Latest Records
Newest first across public DOJ and U.S. Attorney press releases.
Wednesday 11 March 2026
Jury Finds Prior Felon Guilty of Aggravated Assault and Firearms ChargesRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Derrick Gladden, 55, of Washington, D.C., was found guilty today in the Superior Court of the District of Columbia for shooting Christopher Seward during a dispute in April 2024, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro.
Gladden was found guilty by a jury of one count each of aggravated assault while armed, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, unlawful possession of a firearm and unlawful possession of ammunition. Superior Court Judge Brandt Rainey scheduled sentencing for May 15, 2026.
According to the government’s evidence, on April 15, 2024, at approximately 2:15 p.m., the victim was standing on the first-floor patio of his friend’s apartment in the 2300 block of Marion Barry Avenue SE. Gladden, who lived in the apartment next door, saw the victim and confronted him about an ongoing dispute about money. He then pulled out a firearm and shot the victim in the chest one time. The victim suffered grievous injury and almost died. However, thanks to the Whole Blood Program, which had been launched that month, the victim received a blood transfusion on the ambulance and survived. Unfortunately, in April 2025, before having a chance to testify, Seward died of cancer.
After learning the identity of the shooter from the victim, police obtained an emergency search warrant for the defendant’s residence and located ammunition that matched a casing found near the location of the shooting, along with firearms accessories and a holster. Additionally, a neighbor provided Ring cam footage showing the defendant fleeing from the front door of his apartment after the shooting.
Gladden was arrested on July 4, 2024, and has been in custody since. This case was investigated by the Metropolitan Police Department.
Joining the announcement was Interim Chief Jeffery Carroll of the Metropolitan Police Department.
It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Eliot Folsom and Natalie Anderson.
2024 CF3 006550
Jury Convicts Man from Coggon of Child Pornography OffensesRead the Press Release
A man who received and possessed child pornography was convicted by a jury today, after a three-day trial in federal court in Cedar Rapids. Matthew Jason Manos, age 42, from Coggon, Iowa, was convicted of receipt of child pornography and possession of child pornography, including a depiction of a prepubescent minor or a minor who had not attained 12 years of age. The verdict was returned this afternoon following about two and a half hours of jury deliberations.
The evidence at trial showed that in February 2023, law enforcement officers searched Manos’s residence in Coggon and took his cell phone. Between December 2022 and February 2023, Manos had downloaded images of child pornography. He viewed the images on his cell phone multiple times. Manos then moved to Illinois, where he was arrested in August 2023. During his arrest, law enforcement officers took his new cell phone. Evidence showed that Manos had used that new phone to access child pornography. Manos was previously convicted of continuous sexual abuse of a child, lascivious acts with a child, lascivious conduct with a child, dissemination and exhibition of obscene material to minors, and indecent exposure.
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. For more information about Internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab “resources.”
Sentencing before United States District Court Chief Judge C.J. Williams will be set after a presentence report is prepared. Manos remains in custody of the United States Marshal pending sentencing. Manos faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years’ imprisonment and a possible maximum sentence of 40 years’ imprisonment, a $500,000 fine, and a lifetime term of supervised release following any imprisonment.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Devra T. Hake and Ashley Corkery and was investigated by the Linn County Sheriff’s Office and the Cedar Rapids Police Department, with assistance by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 25-CR-14.
Follow us on X @USAO_NDIA.
Jurors Convict Former Missouri Police Officer of Civil Rights Violation, Other ChargesRead the Press Release
ST. LOUIS – A jury in U.S. District Court in St. Louis on Wednesday convicted a former Northwoods, Missouri police officer of charges related to the assault of a handcuffed man in 2023.
Jurors found Samuel Davis, 28, guilty of one count of deprivation of rights under color of law, one count of witness tampering by way of misleading conduct for making a misleading statement to a police dispatcher and one count of falsifying records in a federal investigation for turning off his body-worn camera. He was found not guilty of one count of conspiracy.
Jurors acquitted another former officer, Michael Hill, 54, of all charges.
Evidence and testimony at the trial, which began March 2, showed that Northwoods police were called to a Walgreens store on the evening of July 4, 2023, about a shoplifter, C.G. C.G. had shoplifted from the store before and was known to Davis. Davis handcuffed C.G., who was compliant and cooperative, and then placed him in Davis’ police vehicle. Instead of taking him to jail, Davis drove him to an empty field in a desolate area of Kinloch. C.G. testified during the trial that Davis pepper-sprayed him, beat him with a baton while he was still handcuffed, breaking his jaw, and then tased him. A passerby interrupted the attack, causing Davis to flee, evidence and testimony showed. She returned and found C.G., bloodied and crying out for help. C.G. told responding St. Louis County Police Department officers and medical personnel that he had been beaten by a Northwoods officer. Medical records documented the broken jaw. Davis’ TASER records indicated that it had been used around the time of the attack.
Davis did not file a report about the arrest of C.G., the trip to Kinloch or any use of force. He also turned off his body-worn camera.
Davis faces up to 10 years in prison for the deprivation of rights under color of law charge and 20 years in prison for the other charges.
The FBI and the St. Louis County Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Christine Krug of the Eastern District of Missouri and Trial Attorney Taylor Payne of the Civil Rights Division’s Criminal Section are prosecuting the case.
Jamestown man pleads guilty to multiple sex trafficking charges and drug conspiracyRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Zaid Mendoza a/k/a Diamond, 47, of Jamestown and Falconer, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge John L. Sinatra, Jr. to narcotics conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, 400 grams or more of fentanyl, 500 grams or more methamphetamine, and heroin, and three counts of sex trafficking by force. The charges carry a mandatory minimum penalty of 15 years and a maximum of life.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua A. Violanti, who is handling the case, stated that between 2020, and December 2022, Mendoza was a manager and supervisor of a drug trafficking organization, utilizing drug runners, drivers, and associates to sell his drugs and collect his debts. During the conspiracy, Mendoza bought and sold fentanyl, methamphetamine, and heroin for profit. He used his West Main Street residence to manufacture, distribute, and use the drugs. On October 6, 2022, law enforcement stopped a vehicle Mendoza was a passenger in and recovered methamphetamine from the driver and approximately 25 grams of fentanyl on Mendoza.
On December 7, 2022, investigators executed a search warrant at Mendoza’s residence, recovering cash, approximately 34 grams of fentanyl, approximately 14 grams of methamphetamine, and approximately a gram of a combination of fentanyl, cocaine, and methamphetamine, a semi-automatic pistol, and a large capacity magazine.
In 2000, Mendoza met Victim 1 and pursued her for sexual activity. Victim 1, who was addicted to drugs, believed that if she had sex with Mendoza, he would give her heroin/fentanyl. Consequently, Victim 1 had sex with Mendoza in exchange for drugs on three occasions.
In the Spring of 2022, Mendoza met Victim 2 at a drug house in Jamestown. She was also a heavy drug user and knew that Mendoza was a drug dealer. In June 2022, Victim 2 met Mendoza at a motel in Jamestown. Victim 2’s understanding was that she would engage in sexual activity Mendoza and that he would give her drugs. This occurred on several other occasions in July 2022.
Between October and December 2022, Mendoza conspired with co-defendants to force Victim 3 and Victim 4 to engage in a commercial sex act. Both victims struggled with drug addictions. Victim 3 and Victim 4 were provided shelter at Mendoza’s residence as well as food, clothing, and daily quantities of fentanyl in exchange for their performance of commercial sex acts for money. The proceeds went to Mendoza. The co-conspirators utilized the website “Skipthegames.com” to find customers.
Charges are pending against co-defendant Kelvin Thomas. Cora Waddington was previously convicted and is awaiting sentencing.
The indictment is the result of an investigation by the Jamestown Police Department Metro Drug Task Force, under the direction of Acting Chief Scott Forster, the Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office County Drug Task Force, under the direction of Sheriff James Quattrone, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Philip Tejera, Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Erin Keegan, and the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Farhana Islam, New York Field Division.
Sentencing is scheduled for September 9, 2026, before Judge Sinatra.
# # # #
Jacksonville Man Sentenced to 28 Months in Federal Prison for Threatening a Witness on FacebookRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – Chief U.S. District Judge Marcia Morales Howard has sentenced Jesse Lee McKenzie (43, Jacksonville) to 28 months in federal prison for threatening to retaliate against a witness in a federal case. McKenzie pleaded guilty on October 28, 2025. U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement.
According to court documents, an associate of McKenzie was indicted for distribution of methamphetamine, a federal offense. In July 2025, McKenzie made a post to his Facebook page in which he identified a witness in that drug trafficking case, both by name and by posting a photo of the witness. In the same post, McKenzie stated the witness was a “snitch” and threatened physical harm, including that McKenzie would “wire that snitch box up” in retaliation for the witness’s involvement in the drug trafficking case. McKenzie also solicited information about the witness’s whereabouts by stating he would “tip” in exchange for information about the witness’s location.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kelli Swaney.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN).
Illegal Alien from Venezuela Arrested and Charged after Assaulting a Federal Agent and Grabbing His Gun While Resisting ArrestRead the Press Release
DETROIT – An illegal alien from Venezuela was charged in a criminal complaint with assaulting a federal law enforcement officer and grabbing and possessing the officer’s firearm – all of which occurred while the illegal alien was resisting arrest, announced United States Attorney Jerome F. Gorgon, Jr.
Gorgon was joined in the announcement by Jared Murphey, acting Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations Detroit and ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Detroit acting Field Office Director Kevin Raycraft.
Charged was Arnoldo Jose Marquez-Pulido, 33, an illegal alien from Venezuela who appeared at the US-Mexico border crossing in San Ysidro, California in April, 2024. Despite having no visa or other travel document that would allow him to lawfully enter the United States, Marquez-Pulido was paroled into the United States. Marquez-Pulido will be appearing in federal court in Detroit this afternoon for his initial appearance. The government will be seeking to hold Marquez-Pulido in custody during the pendency of his case.
As alleged in the criminal complaint, law enforcement officers assigned to the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF), acting on information they received that illegal aliens were working as delivery drivers at a business in Utica, Michigan, began conducting surveillance in the area. Agents observed a car registered to Marquez-Pulido, who agents determined was in the United States illegally, depart the parking lot of the business and began following him. Agents activated their vehicle emergency equipment and attempted a traffic stop. Marquez-Pulido briefly stopped then fled in his car at a high rate of speed. To avoid a dangerous vehicle chase, agents deactivated their emergency equipment and continued to follow Marquez-Pulido. Marquez-Pulido returned to the business location where he fled on foot. After Marquez-Pulido ignored a Task Force agent’s commands to stop, the agent tackled Marquez-Pulido as he tried to flee into the business. Marquez-Pulido forcibly resisted arrest, assaulting the task force agent by striking the agent in the face with his elbow. Marquez-Pulido then reached for the agent’s service firearm, a Glock Model 19 pistol. Marquez-Pulido was able to remove the firearm from the agent’s holster and briefly wield it before he lost control of the gun when the agent flipped him over. Additional Task Force officers and agents arrived on scene and recovered and secured the firearm from the ground where it landed after it slipped from Marquez-Pulido’s possession. Marquez-Pulido continued to forcibly resist and had to be restrained.
During the commission of this offense, Marquez-Pulida caused the agent to suffer a contusion to his elbow, abrasions on his knees and hands, and a contusion to his right cheek. Another agent suffered a contusion to his knee. Both agents were treated at the hospital and released.
“Some say that enforcing our nation’s immigration laws is unfair because illegal aliens are all harmless. Today’s allegations break that narrative. High speed flight from arrest, fighting federal agents, and grabbing an agent’s gun are not ‘harmless.’ And what’s ‘unfair’ is the fact that Americans pay the price for dangerous illegal aliens,” said U.S. Attorney Gorgon.
“Homeland Security Investigations remains committed to holding accountable those who threaten law enforcement and public safety,” said HSI Detroit acting Special Agent in Charge Jared Murphey. “Attacks like this endanger not only our agents, but everyone in the vicinity. HSI Detroit will continue to respond decisively whenever our agents and partners are confronted with violence.”
“Every day ICE Detroit officers work closely with our federal partners to safeguard our communities and uphold the integrity of our nation’s immigration system,” said ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Detroit acting Field Office Director Kevin Raycraft. “At a time when ICE officers are facing a 1,300 percent increase in assaults, ERO Detroit will relentlessly target illegal aliens who resort to violence against our officers and work to ensure they are removed from our communities
A complaint is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. The defendant is presumed innocent. As a felony trial cannot be held on a complaint, a decision to seek an indictment will be made in the near future.
This case is being investigated by Homeland Security Investigations.
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.
Illegal Alien from El Salvador Sentenced for Illegally Reentering the US After Prior RemovalsRead the Press Release
BANGOR, Maine: A Salvadoran national was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Bangor for entering the United States after prior removals.
U.S. District Judge John A. Woodcock, Jr. sentenced Helmer Osmin Gutierrez, 43, to time served. Gutierrez had been incarcerated since October 18, 2025.
According to court records, in October 2025, an officer with the Farmington Police Department stopped a vehicle for a traffic violation. A U.S. Border Patrol Agent responded to the scene in response to a call for assistance in identifying the four men in the vehicle. The responding agent was able to identify the four men, including Gutierrez. The agent conducted a field immigration inspection of the four men and determined that Gutierrez was a citizen of El Salvador and did not have any documentation to be in the U.S. legally. A review of immigration records confirmed Gutierrez had been removed from the country in May 2008, at Miami, Florida and in May 2010 at Chandler, Arizona.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection investigated the case with assistance from the Farmington Police Department.
Operation Take Back America: This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
Human smuggling ringleader sent to federal prisonRead the Press Release
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A 21-year-old Weslaco man has been ordered to prison for his role in conspiring to smuggle illegal aliens, announced Acting U.S. Attorney John G.E. Marck.
Hugo Jimenez Jr. pleaded guilty Nov. 13, 2025.
U.S. District Judge David S. Morales has now ordered Jimenez to serve 36 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by two years of supervised release. At the hearing, the court heard additional evidence that Jimenez attempted to mislead law enforcement about a failed smuggling attempt that resulted in the seizure of his vehicle. In handing down the sentence, the court noted Jimenez’s leadership role and the significant number of illegal aliens he transported.
From October 2024 to May 2025, Jimenez oversaw numerous alien smuggling events throughout South Texas and conspired with others to transport illegal aliens further into the United States.
Jimenez recruited local drivers to drive the illegal aliens through Border Patrol checkpoints by concealing them in the cargo areas of their vehicles. He often scouted the checkpoints in advance and coordinated rendezvous points north of the inspection sites.
At times, Jimenez personally transported the aliens to San Antonio or Houston.
Previously released on bond, Jimenez was taken into custody where he will remain pending transfer to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
Border Patrol’s Intelligence Unit and the Kingsville Abatement Team conducted the investigation with the assistance of the Rio Grande Valley Sector Targeting and Intelligence Division. Assistant U.S. Attorney John Lamont prosecuted 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.
Honolulu Man Convicted of Child Exploitation Offenses, Including Production of Child Pornography and Sex Trafficking of ChildrenRead the Press Release
HONOLULU – United States Attorney Ken Sorenson announced that a federal jury today convicted Darren Patrick Riley, 45, of Honolulu, Hawaii, of 12 counts related to his trafficking and sexual exploitation of five minor boys in Oahu in 2019 and 2020.
According to evidence presented at trial, Riley used the app, Grindr, to meet the minors who ranged from 14 to 16 years old. After beginning the conversation with the victims on Grindr, Riley then arranged sexual encounters with them, enticing them with money, electronics, or drugs. Riley then engaged in a pattern of systematic sexual abuse, which included filming and later distributing videos he took of their sexual acts. In one video, Riley directed one of his victims to announce that he was 14 years old, his age at the time. Riley abused his victims in multiple locations, including his apartment, car, at the beach, and hotel rooms that Riley paid for. On one day, Riley abused two victims during separate assaults in the same hotel room.
Riley knowingly took advantage of his victims’ financial needs. For example, one victim was struggling to afford consistent meals, and another was saving money because he feared being expelled from his family home. During his abuse, Riley provided controlled substances to several of his victims. After Riley provided one victim MDMA and other pills, the victim described drifting in and out of consciousness while Riley abused him. Multiple victims tried to refuse Riley’s sexual advances, but Riley persisted. Riley’s crimes were finally uncovered when he was arrested by DEA at the Los Angeles airport for attempting to traffic methamphetamine into Hawaii. A search of his phone revealed a collection of child sexual abuse material, which prompted his charges.
“This verdict is the next step to holding Darren Riley fully accountable for his egregious pattern of preying upon and abusing children,” said Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “We commend the victims who bravely testified at trial despite the trauma they endured from a serial predator. Their testimony, along with the good work of law enforcement and the prosecutors, exposed Riley’s horrific, repeated exploitation. The work of the jury now ensures that Riley will not be a threat to other children in the future. The Department of Justice will continue prosecuting offenders like Riley, as one of the Department’s highest callings is protecting America’s children.”
“Our community is safer now that a Hawaii federal jury has held the defendant accountable for his predatory crimes against children,” said U.S. Attorney Ken Sorenson. “The evidence at trial was overwhelming, and the courage the five young victims demonstrated in recounting for the jury their abuse at the hands of Riley was instrumental in putting this child predator behind bars. We will continue to aggressively pursue, charge, and convict predators like Riley that victimize our children and threaten our families.”
“This verdict holds Darren Riley accountable for his egregious pattern of abusing minors in numerous ways,” said Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Protecting children from predators such as Riley is a top priority of the U.S. Department of Justice. The victims who bravely testified in this trial described his outrageous pattern of exploitation, which included enticing vulnerable children with money and drugs, filming himself engaging in sex acts with them, and drugging them to incapacitation with or without their knowledge. We will stop at nothing to hold accountable anyone who preys on our children.”
“The defendant’s heinous acts and repetitive exploitation of victims were put to an end with this verdict,” said FBI Honolulu Special Agent in Charge David Porter. “This is the direct result of the relentless work of our agents and partners to protect the children in our communities. There is no corner of the internet or crevice on the globe where these predators can hide, as the FBI will use every resource at its disposal to bring them to justice.”
The court has not set Riley’s sentencing yet. He faces a mandatory minimum penalty of 15 years and a maximum penalty of life in prison on particular charges. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
FBI Honolulu and Los Angeles investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Rebecca Perlmutter and Trial Attorney Gwendelynn Bills of the Justice Department’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS) are prosecuting the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC.
Hays woman sentenced to 22 months in prison for assault resulting in serious bodily injuryRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS – A Hays woman who beat a man so badly he later died from his injuries was sentenced to 22 months in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, Acting U.S. Attorney Tim Racicot said.
Heavenlee Drewann Sears, 24, pleaded guilty to one count of assault resulting in serious bodily injury in November 2025.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided.
The government alleged in court documents that Fort Belknap law enforcement responded to John Doe’s house on the Fort Belknap Indian Reservation around 6:00 AM on September 30, 2023. When the officer entered the house, he saw Doe on the kitchen floor, bloodied and unconscious. Doe’s daughter, Sears, and Alta Chandler were at the house, along with a relative of both Doe and Sears who had called 911.
Emergency medical services responded to the scene to transport Doe to the hospital. Body camera from the medical response shows Doe’s audibly labored breathing, along with his swollen and bloody face. Sears and Chandler are visible on the body camera lingering around the area where Doe had been laying, and the tribal officer repeatedly admonished Chandler to stop trying to wipe up blood. A peppermint schnapps bottle is depicted at the scene on the body camera.
Sears was arrested later that day and was wearing a bloody sweater and pants when she was taken into custody. When Sears spoke with the FBI, she told them she and Chandler had been drinking and driving around the Fort Belknap Indian Reservation and their evening had included the purchase of a bottle of peppermint schnapps. Eventually, Sears admitted she and Chandler had gone to Doe’s house while they were heavily intoxicated and, once there, beat him. Sears hit Doe in the head with the bottle of peppermint schnapps, and Chandler hit Does with her fists while he was on the ground.
Doe was taken to Fort Belknap Indian Health Services. He was unresponsive and breathing erratically. His admission records state his ears and face were bruised and swollen, his nose was lacerated, his upper lip was lacerated, and there was a human bite mark on his forehead. There were also bite marks to his left wrist and left upper chest. After he was intubated, Doe was life flighted to a higher level of care.
On October 18, 2023, Doe was admitted to the Long-Term Care Hospital in Billings, Montana. He was diagnosed with traumatic subarachnoid hemorrhage. He was largely unresponsive to stimuli and completely nonverbal due to his traumatic brain injury. Doe died on December 11, 2023.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case. The FBI and Fort Belknap Law Enforcement Services conducted the investigation.
XXX
Guatemalan Illegal Alien with Prior Conviction for Attempted Rape Found Guilty of Illegal ReentryRead the Press Release
Yesterday, in federal court in Brooklyn, Maynor Perez Baten, a national of Guatemala, was convicted of illegal reentry into the United States having previously been deported after a conviction for an aggravated felony. In November 2022, Perez Baten was found in the Eastern District of New York without the consent of the Secretary of Homeland Security to apply for readmission. The verdict was returned after a two-day trial before United States District Judge Ramon E. Reyes. When sentenced, Perez Baten faces up to 20 years in prison.
Joseph Nocella, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York and Michael Alfonso, Acting Special Agent in Charge, Homeland Security Investigations, New York (HSI New York), announced the verdict.
“With today’s verdict, the defendant has been held accountable for brazenly re-entering the United States after he was deported for a serious felony conviction, the attempted rape of a child, and then endangering the community once again by driving a vehicle under the influence of alcohol,” stated United States Attorney Nocella. “The defendant clearly has no respect for the laws of our nation and will be returned to Guatemala after completing his sentence.”
“Maynor Perez Baten's attempted rape of a child and his subsequent decision to illegally re-enter the United States highlight his flagrant and repeated disregard for the criminal justice system,” stated HSI New York Acting Special Agent in Charge Alfonso. “His choice to return after removal, without authorization and despite his depraved felony record, demonstrates a brazen contempt for community safety and the rule of law that protects it. I commend personnel from HSI New York and the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of New York for their unyielding commitment to identifying, investigating, and arresting violent offenders who pose a threat to those we are sworn to serve."
According to court filings, Perez Baten illegally entered the United States in 2009. In May 2011, he was arrested on a felony charge of first-degree rape. The victim was 12 years old. In October 2011, Perez Baten was convicted of attempted rape in the first degree and sentenced to 42 months’ imprisonment. The defendant was released from New York State custody in April 2014 and deported to Guatemala. Perez Baten later returned to the United States illegally a second time, after which he was arrested by members of the New York City Police Department for driving while intoxicated in Staten Island. In April 2024, he was indicted for illegal reentry by a grand jury in the Eastern District of New York.
The government’s case is being handled by the Office’s General Crimes Section. Assistant United States Attorney Vincent Chiappini is in charge of the prosecution with the assistance of Paralegal Specialist Cleon Thomas.
The Defendant:
MAYNOR PEREZ BATEN
Age: 36
Staten Island, New YorkE.D.N.Y. Docket No. 25-CR-130 (RER)
Four-Time Deported Alien Sentenced to over 11 Years in Prison as Part of the Homeland Security Task Force for Trafficking 33 Kilograms of Cocaine and Illegal ReentryRead the Press Release
CHARLOTTE, N.C. – An armed Mexican national with multiple illegal reentry convictions was sentenced to prison yesterday as part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) for trafficking more than 33 kilograms of cocaine and illegally reentering the United States after deportation, announced Russ Ferguson, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina.
Mark M. Zito, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) in North Carolina and South Carolina, Chief Estella D. Patterson of the Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD), and Sheriff Van W. Shaw of the Cabarrus County Sheriff’s Office, join U.S. Attorney Ferguson in making today’s announcement.
Raul Bello Rojas, 44, was sentenced to 135 months in prison followed by five years of supervised release. He pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute five or more kilograms of a mixture of cocaine, and illegal reentry of a deported convicted felon.
“Rojas repeatedly violated our nation’s immigration laws and returned to the United States to traffic large quantities of cocaine. Armed with guns, he posed a serious threat to our community. This sentence ensures he’ll spend more than a decade in federal prison before being promptly deported,” said U.S. Attorney Ferguson.
“Every time a dangerous criminal like Rojas returns to our streets and brings drugs and weapons into our neighborhoods, families and communities are put at risk,” said Special Agent in Charge Zito. “This outcome shows that HSI and our partners are determined to stand between traffickers and the people they threaten. We’re committed to making Charlotte—and every community we serve—a safer place by taking action against those who repeatedly break our laws and endanger lives.”
“This investigation shows what is possible when local and federal agencies work side-by-side to keep our great city safe. Rojas’s actions posed a serious threat to our community, and through strong partnerships we were able to hold him accountable,” said Chief Patterson. “CMPD will continue to work closely with our federal partners to protect our residents and ensure that those who conduct criminal acts in Charlotte are held responsible.”
“This investigation shows the importance of law enforcement agencies working together in our areas to arrest and convict violent repeat offenders. Through these partnerships, we ensure that our limited resources are utilized to the fullest extent,” said Sheriff Shaw.
According to court documents and the sentencing hearing, Rojas was involved in high-level cocaine trafficking in the greater Charlotte area. Court records show that between December 2024 and January 2025, Rojas sold cocaine to an undercover law enforcement officer on at least three occasions. Following the controlled purchases, on February 28, 2025, HSI agents and CMPD officers executed a search warrant at Rojas’s residence in Charlotte. During the search, investigators located a total of 34 bricks of cocaine weighing approximately 33 kilograms, including: 26 individual bricks of cocaine located in the attic and eight additional bricks located in the closet of the primary bedroom.
Investigators also located several additional items during the search including two firearms, an SCCY CPX-1 9mm handgun located in the primary bedroom nightstand, and a Bryco Arms .380 handgun located in a bag with a brick of cocaine. Investigators also located approximately $64,489 in U.S. currency, as well as digital scales and a drug ledger.
According to court records, Rojas has previously been deported from the United States on at least four occasions, frequently following criminal convictions. He was first deported on October 1, 2010, after an Assault on Family Member conviction in Virginia. Rojas was later deported from Texas in 2013 following an illegal entry conviction. In the ensuing years, Rojas was deported after felony illegal reentry convictions in Utah (2015) and Virginia (2019), before reentering the country again and trafficking cocaine.
Rojas is in the custody of the U.S. Marshals and will be transferred to the custody of the Federal Bureau of Prisons upon designation of a federal facility.
In making today’s announcement, U.S. Attorney Ferguson commended HSI, CMPD, and the Cabarrus County Sheriff’s Office for their investigation of the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney William Bozin with the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte 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.
Former U.S. Patent and Trademark Office Employee Agrees to Pay $122,480 to Resolve Conflict-of-Interest AllegationsRead the Press Release
Christine Tu, a former Patent Examiner for the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), has agreed to pay $122,480 to resolve allegations that she violated conflict-of-interest rules during the course of her employment with the USPTO.
Among other things, the Ethics Reform Act of 1989 prohibits executive branch employees from participating personally and substantially in particular matters that will affect their own financial interests. The settlement resolves allegations that, between October 2019 and November 2022, Tu worked personally and substantially on at least one patent application submitted by a company in which she had a disqualifying financial interest. In addition, the settlement resolves allegations that Ms. Tu reviewed more than 20 patent applications submitted by a company that was a commercial competitor of a company for which she owned more than $125,000 worth of stock. As part of the settlement, Tu has agreed to pay a civil penalty to resolve allegations that her conduct violated conflict-of-interest prohibitions for federal employees.
Assistant Attorney General Brett A. Shumate, head of the Justice Department’s Civil Division, and Special Agent In Charge, Laura Barsczewski of the Department of Commerce, Office of Inspector General, Office of Investigations made the announcement.
The resolution obtained in this matter was the result of a coordinated effort between the Justice Department’s Civil Division, Commercial Litigation Branch, Fraud Section and the Department of Commerce, Office of Inspector General.
This matter was handled by Trial Attorney Joshua Barron of the Civil Division.
The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only and there has been no determination of liability.
Former Nye County Commissioner Indicted for COVID-19 Relief Fraud Totaling More Than $500,000Read the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A former County Commissioner from Nye County, Nevada, was indicted today by a federal grand jury in Las Vegas for his alleged role in applying for fraudulent COVID-19 relief funds on behalf of his restaurant in Pahrump. In total, he received more than $500,000 through programs administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration, including the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program, and Restaurant Revitalization Fund (RRF).
“Fraud will not be tolerated in our community—regardless of the position or identity of those involved,” said Special Agent in Charge Christopher S. Delzotto for the FBI’s Las Vegas Field Office. “Fraud erodes public trust and undermines the institutions our communities rely on every day. The FBI remains committed to protecting the integrity of our public institutions and ensuring that no one is above the law.”
According to allegations contained in court documents, Leonardo F. Blundo owned and operated a restaurant named Carmelo’s Bistro in Pahrump, Nevada. As alleged, from about March 31, 2020 to about September 6, 2021, Blundo submitted false PPP, EIDL, and RRF applications. As part of the scheme, he falsely inflated the restaurant’s gross revenue, its average monthly payroll, and its number of employees when completing applications for those loans and grant. Additionally, he provided false documentation to support some of the false and fraudulent claims in those applications. Blundo obtained two PPP loans, two EIDLs, and an RRF grant totaling more than $500,000.
A federal grand jury charged Blundo with five counts of wire fraud and two counts of money laundering. His initial appearance has been scheduled before United States Magistrate Judge Daniel J. Albregts for March 24, 2026.
If convicted, the maximum statutory penalty is 120 years of prison, a three-year term of supervised release, a $1,750,000 fine, and a $700 special assessment.
Executive Assistant United States Attorney Summer Johnson for the District of Nevada and Special Agent in Charge Delzotto made the announcement.
The FBI investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney Richard Anthony Lopez is prosecuting the case.
This case is part of the District of Nevada’s Public Corruption Strike Force. The Strike Force is within the Office’s Criminal Division. Assistant United States Attorneys with extensive public corruption experience will handle cases of allegations of criminal misconduct. This specialized unit will focus on the investigation and prosecution of all federal crimes affecting government integrity, including bribery of public officials at all levels of government, election crimes, and other related offenses. This endeavor will be a collaborative effort with federal, state, and local agencies across the Silver State.
Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Justice Department’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
###
Former Navy Chief Petty Officer sentenced to 35 years in prison for conspiring to sexually abuse childrenRead the Press Release
NORFOLK, Va. – A Water View man was sentenced today to 35 years in prison for conspiring to produce child sexual abuse material (CSAM) and enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity.
According to court documents, after retiring as a Navy Chief Petty Officer, Cory Richard Hambley, 43, worked as a program analyst for the Missile Defense Agency, where he held a Top Secret security clearance. In November 2022, Hambley, who was married, contacted his former girlfriend, Grace Elizabeth Paradis, 43, of Virginia Beach. Hambley repeatedly encouraged Paradis to provide CSAM depicting Paradis abusing two minor children, ages five and nine.
Knowing that Paradis was struggling to pay her rent, Hambley leveraged Paradis’ financial situation as well as Paradis’ interest in a relationship with Hambley to induce her to provide CSAM. Hambley provided Paradis with a camera to be hidden and used to surreptitiously record images of the children, including Paradis sexually abusing them. In March 2023, Hambley transferred nearly $4,000 to Paradis with the expectation that she would produce and provide CSAM. Paradis recorded the children’s abuse and provided the resultant CSAM to Hambley. Hambley also provided Paradis access to a Google Drive folder to facilitate her provision of CSAM to him.
During this time, Hambley was married to “CH.” Before they were married, CH introduced Hambley to a minor child. Afterward, Hambley, CH, and the child lived together. On Hambley’s electronic devices, investigators found CSAM files depicting the child that were created without the child’s knowledge. Investigators also found images of two adult victims, with whom Hambley had served in the U.S. Navy, that Hambley created without their knowledge.
Hambley also collected and shared other CSAM on the Internet. Investigators identified an additional 1,155 images and 142 videos of CSAM on Hambley's electronic devices.
Paradis pled guilty on Oct. 23, 2025, to conspiring to produce child sexual abuse material (CSAM). She is scheduled to be sentenced on May 21 and faces a mandatory minimum of 15 years and up to 30 years in prison.
The Homeland Security Investigations Norfolk office investigated this case with assistance from the Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS) and the Virginia Beach Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Rebecca Gantt and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Anthony Marek prosecuted 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 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.
For more information about HSI’s efforts to protect children from sexual predators, visit Know2Protect.gov.
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-44.
This release was revised on March 18, 2026, to more accurately reflect the defendant's position at the Missile Defense Agency.
Former Greenville CEO, Employees Indicted in Multi-Million Dollar Health Care Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
GREENVILLE, S.C. — A federal grand jury in Greenville returned a 16-count indictment, presented by the U.S. Attorney’s Office, charging Kevin S. Murdock, 56, Thomas C. Lee, 56, both of Greenville, and Vidhya V. Narayanan, 45, of Atlanta, for health care fraud and conspiracy to commit health care fraud.
The indictment alleges that Murdock owned and operated Premier Medical Laboratory Services, headquartered in Greenville. Lee and Narayanan were both high-level employees of Premier. Premier offered diagnostic testing services for medical providers, including but not limited to COVID-19 testing. The defendants devised a multi-part scheme to fraudulently generate revenue from health care benefit programs related to the pandemic. This included submitted false claims to the federal government for individual tests when in truth the tests had been pooled together for combined, faster processing and for manipulating test processing software. As a result, the defendants billed for tests that virtually worthless and ineligible for reimbursement. The conspiracy to defraud healthcare benefit programs generated millions in fraudulent proceeds.
The defendants each face a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison, a fine of up to $250,000, and three years of supervised release to follow the term of imprisonment.
Murdock previously agreed to a consent judgment of $27,544,460, acknowledging there is a likelihood he would be found liable in the civil action brought against him by the United States and the States of Colorado, Georgia, and South Carolina for violating the False Claims Act, the Georgia False Medicaid Claims Act, the Colorado Medicaid False Claims Act, and the South Carolina Medical Assistance Provider Fraud Statute.
The case was investigated by the FBI Columbia Field Office, the Department of Health and Human Services Office of the Inspector General, Defense Criminal Investigative Service and the South Carolina Attorney General's Office's Vulnerable Adults and Medicaid Fraud Control Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorney Bill Watkins is prosecuting the case.
All charges in the indictment are merely accusations and defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.###
Former Florissant Police Officer Sentenced to 24 Months in Prison for Searching Women’s Phones for Nude ImagesRead the Press Release
ST. LOUIS – U.S. District Judge Henry E. Autrey on Wednesday sentenced a former Florissant, Missouri police officer to 24 months in prison for illegally searching the phones of 20 women for nude photos and ordered him to pay $2,681 in restitution to his victims.
Julian Alcala, 31, pulled the women over while on duty, in uniform and in a marked police vehicle between Feb. 6, 2024, and May 18, 2024. Alcala took mobile phones from 19 of the victims by claiming that he needed to go back to his patrol car and use their phone to confirm insurance coverage. He told the 20th that he was confirming her vehicle registration. Alcala then searched through the phones without a warrant, probable cause or a lawful reason. When he found images that portrayed either the victim or a loved one or both in a partial or full state of nudity, he used his own cell phone to take photographs. Alcala also found and forwarded a video of one victim to his cell phone. When that victim discovered the forwarding of the video and reported it to the FBI, court-approved search warrants of Alcala’s cell phone and his cloud storage uncovered the other victims.
In court, Assistant U.S. Attorney Christine Krug said Alcala had violated his oath to protect and serve. Victims, she said, had previously trusted police officers, but Alcala’s actions had replaced that trust with “mistrust and disgust and fear of law enforcement.” She pointed out that Alcala victimized five women in just one shift. In another, he victimized three women and in a third he victimized two.
Alcala, 30, pleaded guilty in December to 20 counts of deprivation of rights under color of law, namely the right to be free from unreasonable search and seizure.
“When Julian Alcala abused his authority, the damage extended far beyond his immediate victims,” said Special Agent in Charge Chris Crocker of the FBI St. Louis Division. “His actions dishonored the badge and undermined the public trust that every officer is sworn to uphold. I appreciate the leadership of the Florissant Police Department for working closely with the FBI to hold Alcala accountable and ensure he could no longer victimize members of this community.”
The FBI investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Christine Krug prosecuted the case.
Federal inmate sentenced for threatening Bureau of Prisons AdministratorRead the Press Release
BEAUMONT, Texas – A federal inmate has been sentenced to additional time in prison for threatening a prison official in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.
John Robert Bond, 55, pleaded guilty to making threats against a federal official and was sentenced to 57 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Michael J. Truncale on March 11, 2026.
According to information presented in court, on May 25, 2025, Bond stated that upon his release from prison he was going to “blow up” the home of one of the prison administrators at the Federal Correctional Complex in Beaumont. Bond was scheduled to be released on June 13, 2025. In response to the threat, jailers searched Bond’s belongings and found notes describing the administrator and the location of their home. As a result, Bond was charged with a criminal violation and not released as scheduled.
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.
This case is being investigated by the FBI and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys John B. Ross and Chris Jackson.
###
Federal grand jury returns 39 count indictment charging Tonawanda man with production, distribution and possession of child pornography, and traveling across state lines to have sex with a minor victimRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that a federal grand jury has returned a 39 count indictment charging Trevor Knapp, 34, of Tonawanda, NY, with 15 counts of production of child pornography, two counts of travel with intent to engage in illicit sexual conduct, one count of distribution of child pornography, 19 counts receipt of child pornography, and two counts possession of child pornography. The charges carry a maximum penalty of 930 years in prison.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron J. Mango, who is handling the case, stated that according to the indictment and a previously filed complaint, in April 2024, a 17-year-old minor female contacted the Flagstaff, Arizona Police Department stating that she was being harassed by a 32-year-old male named Trevor Knapp online. The minor victim met Knapp in 2020, when she was 13 years old, on the friend finding website called “mylol.” As the two began communicating, the conversations became sexual in nature. Knapp sent sexually explicit videos of himself to the minor victim and he asked that she send naked images of herself, but she declined. However, the minor victim would get out of the shower naked while the two were video chatting and Knapp would screen capture an image of her. The two also messaged through Google Chat and Knapp utilized multiple Google email accounts. The minor victim, who was uncomfortable with how he was talking, would delete or block Knapp but he would utilize a new account to regain contact. Knapp also located the minor victim’s Instagram account and messaged her on that platform as well. The minor victim advised Knapp multiple times of her real age.
The minor victim requested for months that Knapp leave her alone, stating that she had a boyfriend. Knapp then requested images of the minor victim and her boyfriend having sex. He also sent her a naked image of a second minor victim, a female living in Pennsylvania. The two minor victims began communicating, and the second minor victim described Knapp as “the pedophile.” Subsequent investigation traced Knapp back to the Western District of New York.
On October 10, 2024, a search warrant was executed at Knapp’s residence, during which investigators seized two of his cell phones, both of which were found to contain child pornography. A preliminary search recovered a sexually explicit video that included Knapp and the first minor victim.
The indictment includes charges relating to six minor victims, one of which Knapp is accused of traveling in interstate commerce to have sex with the victim on two occasions.
The indictment is the result of an investigation by the Flagstaff, Arizona Police Department, under the direction of Chief Sean Connolly, the Town of Tonawanda Police Department, under the direction of Chief Corey Flatau, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Philip Tejera.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
# # # #
Federal Jury Finds Tampa Convicted Felon Guilty of Possessing a Firearm Under the Armed Career Criminal ActRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – A federal jury has found Shannon Pernell Brown (40, Tampa) guilty of possession of a firearm or ammunition by a convicted felon and possession of marijuana with the intent to distribute it. Brown faces a minimum penalty of 15 years, up to life, in federal prison under the Armed Career Criminal Act. His sentencing hearing is scheduled for September 3, 2026. U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement.
According to evidence presented at trial, on August 31, 2024, Brown attempted to flee from officers from the Tampa Police Department on an electric bicycle after they attempted to stop him for a traffic violation. Brown subsequently lost control of the bicycle as he turned a corner and crashed. Officers detained him and located more than a pound of marijuana in multiple packages along with a digital scale in a backpack that he was wearing. Officers also recovered a loaded Glock handgun in a separate satchel that Brown was wearing across his chest.
Brown had previously been convicted of multiple felony offenses, including trafficking in cocaine and two convictions for possession of cocaine with the intent to sell or deliver, each of which occurred on a different occasion. As a convicted felon, Brown is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition under federal law.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Tampa Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jeff Chang.
Federal Jury Convicts McAlester Resident of Four Counts of Sexual Abuse in Indian CountryRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced today that Jeffrey Brent Thomas, age 48, of McAlester, Oklahoma, was found guilty by a federal jury of three counts of Aggravated Sexual Abuse in Indian Country, punishable by 30 years to life in prison and a $250,000 fine, and one count of Abusive Sexual Contact in Indian Country, punishable by up to life in prison and a $250,000 fine.
The jury trial began with testimony on March 9, 2026, and concluded on March 10, 2026, with the guilty verdicts.
During the trial, the United States presented evidence that between January 1, 2020, and January 16, 2021, Thomas sexually abused a child who was under the age of 12 years. The United States also presented evidence that Thomas sexually abused two other minor children.
The crimes occurred in Pittsburg County, within the boundaries of the Choctaw Nation Reservation of Oklahoma, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma.
The guilty verdicts were the result of investigations by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the U.S. Marshals Service, the Tulsa County Sheriff’s Office, and the Pittsburg County Sheriff’s Office.
The Honorable Ronald A. White, Senior Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, presided over the trial in Muskogee and ordered the completion of a presentence report. Sentencing will be scheduled following completion of the report. Thomas will remain in the custody of the United States Marshals until sentencing.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jessie K. Pippin and Emily Wittlinger represented the United States.
Federal Jury Convicts Inmate Serving Life Sentence in Violent Kidnaping of Rideshare Driver During Escape from Georgia CustodyRead the Press Release
MIAMI – A federal inmate serving a life sentence was convicted by a federal jury in Fort Lauderdale on Feb. 27 for his role in a violent scheme to abduct and rob a rideshare driver while fleeing Georgia state custody.
According to court records and evidence presented at trial, Stevenson Charles, 24, had been in federal custody until Dec. 5, 2025, when he was transferred to Georgia state custody to await trial on charges related to a 2022 murder and armed robbery. During a routine security check on Dec. 22, 2025, authorities discovered that Charles and two other inmates — Yusuf Minor, 31, and Naod Yohannes, 25 — were missing from the facility.
“This defendant’s escape from custody triggered a violent chain of events that put an innocent rideshare driver in grave danger,” said U.S. Attorney Jason A. Reding Quiñones for the Southern District of Florida. “The evidence at trial showed a brutal kidnapping carried out to facilitate his flight from justice. Thanks to the determined work of our federal agents and law enforcement partners, the victim survived and the defendant now stands convicted by a jury of his peers. Our Office will continue to work with our partners to ensure that violent offenders who threaten the public are held fully accountable.”
After escaping, Charles and his co-conspirators used a rideshare service in Georgia and kidnapped the driver. Once inside the vehicle, one of the defendants wrapped a rope around the victim’s neck from behind, bound the victim’s hands, and forced the victim into the backseat. The defendants then threatened the victim’s life and told the victim to keep their head down while they drove into South Florida.
The defendants forced the victim to provide access to her banking accounts and used the victim’s banking cards to make purchases at businesses in Miami-Dade and Broward counties, including securing a short-term rental residence in Broward County. When the victim attempted to escape, the defendants physically assaulted the victim and made threats against her life. The defendants transported the victim to the rental residence, where they prevented the victim from leaving.
Over 18 hours into the kidnapping, during the evening of Dec. 22, 2025, law enforcement located Charles driving the victim’s vehicle, with Yohannes also inside. Law enforcement attempted to disable the vehicle and Charles exited the vehicle while it was still moving. Charles fled on foot, leading agents on a chase through a construction site. During the foot chase, Charles discarded a semi-automatic handgun before being apprehended shortly thereafter. The firearm was subsequently recovered along the route of the pursuit.
The jury convicted Charles of kidnapping, conspiracy to kidnap, Hobbs Act robbery, and possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon. He faces a maximum sentence of life in prison on the conspiracy and kidnapping counts and up 20 years in prison on the Hobbs Act robbery count. Charles also faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years in prison on the felon-in-possession count if the Court determines that he qualifies as an armed career criminal under the Armed Career Criminal Act (ACCA). Charles waived a jury trial on the ACCA phase of the felon-in-possession count, which the Court has set for a future date.
A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Yohannes and Minor are scheduled to stand trial on March 30.
U.S. Attorney Reding Quiñones and Special Agent in Charge Brett D. Skiles of the FBI, Miami Field Office, made the announcement.
FBI Miami is investigating the case. FBI Atlanta; the U.S. Marshals Service (USMS) Atlanta; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), Miami Field Division; the Martin County Sheriff’s Office; the Broward Sheriff’s Office; and USMS Miami provided invaluable assistance.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lindsey Maultasch and Breezye Telfair are prosecuting the case.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or at http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov, under case number 26-cr-60009.
###
Federal Child Pornography Charges for Registered Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – Donschee Ricky Montrell Foster, 33, of Pensacola, Florida, was indicted a federal grand jury charging him with one count of possession of obscene material, one count of possession of child pornography, and one count of being a registered sex offender while committing child exploitation crimes. John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida, announced the charges today.
Jury trial is scheduled for April 6, 2026, at 8:30 am before United States District Court Judge M. Casey Rodgers.
If convicted, Foster faces a mandatory minimum 20 years’ imprisonment. Foster remains in the custody of the United States Marshals Service in the Santa Rosa County Jail pending trial.
This case was investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office, and the Pensacola Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney David L. Goldberg is prosecuting the case.
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.
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 available 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.
El Salvadorian Illegal Alien Charged with Assaulting Federal OfficersRead the Press Release
Baltimore, Maryland – An El Salvadorian illegal alien made his initial appearance in federal court today, in connection with an attack on federal law enforcement during a traffic stop.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland filed a criminal complaint against Santos Alvarenga-Rodriguez, 47, for assaulting, resisting, or impeding federal officers in Howard County, Maryland.
Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the criminal complaint with Acting Field Office Director Vernon Liggins, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE-ERO) – Baltimore Field Office.
According to the criminal complaint, on January 18, 2026, as Alvarenga-Rodriguez operated a vehicle, ICE-ERO officers checked its license plate. During the investigation, the query returned identification information for Alvarenga-Rodriguez, including a restriction code on his Maryland driver’s license. The restriction code indicated that he may not be legally present in the United States. Then law enforcement conducted a traffic stop and positively identified Alvarenga-Rodriguez.
Law enforcement gave Alvarenga-Rodriguez verbal commands to exit the vehicle, but he refused. Alvarenga-Rodriguez then started the vehicle and placed his hand on the gearshift to put it into drive. The officers continued ordering Alvarenga-Rodriguez to comply with the arrest and eventually engaged him to prevent him from fleeing. As Alvarenga-Rodriguez resisted, he bit an officer on his left forearm and injured another officer by causing a laceration to the officer’s nose.
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.
U.S. Attorney Hayes commended ICE-ERO for its work in the investigation. Ms. Hayes also thanked Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Carolyn Mills who is prosecuting the federal case.
For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, please visit justice.gov/usao-md and justice.gov/usao-md/community-outreach.
# # #
D’Iberville Man Sentenced to 11 Years in Prison and 30 years of Supervised Release for Distribution of Images of Minors Engaging in Sexually Explicit ConductRead the Press Release
Gulfport, MS – A D’Iberville, Mississippi man was sentenced on March 10, 2026, to 11 years in prison, followed by 30 years of supervised release, for distributing images of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct, announced U.S. Attorney Baxter Kruger of the Southern District of Mississippi and Robert Eikhoff, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Jackson Office.
In October 2024, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”) received information from the National Center of Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) that Joshua Budinich, a 26-year-old male, was uploading child sexual abuse material on the Discord and Kik platforms.
Further investigation revealed that the defendant was chatting with other Discord users, sending child sexual abuse material to other users, and trading child sexual abuse material with them.
The defendant pled guilty in November 2025. The case was investigated by the FBI and the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office, Cybercrime Division.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lee Smith prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
Delaware County Woman Sentenced for Carjacking, Shooting at Victim, and Fleeing with Infant in Stolen SUVRead the Press Release
PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney David Metcalf announced that Phillis Fugah, 25, of Upper Darby, Pennsylvania, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Timothy J. Savage to ten years and one day in prison and five years of supervised release for carjacking and discharging a firearm during a violent crime.
The defendant previously pleaded guilty to one count of carjacking and one count of using, carrying, and discharging a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, in connection with an August 29, 2024 armed carjacking and shooting in Upper Darby.
As detailed in court filings and admitted by the defendant, Fugah and a male accomplice approached a Honda Pilot parked on the 7100 block of West Chester Pike, where a man sat in the vehicle with his two young children while waiting for his wife. The accomplice opened the passenger-side door but fled the scene.
Fugah then opened the driver’s side door, got behind the wheel, and pointed a gun at the victim while demanding money. The victim’s five-year-old son exited the vehicle through the front passenger door and ran to the sidewalk. The victim exited the rear driver’s side door and attempted to stop the defendant, telling her that his infant child remained inside the vehicle.
During the struggle, Fugah raised the firearm and shot at the victim, with the bullet partially shattering the driver’s-side window and striking the victim’s baseball cap, narrowly missing his head. A fragment of the bullet also struck the window of an occupied SEPTA bus across the street, passing over the heads of several passengers.
Fugah then fled in the Honda Pilot with the infant still inside the vehicle. The SUV was located a short distance away, and the child was recovered unharmed.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Newtown Square Resident Agency and the Upper Darby Township Police Department and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Brian Doherty and Special Assistant United States Attorney Sandra Urban.
DOJ, VA Sign Agreement to Improve Care for Nation’s Most Vulnerable VeteransRead the Press Release
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and Department of Justice (DOJ) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) that will help some of America’s most vulnerable Veterans get the ongoing care they need.
VA cares for hundreds of Veterans who are unable to make their own health care decisions and have no family or legal representation to help them. This includes some Veterans who are either homeless or at risk of homelessness.
The MOU gives DOJ the authority to appoint VA attorneys as special assistant U.S. attorneys. That appointment will give VA attorneys the legal authority to initiate and participate in state court guardianship or conservatorship proceedings in cases where a legal decision-maker is required for post-acute transitions of care for these vulnerable Veterans.
The appointment of a legal guardian or conservator can be a lifeline for Veterans in this situation. Among other things, a legal guardian or conservator can help Veterans avoid unwarranted continued hospitalization, protect their rights, and promote appropriate transitions of care from VA hospitalization to other forms of VA care or care in the community, if appropriate.
“The Department of Justice is proud to partner with the Department of Veterans Affairs to support our nation's brave Veterans by ensuring that they have the best legal resources available when it comes to making medical decisions and receiving timely care,” said Attorney General Pam Bondi. “We owe our Veterans a debt we can never fully repay — but we can give them the support they deserve.”
“Our new partnership with the Justice Department reflects our ongoing commitment to ensuring that every Veteran receives timely, appropriate care, even in complex cases,” said VA Secretary Doug Collins.
Under President Trump, VA is always improving benefits and services for Veterans. This includes:
Completing 82,083,918 direct care appointments in FY2025, up 4.1% from FY2024.
Offering Veterans more than 2.2 million appointments outside of normal operating hours. These early-morning, evening, and weekend appointments are giving Veterans more timely and convenient options for care.
Opening 33 new health care clinics during the second Trump Administration, expanding health care access for Veterans around the country.
Reducing the backlog of Veterans waiting for VA benefits by 64%, after it increased 24% during the Biden Administration.
Crown Point Woman Sentenced to 46 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
HAMMOND – Loraine Duchscher, 52 years old, of Crown Point, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Gretchen S. Lund after pleading guilty to wire fraud, announced United States Attorney Adam L. Mildred.
Duchscher was sentenced to 46 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release. She was also ordered to pay $150,153.12 in restitution.
According to documents in the case, between April 2021 and October 2023, Duchscher worked as an office manager for a small business in East Chicago. In that capacity, she was responsible for processing payroll for each bi-weekly pay period, and she had unsupervised access to the company’s bank account and payroll software. During the first few months of her employment, Duchscher built goodwill with the company and convinced the owner to switch to a different payroll system. After that, she began fraudulently increasing the amount of her paychecks and awarding herself vacation pay to which she was not entitled, all without the knowledge or permission of the company. Over the course of the scheme, she defrauded the company out of $150,153.12, which she spent on travel, entertainment, restaurants, cosmetic procedures, a vehicle, and large cash withdrawals.
Duchscher committed this offense both while she was on pretrial release and after pleading guilty and awaiting sentencing in another federal case in which she defrauded a different employer out of $490,958.35. That case involved similar circumstances in which she, in her role as office manager, manipulated payroll data to steal from the company. For that offense, she was sentenced to 46 months in federal prison. Prior to that, Duchscher defrauded a third employer out of $53,616.94 through her unauthorized use of credit cards. For that offense, she was convicted of fraud in state court and sentenced to probation.
“Duchscher is a serial con artist who has defrauded three employers—all small businesses in northwest Indiana—out of hundreds of thousands of dollars. She brazenly abused the trust these businesses placed in her, all to fund her own lavish lifestyle,” said United States Attorney Mildred. “I am grateful to federal law enforcement for their relentless pursuit of this case, ensuring that Duchscher was brought to justice yet again.”
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Steven J. Lupa.
Criminal Alien Charged with Multiple Sex Crimes Involving Minors in the District of UtahRead the Press Release
An illegal alien, with three prior voluntary removals, will appear in court Monday, March 16, after he was indicted by a federal grand jury for allegedly producing and distributing child sexual abuse material (CSAM) involving a teenage girl.
Gerardo Aurelio Iturbide, 24, of Mexico, residing illegally in Hurricane, Utah, was indicted yesterday.
According to the allegations in court documents, on Nov. 23, 2025, Iturbide met three underaged teenage girls at a gas station parking lot in Hurricane. He took the girls to a nearby hotel, where he booked a room. He then gave the girls alcohol and sexually abused two of them. He filmed himself sexually abusing one of the underaged victims and sent the video to his friend using a messaging app on his phone. He encouraged his friend to come to the hotel room. Police arrived at the scene after one of the victims called 911.
Iturbide is charged with production of child pornography, and distribution of child pornography. He is currently being held on state charges of unlawful sexual contact with a minor, contributing to the delinquency of a minor, and aggravated sexual exploitation of a minor.
U.S. Attorney Melissa Holyoak for the District of Utah made the announcement.
The case is being investigated by the Hurricane Police Department. Valuable assistance was provided by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO).
Assistant U.S. Attorney Brady Wilson for the District of Utah 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.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Criminal Alien Charged with Multiple Sex Crimes Involving Minors in the District of UtahRead the Press Release
ST. GEORGE, Utah – An illegal alien, with three prior voluntary removals, will appear in court Monday, March 16, 2026, after he was indicted by a federal grand jury for allegedly producing and distributing child sexual abuse material (CSAM) involving a teenage girl.
Gerardo Aurelio Iturbide, 24, of Mexico, residing illegally in Hurricane, Utah, was indicted on March 10, 2026.
According to the allegations in court documents, on November 23, 2025, Iturbide met three underaged teenage girls at a gas station parking lot in Hurricane, Utah. He took the girls to a nearby hotel, where he booked a room. He then gave the girls alcohol and sexually abused two of them. He filmed himself sexually abusing one of the underaged victims and sent the video to his friend using a messaging app on his phone. He encouraged his friend to come to the hotel room. Police arrived at the scene after one of the victims called 911.
Iturbide is charged with production of child pornography, and distribution of child pornography. He is currently being held on state charges of unlawful sexual contact with a minor, contributing to the delinquency of a minor, and aggravated sexual exploitation of a minor. His federal initial appearance on the indictment will be held March 16, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. in courtroom 2B at the courthouse located at 206 West Tabernacle Street, St. George, Utah 84470.
United States Attorney Melissa Holyoak of the District of Utah made the announcement.
The case is being investigated by the Hurricane Police Department. Valuable assistance was provided by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO).
Assistant U.S. Attorney Brady Wilson of the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah 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.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC.
An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Attachments:
iturbide.indictment.pdf iturbide_u.s._motion_for_detention_filed.pdfCraven County Gang Members Sentenced to a Total of 89 Years in Federal Prison for Selling Fentanyl, Methamphetamine, and GunsRead the Press Release
NEW BERN, N.C. – A federal judge sentenced Kaihem Hicks to over 11 years in federal prison for selling methamphetamine and fentanyl and possessing a gun while selling drugs. Inmate Hicks pleaded guilty to the charges. Inmate Hicks is the final defendant to be sentenced in a Craven County drug and gun investigation.
“So much trauma inflicted by these men against their own community, and for what? The law protects children and families. These men destroy all of that for a little bit of money, but now they will endure nearly 90 years collectively in big boy federal prison. Time for anyone who might look up to this gang to reconsider, lest they earn decades of concrete and steel, instead. Respect yourself, your family, and your community.” said U.S. Attorney Ellis Boyle.
According to court documents and other information presented in court, the Craven County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) and ATF identified the “Bloody Shovel Gang” and the “Gangster Disciples” as sources suppling fentanyl, methamphetamine, and guns in New Bern, Vanceboro, and the surrounding area. In 2023 and 2024, investigators conducted a series of controlled purchases of drugs and guns from several gang members, to include Inmate Hicks of the Bloody Shovel Gang. Through these controlled purchases, investigators learned that co-conspirator Torrey Denard Stevenson supplied dealers in the Bloody Shovel Gang with fentanyl, methamphetamine, and other drugs sourced from the Atlanta area.
Stevenson and the Bloody Shovel Gang dealers set up shop at an apartment complex in New Bern to sell these drugs. Clayton James Wright, Jr., the leader of the Gangster Disciples, bought drugs from Inmate Stevenson for his Gangster Disciples to resell around Craven County. During the course of the investigation, Inmate Wright and the Gangster Disciples also bought drugs from Durham area suppliers. As a result of approximately 20 controlled purchases of drugs and firearms, traffic stops, and search warrants, investigators seized over 460 grams of fentanyl, over 1,500 grams of methamphetamine, and multiple handguns.
In addition to Inmate Hicks, the following other gang bangers got sentenced for their roles in the conspiracy: Inmate Torrey Denard Stevenson (16 years), Inmate Clayton James Wright, Jr. (21 years), Inmate Demario Lequan Moore (11 years), Inmate Brandon Jamal Smith (9 years), Inmate Robert Niquan Bryant (5 years), Inmate Andre Dimetrease Hudson (14 years), and Inmate Deaurvion Malik Roundtree (2 years).
Ellis Boyle, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge Louise W. Flanagan. CCSO, ATF, New Bern Police Department, Homeland Security Investigations, NC SBI, Wayne, Nash, Beaufort, and Carteret County Sheriff’s Offices, USMS, District Attorney’s Offices in Craven, Nash, and Wayne counties investigated the case, and Assistant United States Attorneys Julie Childress and Caroline Webb prosecuted the case.
A copy of this press release is located on our website. Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 4:24-CR-FL, Case No. 4:24-CR-46-M, and Case No. 4:24-CR-56-BO.
Connecticut Man Sentenced to Nine Years’ Imprisonment for Participating in a Nationwide Romance ScamRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, Iowa – A Connecticut man was sentenced on March 5, 2026, to nine years’ imprisonment for wire fraud and money laundering stemming from his participation in a romance scam that affected victims across the country, including in central Iowa.
According to public court documents and evidence presented at sentencing, Naabanyin Aniagyei-Cobbold, 30, played an integral part in an extensive romance scam conspiracy—a fraudulent scheme in which individuals create fake profiles on internet dating sites and other social media platforms to exploit victims for financial gain. Aniagyei-Cobbold operated a fake company, Alpha Distributions LLC, that he used to receive money from victims. Aniagyei-Cobbold recruited and coached at least one other individual through creating a sham entity, a website, and opening bank accounts—all for the purpose of receiving money from romance scam victims.
Aniagyei-Cobbold received over $1.5 million from victims, including over $400,000 from a victim living in the Southern District of Iowa. The victims sent Aniagyei-Cobbold money at the request of their purported romantic partners, believing it was going to be used to facilitate uniting them with their partner, among other things. Many victims drained their retirement accounts, sold their homes and vehicles, returned to work after retirement, and borrowed substantial sums from friends and family.
During the conspiracy, Aniagyei-Cobbold created and starred in a music video titled “S.C.A.M.” which contained lyrics about receiving “scam money” and “laundering it up,” with “money coming in” and “living lavish.” In one frame of the video, Aniagyei-Cobbold poses next to a vehicle on which “SCAM” is spelled out in on the hood of the car in one-hundred-dollar bills.
When confronted by the FBI, Aniagyei-Cobbold lied about the nature of Alpha Distributions LLC and why the victims were sending him so much money, claiming Alpha Distributions was a legitimate company used to source electronics for individuals in Africa. He produced false invoices, receipts, and other documentation in response to a federal grand jury subpoena in an attempt to further obstruct the investigation.
“Romance scammers prey on victims when they are at their most vulnerable,” said Eugene Kowel, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Omaha Field Office. “They exploit people by convincing them they are in a real relationship, then slowly abuse that trust to steal their life savings, often leading to bankruptcy. This case is an egregious example of the ruthless persistence exhibited by scammers to enrich themselves at the expense of vulnerable people. The FBI will continue working with all of our partners to apprehend these criminals and bring them to justice.”
“The financial and emotional harm caused by this scheme has been devastating. Victims were deliberately targeted and manipulated through deception and false relationships, often losing money they could not afford to lose. Many were elderly or living on fixed incomes, and the impact has extended beyond financial loss to broken trust, emotional trauma, and lasting hardship for families,” said Polk County Sheriff Kevin J. Schneider. “The Polk County Sheriff’s Office appreciates the strong partnership with our federal law enforcement partners and the U.S. Attorney’s Office in holding those responsible accountable and seeking justice for victims across central Iowa. We remain committed to protecting our communities, supporting victims, and working collaboratively to uphold the rule of law.”
In addition to the term of imprisonment, Aniagyei-Cobbold was ordered to pay $1,554,442.46 in restitution. After completing his prison term, Aniagyei-Cobbold will serve a three-year term of supervised release.
Co-defendant, Nana Takyiwa Adonu, will be sentenced on July 16, 2026.
United States Attorney David C. Waterman of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Omaha Cyber Task Force and the Polk County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney Joseph Lubben prosecuted the case.
According to the FBI, in 2024, approximately 59,000 people fell victim to romance-related scams, losing over $672 million dollars. The FBI says that many times, once a victim realizes that they have been exploited, they feel embarrassed or ashamed, and do not want to let anyone know what happened to them, including law enforcement. However, the FBI encourages anyone who has been victimized by this fraud or unsuccessfully targeted to file a complaint. If you suspect an online relationship is a scam, stop all contact immediately. If you have already sent money, report any transfer of funds to your financial institution and contact law enforcement.
If you or someone you know has been targeted by a scam, contact the Iowa Attorney General’s office at 1-888-777-4590 or file a complaint online: https://www.iowaattorneygeneral.gov/for-consumers/file-a-consumer-complaint. You can also report fraud complaints to your local FBI field office by calling 1‑800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324), or visiting https://www.fbi.gov/how-we-can-help-you/scams-and-safety.
Chinese National Pleads Guilty to Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Ming Xia, age 41, of Flushing, New York, pled guilty on March 3, 2026, to conspiracy to commit money laundering involving the proceeds of a prostitution enterprise.
The announcement was made by First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III, Special Agent in Charge Craig Tremaroli of the Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Special Agent in Charge Erin Keegan of Homeland Security Investigations, Buffalo Field Office, Special Agent in Charge Harry T. Chavis of the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation, New York Field Division, and New York State Superintendent Steven James.
As part of his guilty plea, Xia admitted to operating several spas in the Capital Region where employees provided commercial sex services to customers. The spas generated over $2 million in proceeds, which Xia admitted laundering through third parties and using to purchase assets, including several properties. As part of his plea, Xia agreed to forfeit $198,000 in cash that was seized by law enforcement, two commercial properties, and four residences.
First Assistant United States Attorney Sarcone stated, “Mr. Xia did not merely run an illegal business, he built a multimillion-dollar enterprise on the commodification of women, treating them as instruments for financial gain while laundering the proceeds to enrich himself through cash and real estate. Let this guilty plea serve as a clear warning: those who exploit others for personal profit and attempt to hide their gains will be identified, prosecuted, and stripped of their ill-gotten assets. I thank the FBI, HSI, IRS, and NYSP for all their work in safeguarding our communities from those who exploit human beings for profit.”
FBI Special Agent in Charge Craig Tremaroli stated, “Mr. Xia admitted to operating an extensive commercial sex enterprise and laundering the profits, and now he’s facing a substantial amount of time in federal prison. This case illustrates how committed the FBI remains to working with our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners to investigate and shut down these disturbing businesses and ensure anyone who operates them is swiftly brought to justice.”
HSI Special Agent in Charge Erin Keegan stated, “By turning neighborhood spas into brothels and washing millions in criminal proceeds through our communities, Ming Xia treated the Capital Region as his personal cash register. His scheme exploited vulnerable workers, poisoned legitimate commerce, and robbed residents of the basic expectation that local businesses are safe and lawful. This guilty plea sends a clear message: HSI and our invaluable Homeland Security Task Force partners will strip criminals of their profits, seize their assets, and shut down any operation that tries to hide behind a respectable storefront.”
“Ming Xia’s guilty plea is the result of law enforcement doing straightforward, old‑fashioned police work. When someone uses a business as a cover to move millions in dirty cash, we’re going to follow the money and shut it down. Working alongside our federal and state partners, IRS‑CI will continue to trace financial footprints, uncover hidden profits, and ensure that those who abuse the financial system for personal gain are held fully accountable,” said Harry T. Chavis, Special Agent in Charge of IRS-CI New York.
NYSP Superintendent Steven G. James said, “Efforts to intercept illegal business practices are an integral part of protecting our communities in New York State. This guilty plea sends a clear message that we will continue to be relentless in the fight against money laundering and those who engage in inappropriate acts for money. The culmination of this investigation would not have been possible without the dedication and expertise of our members, partners at the United States Attorney’s Office and all other law enforcement agencies involved in this case.”
Sentencing is scheduled for July 1, 2026, before United States District Judge Anne M. Nardacci. Xia faces up to 20 years in prison and a maximum fine of $500,000. The charge also carries a term of supervised release of up to 3 years. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statute the defendant is convicted of violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors.
The FBI, HSI, IRS-CI, and NYSP are investigating the case with assistance from the Brooklyn District Attorney’s Office, Human Trafficking Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorney Katherine Kopita is prosecuting the case.
Chevron Agrees to Pay a $1M Civil Penalty for Violations of the Clean Air Act’s Renewable Fuel StandardRead the Press Release
Today, the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division (ENRD) announced a settlement with Chevron U.S.A. Inc. for violations of the Clean Air Act’s Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) program. Under the agreement, Chevron will pay a civil penalty of just over $1 million and has retired credits worth about $3.6 million to remedy its violations.
In June 2023, Chevron disclosed that, from January 2022 through August 2022, the company invalidly generated over 2.2 million advanced biofuel production credits, known as Renewable Identification Numbers or RINs, on renewable diesel that had previously been used for RIN generation and sold to third parties.
“Today’s action demonstrates the Administration’s commitment to the Renewable Fuel Standard program by ensuring that Renewable Identification Numbers generated and traded represent actual renewable fuel gallons produced,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Adam Gustafson of ENRD. “The benefits that flow from the Renewable Fuel Standard program to rural American communities depend on the integrity of program credits, and this action ensures the reliability of Renewable Identification Numbers in the marketplace.”
Under the RFS program, renewable fuel producers may generate RINs on renewable fuel they produce that is used in the United States. RINs may only be generated once on any volume of renewable fuel to prevent the potential double counting.
The RFS program is a national policy that requires a certain volume of renewable fuel be used to replace or reduce the quantity of fossil fuel in transportation fuel, home heating oil, or jet fuel. Refiners and importers, known as “obligated parties”, must acquire and retire a specific number of RINs each year based on the amount of petroleum fuel that they produce and import into the U.S. market. Obligated parties can acquire RINs by producing renewable fuels themselves and blending that fuel into gasoline or diesel, or by purchasing them from other parties in the RIN market. Chevron is both a renewable fuel producer and an obligated party because it produces both renewable diesel and petroleum fuels.
Prior to executing the settlement, Chevron retired valid RINs to offset the ones it had generated, worth about $3.6 million. The success of the RFS program relies on the integrity of the RIN market. This resolution furthers the goals of, and promotes public trust in, the RFS program.
Attorneys with ENRD’s Environmental Enforcement Section filed the Stipulation of Settlement with the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas. The Stipulation of Settlement is available at: www.justice.gov/enrd/consent-decrees.
Box Elder Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Federal Prison for Receipt of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that U.S. District Judge Camela C. Theeler has sentenced a Box Elder, South Dakota, man convicted of Receipt of Child Pornography. The sentencing took place on March 9, 2026.
David Derby, 29, was sentenced to 15 years in federal prison, followed by 10 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay $190 in restitution and $100 in special assessments to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Forfeiture was also ordered.
Derby was indicted for the charge by a federal grand jury in September 2025. He pleaded guilty on November 12, 2025.
Between September 2024 and April 8, 2025, Derby used the internet-based application Kik and his Motorola cellular phone and Samsung tablet computer to receive video files containing sexually explicit visual depictions of minors into his Kik account. Law enforcement officers located video files of child pornography in Derby’s Kik account. One of the videos was of a juvenile male being sexually assaulted.
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 https://www.justice.gov/psc.
This case was investigated by the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation’s Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, the Rapid City Police Department, and the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office. Former Assistant U.S. Attorney Heather Knox and Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathryn N. Rich prosecuted the case.
Derby was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Boston Lawyer Sentenced to over Three Years in Prison for Stealing over $2 Million from ClientsRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Boston lawyer was sentenced yesterday in federal court in Boston for defrauding two of his clients of over $2 million.
Patrick J. Dolan, 60, of North Attleboro and Haverhill, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Nathaniel M. Gorton to 39 months in prison, to be followed by two years of supervised release. Dolan was also ordered to pay $2,022,833 in restitution as well as $2,087,372.55 money judgment. In October 2025, Dolan pleaded guilty to four counts of wire fraud. Dolan was charged in July 2025.
Between November 2018 and November 2024, Dolan devised a scheme to defraud his clients and other individuals who entrusted Dolan to maintain funds in accounts he controlled for their benefit. Specifically, Dolan stole over $2 million that he was holding in escrow pending the outcome of a family trust lawsuit in which Dolan represented one of the parties. Dolan used the stolen funds for himself and his family members, including by making transfers to shell companies, using funds to make mortgage, tuition and student loan payments as well as using funds to pay for personal items and services.
In addition, Dolan stole at least $87,500 from a supplemental needs trust that Dolan established for another client and used those funds to make a down payment towards the purchase of real property located in Haverhill, where Dolan subsequently resided with his family. Dolan also made false statements to his clients and others regarding the stolen funds, falsified bank statements and falsified accounting records.
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 Kristina E. Barclay of the Public Corruption & Special Prosecutions prosecuted the case.
Berks County Man Indicted for Possessing Contraband in PrisonRead the Press Release
SCRANTON- The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Ramsee Munoz, age 35, of Reading, Pennsylvania, was indicted by a federal grand jury on one count of possessing contraband in prison.
According to United States Attorney Brian D. Miller, the indictment alleges that Munoz, an inmate at Federal Correctional Institute Schuylkill, possessed a weapon, specifically a 6- and 1/3-inch metal object, sharpened on both sides with one side being serrated, on September 18, 2025, in Schuylkill County, Pennsylvania.
The Federal Bureau of Prisons and the Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney James M. Buchanan is prosecuting the case.
The maximum penalty under federal law for this offense is 5 years of imprisonment, 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.
# # #
Armed Drug Trafficker Sentenced to 5 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that CHRISTOPHER PURVIS, 29, was sentenced today to 60 months of imprisonment, consecutive to federal and state sentences that he is currently serving, for possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on May 7, 2022, New Britain Police attempted to stop a car in which Purvis was an occupant. As officers approached the car, Purvis accelerated at a high rate of speed. The car crashed a short time later and Purvis and others ran from the scene. A search of the car revealed quantities of fentanyl and cocaine, and a loaded Glock 9mm handgun that had been reported stolen. Analysis of the firearm and drug packaging revealed the presence of Purvis’ DNA.
Purvis pleaded guilty on August 8, 2025.
Purvis is currently serving a 72-month federal sentence for trafficking fentanyl and cocaine in northern Vermont, and a concurrent six-year Connecticut state sentence for firearm and threatening offenses.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Hartford Task Force and the Bristol Police Department. The Task Force includes personnel from the DEA Hartford Resident Office, the Connecticut State Police, and the Bristol, Hartford, East Hartford, Enfield, Manchester, Middletown, New Britain, Rocky Hill, Wethersfield, and Windsor Locks Police Departments. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Natasha Freismuth and Christopher Lembo.
Arizona Woman Pleads Guilty to Federal Assault Charges in Drunk Driving CrashRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – An Arizona woman pleaded guilty to a 2023 drunk driving crash that seriously injured two people.
According to court documents, on December 30, 2023, Shaina Shorty, 36, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, drove while intoxicated and crashed into a vehicle occupied by Jane Doe 1 and Jane Doe 2. As a result of the crash, both Jane Doe 1 and Jane Doe 2 sustained serious bodily injuries.
Shorty pleaded guilty to two counts of assault resulting in serious bodily injury. At sentencing she faces up to 10 years in prison.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Farmington Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Nation Police Department and Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron O. Jordan is prosecuting the case.
Anchorage man sentenced to over 13 years for role in Alaska drug trafficking conspiracyRead the Press Release
ANCHORAGE, Alaska – An Anchorage man was sentenced today to over 13 years in prison for conspiring with others to traffic fentanyl, methamphetamine and heroin in Alaska on behalf of a drug trafficking organization allegedly run by a California inmate.
According to court documents, on March 23, 2023, Richard Frye, 37, and co-conspirator Tiffani Couch, 32, drove their other co-conspirator Anna Petla, 26, to the Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport and dropped her off. Law enforcement officials contacted Petla inside the airport and found her in possession of nearly 3,000 blue fentanyl pills and over 80 grams of methamphetamine that she was planning to transport to Sand Point for distribution.
Law enforcement officials subsequently contacted Frye and Couch as they waited in their vehicle outside the departure area and detained both. Officers searched the vehicle and found over 500 blue fentanyl pills and over 40 grams of other controlled substances.
On June 9, 2023, law enforcement officials contacted Frye and Couch during a traffic stop in Anchorage. Frye was a fugitive with an outstanding arrest warrant and attempted to flee the traffic stop. Officers searched the vehicle and recovered roughly 1,400 blue fentanyl pills, over 12 grams of other controlled substances and two loaded ammunition magazines.
Frye, as part of the conspiracy involving the drug trafficking organization, intended to distribute to others both the controlled substances police seized from his vehicle in March 2023, and those seized from his vehicle in June 2023.
After law enforcement officials arrested Frye and Couch following the traffic stop on June 9, Frye was booked into custody at the Anchorage Correctional Complex. During booking staff found a suspicious mass in Frye’s stomach during a body scan. It was later determined that before his arrest, Frye ingested fentanyl and suboxone wrapped in cellophane and condoms with the intent to distribute these substances inside the correctional facility.
Frye posted state bail and was released. Frye spoke to the alleged leader of the drug trafficking organization on the phone after his releases and discussed a plan to smuggle suboxone strips into the Anchorage Correctional Complex again because the substance was going for “300 a piece right now” inside the complex. Frye was ordered detained again following a bail hearing in state court on June 23, 2023. On June 25, 2023, correctional officers discovered Frye attempted to secrete on his body roughly 70 suboxone strips into the detention facility with the intent to distribute them inside the facility.
Court documents also explain that between December 2022 and March 2023, Frye used a digital money transferring service to send over $8,800 to a co-conspirator’s account. During the same time frame, Frye received nine transfers totaling over $1,000 from the same co-conspirator.
“With today’s sentence, we are one step closer to dismantling Alaska’s largest drug trafficking enterprise,” said U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford for the District of Oregon. “I am grateful for the collaboration between local, state, and federal law enforcement partners to hold those involved in trafficking fentanyl accountable.”
“This defendant’s actions show the lengths traffickers will go to peddle poison in correctional facilities and in our communities in Alaska,” said Robert A. Saccone, Special Agent in Charge, DEA Seattle Field Division. “Cases like this demonstrate DEA’s unwavering commitment to disrupting the fentanyl supply chain and holding accountable those who distribute these deadly drugs. Through enforcement, education, awareness, and strong partnerships with our law enforcement colleagues, we are working every day toward a Fentanyl Free America. Together, we can protect our communities and save American lives.”
Co-defendants in this case are as follows:
- Couch, of Anchorage, pleaded guilty on May 9, 2025, to one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute controlled substances. Couch was sentenced to four years in prison and three years’ supervised release on Feb. 5, 2026.
- Petla, of Dillingham, pleaded guilty on June 4, 2025, to one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute controlled substances. Petla was sentenced to four years in prison and three years’ supervised release on Oct. 28, 2025.
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, FBI Anchorage Field Office, IRS Criminal Investigation Seattle Field Office, U.S. Postal Inspection Service Seattle Division and Anchorage Domicile, Homeland Security Investigations Anchorage, Alaska Office, Alaska State Troopers and Anchorage Police Department investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Stephan Collins, Chris Schroeder and Alana Weber are prosecuting the case.
###
Alabama Resident Pleads Guilty to Armed Felony Assaults and Transporting Stolen VehicleRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Jason Paul New, age 20, of Semmes, Alabama, entered a guilty plea in federal district court to four counts of Assault with a Dangerous Weapon with Intent to do Bodily Harm in Indian Country, each punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine, one count of Use, Carry, Brandish, and Discharge of a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence, punishable by no less than ten years in prison consecutive to any other sentence and a $250,000 fine, and one count of Interstate Transportation of a Stolen Vehicle, punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
The Indictment alleged that on May 30, 2025, New assaulted four victims with a dangerous weapon, intending to do bodily harm, and that New knowingly used, carried, brandished, and discharged a firearm during and in relation to that crime of violence. The Indictment further alleged that on May 30, 2025, New unlawfully transported a stolen motor vehicle from the State of Alabama to the State of Oklahoma, knowing the vehicle was stolen.
The crimes occurred in Atoka County, within the boundaries of the Choctaw Nation Reservation, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma.
The charges arose from an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Atoka Police Department, the Atoka County Sheriff’s Office, the Stringtown Police Department, the Oklahoma Highway Patrol, the City of Kiowa Police Department, and the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation.
The Honorable Gerald L. Jackson, 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.
New will remain in the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending sentencing.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lewis M. Reagan represented the United States.
Aetna Agrees to Pay $117.7 Million to Resolve False Claims Act AllegationsRead the Press Release
Aetna Inc., a national insurer incorporated under the laws of Pennsylvania, has agreed to pay $117,700,000 to resolve allegations that it violated the False Claims Act by submitting or failing to withdraw inaccurate and untruthful diagnosis codes for its Medicare Advantage Plan enrollees in order to increase its payments from Medicare.
Under the Medicare Advantage (MA) Program, also known as Medicare Part C, Medicare beneficiaries may opt out of traditional Medicare and enroll in private health plans offered by insurance companies known as Medicare Advantage Organizations, or MAOs. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) pays MAOs a fixed monthly amount adjusted for various risk factors that affect expected health expenditures for the beneficiary. In general, CMS pays MAOs more for sicker beneficiaries expected to incur higher healthcare costs. To make these “risk adjustments,” CMS collects medical diagnosis codes from the MAOs.
The United States alleges that Aetna submitted inaccurate and untruthful patient diagnosis data to CMS in order to inflate the risk adjustment payments it received from CMS, failed to withdraw the inaccurate and untruthful diagnosis data and repay CMS, and falsely certified in writing to CMS that the data was accurate and truthful. The settlement announced today resolves these allegations.
“The government pays private insurers over $530 billion each year to care for Americans enrolled in Medicare Advantage,” said Assistant Attorney General Brett A. Shumate of the Justice Department's Civil Division. “We will continue to hold accountable insurers that knowingly submit inaccurate or unsupported diagnoses to improperly inflate reimbursement.”
“The government pays Medicare Advantage Organizations to facilitate vital healthcare to our seniors and other vulnerable citizens. When corporations or individuals threaten the Medicare Advantage program by diverting those limited government resources through fraud, waste, or abuse, we will continue to pursue all available remedies against them,” said U.S. Attorney David Metcalf for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania.
“Medicare Advantage relies on accurate reporting and attempts to manipulate the system undermine both the program’s integrity and the beneficiaries it serves,” 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 settlement makes clear that no company is beyond accountability, no matter how large or well known. Those who seek to exploit Medicare Advantage should expect to be identified and held responsible, and HHS‑OIG will continue to protect taxpayer funds and the integrity of this vital program.”
The United States contends that, for payment year 2015, Aetna operated a “chart review” program in which it paid diagnosis coders to review medical records (also known as “charts”) and identify all medical conditions that the charts supported. Aetna relied on the results of those chart reviews to submit additional diagnosis codes to CMS to obtain additional payments. However, Aetna’s chart reviews did not substantiate some diagnosis codes previously reported by Aetna to CMS. Aetna did not delete or withdraw those diagnosis codes, which would have required Aetna to reimburse CMS. The United States alleges that Aetna used the results of its chart reviews to identify instances where Aetna could seek additional payments from CMS while ignoring those same results when they indicated Aetna was overpaid.
The settlement also resolves further allegations that, for payment years 2018 to 2023, Aetna knowingly submitted or failed to delete or withdraw inaccurate and untruthful diagnosis codes for morbid obesity to increase the payments it received from CMS for beneficiaries enrolled in its MA plans. The medical records for individuals diagnosed as morbidly obese typically include one or more Body Mass Index (BMI) recordings. Aetna submitted or failed to delete inaccurate and untruthful diagnosis codes for morbid obesity for individuals whose recorded BMI was inconsistent with a diagnosis of morbid obesity, and these codes increased the payments made by CMS.
The civil settlement related to morbid obesity resolves a lawsuit filed under the whistleblower provisions of the False Claims Act, which permit private parties to sue on behalf of the government when they believe that a defendant has submitted false claims for government funds and receive a share of any recovery. The qui tam case is captioned United States ex rel. Mary Melette Thomas v. Aetna Inc., et. al., number 24-cv-339 in U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania. The settlement in this case provides for the whistleblower, a former Aetna risk-adjustment coding auditor, to receive a $2,012,500 share of the settlement amount.
The resolution obtained in this matter was the result of a coordinated effort between the Justice Department’s Civil Division, Commercial Litigation Branch, Fraud Section, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, in conjunction with HHS-OIG.
The investigation and resolution of this matter illustrate the government’s emphasis on combating healthcare fraud. One of the most powerful tools in this effort is the False Claims Act. Tips and complaints from all sources about potential fraud, waste, abuse and mismanagement, can be reported to the Department of Health and Human Services at www.oig.hhs.gov/fraud/report-fraud or 800-HHS-TIPS (800-447-8477).
The matter was handled by Fraud Section Attorneys Nelson Wagner and Edward Crooke and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Peter Carr and Gregory B. in den Berken, and Civil Chief Gregory David, for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania.
The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only and there has been no determination of liability.
Aetna CR agreement.pdf Aetna MO agreement.pdf5 Indicted by Federal Grand Jury in Bowling Green for a Drug Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Bowling Green, KY – A federal grand jury in Bowling Green returned an Indictment on February 11, 2026, charging three men and two women with conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and cocaine, and other drug trafficking related offenses.
U.S. Attorney Kyle G. Bumgarner of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge John Nokes of the ATF Louisville Field Division, and Director Tommy Loving of the Bowling Green/Warren County Appalachia High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (AHIDTA) Drug Task Force made the announcement.
The indictment alleges that as early as April 1, 2025 and continuing to on or about October 16, 2025, Davon M. Grandberry, 30, Jarru R. Cavitt, 30, Ashley M. Huff, 36, O’Shay D. Everett, 33, and Shelby D. Puckett, 28, conspired and agreed together to knowingly and intentionally possess with the intent to distribute, and distributed, five-hundred (500) grams or more of a methamphetamine mixture, and five-hundred (500) grams or more of cocaine. Each defendant was then charged with additional crimes they allegedly committed as part of the conspiracy. Specifically:
Grandberry is charged with distributing a methamphetamine mixture on April 18 and May 2, 2025. Grandberry is also charged with distributing 50 grams or more of a methamphetamine on August 21, 2025.
Cavitt and Grandberry are charged jointly with distributing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine on August 27 and September 2, 2025.
Cavitt and Everett are charged jointly with possessing with the intent to distribute cocaine on September 22, 2025.
Cavitt and Huff are charged jointly with possessing with the intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and 500 grams or more of cocaine on September 22, 2025.
Cavitt and Puckett are charged jointly with possessing with the intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine on September 24, 2025.
Altogether, over 50 pounds of methamphetamine, 2 kilograms of cocaine, and approximately $20,000 in cash were seized as part of this investigation. These crimes took place in Warren, Hart, and Butler Counties.
Grandberry, Cavitt, and Huff, have all been arraigned before a U.S. Magistrate Judge of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Kentucky. Grandberry and Cavitt were detained pending further proceedings. Huff was released on special conditions. Everett and Puckett will make their appearance before a U.S. Magistrate Judge at a later date.
If convicted, the defendants face a minimum sentence of 10 years in prison and a maximum sentence of life. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors.
There is no parole in the federal system.
This case is being investigated by the ATF Bowling Green Field Office and the Bowling Green/Warren County Appalachia High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (AHIDTA) Drug Task Force, with assistance from the Greater Hardin County Narcotics Task Force.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark J. Yurchisin II of the United States Attorney’s Office Bowling Green Branch 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.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
###
Tuesday 10 March 2026
Zuni Man Pleads Guilty to ManslaughterRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Zuni man pleaded guilty to the shooting death of an individual in the heat of passion.
According to court documents, on December 1, 2024, Glendon Laate, 49, a member of the Zuni Pueblo, shot and killed John Doe with a homemade shotgun in the heat of passion.
Laate pleaded guilty to voluntary manslaughter. At sentencing Laate faces up to 15 years in prison.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Gallup Resident Agency of the FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Zuni Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meg Tomlinson and Michael Pahl are prosecuting the case.
Wilmington Man Sentenced to 37 Months in Federal Prison for Unlawful Possession of AmmunitionRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, Del. – A Wilmington man was sentenced today to 37 months in federal prison for possession of ammunition by a convicted felon. U.S. District Judge Maryellen Noreika imposed the sentence.
According to court documents, on June 15, 2024, Wilmington Police Department officers attempted to stop a car for a suspected illegal window tint. The driver, later identified as Andre McDougal, 45, fled from officers before losing control of his car and crashing into a commercial fence. He then reversed his car and continued fleeing until he crashed into a residential building. Police then arrested McDougal after a brief foot chase. A later lawful search of the car revealed approximately 50 rounds of ammunition. McDougal was prohibited from possessing ammunition because of multiple prior felony convictions.
U.S. Attorney Benjamin L. Wallace of the District of Delaware and Special Agent in Charge Charles Doerrer of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives’ Baltimore office made the announcement.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jacob Laksin prosecuted the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:24-cr-92-MN.
###
West Mifflin Felon Charged with Unlawful Possession of AmmunitionRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of West Mifflin, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of possession of ammunition by a convicted felon, United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
The one-count Indictment named Davion Xavier Thompson, 22, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment, on January 23, 2026, Thompson, who had been previously convicted of a felony, knowingly possessed a Glock-style handgun with an extended magazine. Attached to the rear of the unserialized firearm was a machinegun conversion device, also known as a Glock switch. Under federal law, Thompson is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition as a result of his multiple prior felony convictions involving firearms.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 15 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Kelly M. Locher is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General’s Narcotics Task Force, Allegheny County District Attorney’s Narcotics Enforcement Team, Stowe Township Police Department, and McKees Rocks Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment.
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.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
United States Attorney's Office Files Civil Forfeiture Action to Recover $3.4 Million in Cryptocurrency Involved in an Online Investment Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
BOSTON – The United States Attorney’s Office filed a civil forfeiture action to recover approximately 3,444,470 USDT (Tether), alleged to be proceeds of an online investment fraud scheme and money laundering scheme. The cryptocurrency currently has an estimated value of approximately $3,444,470.
In late 2024, the government began an investigation into a cryptocurrency investment fraud scheme that targeted at least four individuals, including two Massachusetts residents, a resident of Utah and a resident of South Carolina. In such fraud schemes, scammers obtain funds from victims using manipulative tactics. The scammer establishes a level of trust with a victim in online communications and then entices the victim into investing in a fraudulent cryptocurrency scheme. The victim’s funds are stolen by the criminal, or criminals, ultimately causing the victim financial and emotional harm. Perpetrators behind these cryptocurrency investment schemes are often located overseas.
As alleged in court documents, unknown subjects initially communicated with the victims through what appeared to be misdirected messages via texts or through encrypted messaging applications such as WhatsApp and Telegram. After cultivating a relationship, the unknown subjects – who usually appear to be one individual, but may not be only one individual – then convinced the victims to invest in an exclusive Ethereum (ETH) investment opportunity that the unknown subjects claimed was backed by physical gold.
The unknown subjects directed the victims to purchase ETH and transfer the cryptocurrency to intermediary wallets controlled by the unknown subjects. The victims believed they were investing in a legitimate platform, when in fact the unknown subjects were instead sending victim funds to intermediary wallets, converting victim funds from ETH into USDT, transferring that USDT to unhosted wallets and stealing the funds.
The government seized 3,444,470 USDT involved in this scheme in February and March of 2025.
It is a violation of federal law to use wire communications as part of a scheme to defraud or to obtain money or property by means of false or fraudulent pretenses. It is also a violation of federal law to conduct a financial transaction knowing that the transaction is designed to conceal the nature, location, source, ownership, or control of criminal proceeds. A civil forfeiture action allows third parties to assert claims to property, which must be resolved before the property can be forfeited to the United States and returned to victims.
This is one of several civil forfeiture actions the U.S. Attorney’s Office has filed seeking to forfeit cryptocurrency involved in fraud schemes targeting Massachusetts victims.
Members of the public who believe they are victims of a cybercrime – including cryptocurrency scams, romance scams, investment scams and business email compromise fraud scams – should contact [email protected].
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Ted E. Docks, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Field Office made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Woburn Police Department and the New England State Police Information Network (NESPIN). Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Lyons of the Asset Recovery Unit is prosecuting the civil forfeiture action.
The details contained in the civil forfeiture complaint are allegations only.
U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah Collects $13,502,232.06 in Civil and Criminal Actions in Fiscal Year 2025Read the Press Release
SALT LAKE CITY, Utah –U.S. Attorney Melissa Holyoak announced today that the District of Utah collected $13,502,232.06 in criminal and civil actions in Fiscal Year 2025. Of this amount, $8,716,979.03 was collected in criminal actions and $4,758,253.03 was collected in civil actions.
Additionally, the District of Utah worked with other U.S. Attorney’s Offices and components of the Department of Justice to collect an additional $65,084,852.14 in cases pursued jointly by these offices. Of this amount, $11,526.48 was collected in criminal actions and $65,073,325.66 was collected in civil actions.
“The U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to providing restitution to victims of federal crimes,” said U.S. Attorney Melissa Holyoak of the District of Utah. “Financial recoveries are a critical part of the Department’s mission to hold those who violate the law accountable for the injury they cause to crime victims and the general public.”
In June 2025, the District of Utah recovered $1,250,333 for the victims of Patrick Brody’s fraudulent real estate investment Ponzi scheme.
In July 2025, the District of Utah recovered $350,000 for victims of Jacob Dalton’s securities fraud scheme. After his conviction, the United States discovered that Dalton attempted to use a close family member to shield the funds from recovery and avoid paying restitution. Decisive action by the United States prevented the funds from being lost and led to garnishment of the funds for payment to Dalton’s victims. See press release: Utah County Man Sentenced to 24 Months in Prison After Running a $1.6M Affinity Fraud Scheme.
The U.S. Attorneys’ Offices, along with the department’s litigating divisions, are responsible for enforcing and collecting civil and criminal debts owed to the U.S. and criminal debts owed to federal crime victims. The law requires defendants to pay restitution to victims of certain federal crimes who have suffered a physical injury or financial loss. While restitution is paid to the victim, criminal fines and felony assessments are paid to the department’s Crime Victims Fund, which distributes the funds collected to federal and state victim compensation and victim assistance programs.Additionally, the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the District of Utah, working with partner agencies and divisions, collected $11,267,324 in asset forfeiture actions in FY 2025. Forfeited assets deposited into the Department of Justice Assets Forfeiture Fund are used to restore funds to crime victims and for a variety of law enforcement purposes.
U.S. Attorney’s Office Concludes Investigation into Fatal ShootingRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON - The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia announced today that there is insufficient evidence to pursue federal criminal civil rights or District of Columbia charges against two Metropolitan Police Department officers for a fatal shooting that occurred on Nov. 14, 2025, and fatally injured a 41-year-old District resident inside a residence in the 4400 block of Reservoir Road, NW.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office and the MPD. Internal Affairs Division conducted a comprehensive review of the incident, which included a review of law enforcement and civilian accounts, security camera footage, Body Worn Camera (BWC) footage, physical evidence, recorded radio communications, forensic reports, and reports from MPD.
According to the evidence, on Nov. 14, 2025, officers were summoned to a residence in the 4400 block of Reservoir Road, NW. The police had been notified that an internal alarm had been triggered. The owner of the home was not home at the time and notified the police.
Upon their arrival, officers observed that the lights were on in the house and that there was someone inside. An officer went to the basement door and observed a male, later identified as Kevin Booker, in the basement. The officer identified himself and requested that Mr. Booker unlock the door. Mr. Booker ignored the request and left the basement area. The officers entered the house through an unlocked door.
While searching for the male, the officers loudly identified themselves and announced the presence of law enforcement. As one officer proceeded to the second floor, Mr. Booker emerged from a darkened room brandishing a knife and a screwdriver and charged at the officer. The officer immediately discharged his service weapon striking Mr. Booker. A second officer arriving at the landing at that point discharged an Electronic Control Device (ECD), commonly known as a Taser. Despite lifesaving efforts by law enforcement and an emergency medical team, Mr. Booker succumbed to his injuries and died later at a hospital.
After a careful, thorough, and independent review of the evidence, federal prosecutors found insufficient evidence to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the officer willfully violated the civilian’s rights.
Investigations generally
The U.S. Attorney’s Office reviews all police-involved fatalities to determine whether sufficient evidence exists to conclude that any officers violated either federal criminal civil rights laws or District of Columbia law.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office remains committed to investigating allegations of excessive force by law enforcement officers and will continue to devote the resources necessary to ensure that all allegations of serious civil rights violations are investigated fully and completely. The Metropolitan Police Department’s Internal Affairs Division investigates all police-involved fatalities in the District of Columbia.
U.S. Attorney Russ Ferguson Convenes Summit with Federal, State, and Local Law Enforcement on Public Safety in Mecklenburg CountyRead the Press Release
CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Today, U.S. Attorney Russ Ferguson convened a summit focused on public safety and reducing violent crime in Mecklenburg County, bringing together leaders and representatives from federal and state law enforcement agencies, local police departments, prosecutors, and other stakeholders across the county.
“Violent crime in Mecklenburg County is getting more serious by the day, and we must do something to stop it,” said U.S. Attorney Ferguson. “No one should go to sleep at night worried bullets are going to come through their window. But solving the problem is going to take all of us, and that is the point of this summit: to work together to keep our citizens safe.”
Participants discussed law enforcement initiatives, including past successes and future plans, and how to better coordinate to reduce violent crime. The group discussed all facets that play a role in reducing crime, including bond in state court cases, recidivism, juvenile crime, and crime prevention.
The summit also focused on safety on public transportation—the veins and arteries of our community.
And leaders at the summit addressed root causes of crime, such as the mental health crisis in our community that plays a long-term role in a large number of violent crime cases.
Federal representatives reiterated their commitment to local crime reduction efforts and explored ways the federal government can support partnerships to enhance public safety.
“The public is safest when we work together,” Ferguson said. “By sharing ideas and coordinating our efforts, we can better respond to crime and address its root causes and collateral effects, such as mental health issues.”