of crystal methamphetamine.
Federal Bureau of Investigations, the Pennsylvania State Police, and the Lycoming County Narcotics Enforcement Unit investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney Luisa Honora Berti is prosecuting the case.
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Six-Time Felon Sentenced to Federal Prison After Police Find Him with a GunRead the Press Release
A Cedar Rapids man who possessed a gun after having six felony convictions was sentenced April 22, 2026, to five years in federal prison.
James Merlin Hall, age 48, from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, received the prison term after an August 19, 2025, guilty plea to possession of a firearm by a felon.
Information from the plea and sentencing hearings showed that Hall was previously convicted of six felony offenses. On May 20, 2024, police officers searched Hall’s recreational vehicle and located a gun inside. Hall was prohibited from possessing firearms because of his felony convictions.
Hall was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand. Hall was sentenced to 60 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a three-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
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.
Hall is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael S.A. Hudson and investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms, and the Cedar Rapids Police Department.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 25-cr-35.
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Savoonga woman sentenced to 10 years for trafficking drugs to her communityRead the Press Release
ANCHORAGE, Alaska – A Savoonga woman was sentenced yesterday to 10 years in prison for trafficking large amounts of illegal drugs into her small community on behalf of a drug trafficking organization allegedly run by a California inmate.
According to court documents, in December 2022, law enforcement officials identified a suspicious parcel addressed to Michelle Pungowiyi, 51, at a P.O. Box in Savoonga, a rural Alaska community with a population of around 835 people, located on St. Lawrence Island. Law enforcement officials, armed with a federal search warrant, opened the parcel and found over 3,000 illicit fentanyl pills.
A few weeks later, law enforcement officials identified another suspicious parcel addressed to Pungowiyi at the same P.O. Box. Law enforcement officials executed another federal search warrant and found over 4,000 illicit fentanyl pills.
In February 2023, law enforcement officials learned of a third parcel addressed to Pungowiyi at the same P.O. Box, but they were unable to stop the parcel in time, and it was delivered on Feb. 13.
Investigators determined that Pungowiyi was in contact with the alleged ringleader of the organization. Text messages between Pungowiyi and the alleged ringleader documented that the first two packages containing drugs never reached their Savoonga destination.
“Ms. Pungowiyi tried to traffic over 7,000 illegal fentanyl pills into the small community of Savoonga, enough to potentially kill the entire village population eight times over,” said U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford for the District of Oregon. “Her role in this drug trafficking organization shows that suppliers and dealers will stop at nothing to exploit Alaskans, no matter where they are located. Thanks to the incredible law enforcement and prosecutorial work, we are taking drug traffickers out of the pipeline one after another.”
“Ms. Pungowiyi trafficked deadly fentanyl into her own remote Alaskan village targeting her vulnerable community with enough poison to kill them all,” said Robert A. Saccone, Special Agent in Charge, DEA Seattle Field Division. “Through Fentanyl Free America, DEA is working alongside our partners to disrupt the criminal networks responsible for flooding communities with deadly drugs and to hold accountable those who profit from dealing in death. We will continue to pursue traffickers at every level and use every available tool to protect the American people from this unprecedented threat.”
“The distribution and use of illegal and dangerous narcotics have no place in the U.S. Postal Service and the State of Alaska. The conviction of Pungowiyi removes a plague from their community and a dangerous criminal,” said Inspector in Charge Anthony Galetti of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service Seattle Division. “Every day, Postal Inspectors here in Alaska work with our law enforcement partners to do everything we can to identify those responsible for using the U.S. Mail to transport illegal and dangerous narcotics and we thank them for their support and efforts in this investigation.”
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Alaska has been recused from this case expect for certain personnel. Assistant U.S. Attorney Steven D. Clymer from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of New York has been appointed as Special Attorney to the United States Attorney General to assist with this and other recused cases. He reports to and acts under the direction of the Deputy Attorney General, or his delegee, or U.S. Attorney Bradford in these cases. Special Attorney Clymer supervises personnel from the District of Alaska who have been exempted from the recusal.
The Drug Enforcement Administration Seattle Field Division Office and Anchorage District Office, U.S. Postal Inspection Service Seattle Division and Anchorage Domicile, and Alaska State Troopers investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Chris Schroeder prosecuted the case.
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Salisbury Methamphetamine Distributor Sentenced to 10 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
CHARLOTTE, N.C. – A Salisbury, N.C., man was sentenced yesterday for distributing methamphetamine, announced Russ Ferguson, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina. Kenta Montrice Wright, 44, was sentenced to 120 months in prison followed by five years of supervised release.
According to court records, law enforcement began an investigation into Wright for distributing methamphetamine in the Charlotte area. Between March and July 2025, Wright sold methamphetamine to an individual working with law enforcement twice. On July 21, 2025, Wright was arrested at his home in Salisbury. Following his arrest, law enforcement executed a search warrant at his home and vehicle, where they found more methamphetamine, marijuana, drug paraphernalia, two firearms, one of which was stolen, various calibers of ammunition, and other firearms accessories. During the conspiracy, Wright was responsible for the distributing more than 640 grams of methamphetamine.
Wright is in federal custody and will be transferred to the custody of the Federal Bureau of Prisons upon designation of a federal facility.
The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Gastonia Police Department investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Dana Washington of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte was in charge of the prosecution.
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.
SDTX exceeds 20,000 charged as 480 more cases filed in ongoing border security enforcement effortsRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – Since the implementation of Operation Take Back America, the Southern District of Texas has filed a total of 20,069 cases against 20,374 individuals in immigration and related matters, announced Acting U.S. Attorney John G.E. Marck.
Among those, are 484 people charged between April 17-23: 175 for illegal entry, 275 for felony reentry after removal, 33 in human smuggling cases and another one for an immigration-related crime. Many have prior convictions for narcotics, violent crime, sexual offenses, other immigration violations and more.
One illegal alien charged this week has a prior conviction for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, according to the charges. Authorities allegedly found Mexican national Fernando Flores-Bautista near Roma, despite having been removed March 29.
Another illegal alien facing charges this week is Mexican national Carlos Guadalupe Aquino-Pacheco. According to the complaint, authorities encountered him while conducting a traffic stop near McAllen. Court documents allege he has a prior conviction for interference with commerce by threats or violence. Aquino-Pacheco was previously removed Oct. 4, 2023, according to the charges.
Two others also charged with felony reentry after prior removal include Mexican nationals Dionicio Rodriguez-Hernandez and Francisco Javier Velasquez-Vela, found near Hidalgo and Roma, respectively. The complaints allege they have previous convictions such as transporting/harboring aliens, illegal reentry and/or aggravated burglary.
All four face up to 20 years in federal prison, if convicted.
In addition to the new cases, eight members of Mara Salvatrucha aka MS-13 have now received federal prison sentences ranging from 35-50 years for their respective roles in a racketeering conspiracy involving witness tampering and multiple murders, including victims as young as 14. They admitted involvement in killings ordered by MS-13 leadership in El Salvador. Members targeted rival gang members, perceived cooperators and others to maintain or elevate their rank within the organization. Following the killings, they provided photographic proof to leadership, sometimes further mutilating victims to demonstrate compliance.
Also of note this week, Roma resident Lizandro Monroy was ordered to serve 37 months in federal prison for using a minor in a human smuggling scheme. The court noted similarities to his prior convictions, including involvement in pursuits. Authorities observed a raft crossing near a known human smuggling pickup location in June 2025. Monroy had directed a 15-year-old to pick up three aliens before fleeing from a traffic stop, leading to a pursuit and crash that injured one individual. Monroy recruited and paid the minor, provided the route and supplied a phone to receive instructions.
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.
Rosebud Man Sentenced to over 2 Years in Federal Prison for Domestic Assault by an Habitual OffenderRead the Press Release
PIERRE - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that U.S. District Judge Eric C. Schulte has sentenced a Rosebud, South Dakota, man convicted of two counts of Domestic Assault by an Habitual Offender. The sentencing took place on April 20, 2026.
Marlon Oliver, Jr., age 41, was sentenced to a total of two years and ten months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $200 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Oliver was indicted by a federal grand jury in March 2025. He pleaded guilty on January 12, 2026.
The convictions stem from two separate incidents that occurred in Todd County in the Rosebud Sioux Indian Reservation. On October 11, 2024, Oliver was at the residence of his domestic partner, argued with her, and then assaulted her by shoving her. On December 1, 2024, Oliver was again at the residence of his domestic partner when she told him to leave. Oliver refused to leave and then threatened her with a knife. At the time of both incidents, Oliver had two prior convictions in Rosebud Sioux Tribal Court for domestic assault.
This matter was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office because the Major Crimes Act, a federal statute, mandates that certain violent crimes alleged to have occurred in Indian country be prosecuted in federal court as opposed to state court.
This case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Supervisory Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson prosecuted the case.
Oliver was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Restaurant Owner Indicted on Charges of Harboring Illegal Aliens and Visa FraudRead the Press Release
DETROIT - The owner and operator of two Kyoto Japanese Steakhouse restaurants was indicted on charges of conspiracy, harboring illegal aliens for commercial advantage and private financial gain, and fraud and misuse of immigration documents, announced United States Attorney Jerome F. Gorgon, Jr.
Gorgon was joined in the announcement by Jennifer Runyan, Special Agent in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation Detroit Field Division and Acting Chief Patrol Agent Javier Geronimo Jr., U.S. Border Patrol Detroit Sector.
Arrested yesterday was Yong NI, 52, of Troy, Michigan. NI appeared in federal court yesterday for his initial appearance on the charges.
Officers from the Macomb County FBI Gang and Violent Crime Task Force and the U.S. Border Patrol Detroit Sector executed three separate search warrants at residences in Shelby Township and Royal Oak, Michigan, owned by NI personally or through the Kyoto Japanese Steakhouse corporation, and encountered twenty-eight individuals living at the homes, seventeen of whom were identified as aliens illegally present in the United States without employment authorization.
Evidence obtained during the course of the investigation showed that the illegal aliens were hired by NI to work at his restaurants located in Shelby Township and Royal Oak. The illegal aliens resided at NI’s Shelby Township and Royal Oak homes and were transported to and from the restaurant for work. Further investigation showed that NI directed illegal aliens without valid documents to other employees to obtain fraudulent permanent resident cards and social security cards.
NI has also been charged with possession of a lawful permanent resident card obtained by fraud or false statements. NI obtained a visa to the United States and his permanent residency by failing to disclose a prior exclusion order from 1995 where he attempted to enter the United States with a fraudulent United States passport.
“We will investigate and prosecute employers who harbor illegal aliens. These criminal employers profit from lawbreaking. And they do it at the expense of the American worker,” said Gorgon.
"Exploiting our immigration system for personal gain is a serious offense, and those who orchestrate or participate in such schemes will have to answer for their actions,” said Jennifer Runyan, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Detroit Field Office. “The defendant’s alleged actions of illegally harboring individuals at various residences across our state, transporting them, and employing them at his restaurants, including those unlawfully present in the United States, while misusing visa programs for financial gain, are serious. This operation was a success thanks to the dedicated members of our Macomb County FBI Gang and Violent Crime Task Force and the FBI Oakland County Resident Agency, alongside our partners at the U.S. Border Patrol Detroit Sector."
“This case demonstrates our unwavering commitment to enforcing immigration laws and protecting the integrity of our communities. We will continue to work with our federal partners to ensure those who exploit vulnerable individuals for personal gain are held accountable,” said Acting Chief Patrol Agent Javier Geronimo Jr., U.S. Border Patrol Detroit Sector.
NI faces up to 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
This case was investigated the Macomb County FBI Gang and Violent Crime Task Force and is being prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Timothy Garcia and Assistant United States Attorney Sean King.
An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. The defendant is presumed innocent. The burden is on the government to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Raleigh County Man Sentenced and Ordered to Pay More than $1.5 Million for COVID-19 Relief Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
BECKLEY, W.Va. – Ross Jay Bailey, 50, of Cool Ridge, was sentenced today to five years of federal probation, including two years on home detention, and ordered to pay $1,596,301.46 in restitution for theft of government money. Bailey obtained a $2 million loan through the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act for his business and instead converted at least $1.4 million of the proceeds for his personal enrichment. Bailey has paid the restitution in full.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on or about June 30, 2020, Bailey obtained an Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) of $150,000 on behalf of his business, R&R Delivery Service Inc. The CARES Act authorized the Small Business Administration (SBA) to provide EIDL program loans of up to $2 million to eligible small businesses experiencing substantial financial disruption due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Bailey successfully applied to increase the loan amount in August 2021 to $500,000 and in February 2022 to the $2 million maximum. Bailey certified that he would use all loans proceeds solely as working capital to alleviate economic injury caused by the pandemic.
As part of his guilty plea, Bailey admitted that he fraudulently used the money he obtained through the EIDL program for purposes he knew were expressly forbidden. Bailey transferred at least $1.4 million of the EIDL proceeds from his business’s bank account to his personal bank account from on or about March 1, 2022, through on or about May 31, 2022, and Bailey converted these funds into purchases of stock and cryptocurrency for his personal enrichment. In addition to the criminal restitution ordered today, Bailey has agreed to pay $2,403,698.54 to settle the government’s pending civil claims brought under the False Claims Act and the Financial Institutions Reform, Recovery, and Enforcement Act of 1989, and for breach of contract.
Bailey’s brother, Ryan Keith Bailey, 47, of Beaver, was sentenced on September 16, 2025, to one year and two months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay $2,134,900 in restitution after pleading guilty to theft of government money. Ryan Keith Bailey obtained $2,166,517.40 in loans through the CARES Act for his business and instead converted nearly all of the proceeds for his personal use. The United States filed a civil lawsuit against Ryan Keith Bailey seeking civil damages and penalties that could exceed $9,289,579.10.
Mark William Bailey, 53, of Beckley and a cousin of Ross Jay Bailey and Ryan Keith Bailey, pleaded guilty on September 8, 2023, to theft of government monies, admitting he stole approximately $451,237.51 in SBA loans he obtained through the CARES Act. On October 25, 2024, Mark William Bailey was sentenced to five years of federal probation, including one year on home detention, and paid $451,237.51 in restitution and an additional $451,237.98 as a civil penalty to settle False Claims Act allegations.
“He didn’t just break the law - he exploited a moment of national crisis for personal profit,” United States Attorney Moore Capito said of Ross Jay Bailey. “While families were struggling to survive and small businesses were fighting to keep their doors open, these three treated relief funds like a personal bank account. Today’s sentence makes clear that greed dressed up as opportunity will be met with accountability. We will find those who steal from the public trust, and we will hold them to answer — no matter how they try to hide it, and no matter how many of them there are.”
The Bailey family members are among more than 30 individuals convicted in the Southern District of West Virginia of offenses involving the theft or fraudulent use of COVID-19 relief funds. Court-ordered restitution in these cases currently exceeds $5 million.
Capito made today’s announcement and commended the investigative work of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Office of Inspector General (NASA OIG), the United States Secret Service, the West Virginia State Police-Bureau of Criminal Investigations (BCI), the West Virginia State Auditor’s Office (WVSAO) Public Integrity and Fraud Unit (PIFU), and retired Southern District of West Virginia Litigation Financial Analyst Steve Rowley.
“Exploiting emergency government assistance programs betrays public trust and steals directly from hard-working Americans,” said Robert Steinau, Senior Official at the NASA Office of Inspector General. “I applaud the exceptional collaboration with the Southern District of West Virginia that led to today’s sentencing, ensuring that individuals who manipulate federal systems for personal gain are held accountable.”
NASA OIG is an active member of the Pandemic Response Accountability Committee (PRAC) Fraud Task Force. The PRAC was established to promote transparency and facilitate coordinated oversight of the federal government’s COVID-19 pandemic response. The PRAC’s 20 member Inspectors General identify major risks that cross program and agency boundaries to detect fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement in the more than $5 trillion in COVID-19 spending, including spending via the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), and Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program. This case was also supported by the PRAC’s Pandemic Analytics Center of Excellence, which applies the latest advances in analytic and forensic technologies to help OIGs and law enforcement pursue data-driven pandemic relief fraud investigations.
Chief United States District Judge Frank W. Volk imposed today’s sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Erik S. Goes prosecuted the case with assistance from Asset Forfeiture Assistant United States Attorney Justin Marlowe and Financial Litigation Assistant United States Attorney Ryan Combs. Assistant United States Attorney Gregory P. Neil is handling the civil litigation.
On April 7, 2026, 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.
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. 5:24-cr-105.
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Queens Pharmacy Owner Sentenced to over Five Years in Prison for Money Laundering SchemeRead the Press Release
A New York man, Taesung “Terry” Kim, 61, of Harrison, New York, was sentenced today to 63 months in prison for conspiring to launder the proceeds of a $24.4 million pharmacy fraud scheme.
“Mr. Kim’s scheme to pad his pockets with $24 million in taxpayer dollars by peddling unnecessary prescription drugs is despicable and dangerous,” said Assistant Attorney General Colin M. McDonald of the Justice Department’s National Fraud Enforcement Division. “This administration is making clear: we will hold accountable anyone who jeopardizes the health of millions of American adults by stealing from Medicare.”
“Today, Taesung Kim was held accountable for the despicable crime of defrauding Medicare and Medicaid, vital federal health care programs that provide insurance coverage to the elderly and those who cannot afford health insurance,” said U.S. Attorney Joseph Nocella Jr for the Eastern District of New York. “Fraudsters who think the government is an ATM they can blatantly plunder should take notice of the price this defendant will now pay for his greed.”
“Taesung (Terry) Kim attempted to hide years of health care fraud through illicit kickbacks and bribes. Through the hard work of the FBI and the Department of Health and Human Service - Office of the Inspector General, we were able to peel back the layers of deception to uncover this criminal scheme,” said Assistant Director in Charge James C. Barnacle Jr. of the FBI New York Field Office. “The FBI will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to identify and hold accountable individuals defrauding the American people.”
“The defendant deliberately exploited patients and the Medicare program by orchestrating kickback schemes and laundering millions in fraudulent prescription proceeds to fuel his own greed,” 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). “Today’s sentence reinforces HHS-OIG’s continued commitment, alongside our law enforcement partners, to dismantling schemes that abuse federal health care programs and ensuring those who perpetrate them are brought to justice.”
According to court documents, the defendant co-owned several retail pharmacies in Brooklyn and Queens, New York. Between 2015 and 2022, Kim’s pharmacies submitted approximately $24.4 million in claims to Medicare for medically unnecessary prescription drugs. Kim, working with others, acquired prescriptions by paying bribes and cash kickbacks to medical providers and purported patients. He and his conspirators gave bribes to medical providers in the form of office rent and staff to induce them to direct prescriptions to the pharmacies, and he paid customers in the form of supermarket gift certificates and cash to induce them to fill prescriptions at their pharmacies. Kim laundered the proceeds of the scheme through various trading companies, which gave the appearance of legitimate business, facilitated the kickbacks and bribes, and distributed profits among the pharmacies’ owners.
In December 2024, Kim pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering. In addition to his prison sentence, the Court ordered Kim pay $24.4 million in restitution and to forfeit $6 million in fraud proceeds, including several bank accounts and real properties. On Oct. 16, 2025, Kim’s partner and co-conspirator, Feng “Jeff” Jiang, 43, of Flushing, was sentenced to 15 months’ imprisonment.
HHS-OIG and FBI investigated the case.
Trial Attorney Patrick J. Campbell of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section prosecuted the case, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Tanisha R. Payne for the Eastern District of New York assisted with forfeiture matters.
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.
Queens Pharmacy Owner Sentenced to 63 Months in Prison for Money Laundering SchemeRead the Press Release
BROOKLYN, NY – Today, in federal court in Brooklyn, Taesung Kim, also known as “Terry,” was sentenced today to 63 months in prison for conspiring to launder the proceeds of a $24.4 million pharmacy fraud scheme. In December 2024, Kim pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering. As part of his sentence, the Court ordered Kim pay $24.4 million in restitution and to forfeit $6 million in fraud proceeds, including several bank accounts and real properties.
Joseph Nocella, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York; Colin M. McDonald, Assistant Attorney General, head of the Justice Department’s National Fraud Enforcement Division; James C. Barnacle, Jr., Assistant Director in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, New York Field Office (FBI); and Scott J. Lampert, Acting Deputy Inspector General for Investigations, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG) announced the sentence.
“Today, Taesung Kim was held accountable for the despicable crime of defrauding Medicare and Medicaid, vital federal health care programs that provide insurance coverage to the elderly and those who cannot afford health insurance,” stated United States Attorney Nocella. “Fraudsters who think the government is an ATM they can blatantly plunder should take notice of the price this defendant will now pay for his greed.”
“Mr. Kim’s scheme to pad his pockets with $24 million in taxpayer dollars by peddling unnecessary prescription drugs is despicable and dangerous,” said Assistant Attorney General McDonald of the Justice Department’s National Fraud Enforcement Division. “This administration is making clear: we will hold accountable anyone who jeopardizes the health of millions of American adults by stealing from Medicare.”
“Taesung (Terry) Kim attempted to hide years of health care fraud through illicit kickbacks and bribes. Through the hard work of the FBI and the Department of Health and Human Service - Office of the Inspector General, we were able to peel back the layers of deception to uncover this criminal scheme,” stated FBI Assistant Director in Charge Barnacle. “The FBI will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to identify and hold accountable individuals defrauding the American people."
“The defendant deliberately exploited patients and the Medicare program by orchestrating kickback schemes and laundering millions in fraudulent prescription proceeds to fuel his own greed,” stated HHS-OIG Acting Deputy Inspector General Lampert. “Today’s sentence reinforces HHS-OIG’s continued commitment, alongside our law enforcement partners, to dismantling schemes that abuse federal health care programs and ensuring those who perpetrate them are brought to justice.”
Kim co-owned several retail pharmacies in Brooklyn and Queens, New York. Between 2015 and 2022, Kim’s pharmacies submitted approximately $24.4 million in claims to Medicare for medically unnecessary prescription drugs. Kim, working with others, acquired prescriptions by paying bribes and cash kickbacks to medical providers and purported patients. He and his co-conspirators gave bribes to medical providers in the form of office rent and staff to induce them to direct prescriptions to the pharmacies, and he paid customers in the form of supermarket gift certificates and cash to induce them to fill prescriptions at their pharmacies. Kim laundered the proceeds of the scheme through various trading companies which gave the appearance that he was conducting legitimate business; facilitated the kickbacks and bribes; and distributed profits among the pharmacies’ owners. On October 16, 2025, Kim’s partner and co-conspirator, Feng “Jeff” Jiang, was sentenced to 15 months’ imprisonment for his role in the money laundering conspiracy.
On April 7, 2026, 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.
Trial Attorney Patrick J. Campbell of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section prosecuted the case. Assistant United States Attorney Tanisha R. Payne of the Office’s Asset Forfeiture Section is handling forfeiture matters.
The Defendant Sentenced Today:
TAESUNG KIM (also known as “Terry”)
Age: 61
Harrison, New YorkE.D.N.Y. Docket No. 23-CR-191 (DG)
The Defendant Previously Sentenced:
FENG JIANG (also known as “Jeff”)
Age: 43
Flushing, QueensE.D.N.Y. Docket No. 24-CR-264 (ARR)
Previously deported Mexican illegal alien faces possible life sentence following Rabun County arrest with gun and drugsRead the Press Release
GAINESVILLE, Ga. - Jorge Martinez-Arellano, a/k/a Jorge DeLeon Garcia, an illegal alien from Mexico with a lengthy criminal history, faces federal charges after Rabun County deputies found a firearm and approximately 300 grams of methamphetamine in his vehicle during a traffic stop.
“Despite having been deported numerous times, Martinez-Arellano allegedly returned to our country illegally and resumed trafficking drugs,” said U.S. Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg. “His alleged conduct posed grave danger to the public and demonstrated utter contempt for our laws. Thankfully, strong partnerships between federal and local law enforcement led to the apprehension of a career criminal and confiscation of his poison.”
“Removing dangerous criminals from our communities is at the heart of Homeland Security Investigations’ mission. The arrest of Martinez-Arellano, an illegal alien with a history of violent crime and drug trafficking, demonstrates our commitment to protecting our community from the threat of drugs and gun violence,” said Steven N. Schrank, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in Georgia and Alabama. “Working alongside our local and federal partners, HSI will continue to pursue those who endanger our communities and ensure they are held accountable under the law.”
“This traffic stop identified a repeat offender and an illegal alien in possession of drugs and a firearm, posing a clear danger to our community,” said Assistant Special Agent in Charge Ryan Todd. “ATF and our law enforcement partners will remain focused on stopping those who endanger our communities and keeping them safe.”
“I’m proud of the way our deputies handled this stop and stayed alert. What started as a traffic stop turned into taking drugs, a gun, and a repeat offender off our streets. I also want to thank our federal partners for their support and teamwork on this case. This is the kind of work we’re doing every day to keep Rabun County safe,” said Rabun County Sheriff Mark Gerrells.
According to U.S. Attorney Hertzberg, the indictment, and other information presented in court: On November 30, 2025, the Rabun County, Georgia, Sheriff’s Office stopped a truck for speeding. Deputies quickly discovered that the driver, Jorge Martinez-Arellano, was an illegal alien from Mexico. A search of the truck revealed a semiautomatic pistol and approximately 300 grams of methamphetamine.
Martinez-Arellano has a criminal history that includes convictions for drug trafficking, assault with a deadly weapon, and reentering the United States unlawfully. His alleged possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking expose him a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years in prison and the possibility of life imprisonment. Martinez-Arellano is also charged with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, possession of a firearm by an illegal alien, and, for at least the fourth time, illegal reentry.
Jorge Martinez-Arellano, a/k/a Jorge DeLeon Garcia, 53, of Jalisco, Mexico, was indicted on March 24, 2026. He appeared in federal court on April 22, 2026, and was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service without bail.
Members of the public are reminded that the indictment only contains charges. The defendant is presumed innocent of the charges and it will be the government’s burden to prove the defendant’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.
This case is being investigated by the Rabun County Sheriff’s Office, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Keen is prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
For further information please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office at [email protected] or (404) 581-6016. The Internet address for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia is http://www.justice.gov/usao-ndga.
Previously Convicted Killer Sentenced to over 30 Years in Federal Prison for Drug and Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – A Jefferson County, Kentucky, man was sentenced last week to 31 years and 6 months in federal prison for multiple drug and firearm offenses.
U.S. Attorney Kyle G. Bumgarner of the Western District of Kentucky, Acting Special Agent in Charge Olivia Olson of the FBI Louisville Field Office, and Chief Paul l. Humphrey of the Louisville Metro Police Department made the announcement.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, from January 1, 2021, through August 29, 2023, Thomas Gunter, conspired with other individuals to distribute over 50 grams of methamphetamine and over 400 grams of fentanyl. Gunter was further convicted of distributing over 50 grams of methamphetamine on ten dates from March through June of 2023; possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime on June 22, 2023; possessing with the intent to distribute over 50 grams of methamphetamine on August 29, 2023; and possessing a firearm with the knowledge that he was prohibited from doing so due having been previously convicted of felonies on three occasions. The jury also found that Gunter had previously been convicted of the following serious violent felony.
On December 10, 2009, in Floyd County Superior Court, New Albany, Indiana, Gunter was convicted of voluntary manslaughter.
United States Attorney Kyle Bumgarner stated, “Gunter is among the most dangerous criminals in the Louisville metropolitan area. After serving time for a previous homicide, he returned to the streets of Louisville and operated a significant drug trafficking ring, pushing fentanyl and methamphetamine onto our streets. He was often armed with a handgun while running his illicit business. Due to exceptional investigative work by the FBI and LMPD, our Office secured a multi-count conviction against Gunter last summer after a weeklong trial. Just days ago, our Office advocated for the maximum sentence and convinced the Court to send Gunter away for more than three decades. Louisville is safer because this convicted killer is no longer a part of our community.”
Special Agent Olivia Olson stated, “The sentencing of Mr. Gunter ensures that one of Louisville’s most dangerous criminals is removed from our streets for decades to come. He needlessly put innocent lives at risk by trafficking large amounts of narcotics and possessing firearms as a previously convicted felon. This case highlights the FBI’s commitment to combatting violent criminals and gangs and restoring safety to our communities.”
Chief Paul L. Humphrey stated, “Last week’s sentencing demonstrates the power of our law enforcement partnerships and shows that we have zero tolerance for violent and dangerous criminals. Anyone who brings drugs into our community should be clear about the consequences: We will find you and we will hold you accountable for your actions.”
There is no parole in the federal system.
The FBI and LMPD investigated the case.
Assistant United States Attorneys Josh Porter and Frank Dahl are prosecuting the case with assistance from paralegal Adela Alic.
This prosecution is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative. The HSTF is a United States government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, transnational gangs, and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs) worldwide. This initiative identifies TCOs engaged in a wide range of criminal schemes that violate federal law, while dismantling cross-border human smuggling and trafficking networks that fuel violence and instability that threatens the safety and security of the United States and its global partners. It also places a particular emphasis on criminal offenses involving children and ensures the use of all available law enforcement tools to prosecute offenders and/or facilitate the removal of criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF Nashville is comprised of agents and officers from FBI, HIS, DEA, ATF and the prosecution is being led by the Office of the United States Attorney for the Western District of Kentucky.
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Previously Convicted Felon Pleads Guilty to Firearm and Ammunition OffenseRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Lynn man with multiple prior criminal convictions pleaded guilty today in federal court in Boston to unlawfully possessing firearms and ammunition.
Derrick J. Poe, 40, pleaded guilty to one count of being a felon in possession of firearms and ammunition before U.S. District Court Judge Brian E. Murphy who scheduled sentencing for Aug. 4, 2026. Poe was charged by criminal complaint in February 2026 and is in federal custody pending sentencing.
Between Dec. 2, 2025 and Dec. 18, 2025, Poe distributed crack cocaine to undercover law enforcement in three separate controlled purchases in Salem, Mass. Poe was arrested after the third controlled purchase. A subsequent search of Poe’s Lynn residence resulted in the recovery of suspected crack cocaine and other evidence of drug distribution as well as three firearms and ammunition. Two of the firearms were privately made polymer-80 pistols, bearing no serial numbers, which are commonly referred to as “ghost guns.” The third firearm was a Springfield Armory 9mm pistol that had been reported stolen from Columbus, Ohio:
Poe is prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition due to multiple prior felony convictions, including in Alabama. These include a 2006 conviction for unlawful possession of a controlled substance and robbery as well as a 2012 conviction for receiving stolen property. Poe received concurrent 10-year and 20-year sentences for the 2006 drug and robbery offenses – sentences which were later suspended and he was ordered to serve four years in prison followed by four years of supervised probation. As for the 2012 receipt-of-stolen-property offense, Poe received a 69-month prison sentence that was suspended, with credit for time served, and was placed on probation for 60 months. In 2016, he was convicted in Massachusetts state court of possessing Class B drugs with intent to distribute.
The charge of being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition provides for a sentence of up to 15 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Thomas A. Greco, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives, Boston Field Division made the announcement. Valuable assistance was provided by the Lynn and Salem Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorney Aidan Lang of the Major Crimes Unit is prosecuting the case.
Possession of Glock Nets Felon 30 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON - Tayon Wright, 26, a previously convicted felon residing in the District of Columbia, was sentenced today in U.S. District Court to 30 months in prison for unlawful possession of a Glock pistol that was discovered after he fled from a car he had crashed following a police pursuit, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro.
“Tayon Wright was a felon on supervised probation when he chose to illegally arm himself with a Glock outfitted with a giggle switch — a device that transformed it into an automatic weapon capable of unleashing lethal fire in seconds,” said U.S. Attorney Pirro. “Today’s sentence is a direct message to any others who think they can disregard the law without facing the consequences.”
Wright pleaded guilty on Jan. 21, 2026, before Judge Amy Berman Jackson to unlawful possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. In addition to the 30-month prison term, Judge Berman Jackson ordered Wright to serve three years of supervised release. Federal prosecutors had requested a 33-month prison term.
According to court papers, at about 2:15 a.m. on Nov. 19, 2024, Metropolitan Police Department officers responded to a pursuit in progress. Prince George’s County Police were chasing a stolen black Audi through Southeast D.C. The Audi lost control on 13th Street SE, struck a curb, and crashed.
Wright, the sole occupant of the vehicle, fled from the Audi on foot. Officers found a black Glock 9mm handgun in the street next to the vehicle. The firearm was outfitted with a switch that allowed it to fire as an automatic, had a round in the chamber, and was surrounded by 21 rounds of loose ammunition. Wright is not considered a suspect in the vehicle theft.
After a brief foot chase, officers arrested Wright. A search of his jacket revealed cocaine base in multiple forms, amphetamines, 15 Oxycodone pills, and $152 in U.S. currency.
Wright had November 2021 felony convictions in Prince George’s County for armed carjacking and possession of a regulated firearm, which made it illegal for him to possess a firearm or ammunition. He was still on supervised probation for those convictions at the time of this offense.
The investigation was conducted by the Metropolitan Police Department, the Prince George’s County Police Department, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Washington Field Office,
The matter was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jolie Zimmerman.
Photo of a black Glock firearm equipped with a “giggle switch” that police found in the street next to the crashed Audi. The firearm was surrounded by 21 rounds of loose ammunition.
Pharmacist Sentenced to 30 months in Prison for Role in $2M Health Care Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
Paducah, KY – Michael Shawn Boaz, 47, of Clinton, was sentenced this week to 30 months in prison and 3 years supervised release for one count of conspiracy to commit health care fraud and 13 counts of fraudulent prescriptions and ordered to pay restitution of $1,806,212.90.
U.S. Attorney Kyle G. Bumgarner of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Marie Maguire of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Office of Criminal Investigations, Metro Washington Field Office, and Special Agent in Charge Kelly Blackmon of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General made the announcement.
On November 3, 2025, Boaz entered a guilty plea to conspiracy to commit health care fraud and fraudulent prescriptions. According to court documents, while working as licensed pharmacists, Boaz and his co-conspirator fraudulently billed health care benefit programs for customers at two pharmacies in Kentucky. From 2017 through 2021, they caused $2,185,739.52 in losses to health care benefit providers by submitting claims for fraudulent and unauthorized prescriptions. Boaz added boutique vitamins to customer prescription orders. He told customers that the vitamins were “free.” However, Boaz billed the customers’ health care providers between $1,000 and $6,000 for each bottle of vitamins. Boaz also submitted claims for fraudulent and unauthorized prescriptions for the antihistamine Carbinoxamine Maleate. He purchased Carbinoxamine Maleate from a wholesaler for $605 per prescription and billed health care providers between $2,000 and $16,000 for each fraudulent prescription.
On August 7, 2025, co-conspirator Christopher Clayton Augustus, 42, of Paducah, entered a guilty plea to conspiracy to commit health care fraud, fraudulent prescriptions, and aggravated identity theft. He is awaiting sentencing.
United States Attorney Kyle Bumgarner stated, “Fraudsters like Boaz that steal from health care benefit programs negatively impact everyone’s health care costs. Health care fraud is a top priority of our office. We will continue to aggressively investigate and prosecute those that defraud our health care programs. It is my fervent hope that Boaz’s prison sentence serves a strong deterrent to other fraudsters in the Western District of Kentucky to stop their fraud now because we will find you and prosecute you.”
This case was investigated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, U.S. Department of Labor, Kentucky Attorney General’s Office of Medicaid Fraud and Abuse Control, and the Kentucky Board of Pharmacy.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Raymond McGee of the U.S. Attorney’s Paducah Branch Office 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.
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Pensacola Registered Sex Offender Pleads Guilty to Possession of Obscene Materials Involving MinorsRead the Press Release
Pensacola, Florida – Jordan T. Quinones, 30, of Pensacola, Florida, pleaded guilty in federal court to one count of possession of obscene materials involving minors. The plea was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “Thanks to the vigilance of our state law enforcement partners in closely monitoring this sex offender, they were able to detect his continued criminal sexual deviance and help bring him to justice. Keeping our kids safe from sexual predators like this defendant remains one of my office’s top priorities, and we will continue to aggressively prosecute these cases.”
Court documents reveal that the Florida Department of Law Enforcement conducted routine checks on the defendant as a registered sex offender in late 2025. When suspicious materials were associated with the defendant, law enforcement followed up with an interview of Quinones, which led to obtaining a search warrant of his cellular telephone. Law enforcement located images that depicted obscene visual representations of the sexual abuse of children. The defendant was maintaining them in an online account. The images were cartoon or computer generated files, which depicted sexual abuse, sadomasochistic abuse, and bestiality involving minors. The defendant remains detained in the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending sentencing.
Quinones faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years’ imprisonment, and up to 20 years’ imprisonment.
Sentencing is scheduled for July 14, 2026, at 1:00 pm, at the United States Courthouse in Pensacola, Florida before United States District Judge T. Kent Wetherell, II.
The case is being jointly investigated by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement and Homeland Security Investigations. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David L. Goldberg.
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 and led by the U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Divisions Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), it marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
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.
Operation Spring Break Results in Several Arrests for Child Sexual Abuse ChargesRead the Press Release
TOLEDO, Ohio – Three Northwest Ohio men have been federally charged for child sexual abuse materials (CSAM) related offenses as part of an investigation that culminated in the execution of 16 search warrants last week. An additional four defendants were also arrested during last week’s roundup and are being held on state charges.
The three defendants were arrested on criminal complaints and each charged with Receipt and Distribution of Child Pornography, also known as CSAM. These cases are separate and not related:
Gavin Jaffe, 27, of Millbury, Ohio
According to court documents, investigators found that Jaffe was allegedly active on a social media platform where he sent and received CSAM, as well as messaged others about his sexual interest in children. Agents later learned that Jaffe was previously the subject of a local investigation into CSAM.
Jared Mishka, 26, of Toledo, Ohio
Court documents show that during a search warrant execution at Mishka’s residence, agents located several thumb drives that contained thousands of child sexual abuse images and videos. The CSAM materials included pre-pubescent children under the age of 12. Agents also located a list of addresses near his home, each with the name of a female, as well as a collection of girls’ socks.
Alexander Rojas, 38, of Toledo, Ohio
According to court document, Rojas allegedly hid a cellphone in the vent of the floorboard during a search warrant execution. Investigators later found that the cellphone contained multiple images of child sexual abuse, including infants. Other items seized from his residence were child-like sex toys, children’s onesies, and underwear for young girls.
“These arrests happen to coincide with National Child Abuse Prevention Month, which is recognized each April,” said U.S. Attorney David M. Toepfer. “Together with the investigative efforts of our law enforcement partners, my office will aggressively prosecute those who take part in any type of these heinous crimes against children and hold them accountable for these despicable actions.”
U.S. Attorney Toepfer will also be highlighting the awareness of crimes against children on the office’s Facebook page in the coming days through timely public service announcements.
Throughout the week-long operation, agents seized a total of 128 digital items of evidentiary value, including computers and cellphones. According to investigators, thousands of CSAM files were located on electronic devices.
The FBI Toledo Resident Agency led the investigations in a multi-agency effort among federal, state, and local law enforcement including:
- Toledo Police Department
- Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation
- Henry County Sheriff’s Office
- Paulding County Sheriff’s Office
- Wauseon Police Department
- Lake Township Police Department
- Rossford Police Department
- Defiance Police Department
- Seneca County Sheriff’s Office
- Noble County Sheriff’s Office
- Ohio State Highway Patrol
- Tiffin Police Department
- Defiance County Prosecutor’s Office
- Hancock County Sheriff’s Office
- Lima Police Department
- Hardin County Sheriff’s Office
A criminal complaint is merely an accusation. The defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Assistant United States Attorney Sara Al-Sorghali is leading the prosecution for the Northern District of Ohio.
Okemah Resident Pleads Guilty to Sexual Abuse of A MinorRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Raymond Lewis Spain, age 66, of Okemah, Oklahoma, entered a guilty plea to one count of Sexual Abuse of a Minor in Indian Country, punishable by up to 15 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
The Indictment alleged that beginning in or about March 2020, and continuing until in or about March 2024, Spain knowingly engaged in a sexual act with a victim who had attained the age of 12 years, but had not attained the age of 16 years, and who was at least four years younger than the defendant.
The crime occurred in Okfuskee County, within the boundaries of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation Reservation, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
The Honorable Jason A. Robertson, Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.
A U.S. District Court Judge will determine the sentence to be imposed after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Spain will remain in the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending sentencing.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicole Paladino represented the United States.
Norfolk Navy sailor sentenced to 10 years in prison for coercing a minor to engage in sexRead the Press Release
NORFOLK, Va. – A Texas man was sentenced yesterday to 10 years in prison for coercion and enticement of a minor to engage in sex, and the coercion of seven other minor victims.
According to court documents, Dominic Nathanial Torres, 23, a U.S. Navy sailor stationed in Norfolk, used multiple social media platforms to communicate with minors in a sexually explicit manner. Torres strategically targeted middle and high school age girls through social media, and then bypassed the security protocols of age restricted social media communities by presenting himself as a minor and using younger photos. Torres requested and received sexually explicit images and videos from minor victims and sent the minors sexually graphic photos and videos of himself.
During the Summer of 2024, Torres contacted a minor female via a social media platform. Torres knew the victim was 16 years old and portrayed himself as a minor. After communicating with the minor through multiple mediums including text messages, Torres convinced the minor to meet in person. He travelled to the minor’s neighborhood, picked her up near her home, and engaged in sex with her on two separate occasions. Torres attempted to video his sexual encounter with the minor.
The Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS) investigated this case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. 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. 2:25-cr-10.
Newport News man convicted for series of armed bank robberiesRead the Press Release
NEWPORT NEWS, Va. – A federal jury convicted a Newport News man today on charges of bank robbery, bank robbery with a dangerous weapon, brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a violent crime, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
According to court records and evidence presented at trial, Tyrone K. Jefferson, 38, worked for a rental car company where he had access to rental cars and license plates owned by the company. Jefferson stole several license plates and a sedan from the company. From Feb. 4 to Feb. 26, 2025, Jefferson used the sedan to rob a credit union and two banks. In each robbery, Jefferson threw a bag to a teller and demanded that it be filled with money, with no dye or trackers. Jefferson brandished a firearm during two of the robberies. He also used the stolen vehicle to visit a Portsmouth casino after the robberies.
On Feb. 27, 2025, Newport News Police attempted to stop the stolen sedan, but the driver fled at a high rate of speed, abandoned the vehicle, and escaped on foot. Police located mail, court documents and other paperwork addressed to Jefferson in the vehicle.
On March 7, 2025, Jefferson robbed another credit union by brandishing a firearm and demanding that a teller fill a bag with money. Jefferson then fled on foot.
On March 27, 2025, police traced Jefferson to the same Portsmouth casino, to which he traveled in a rented vehicle. During a search of the vehicle, police recovered rental paperwork in Jefferson’s name, a stolen handgun, and an extended magazine.
Jefferson has five previous felony convictions, including for assault of a federal employee (2018 for macing a Navy police officer); carrying a concealed weapon (2008); possession of stolen property and hit and run (2008); grand larceny (2011); and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and eluding police (2006).
Jefferson faces a mandatory minimum of 21 years and up to life in prison when sentenced on July 23. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The FBI’s Norfolk Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Henrico County Police Division and Newport News Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mack Coleman and Alyson C. Yates are prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations, and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. 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. 4:25-cr-53.
New Jersey Man Sentenced to 42 Months for $9 Million FraudRead the Press Release
United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Jay Clayton, announced today that ARSEN LUSHER was sentenced to 42 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Dale E. Ho for perpetrating a scheme to defraud more than 20 investors of nearly nine million dollars. On August 18, 2025, LUSHER pled guilty to one count of wire fraud.
“Today’s 42-month sentence comes at the end of a too common story: a fast-talking fraudster promising exceptional returns but not giving investors basic information,” said U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton. “Arsen Lusher lied to victims about the nature of his business to line his own pockets. When the walls came closing in, Lusher doubled down, creating false documents to try to lull his victims into a false sense of security about their investments. Lusher’s fraud was brazen, and it cost his victims nearly $9 million. A good rule of thumb for investors: no audit, no investment.”
According to the charging documents and other filings and statements made in court:
From at least 2017 through at least February 2021, the defendant engaged in a scheme in which he and his associates solicited investments from victims, usually by representing that the defendant had a profitable trucking business that enjoyed delivery and installation contracts with multiple large retailers. The defendant and his associates typically represented that the victims’ investments would fund the purchase of trucks and guaranteed the victims high rates of return over a fixed period—typically between 30 and 40 percent over one or two years. In that way, the defendant succeeded in raising approximately more than $40 million from his victims during the scheme. But the defendant did not have a large trucking business, and he did not invest the victims’ money into any trucking business. Instead, the defendant paid earlier victims with later victims’ funds, sustaining the scheme for years.
While he was stealing money from the victims, the defendant lived a lavish life. For example, the defendant gambled millions of dollars at casinos and online, winning as much as $100,000 in a single sitting. The defendant also used funds from his companies’ corporate bank accounts to finance personal expenses. On a trip to China in April 2019, the defendant spent thousands of dollars in a high-end shopping spree, including a $3,210.76 charge from a Louis Vuitton store and a $12,932.24 charge at a Hermès store in Hong Kong. The defendant paid those expenses from his business bank accounts. During the scheme, neither the defendant in his personal capacity nor any of the companies that the defendant used to perpetrate the scheme filed federal tax returns.
After years of fraud, in late 2020 and early 2021, the scheme collapsed, leaving the victims with losses of at least $8,740,440. As the scheme came crashing down, the defendant created numerous false documents and caused them to be shared with his victims for the purpose of continuing to solicit investments and lulling victims into a false sense of security with respect to their investments. For example, in January 2021, the defendant created and caused to be sent to a particular victim (“Victim-1”) a falsified email, in which the defendant altered account balances for two of the companies that the defendant used to perpetrate the scheme that had been reported to the defendant by an employee from a particular bank (“Bank-1”). The email that the defendant received from Bank-1 is shown below left; the email that the defendant altered and caused to be sent to Victim‑1 is below right. Instead of “8,767.26,” and “$320.76,” the defendant altered the email to state that his companies had account balances of $1,228,767.26 and $987,320.76 (italics and bold added).
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In addition to the prison term, LUSHER, 49, of Millstone, New Jersey, was sentenced to three years of supervised release and ordered to pay $8,740,440 in forfeiture and $8,740,440 in restitution.
Mr. Clayton praised the outstanding investigative work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Internal Revenue Service, and U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
This case is being handled by the Office’s General Crimes Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph H. Rosenberg is in charge of the prosecution.
Nevada Woman Pleads Guilty to Embezzling over $26 Million from EmployerRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Henderson, Nev., woman pleaded guilty today to embezzling over $26 million from her employer and purchasing high-end merchandise using the stolen funds and selling those items through an online consignment company.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Cynthia Marie Marabella was employed as a controller at a Las Vegas-based construction company. As part of her duties, she managed accounts payable, accounts receivable, and received financial statements from various banks and credit card companies.
Marabella admitted that, from January 1, 2018, to about February 28, 2025, she and her boyfriend co-defendant William Keolanui Costa devised a scheme to defraud Marabella’s employer. As part of the scheme, they: fraudulently duplicated bonus checks and deposited the checks into bank accounts controlled by Marabella and Costa; opened credit cards in other peoples’ names and made unauthorized charges then paid the credit cards’ bills with stolen funds; provided false accounting records to the employer; created forged and false bank statements; and sent fictitious invoices from merchant accounts then paid the invoices with stolen funds.
Marabella and Costa used the stolen money to pay off vehicles, living expenses, and credit cards. They also purchased high-end merchandise with the stolen funds, such as expensive purses, shoes, clothing, and jewelry. Marabella sold the merchandise through an online consignment company. Marabella and Costa received more than $245,000 from the sales. As a result of the fraud scheme, Marabella and Costa obtained more than $26 million from the employer.
Marabella pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud and one count of monetary transactions in criminally derived property. The total maximum statutory penalty is 30 years in prison. Sentencing has been set for August 4, 2026, before United States District Judge Andrew P. Gordon. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
First Assistant United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada and Acting Special Agent in Charge Jarom Gregory of IRS Criminal Investigation’s Phoenix Field Office made the announcement.
This case was investigated by IRS Criminal Investigations and the Henderson Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Kimberly Frayn is prosecuting the case.
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Mt. Pleasant Man Sentenced for Possession of Child Pornography on the Isabella ReservationRead the Press Release
Bay City, MI –A 56-year-old resident of Mt. Pleasant was sentenced today to 168 months in prison for possession of child pornography announced United States Attorney Jerome F. Gorgon Jr.
United States District Judge David M. Lawson also imposed 5 years of supervised release on Daniel Anthony Quezada who pled guilty on December 3, 2025.
According to court records, on or about September 17, 2025, on the Isabella Reservation, Quezada knowingly possessed thousands of images and videos of child pornography that had traveled in interstate commerce. Quezada was previously convicted in 2000 for criminal sexual conduct in the 2nd degree (person under 13), children distributing obscene material, and children accosting. Quezada was also convicted in 2006 for criminal sexual conduct in the 2nd degree (person under 13).
“This monster repeatedly sexually abused children. And then he continued to feed on the images of their abuse. A man like this has no place among us,” U.S. Attorney Gorgon said.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Roy Kranz.
Mother arrested in failed smuggling attempt of minorRead the Press Release
LAREDO, Texas – An illegal alien who resided in Austin has been charged for her role in a failed attempt to smuggle an 8-year-old child into the United States by a stranger, announced Acting U.S. Attorney John G.E. Marck.
Mexican national Nanzy Rodriguez-Sanchez has made her initial appearance in Laredo federal court and will remain in custody pending a detention hearing May 7.
Co-conspirators Jesus Luciano, 34, Austin, and Mexican national Maribel Jaimes-Hernandez, 27, were previously charged for their roles in the scheme.
The charges allege all three participated in a scheme to smuggle Rodriguez-Sanchez’s minor child into the United States.
On Oct. 2, 2025, Luciano allegedly attempted to bring the minor into the country by bus in exchange for $5,000. Luciano was a stranger to the child, according to the allegations.
The complaint alleges he provided a birth certificate and claimed the child as his own, but authorities later determined the document belonged to another child.
Jaimes-Hernandez had allegedly provided the birth certificate in exchange for $1,000 to facilitate the smuggling attempt.
If convicted, Rodriguez-Sanchez and Jaimes-Hernandez face up to 10 years in federal prison for their respective roles as well as a possible $250,000 maximum fine.
Luciano previously pleaded guilty and could also receive up to 10 years.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement - Homeland Security Investigations and Customs and Border Protection conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Manuel A. Cardenas Jr. is prosecuting the case.
A criminal complaint or indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.
Mexican National, illegally present in the U.S., sentenced to prison for unlawful firearms possessionRead the Press Release
Seattle – A 25-year-old Mexican national was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Seattle to two years in prison for unlawful possession of a firearm, announced First Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles Neil Floyd. Arturo Perez Ramirez was arrested by Seattle Police on December 1, 2024. He was driving a stolen car in south Seattle. He was the sole person in the car and was stopped after a short police chase. A Firearm was later found in the vehicle. At the sentencing hearing U.S. District Judge Ricardo S. Martinez said, “Terrorizing a community is not something we can tolerate.”
According to records filed in the case, Ramirez was brought to the U.S. from Mexico as an infant. He had multiple run-ins with the law as a juvenile and as an adult. Ramirez is prohibited from possessing firearms due to a conviction for attempted robbery. He was sentenced to more than 57 months in prison in February 2023.
In asking for a 37-month sentence prosecutors wrote to the court, “His convictions run the gamut from violent robberies and firearm offenses to stolen cars, escapes, thefts, and eluding. He spent a considerable amount of his youth detained in juvenile facilities. If facing criminal justice system consequences served as a deterrent for the defendant, he would not be facing deportation to a country in which he has not resided since infancy.”
Ramirez likely will be referred to removal proceedings following prison. Judge Martinez stressed that should he return to the U.S. he would face increasingly longer sentences.
The case was investigated by the Seattle Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF). The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Cecelia Gregson.
Maryland Man Sentenced for Selling Fraudulent Nursing Diplomas, Transcripts, and Nursing LicensesRead the Press Release
Greenbelt, Maryland – A Laurel man was sentenced to almost two years in federal prison in connection with a nursing credentials scam.
The Honorable Deborah L. Boardman sentenced Patrick Nwaokwu, 55, to 21 months in federal prison, followed by two years of supervised release, for committing wire fraud.
Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the sentence with Special Agent in Charge Jimmy Paul, FBI Baltimore Field Office, and Special Agent in Charge Maureen Dixon, Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG).
According to his plea agreement, Nwaokwu conspired with others to sell fraudulent nursing diplomas and educational transcripts to individuals. He also assisted the purchasers with fraudulently obtaining nursing licensures they needed to attain employment in the health care field. Nwaokwu engaged in the scheme through multiple entities, including Nursing School 1, located in Virginia, and Palm Beach School of Nursing, located in Florida. As a result of the scheme, Nwaokwu and his co-conspirators caused more than $1.5 million in actual losses.
Beginning in 2018, Nwaokwu conspired with Musa Bangura, 67, of Manassas, Virginia, to recruit potential purchasers in Maryland and elsewhere who were looking to obtain nursing degrees. Nwaokwu sold purchasers fraudulent Nursing School 1 documents. These documents falsely confirmed that the purchasers completed the necessary courses and clinical training at Nursing School 1 to obtain nursing degrees.
Nursing School 1 is no longer licensed, so Nwaokwu, Bangura, and others backdated the false documents that they sold to purchasers to make it appear that they attended Nursing School 1 before it lost its licensure.
Additionally, beginning in 2018, and continuing through at least July 2021, Nwaokwu conspired with Johanah Napoleon, 50, of West Palm Beach County, Florida, and Geralda Adrien, 56, of Broward County, Florida, to sell false and fraudulent RN and LPN degrees from Palm Beach School of Nursing to individuals in Maryland. Nwaokwu generally charged $17,000 for RN degrees and $6,000-$10,000 for LPN degrees. He instructed purchasers to list Palm Beach School of Nursing on their National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) applications but to leave their graduation date blank, so the date could be backdated. This would make it appear that the student graduated before Palm Beach School of Nursing lost its licensure.
By providing these fraudulent documents, Nwaokwu and his co-conspirators assisted the purchasers with obtaining fraudulent nursing licenses from state licensing agencies, including the Maryland Board of Nursing, and ultimately employment in the health care field. The scheme enabled these unqualified individuals to apply for licensure and practice as nurses. As a result, Nwaokwu and his co-conspirators consciously and recklessly exposed Maryland patients to potential harm, risk of death, and serious bodily injury.
Bangura previously received a 13-month federal-prison sentence for his role in the scheme.
U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the FBI and HHS-OIG for their work in the investigation. Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Megan S. McKoy who prosecuted the federal case.
For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to report fraud, visit justice.gov/usao-md and justice.gov/usao-md/report-fraud.
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Macon Offenders Guilty in ATF Firearms Trafficking InvestigationRead the Press Release
MACON, Ga. – Three Macon offenders, two with prior felony convictions, have been held accountable at the federal level for their roles in an illegal firearms and drug trafficking network as part of a larger Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigation in the community.
Brandon Thorpe, 32, of Macon, pleaded guilty to one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon on April 23. Thorpe faces a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release and a maximum $250,000 fine. His sentencing hearing will be scheduled by the Court.
Lonnie Alexander, 44, of Macon, pleaded guilty to one count of distribution of 50 grams or more of methamphetamine on April 21. Alexander faces a mandatory minimum of ten years in prison and a maximum sentence of life in prison to be followed by at least five years of supervised release and a maximum $10,000,000 fine. His sentencing is scheduled for July 9.
John Cato, 25, of Macon, was sentenced to serve 15 years in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release on Feb. 5, 2026, after he pleaded guilty to firearms trafficking on Nov. 19, 2025.
U.S. District Judge Marc Treadwell is presiding over the cases. There is no parole in the federal system.
“High-capacity firearms and ammunition, including a machinegun, were removed from the streets of Macon and the defendants were held accountable for their crimes as a result of this ATF-led investigation,” said U.S. Attorney William R. “Will” Keyes. “Our office is working in close partnership with local, state and federal authorities to uphold the law and make every community we serve safer.”
“ATF remains committed to identifying and dismantling criminal networks trafficking firearms that fuel violent crime in our communities,” said ATF Resident Agent in Charge Robert W. Davis. “This case underscores our relentless focus on repeat offenders who illegally sell guns and narcotics, putting lives at risk. We will continue working alongside our law enforcement partners to ensure those who threaten public safety are held accountable.”
According to court documents and statements in court, ATF agents learned in March 2024 that Alexander, a convicted felon, was illegally selling firearms and narcotics in Macon and opened an investigation. Between April 2024 and April 2025, Alexander was recorded carrying out multiple illegal sales of guns and drugs at locations around Macon, including within 1,000 feet of Mercer University’s campus on April 23, 2024. During that transaction, Alexander distributed over 27 grams of cocaine to an individual in the parking lot of Towne Place Suites, near Mercer University’s campus. Alexander sold over 40 grams of cocaine at different times earlier that month.
On May 22, 2024, an individual who had previously told Alexander that he was a convicted felon and that he wanted a gun for drug trafficking, purchased a 9mm pistol with a magazine and three rounds of ammunition during a transaction arranged by Alexander at his Macon home. The following day, an individual bought a loaded 9mm pistol from an associate of Alexander’s, with Alexander receiving a “finder’s fee” for arranging the sale.
On September 12, 2024, an individual bought a 9mm pistol in a transaction arranged by Alexander at a gas station in Macon. Later that day, the individual bought a .38 special revolver and over 15 grams of methamphetamine from Alexander at an apartment complex in Macon.
On April 23, 2025, Alexander arranged a sale of firearms and methamphetamine to an individual in a restaurant parking lot in Macon. During the transaction, Alexander sold over 80 grams of methamphetamine, and Cato sold three firearms to the individual, including a machinegun.
On May 20, 2025, Cato sold seven firearms and a 50-round drum magazine to an individual in a restaurant parking lot in Macon.
On June 26, 2025, Thorpe drove Cato to a parking lot in Macon, carrying a dozen firearms, including a Glock switch, which converts a semi-automatic pistol into a machinegun. Cato intended to sell the firearms to an individual. The individual purchased all the firearms from Cato.
On July 9, 2025, Cato arrived at a parking lot in Macon to sell a convicted felon firearms and promethazine, a sedative. As ATF agents surrounded Cato’s car, Cato ran into oncoming traffic on Riverside Drive. The agents soon caught and arrested him. Inside Cato’s car were four firearms, two of which had been reported stolen, and 192 ounces of promethazine.
In all, ATF seized 30 firearms. Cato is responsible for trafficking 26 firearms; of those 26 firearms, Thorpe is responsible for possessing 12 of them. ATF seized four illegal firearms from Alexander. The firearms included a machinegun, conversion devices, and stolen guns. In addition, ATF seized more than 67 grams of cocaine and more than 100 grams of methamphetamine from Alexander, and 192 ounces of promethazine from Cato. Alexander and Thorpe each have previous felony convictions. Thorpe also had an active warrant from another county at the time of his arrest. It is illegal for a convicted felon to possess a firearm.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
The case was investigated by ATF. Assistant U.S. Attorney Hannah Couch is prosecuting these cases for the Government.
Lycoming County Man Indicted on Drug OffenseRead the Press Release
WILLIAMSPORT - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Tyrone Jammal Wade, age 49, of Lycoming County, was indicted by a federal grand jury on a drug-trafficking charge.
According to United States Attorney Brian D. Miller, the indictment charges Wade with possession with intent to distribute cocaine on March 26, 2026, in Montour County.
The FBI, Lycoming County Narcotics Enforcement Unit, and the Pennsylvania State Police investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney Alisan V. Martin is prosecuting the case.
The maximum penalty under federal law for the most significant offense is twenty years of imprisonment and a fine. A sentence for each of these offenses also includes a period of supervised release following imprisonment. A sentence following the finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
Indictments are only allegations. All persons charged by indictment are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
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Leader of multi-million dollar international money laundering and drug trafficking ring sentenced to 20 years in prisonRead the Press Release
ATLANTA – Monica Dominguez Torres has been sentenced to 20 years in prison for leading a transnational criminal organization that operated methamphetamine conversion laboratories in the Atlanta area and laundered millions of dollars of drug proceeds to Mexico.
“Dominguez Torres once operated a prolific criminal operation and lived a lavish lifestyle paid for by drug trafficking,” said U.S. Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg. “Now, thanks to the diligent work of our Homeland Security Task Force, Dominguez Torres’s operation has been demolished, and she will spend the next two decades in prison paying for her crimes.”
“This case highlights the evolving nature of drug trafficking organizations which is combining large-scale methamphetamine conversion with complex asset accumulation,” said Jae W. Chung, Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Atlanta Field Division. “Our agents followed the drugs and the money, leading to the seizure of millions in assets tied directly to criminal activity.”
“We followed the money, and it led us straight to the heart of this criminal operation. HSI doesn’t just chase shadows—we dismantle cartels and protect the homeland, one takedown at a time,” said Steven N. Schrank, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in Georgia and Alabama. “Our success is built on strong partnerships and combining our unique capabilities with those of our federal, state, and local allies. Together, we deliver results that keep our communities safe.”
“Methamphetamine conversion laboratories present an immediate and significant threat to communities across the United States,” said Special Agent in Charge Demetrius Hardeman of IRS Criminal Investigation, Atlanta Field Office. “These clandestine operations endanger the public through toxic chemicals, fire hazards, and their ties to transnational criminal networks. The sentencing of Monica Dominguez Torres underscores that individuals who engage in this level of criminal activity will be held fully accountable. IRS Criminal Investigation, in coordination with our federal, state, and local partners, remains committed to conducting rigorous, collaborative investigations to dismantle these organizations.”
According to U.S. Attorney Hertzberg, the charges, and other information presented in court: Monica Dominguez Torres’s organization operated methamphetamine conversion laboratories where liquid methamphetamine, obtained from sources in Mexico, was converted into hundreds of kilograms of crystal methamphetamine to be sold in the Atlanta area and elsewhere. Dominguez Torres and her associates used residences in the Atlanta area to collect and count millions of dollars in cash from these drug sales. The proceeds were laundered and sent to coconspirators in Mexico.
As part of the criminal operation, Dominguez Torres and her associates purchased millions of dollars’ worth of real estate, vehicles, and luxury goods – all designed to conceal the illicit source of their wealth. The investigation revealed that Dominguez Torres purchased five separate residences, including a seven-bedroom waterfront home in Jonesboro, Georgia. Three of these residences were purchased with bulk cash brought directly to the transaction. Dominguez Torres and others also purchased nine luxury vehicles worth approximately $780,000. Dominguez Torres also spent lavishly on high-end goods, including nearly $400,000 at Louis Vuitton and more than $425,000 at Burberry over roughly four and a half years.
During the investigation, agents seized nearly $3.6 million in cash from Dominguez Torres’s residences, stash locations, and associates. When agents arrested Dominguez Torres at her Conyers, Georgia home in February 2024, they seized more than $1.7 million in cash, five firearms, and three vehicles.
On April 22, 2026, Monica Dominguez Torres, 37, of Michoacán, Mexico, was sentenced by Chief U.S. District Judge Leigh Martin May to 20 years in prison to be followed by five years of supervised release. As part of her sentence, Dominguez Torres was ordered to forfeit $1,750.961.00, four houses, a Cadillac Escalade, and a firearm. Nine other members of Dominguez Torres’s criminal organization including several members of her immediate family were charged as a result of the multi-year investigation. Federal agents with the DEA, HSI, and IRS partnered to conduct a thorough investigation of Dominguez Torres’s operation that resulted in these federal charges and seizures.
In addition to Dominguez Torres’s sentence, the following co-defendants have been sentenced for their roles in the money laundering conspiracy:
- Juan Contreras Pavon, 32, of Jonesboro, Georgia, a bulk-cash money launderer, was sentenced to four years and three months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release.
- Dominguez Torres’s husband, Bladimir Hernandez, 37, of Atlanta, Georgia, a money launderer, was sentenced to four years in prison, followed by a year of supervised release.
- Dominguez Torres’s son, Luis Contreras Dominguez, 23, of Riverdale, Georgia, a money launderer, was sentenced to a year and a day in prison, followed by a year of supervised release.
- Dominguez Torres’s nephew, Louis Joshua Dominguez, 24, of Stockbridge, Georgia, a money launderer, was sentenced to three months in prison, followed by two years of supervised release.
Five other defendants are awaiting trial.
This case is being investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, and Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigations, with valuable assistance from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the U.S. Marshals Service, Georgia State Patrol, the Cobb County Sheriff’s Office, and the Paulding County Sheriff’s Office.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys John T. DeGenova and Nicholas L. Evert 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. The Atlanta Wilhelm HSTF comprises agents and officers from ATF, CGIS, DEA, FBI, ICE-HSI, IRS-CI, DOL-OIG, DSS, USMS, USPIS, and USSS, as well as numerous state and local agencies, with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office in Atlanta recommends parents and children learn about the dangers of drugs at the following web site: www.justthinktwice.gov.
For further information please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office at [email protected] or (404) 581-6016. The Internet address for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia is http://www.justice.gov/usao-ndga.
Leader of Violent Criminal Enterprise Sentenced to More Than 18 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
BOSTON – The leader of a violent criminal enterprise that operated in Hampden County was sentenced today in federal court in Boston for directing the trafficking of large amounts of cocaine and crack cocaine throughout Western Massachusetts, as well as for possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. The defendant used violence and threats of violence to control his territory in Holyoke, including an attempted violent armed kidnapping.
Vicente Gonzalez, 45, of Springfield, Mass. was sentenced by U.S. Senior District Court Judge Nathaniel M. Gorton to 220 months in prison to be followed by four years of supervised release. In July 2024, Gonzalez pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine. In October 2005, Gonzalez pleaded guilty to one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense.
Gonzalez was arrested and charged along with four others in March 2022.
In early 2021, Gonzalez was identified as the leader of a violent criminal enterprise that operated in Hampden County. Gonzalez’s organization included at least 10 individuals, who served as lookouts, runners, managers, enforcers and manufacturers to support the daily sale of cocaine and crack cocaine in the Holyoke and Springfield areas. – The primary base of operations was an apartment building in Holyoke that was located in a highly populated residential neighborhood. The investigation revealed that Gonzalez’s drug trafficking operations were prolific – distributing approximately 500 grams per month in the area of the apartment building alone between April 2021 and March 2022.
In furtherance of the trafficking activity, Gonzalez used violence and threats of violence to control his territory in Holyoke – maintaining an arsenal of firearms at the apartment stash house.
In June 2021, Gonzalez led an attempted armed kidnapping of a rival drug dealer at the apartment building. Specifically, moments after the victim entered the building, Gonzalez and his co-conspirators were captured on surveillance video in broad daylight, attempting to abduct the victim, pulling him back into the building, brandishing firearms and attempting to detain the victim.
Gonzalez has a significant criminal history that includes violent offenses and narcotics activity. He has prior convictions for armed home invasion in Florida, for which he received a three-year sentence, and a narcotics conviction in Massachusetts, for which he received a sentence of three to five years.
Gonzalez is the fourth defendant to be sentenced in the case. The remaining fifth defendant, Ocasio-Ramos, pleaded guilty to his involvement in the drug trafficking conspiracy and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug offense in February 2024 and is scheduled to be sentenced on May 28, 2026.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Ted E. Docks, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division; Holyoke Police Chief Brian Keenan; and Lawrence E. Akers, Superintendent of the Springfield Police Department made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Massachusetts State Police and the Hampden District Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Neil L. Desroches and Annapurna Balakrishna of the Criminal Division prosecuted the case.
This case 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 Boston is comprised of agents and officers from HSI, FBI, DEA, ATF, USMS, IRS-CI, USPIS, DOL-OIG and DSS, as well as several state and local law enforcement agencies, with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Massachusetts.
Leader of Fentanyl Trafficking Organization in Duluth Sentenced to 174 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
ST. PAUL, Minn. – Defendant Ezell “Cash” Lucas, 34, of Chicago, Illinois, was sentenced to 174 months in prison for his role in a large-scale drug trafficking operation responsible for transporting mass quantities of fentanyl and methamphetamine from Chicago to Minnesota for sale to drug users in Duluth, announced U.S. Attorney Daniel N. Rosen. Lucas was the last of seven defendants in the case convicted of conspiracy to distribute controlled substances to be sentenced.
From December 2021 to February 2024, Lucas managed a large-scale drug distribution operation (the “Lucas DTO”) based in Chicago that targeted drug customers in the Twin Ports region. Lucas worked with local drug distributors in Duluth to traffic fentanyl from Chicago and establish a customer base in Duluth. Lucas then directed criminal associates from Chicago to travel to Duluth and conduct the organization’s operations on the ground. Lucas, sitting in Chicago, fielded calls from drug customers and directed those customers to pre-determined locations in Duluth to meet Lucas’s drug dealers and complete the sales. During a two-year period, law enforcement seized more than 890 grams of fentanyl and 262 grams of methamphetamine from the Lucas DTO over the course of 19 seizure events, including controlled buys, traffic stops, residence search warrants, and a seizure incident to an overdose death.
In February 2024, a federal grand jury indicted multiple defendants, including Lucas, with engaging in a Conspiracy to Distribute Fentanyl and Methamphetamine. This week, U.S. District Court Judge Eric C. Tostrud sentenced Lucas to 174 months in prison for his role in the offense.
In August 2025, Lucas’s co-defendant Carl Brown, 32, of Chicago, proceeded to trial on the charged offense. Brown was convicted by a federal jury following a three-day trial. He was later sentenced to 120 months’ imprisonment for his role in the offense.
Lucas’s remaining six co-defendants pled guilty and were sentenced to the following terms of imprisonment:
- Anthony Green, 36, of Chicago, Illinois: 120 months
- Matthew Erickson, a/k/a “EZ,” 37, of Duluth, Minnesota: 60 months
- Robert Chism, 37, of Chicago, Illinois: 48 months
- Deandre Westmoreland, 37, of Chicago, Illinois: 32 months
- Pharoo Withersoon, 37, of Chicago, Illinois: 18 months
“This case sends a clear message: individuals who profit from distributing illegal substances in our community will be identified and prosecuted,” said Lt. Jason Tanski of the Duluth Police Department and Lake Superior Violent Offender Task Force (“LSVOTF”). “For over a year, during a critical period of the opioid crisis, LSVOTF conducted a comprehensive investigation into the Lucas Drug Trafficking Organization. This investigation included extensive undercover operations by LSVOTF Investigators to identify those individuals involved in the organization. Numerous residences throughout Duluth were used by Lucas and his organization to distribute fentanyl to the community, preying on our community and advancing their illegal operation.
“The sentencing of this prolific drug dealer has a direct and positive impact on public safety by removing a significant source of supply and helping protect lives. The LSVOTF would like to credit the cooperation and assistance of our state and federal partners that helped bring this case to a successful resolution.”
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the Duluth Police Department, LSVOTF, the Saint Louis County Sheriff’s Office, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Garrett S. Fields and Syngen Kanassatega prosecuted the case.
Justice Department Seeks to Denaturalize Sexual Predator Who Sexually Groomed and Assaulted Child Beginning When She Was ElevenRead the Press Release
Today, the Department of Justice announced that it has filed a denaturalization action in the Southern District of New York against Hassan Sherjil Khan, a native of Pakistan. Starting in 2007 or 2008, Khan began communicating online with an 11-year-old girl (the Victim). Until 2013, Khan, knowing that Victim was barely in her teens, continually coerced and enticed her to send him sexually explicit images of herself and to engage in sexually explicit conduct via live video chats. Khan also traveled abroad to engage in sexual acts with the Victim when she was only fifteen.
But when Khan applied for naturalization in August 2012 — just four months after he had traveled to have sexual contact with Victim — he concealed his involvement in his sex crimes. As a result, he was able to procure U.S. citizenship in May 2013. After Khan naturalized, the Victim disclosed his crimes, and he was arrested in September 2015 and charged with coercing and enticing a minor to engage in illegal sexual activity, sexual exploitation of a child, sexual exploitation of a child outside of the United States, and receipt of child pornography.
“Naturalization and U.S. citizenship will not protect sexual predators from the consequences of their horrific acts,” said Assistant Attorney General Brett A. Shumate of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “If you fail to disclose serious crimes while seeking naturalization, the government will discover your lies and revoke your ill-gotten U.S. citizenship.”
At the time of his arrest, Khan was working as a physician.
On Jan. 14, 2016, Khan pleaded guilty to coercion and enticement of a minor to engage in illegal sexual activity, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 2422(b). He was sentenced to 17 years in prison and remains incarcerated.
The denaturalization complaint against Khan alleges that he illegally procured his naturalization because when he naturalized, he lacked good moral character required for naturalization because he had committed a crime involving moral turpitude and then had given false testimony about his crimes during his naturalization proceedings. The denaturalization complaint also alleges that Khan obtained his naturalization through willful misrepresentations or concealment of material facts.
The litigation is being jointly handled by Deputy Chief Hans H. Chen of the Department of Justice’s Office of Immigration Litigation-Affirmative Litigation Unit, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon Waterman for the Southern District of New York. Mr. Khan’s sex crimes were investigated by the New York Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and were prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Alex Rossmiller of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York.
The denaturalization claims made in the complaint are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability regarding Mr. Khan’s naturalization.
Note: This press release is based in part on the press release issued upon Khan’s criminal sentencing in June of 2016.
Justice Department Intervenes in xAI lawsuit Challenging Colorado’s ‘Algorithmic Discrimination’ LawRead the Press Release
The Justice Department moved to intervene in a lawsuit filed by artificial intelligence company xAI, challenging a new Colorado law that prohibits so-called “algorithmic discrimination.” The Justice Department alleges that the Colorado law violates the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment by requiring AI companies to prevent unintentional disparate impact that their products could have based on protected characteristics like race and sex, and by exempting liability for certain forms of discrimination designed to advance “diversity.”
“Laws that require AI companies to infect their products with woke DEI ideology are illegal,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “The Justice Department will not stand on the sidelines while states such as Colorado coerce our nation’s technological innovators into producing harmful products that advance a radical, far left worldview at odds with the Constitution.”
“America’s success in the AI race will depend on removing barriers to innovation and adoption across sectors,” said Assistant Attorney General Brett A. Shumate of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “Laws like Colorado’s that force AI models to produce false results or promote ideological bias threaten national and economic security and must be stopped.”
The statute, Colorado SB24-205, requires AI “developers” and “deployers” to satisfy certain disclosure, reporting, and prevention requirements when creating algorithm products designed for services like mortgage lending, student admissions, and job-candidate selection. But the statute has an explicit carveout for discriminatory algorithms designed to advance “diversity” or “redress historic discrimination.” AI company xAI filed a lawsuit challenging the statute on April 9.
You can view the lawsuit here.
Jury Finds Six-Time Felon Guilty of Drug and Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. – On April 22, 2026, following a two-day trial in United States District Court, a jury convicted Richard Allen, Sr., also known as “Hoss,” 55, of Chattanooga, TN, of possessing 50 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine with the intent to distribute it; possessing 5 grams or more of methamphetamine with the intent to distribute it; possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime; and possessing a firearm as a convicted felon.
Sentencing is set for October 1, 2026, before United States District Judge Charles E. Atchley, in United States District Court at Chattanooga. Allen faces a mandatory minimum 10-years imprisonment up to a maximum of life imprisonment.
The evidence presented at trial showed that on August 15, 2024, Chattanooga Police Officers encountered Allen in the East Lake Courts Housing Complex and found him to be in possession of over 50 grams of a methamphetamine mixture, drug trafficking paraphernalia, and two loaded pistols. Allen is a multi-convicted felon, having sustained six previous felony convictions in state and federal courts. On September 6, 2024, officers again encountered Allen in East Lake Courts. He was found to be in possession of over 21 grams of 99% pure methamphetamine.
United States Attorney Francis M. Hamilton III of the Eastern District of Tennessee made the announcement.
The Chattanooga Police Department Neighborhood Policing Bureau and the Federal Bureau of Investigation Chattanooga Safe Streets Task Force investigated the case. Special Agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives Chattanooga Field Office and Drug Enforcement Administration Chattanooga Resident Office provided valuable assistance during the investigation and trial.
Assistant United States Attorneys Chris Poole and Kevin Brown represented the United States at trial.
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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Iranian National Charged for Smuggling Illegal Aliens into United StatesRead the Press Release
An indictment was unsealed today in the Western District of Texas charging Jafar Tafakori, 57, an Iranian national, for his role in coordinating the smuggling of illegal aliens into the United States. Tafakori was arrested in Colombia at the request of the United States.
According to the indictment, from at least Dec. 1, 2022, through on or about May 15, 2024, Tafakori illegally brought large numbers of aliens, primarily Iranian nationals, into the United States. In exchange for payment, Tafakori coordinated with others to provide shelter, transportation, and occasionally airline tickets for the aliens to travel through South and Central America and Mexico. Tafakori charged some aliens as much as $30,000 for his services. Once at the U.S./Mexico border, the aliens were directed to illegally enter the United States.
“Securing our borders and stopping alien smuggling is a top priority for the Department of Justice,” said Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche. “This defendant allegedly transported many illegal aliens into the United States, exploiting our nation’s immigration laws and depriving our immigration officials the ability to vet and review the individuals entering our communities. Thanks to the hard work of our prosecutors and investigative partners, this individual was arrested in Colombia and will be brought to justice in the United States for his crimes.”
“Jafar Tafakori allegedly smuggled Iranian nationals illegally into the United States for 18 months,” said Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Based on this indictment, Colombian authorities acted fast and arrested Tafakori, and when he is extradited, he will face justice in the United States. Those who endanger our communities by participating in human smuggling across our borders will be apprehended regardless of if they live in the United States or abroad.”
“Tafakori’s actions demonstrate the inherent dangers of an open-border policy,” said U.S. Attorney Justin R. Simmons for the Western District of Texas. “The enemy was at the gate, and the gate was left wide open. Tafakori’s indictment and arrest, which was facilitated by members of the Homeland Security Task Force, reinforce this administration’s commitment to securing our borders, protecting Americans, and diligently prosecuting those who took advantage of derelict open-border policies.”
“Homeland Security Investigations remains steadfast in its pursuit of transnational criminal organizations that endanger national security by smuggling illegal aliens from regions associated with criminal activity,” said acting Special Agent in Charge John A. Pasciucco, HSI San Antonio. “HSI’s ongoing investigations focus on identifying, disrupting, and dismantling these networks to ensure those who threaten the safety of our communities are brought to justice. Our commitment to protecting the homeland is unwavering, and we will continue to use all available resources to prevent individuals with dangerous intentions from exploiting our borders.”
“The arrest of this Iranian national involved in smuggling large numbers of individuals — primarily fellow Iranian citizens — into the United States underscores the global reach and threat of human smuggling networks,” said Assistant Director Ricardo Mayoral of HSI International Operations. “This outcome, made possible through close coordination between HSI San Antonio, HSI Bogotá, and our Colombian partners, reflects HSI’s unwavering commitment to protecting our borders and disrupting transnational criminal activity.”
Tafakori is charged with one count of conspiracy to bring an alien to the United States and five counts of bringing an alien to the United States for financial gain. If convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison for each count. If convicted of three or more counts of illegally bringing an alien to the United States for financial gain, Tafakori faces a mandatory minimum penalty of five years and a maximum penalty of fifteen years.
Colombian authorities issued a warrant and arrested Takafori on April 23 in Pereira, Colombia, pursuant to a request from the United States.
HSI San Antonio conducted the investigation along with assistance from the HSI Human Smuggling Unit in Washington, D.C., Customs and Border Protection’s National Targeting Center, HSI Bogotá, and United States Border Patrol’s Del Rio Sector Intelligence Unit. Significant assistance was provided by HSI Bogota’s Transnational Criminal Investigative Unit from the Colombian National Police’s Directorate of Criminal Investigations (TCIU-DIJIN) and the Colombian Attorney General’s Office.
Trial Attorney Bethany Allen of the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions section, on detail from the Office of International Affairs, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Adrian Rosales for the Western District of Texas are prosecuting the case.
The Justice Department’s Office of the Judicial Attaché in Bogotá, Office of International Affairs, and Interpol Washington provided significant assistance in this matter. The Justice Department thanks its Colombian law enforcement partners for their expeditious enforcement operation.
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 United States 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.
This prosecution is 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 these organizations commit, 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.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
In One Week, DOJ’s New Fraud Division Secures $300M in Funding for Prosecutorial Support While Announcing More Indictments, Convictions, and Sentences Representing Millions in Taxpayer FraudRead the Press Release
The Justice Department’s National Fraud Enforcement Division announced the following actions from across the country to hold individuals accountable for schemes that attempted or succeeded in defrauding the American taxpayers.
“Our message is clear: Steal from the American taxpayer, and you will answer to federal prosecutors," said Assistant Attorney General Colin McDonald of the Justice Department’s National Fraud Enforcement Division. “With our partners nationwide, we are holding criminals accountable and protecting taxpayer money. We will leave no stone unturned in our war against fraud.”
Notably, on April 22nd, the Justice Department announced the availability of $300 million in funding to prevent and prosecute fraud and other crimes nationwide. This grant program will strengthen investigative and prosecutorial capacity, expand intergovernmental coordination, and enhance the ability of jurisdictions to investigate and prosecute fraud and other crimes.
Friday, April 24
A New York man was sentenced to five years in prison for conspiring to launder the proceeds of a $24.4 million pharmacy fraud scheme. The defendant laundered the proceeds of the scheme through various trading companies, which gave the appearance of legitimate business, facilitated the kickbacks and bribes, and distributed profits among the pharmacies’ owners.
A West Virginia man was sentenced to five years of federal probation after admitting that he obtained a $2 million loan through the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act for his business and instead converted at least $1.4 million of the proceeds for his personal enrichment.
Thursday, April 23
The Criminal Division, D.C. U.S. Attorney’s Office, and their law enforcement partners announced a series of coordinated actions by the Scam Center Strike Force against overseas criminal organizations that have defrauded Americans of billions of dollars. These actions include charges against two Chinese nationals and $700 million in restrained cryptocurrency.
A Missouri man pleaded guilty to wire fraud in a scheme to fraudulently obtain two Paycheck Protection Plan (PPP) loans totaling $92,233.32, guaranteed by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act.
A Missouri woman was sentenced to 41 months in prison for fraudulently obtaining $2.3 million in funds intended to feed hungry Missouri children.
Wednesday, April 22
A Washington man was arraigned in the U.S. District Court in Tacoma for multiple counts of wire fraud and SNAP benefit fraud, resulting in more than $600,000 loss to federal nutrition program. A man in Maryland pleaded guilty to bank fraud after admitting to fraudulently obtaining $160,000 in COVID-19 relief funds and attempting to obstruct justice. He faces a maximum of 30 years in federal prison for bank fraud.
Five New Orleans men were indicted for violating the Federal Controlled Substances Act, the Federal Gun Control Act, and committing bank fraud.
A D.C. woman was sentenced to 11 months in prison for her role in a years-long conspiracy to steal more than $393,340 from her nonprofit employer by making unauthorized personal purchases on the organization’s corporate credit card.
A Missouri medical doctor was arrested on an indictment that accuses him of defrauding Medicare and Medicaid and providing prescription drugs to friends, people suffering from substance use disorders and those with whom he had sexual relationships.
A Florida woman was indicted by a federal grand jury charging her with two counts of wire fraud involving Small Business Administration Paycheck Protection Program funds.
Tuesday, April 21
A resident of Erie, Pennsylvania was indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on charges of wire fraud and theft of government property, accepting bribes to approve more than $500,000 in fraudulent unemployment compensation claims.
Monday, April 20
Five Romanian nationals have been charged for their alleged roles in a conspiracy to steal nearly $1 million worth of food assistance benefits from low-income families and individuals in Ohio and California. A Florida woman who orchestrated a scheme to fraudulently obtain approximately $465,489 in COVID-19 relief funding was sentenced to 18 months’ incarceration in Newark federal court.
A Cayman national who renounced his U.S. citizenship pleaded guilty to evading payment of more than $1.5 million of federal income tax liabilities. His sentencing will be scheduled at a later date. He faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison, as well as restitution and monetary penalties.
A New York man was sentenced to 15 months in prison for defrauding the United States Small Business Administration (SBA) of approximately $1.1 million in loans awarded under the COVID-19 Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program.
A Dominican national unlawfully residing in Brockton, Mass., has been arrested and charged with healthcare benefit fraud and aggravated identity theft.
A Jefferson Parish resident was sentenced to 70 months in prison for obtaining over $350,000 in funds through numerous Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans using falsified tax forms, and also fraudulently obtained Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) funds in the names of numerous purported renters.
A Florida man was sentenced to 24 months in prison for his role in a $33 million health care fraud and kickback scheme in Newark, New Jersey.
Friday, April 17
A Kauai man was sentenced to 14 months in prison following his guilty plea for making a false statement to the Small Business Administration (SBA) for $1.4 million in funds.
A Detroit surgeon was sentenced to 12 months in prison for his involvement in a scheme to submit fraudulent claims to Medicare for psychotherapy services.
Six St. Louis area residents were indicted for their involvement in a $8.3 million pandemic fraud scheme, and three were arrested.
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.
Updated April 24, 2026
Illinois Man Pleads Guilty to Failure to File and to Pay Employment TaxesRead the Press Release
Brad D. Schimel, First Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that George Dilles (age 55) of Inverness, Illinois, pled guilty to one count of failure to truthfully account for and pay employment taxes to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), in violation of 26 U.S.C. § 7202. On April 20, 2026, the district court accepted Dilles’ guilty plea.
According to the plea agreement, Dilles was the president and part-owner of NG Enterprises, Inc., a company that provided elderly home personal care in the Milwaukee area and over time employed from 50 to 110 workers. Dilles was required to withhold federal income taxes, Social Security taxes, and Medicare taxes from his employees’ wages, hold those amounts in trust, and pay them over to the IRS. Additionally, he was responsible for filing quarterly tax returns (Forms 941) reporting those amounts to the IRS, and for paying the employer’s matching portion of Social Security and Medicare taxes. For 17 quarters in tax years 2019 through 2023, Dilles willfully failed to file Forms 941 and to pay over the taxes due. Including all relevant conduct, the loss to the IRS totaled more than $1.2 million.
Dilles’ sentencing is scheduled for June 26, 2026, at 8:30 a.m. before United States District Court Judge J.P. Stadtmueller. At sentencing, he faces up to five years in prison and a $250,000 fine, as well as a term of supervised release after any imprisonment.
IRS, Criminal Investigation, investigated the case, which Assistant U.S. Attorney John P. Scully is prosecuting.
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For further information contact:Public Affairs Officer Steve Caballero
(414) 297-1700
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Illinois Man Admits Carjacking, Shooting in St. LouisRead the Press Release
ST. LOUIS – A man from Venice, Illinois on Friday admitted helping carjack one man in St. Louis in 2024 and shooting at another.
Harry Moore, 21, pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court in St. Louis to one felony count of carjacking and one felony count of possession and brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a violent crime. He admitted driving a Cadillac that had been stolen in Belleville, Illinois to the 2900 block of Minnesota Avenue in St. Louis on Sept. 4, 2024. Two armed people were in the car, including a juvenile. They got out and demanded the wallet, iPhone and keys from the driver of a Subaru Outback at gunpoint. Moore, who was also armed, got out and demanded that the victim unlock his phone and provide his debit card PIN.
Moore then drove to a gas station, followed by his accomplices, and used the victim’s debit card to withdraw more than $200 from an ATM. He also transferred $200 to someone via Cash App using the victim’s phone.
About an hour later, Moore was in the front passenger seat of the Outback when he spotted someone from a rival group walking near Ballpark Village in downtown St. Louis. Moore fired multiple rounds from a .45-caliber handgun as his target fled into a parking garage. Later that day, investigators found the juvenile and the stolen Outback in East St. Louis.
On Oct. 10, 2024, Moore was arrested inside a home in Cahokia Heights, Illinois. Investigators found three firearms there, including the Glock used in the shooting.
Moore is scheduled to be sentenced on July 27. The carjacking charge is punishable by up to 15 years in prison. The brandishing charge is punishable by at least seven years in prison, consecutive to the sentence he receives for the carjacking charge.
The St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department, the FBI and the St. Clair County (Illinois) Sheriff’s Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Martin is prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
Illegal Firearm Possession Lands Oklahoma City Man in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – NAIM BILAL EVANS, 38, of Oklahoma City, has been sentenced to serve 96 months in federal prison for illegally possessing a firearm after a previous felony conviction, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
According to public records, on April 19, 2025, officers with the Oklahoma City Police Department responded to a metro convenience store following reports of a man with a firearm. When officers arrived, they encountered Evans crossing the street and recovered an AR-15 firearm from a nearby trash can. Surveillance video from outside the store showed Evans kicking the store’s front door while armed with the firearm.
On May 20, 2025, a federal grand jury charged Evans with being a felon in possession of a firearm. He pleaded to the charge on August 29, 2025.
At a sentencing hearing on April 22, 2026, U.S. District Judge Patrick R. Wyrick sentenced Evans to serve 96 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release. In announcing the sentence, Judge Wyrick noted Evans’ repeated criminal history related to firearms. Public records reflect that Evans has prior felony convictions in Oklahoma County District Court, including pointing a firearm in case number CF-2008-939 and being a felon in possession of a firearm in case number CF-2018-157.
This case is the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Oklahoma City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel Gridley prosecuted the case.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Illegal Aliens from Mexico Indicted for Drug Trafficking in Utah after Agents Seized Nearly 100,000 Fentanyl Pills and Other Narcotics in Homeland Security Task Force OperationRead the Press Release
SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – A federal grand jury in Salt Lake City returned an indictment charging two illegal aliens from Mexico with drug crimes after agents with the FBI Wasatch Metro Drug Task Force, and Homeland Security Task Force, seized approximately 98,800 fentanyl pills and other illicit drugs during the execution of multiple search warrants.
Eder Montoya-Rosales, aka Jesus Tadeo Gonzalez Estrada, 21, residing illegally in Salt Lake City, and Nazario De Jesus Del Campo Perez, 31, residing illegally in Salt Lake City, were initially charged by complaint on April 9, 2026.
According to the allegations in court documents, beginning in February 2026, agents with the FBI Wasatch Metro Drug Task Force initiated a criminal investigation into Montoya-Rosales, Perez, and other members of a drug trafficking organization believed to be distributing large quantities of narcotics in the District of Utah. On April 8, 2026, agents executed multiple search warrants on residences and vehicles believed to be used by the defendants. During the search of Perez’s residence, agents located and seized approximately 9,747.99 grams of field-tested positive fentanyl; 1,330.34 grams of field-tested positive heroin; 84.70 grams of field-tested positive methamphetamine; a suspected drug ledger; drug paraphernalia, and U.S. currency. The fentanyl evidence is approximately 97,000 fentanyl pills.
During the search of Montoya-Rosales’s vehicle, agents located and seized approximately 184.29 grams of field-tested positive fentanyl; 243.28 grams of field-tested positive heroin, and 15.81 grams of field-tested positive methamphetamine. The fentanyl evidence is approximately 1,800 fentanyl pills. During the search of Montoya-Rosales’s residence, agents located and seized approximately 2.71 grams of field-tested positive fentanyl and a quantity of U.S. currency. Montoya-Rosales was previously removed from the United States on October 1, 2024. Perez has been removed from the United States on multiple occasions, including March 26, 2014, July 26, 2019, and November 5, 2024.
Montoya-Rosales and Perez are charged with multiple charges including conspiracy to distribute fentanyl, conspiracy to distribute heroin, and reentry of a previously removed alien. Their initial appearance on the indictment is scheduled for April 24, 2026, at 12:30 p.m. in courtroom 8.4 before a U.S. Magistrate Judge at the Orrin G. Hatch United States District Courthouse in downtown Salt Lake City.
First Assistant United States Attorney Melissa Holyoak of the District of Utah made the announcement.
The case is being investigated by the FBI Wasatch Metro Drug Task Force and Homeland Security Task Force. Valuable assistance was provided by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
Assistant United States Attorney Seth Nielsen of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah is prosecuting the case.
These prosecutions are 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 Salt Lake comprises agents and officers from Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah.
An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.