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Newest first across public DOJ and U.S. Attorney press releases.
27 March 2026
Brooklyn Park Man Sentenced to More Than Six Years in Federal Prison for Being a Felon in Possession of Firearms and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
Baltimore, Maryland – U.S. District Judge Adam B. Abelson sentenced a Brooklyn Park man to prison in connection with a federal investigation that led to a drugs and firearms seizure.
Steven Keith Staggers Jr., 31, received a 79-month prison sentence, followed by three years of supervised release, for possessing firearms and ammunition as a convicted felon. As a result of the investigation, law enforcement seized two firearms, at least 180 rounds of ammunition, and cocaine.
Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the sentence with Special Agent in Charge Charles Doerrer, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and Police Commissioner Richard Worley, Baltimore Police Department (BPD).
Beginning in mid-2023, BPD started investigating Staggers after law enforcement observed him posting public videos of himself with a firearm on social media. Staggers, who is a convicted felon, is prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition.
In September 2023, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Staggers’ Brooklyn Park residence that yielded two Glock pistols, approximately 96 rounds of ammunition, an extended firearm magazine, approximately 28 grams of cocaine, a digital scale, and cutting agents used to prepare controlled substances for distribution. Additionally, investigators seized a cell phone, the contents of which revealed that Staggers was also attempting to sell firearms to other individuals.
Then in November 2024, investigators seized a second cell phone that belonged to Staggers. A court authorized search of this cell phone revealed that Staggers continued attempting to transfer firearms to other individuals. It is believed that he knew these individuals were prohibited from possessing firearms.
On February 4, 2025, investigators executed a search warrant at the new residence where Staggers lived in Curtis Bay, Maryland. During this search warrant, investigators seized approximately 98 rounds of ammunition.
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.
U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the ATF and BPD for their work in the investigation. Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney James G. O’Donohue III, who prosecuted the case.
For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, visit justice.gov/usao-md.
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Border Patrol Agent Charged with Civil Rights Violation and Evidence TamperingRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A federal grand jury has indicted a U.S. Border Patrol agent for allegedly assaulting a handcuffed detainee and later concealing evidence to obstruct an investigation.
According to court records, on May 22, 2023, Eduardo Prat, 40, allegedly strangled John Doe while performing his official duties as a Border Patrol agent in Doña Ana County, New Mexico. John Doe was handcuffed at the time of the alleged assault. Subsequently, between May 22 and June 12, 2023, Prat allegedly concealed and covered up a body camera recording of the assault.
Prat is charged in federal court with deprivation of rights under color of law and destruction, alteration, or falsification of records in a federal investigation. He is on conditions of release pending trial, which has not been scheduled. If convicted, Prat faces up to 20 years in prison.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison made the announcement today.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Office of Professional Responsibility investigated this case with assistance from the Department of Homeland Security, Office of Inspector General, the Las Cruces Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office, and the U.S. Border Patrol El Paso Sector. The Las Cruces Branch Office of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico is prosecuting the case.
View the Indictment (Prat).pdfAn indictment or criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Armed Felon Who Pointed Gun at Police Sentenced to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
ATLANTA - Lee Milton Reeves, a multi-convicted felon who threatened employees and police officers at gunpoint in the bathroom of a Riverdale, Georgia restaurant, was sentenced to seven years in federal prison.
“This case shows precisely why convicted felons are prohibited from possessing guns,” said U.S. Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg. “Had Reeves pulled the trigger, this case could have ended in tragedy. My office will never stop working towards making Georgia safe by removing armed felons from the community.”
“The sentence imposed today sends a clear message to convicted felons prohibited from possessing firearms: ATF’s top priority remains keeping our communities safe,” said Assistant Special Agent in Charge Ryan Todd. “ATF will continue working with our law enforcement partners to target individuals who unlawfully possess firearms.”
According to U.S. Attorney Hertzberg, the charges, and other information presented in court: On March 17, 2024, officers from the Riverdale Police Department responded to an emergency call about a man with a gun at a fast-food restaurant. Once there, officers found Reeves holed up in a bathroom, where Reeves pointed at gun at them. Subsequent investigation revealed that, the day before, Reeves had fired that same gun inside a trailer where a mother and daughter lived.
On March 26, 2026, Lee Milton Reeves, 40, of Mechanicsville, Georgia, was sentenced to seven years in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release. Reeves pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm by a prohibited person on December 17, 2025.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, with assistance from the Riverdale Police Department and the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office.
Assistant U.S. Attorney James Hwang prosecuted the case.
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.
For further information please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office at [email protected] or (404) 581-6016. The Internet address for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia is http://www.justice.gov/usao-ndga.
Armed Felon Convicted of Carmel CVS Robbery; Accomplice Sentenced to Nine YearsRead the Press Release
INDIANAPOLIS- A federal jury has convicted Mikhal Hamilton, 25, of Indianapolis, of interference with commerce by robbery, brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, and unlawful possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Co‑defendant David Washington, 23, of Arcadia, Indiana, was previously sentenced in October 2024 to nine years in federal prison after pleading guilty to interference with commerce by robbery and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence.
According to court documents and evidence introduced at trial, on June 25, 2023, Hamilton and Washington robbed the CVS Pharmacy on Rangeline Road in Carmel, Indiana. During the robbery, both men used firearms to threaten an employee and stole prescription medications, including Oxycontin, Oxycodone, and various amphetamine stimulants. They fled the scene in a blue Chevrolet Impala. Carmel Police Department officers conducted a high‑risk traffic stop shortly afterward, arresting both men and recovering the stolen pills, pill bottles, a Glock handgun with an extended magazine and obliterated serial number, and a Polymer80 homemade firearm, otherwise known as a “ghost gun.”
Hamilton’s criminal history includes felony convictions for carrying a handgun without a license and synthetic identity deception, which prohibits him from legally possessing a firearm.
The Carmel Police Department and FBI Indianapolis Field Office investigated this case. U.S. District Judge Sarah Evans Barker presided over the trial and will sentence Hamilton at a later date.
U.S. Attorney Wheeler thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys, Kelsey L. Massa and Nate Walter, who are prosecuting this case, with the assistance of Paralegal Specialist Sarah Helbig and Victim Witness Coordinator Johnna Preidt.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
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Alleged murderer and multiple repeat felons among those prosecuted as part of Operation Take Back America effortsRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – A total of 439 new cases have been filed against 440 individuals in immigration and border security matters from March 20-26, announced Acting U.S. Attorney John G.E. Marck.
The Southern District of Texas filed 187 criminal complaints for illegal entry, while another 236 people face charges of felony reentry after prior removal. Most of those individuals have prior felony convictions, including narcotics, violent crime, immigration offenses and more. The cases also include charges against 12 people allegedly involved in human smuggling. The remaining cases involve other immigration crimes and firearms.
Six of those charged were allegedly found in and around the McAllen area this week. According to one criminal complaint, authorities discovered Honduran national Jose Roberto Serrano-Miranda near Relampago even though he had been removed from the United States in September 2025. The charges allege he has prior convictions for domestic assault bodily injury and aggravated assault strangulation.
Five others are all allegedly from Mexico. The criminal complaint alleges Ruben Davila-Trujillo and Daniel Eduardo Munoz-Najar were just removed in January and February, respectively, while Jose Manuel Gomez-Jimenez and Loreto Hernandez De Loera had both been ordered removed from the country in June 2025. With the exception of De Loera, who has multiple convictions for driving under the influence and a felony driving while intoxicated, each has prior convictions for various drug offenses, according to the allegations. Ricardo Josue Gutierrez had also allegedly been previously removed. His charges allege he has a prior conviction for transportation or harboring of illegal aliens.
If convicted of illegal reentry, all six face up to 20 years in federal prison.
In addition to the new cases, a man known as “Two-Face” was ordered to serve 180 months for being an illegal alien in possession of a weapon linked to the shooting death of a local woman. Savin Seng is an admitted gang member from Cambodia and illegally resided in Victoria.
On Oct. 3, 2025, an incident occurred at a residence in the Telferner community outside Victoria, where authorities found a female victim deceased from a gunshot wound to the head. The shooter had left his cell phone and fled the scene.
An image on the phone showed Seng holding a Glock pistol with an extended magazine. A witness had also identified him as the murder suspect.
Law enforcement located Seng less than a mile from the scene of the shooting and took him into custody. At the time of his arrest, he had a loaded Glock 17, 9mm pistol in his shorts along with a loaded 31-round extended magazine.
Seng had illegally entered the United States as a child from Cambodia and never held lawful immigration status in the country. Court documents allege he had been ordered removed as an aggravated felon in April 2016 but had not been physically removed. He has been in custody in California, Georgia and Louisiana, according to court records, and had an active arrest warrant from 2022 for another homicide in Los Angeles, California.
Seng admitted he possessed many guns while remaining in the United States illegally.
These cases were referred or supported by federal law enforcement partners, including Immigration and Customs Enforcement - Homeland Security Investigations, ICE - Enforcement and Removal Operations, Border Patrol, Drug Enforcement Administration, FBI, U.S. Marshals Service and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with additional assistance from state and local law enforcement partners.
The cases are all part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations, and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
Under current leadership, public safety and a secure border are the top priorities for this district. Enhanced enforcement both at the border and in the interior of the district have yielded aliens engaged in unlawful activity or with serious criminal histories, including convictions for human trafficking, sexual assault and violence against children.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Texas remains one of the busiest in the nation. It represents 43 counties and more than nine million people covering 44,000 square miles. Assistant U.S. Attorneys from all seven divisions including Houston, Galveston, Victoria, Corpus Christi, Brownsville, McAllen and Laredo work directly with our law enforcement partners on the federal, state and local levels to prosecute the suspected offenders of these and other federal crimes.
An indictment or criminal complaint is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.
Albuquerque Man Sentenced for Drug Trafficking and Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – An Albuquerque man was sentenced to 220 months in prison for his role in a drug trafficking organization that distributed large quantities of narcotics in Albuquerque.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court documents, beginning in August 2024, agents with the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Albuquerque Police Department Narcotics Unit investigated Quontez Kuvinka, 26, and his fentanyl trafficking organization. The investigation identified Kuvinka as a source of supply who provided fentanyl and methamphetamine to a courier who, on multiple occasions in September 2024, sold the drugs to an undercover law enforcement officer. Kuvinka also personally sold fentanyl and cocaine to an undercover law enforcement officer during controlled purchases.
On October 8, 2024, agents conducting surveillance observed Kuvinka leave his residence and drive to a pre-arranged drug transaction location, where he was expected to supply narcotics for distribution. Law enforcement approached Kuvinka while he was seated in his vehicle, and he attempted to flee on foot before being taken into custody.
A subsequent search of Kuvinka’s vehicle revealed approximately 442.6 grams of fentanyl (equivalent to roughly 4,400 pills), approximately 267.5 grams of methamphetamine, and approximately 7 grams of cocaine, along with drug trafficking paraphernalia. Officers also recovered eight firearms and ammunition from the vehicle, including multiple weapons equipped with machinegun conversion devices capable of converting semi-automatic firearms into fully automatic weapons.
As a previously convicted felon, Kuvinka is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition.
Kuvinka pleaded guilty to conspiracy, distribution of cocaine, two counts of distribution of fentanyl, possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, possession with intent to distribute cocaine, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime and being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. Upon his release from prison, he will be subject to five years of supervised release.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison, Special Agent in Charge Omar Arellano of the Drug Enforcement Administration and Chief of Police Cecily Barker of the Albuquerque Police Department made the announcement today. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico prosecuted the case.
The investigation was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Albuquerque Police Department.
26 March 2026
“The Monkey Whisperer” Sentenced to Federal Prison for Trafficking Primates While on Probation for the Same CrimeRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – Jimmy Wayne Hammonds (62, Parrish), a/k/a “The Monkey Whisperer,” has been sentenced by U.S. District Judge Mary S. Scriven to nine months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, for conspiring to violate the Lacey Act and Lacey Act trafficking. Hammonds pleaded guilty on October 23, 2025. The court also ordered Hammonds to pay a $60,000 fine to benefit the Lacey Act Reward Fund and placed a ban on Hammonds from possessing, breeding, selling, transporting, or exhibiting any wildlife. U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement.
According to court documents, Hammonds, despite being a convicted Lacey Act trafficker and on federal probation, ran a business called, “The Monkey Whisperer, LLC,” that specialized in selling primates and other exotic animals. Through his business’s social media account, Hammonds connected with an individual who was an undercover agent. At Hammonds’s request, the conversations moved to an encrypted texting app to discuss potential wildlife sales. Hammonds agreed to sell the undercover agent two common marmosets for $7,400. Hammonds arranged for the transaction to occur in Georgia to avoid law enforcement oversight. The two common marmosets are pictured below.
As a result of this prosecution, Hammonds surrendered his ownership of 67 animals to include numerous primate species, muntjac deer, lemurs, kangaroos, wallabies, and otters.
Hammonds’ violation of probation hearing will take place on April 2, 2026.
This case was investigated by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service with substantial assistance from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Erin Claire Favorit and Abigail K. King.
West Virginia U.S. Attorney’s Offices Partner to Further Elder Justice Work with Local StakeholdersRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey and U.S. Attorney Moore Capito, in collaboration with Modell Consulting, have partnered to offer a two-day training to further the Department of Justice’s Elder Justice Initiative.
West Virginia SAFE (Safe and Accessible Forensic Interviewing with Elders) is being held at the FBI Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) facility in Clarksburg, West Virginia. The training, conducted by Karen Hill, Ed.D., LCPA, with Modell Consulting Group, is designed for elder justice professionals seeking to gain additional information on communicating with older adults who are alleged victims of crime. Centered in skills development, this training strengthens forensic interviewing with considerations for age related declines in cognition, underlying neuropathology, like dementia and Alzheimer’s, language capacity and cultural background.
“Those who target older Americans for financial gain should be on notice: we will use every tool available to investigate and prosecute these crimes,” said U.S. Attorney Matthew Harvey. “By investing in this training, we are standing up for our seniors and making clear that exploitation of the elderly will not be tolerated in our communities.”
“Elder abuse is a coward’s crime — preying on those least able to fight back,” said U.S. Attorney Moore Capito. “Here in West Virginia, our seniors are the best of the best. They should be able to retire knowing they are both physically and financially safe. That’s why this training matters — it sharpens our ability to spot it, stop it, and hold offenders accountable. We will not overlook it, we will not excuse it — we will prosecute it, every time.”
Law enforcement partners from across the state, along with federal and state prosecutors, and social workers who work with the elderly population will be in attendance. Each participant will gain education credits within their field. AARP is a limited sponsor of the event.
For more information about the DOJ Elder Justice Initiative contact Elder Justice Coordinators Kimberley Crockett (NDWV) and Jonathan Storage (SDWV) at their respective United States Attorney’s Offices.
Legal education credits are provided by the West Virginia State Bar. Law enforcement education credits are provided by the West Virginia Division Law Enforcement Professional Standards Program (LEPS). Social work education credits are provided by Crittenton Services, Inc. in Wheeling, West Virginia.
Violent International Fugitive Indicted on Federal Firearm and Immigration ChargesRead the Press Release
OXFORD – United States Attorney Scott F. Leary announced today that the international fugitive, arrested earlier this week in Lee County, has been indicted on federal firearms and immigration charges brought by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Mississippi.
Adrian Walker, 28, a Canadian national, was indicted for an illegal entry offense and for being an illegal alien in possession of a firearm. These charges follow Walker’s arrest earlier this week. Walker was wanted by the Toronto Police Services on a Canada-wide arrest warrant for first degree murder and attempted murder, following a May 7, 2024, violent shooting in Toronto, Canada. For that offense, he has been named as a “Most Wanted Person” by the Toronto Police Services.
Walker was captured in Tupelo, Mississippi, on Monday, March 23, 2026, by law enforcement agents including the United States Marshals Service (USMS) and their Gulf Coast Regional Fugitive Task Force, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)-Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). He was initially arrested on an arrest warrant for an immigration violation.
U.S. Attorney Leary stated, “As previously stated, this was a serious case. A Canadian national, wanted for murder, entered our country illegally and was living in our midst. This case highlights the danger our law enforcement agents face while doing their job. Our agents and officers work for you and are more than willing to place themselves in harm’s way to protect our citizens. Working together, we can make Mississippi a safer place. A special shout out goes to our partners at United States Marshals Service, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Good job! Please know that the United States Attorney’s Office has your back.”
This case is being prosecuted by Clyde McGee and John Herzog Jr.
This case was investigated and prosecuted by the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) as part of Operation Take Back America. HSTFs, which were established by President Trump in Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion, are joint operations led by the Department of Justice and the Department of Homeland Security. Operation Take Back America is a nationwide federal 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.
All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Violent Ecuadorian Illegal Alien Pleads Guilty to Illegal Re-Entry ChargesRead the Press Release
Baltimore, Maryland – An Ecuadorian alien pled guilty in federal court today to illegally re-entering the United States after her prior removal.
Vanessa Yalixa Munoz-Baque, 31, pled guilty to the re-entry charges after she was previously removed from the U.S. in August 2023. Munoz-Baque illegally re-entered the U.S., again, on November 3, 2023, and began residing in Frederick, Maryland. Law enforcement discovered her illegally present in the U.S. upon her arrest for attempted murder.
Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the guilty plea with Acting Field Office Director Vernon Liggins, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE-ERO) – Baltimore Field Office.
According to the guilty plea, on September 11, 2024, local law enforcement apprehended Munoz-Baque in Frederick. Authorities charged her with attempted murder and assault after she placed a knife to her victim’s neck and stabbed him in the leg. Then in March 2025, Munoz-Baque pled guilty to first-degree assault and received a 25-year sentence, with all but three years suspended.
Munoz-Baque was originally deported after law enforcement apprehended her at the border in Eagle Pass, Texas, on June 17, 2023. Authorities subsequently charged Munoz-Baque with unlawfully attempting to enter the U.S. without inspection.
Law enforcement placed her in expedited removal proceedings, and an immigration judge ordered Munoz-Baque’s removal to Ecuador. After her removal, Munoz-Baque never obtained consent from the Attorney General of the United States, or the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security, for readmission into the country.
Munoz-Baque faces a maximum sentence of two years in federal prison for the re-entry offense. Sentencing is set for Thursday, June 25, at 2:30 p.m.
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 the ICE-ERO for its work in this investigation. Ms. Hayes also thanked First Assistant U.S. Attorney Jason D. Medinger and Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Shea who are prosecuting this case.
For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, visit justice.gov/usao-md.
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U.S. Attorney’s Office and South Dakota Attorney General’s Office Hold Joint Press Conference on Combating Government FraudRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Ron Parsons and South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley held a joint press conference at the Sioux Falls Police Department on Thursday, March 26, 2026, to highlight new federal and state initiatives to combat the serious problem of fraud committed against state and federal governments and government programs.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office and South Dakota Attorney General’s Office are working together toward the same goals: protecting taxpayer dollars, ensuring government program funding goes to the people in need of assistance, and prosecuting those who steal from state, federal, or tribal governments. Alongside law enforcement and agency partners, the U.S. Attorney’s Office and South Dakota Attorney General’s Office work together to detect, root out, and prosecute fraudulent conduct. Tips and leads from employees, contractors, and concerned citizens are often how fraud is first discovered.
“Fraud is not a mistake. It is not a technicality. It is not just ‘gaming the system.’ And it is not victimless. It is stealing. And those who steal from the American taxpayer will be held accountable,” said U.S. Attorney Parsons.
“South Dakotans deserve a state government that is transparent and free from corruption,” said Attorney General Jackley. “I have and will hold offenders accountable.”
NATIONAL CONTEXT: THE SCALE OF THE PROBLEM
According to the Government Accountability Office (GAO), the federal government loses an estimated $233 billion to $521 billion every year to fraud — representing 3% to 7% of total federal spending. Since 2003, cumulative improper payments have totaled approximately $2.8 trillion. In fiscal year 2024 alone, 16 federal agencies reported $162 billion in improper payments across 68 programs.
The federal multi-agency crackdown on benefit fraud in Minnesota—which resulted in charges against 98 defendants and 64 convictions to date—demonstrated the effectiveness of coordinated enforcement across multiple agencies. The new national DOJ Fraud Enforcement Division created under the Trump Administration is modeled on that effort and dedicated to combating fraud—both criminal and civil—in every federal program, in every state. On March 24, 2026, Assistant Attorney General Colin McDonald was confirmed by the United States Senate to lead that division.
THE USAO’S NEW GOVERNMENT FRAUD UNIT
Recently, the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of South Dakota established a Government Fraud Unit to integrate civil and criminal prosecutors from the outset of every case involving government fraud. This unit facilitates the simultaneous pursuit of criminal charges and civil remedies, including recovery under the False Claims Act, which allows the government to seek treble damages for fraud against federal programs. The Unit’s focus areas include:
• Healthcare fraud (Medicare, Medicaid, and federal health programs)
• Procurement and grant fraud
• False Claims Act violations
• Theft from tribal programs and organizations
• Financial fraud against federal programs of every kind
The USAO Government Fraud Unit in South Dakota will work closely and coordinate with the new Fraud Enforcement Division at the Department of Justice in Washington, D.C.
SOUTH DAKOTA ATTORNEY GENERAL’S OFFICE PROGRAMS
Attorney General Marty Jackley has three programs that promote government accountability within South Dakota: the Public Integrity Unit, Medicaid Fraud Abuse and Neglect Services, and Cooperative Disability Investigations.
South Dakota’s Public Integrity Unit was established through Senate Bill 62, which was proposed by Attorney General Jackley, passed by the 2025 Legislature, and signed by Governor Larry Rhoden. The legislation created mandatory reporting requirements for state employee misconduct and provided protection for employees who make good faith reports to authorities.
In its first year, the unit received 58 reports that resulted in 16 investigations, nine substantiated allegations, and four individuals charged. A yearly report will be presented to the legislative Government Operations and Audit Committee. This year’s Public Integrity Report can be found at: https://atg.sd.gov/docs/January%202026%20Public%20Integrity%20Report%20to%20GOAC.pdf
Medicaid Fraud, Abuse and Neglect Services recovered $942,248.56 in 2025, while the office’s Cooperative Disability Investigations program was ranked the sixth most productive unit in the country for Fiscal Year 2025. The program recorded $4.5 million in Social Security Program Savings and $2.9 million in Medicaid/Medicare Program Savings.
“We will not tolerate fraud that steals from taxpayers,” said Attorney General Jackley. “Every dollar recovered is a dollar returned to the public.”
RECENT FEDERAL CASES IN SOUTH DAKOTA
Crop Insurance Fraud—Sully County (Criminal Convictions and Civil Judgment: $4,019,820)
Two Sully County farmers falsely certified to a federal crop insurance company that they had planted approximately 2,200 acres of sunflowers and corn that were never planted, then collected over $1.3 million in insurance payments. After criminal convictions in 2022, the government pursued civil remedies under the False Claims Act. In September 2025, a federal judge entered a civil judgment of $4,019,820 against the defendants. The case, which was investigated by the USDA Office of Inspector General and the USDA Risk Management Agency, demonstrates the USAO Fraud Unit’s integrated civil and criminal enforcement model.
Theft from Tribal Employment Office—Pine Ridge (Indicted: $4.7 Million+)
Two defendants were federally indicted for conspiring to divert over $4.7 million in employment fee checks from the Tribal Employment Rights Office (TERO) on the Pine Ridge Reservation into a private bank account over a seven-year period. The funds—meant to support tribal employment programs—were allegedly split between the two defendants and used for personal purchases including homes and vehicles. Both face charges of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, 22 counts of wire fraud, and 7 counts of money laundering, each carrying a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison. One defendant has pleaded guilty and is awaiting sentencing. The other has pleaded not guilty. The case was investigated by the FBI and HHS Office of Inspector General.
False Claims Act: Telecommunications contractors sued for defrauding Indian Tribe—Rosebud, SD ($2.1 Million+)
The owners and agents of a telecommunications company have been sued under the False Claims Act for allegedly making false claims for payment to the federal government to enrich themselves. A tribal government was awarded a federal grant to expand internet access on the reservation. The Tribe awarded the contract to complete the work to defendants, who then conspired to invoice the Tribe for equipment never purchased and to create fraudulent, inflated invoices for vehicles that were then charged to the federal grant. The claim is subject to treble damages under federal law. The case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Commerce, Office of Inspector General.
Tax Preparer Scheme for Submitting Fraudulent Tax Returns—Sioux Falls (Indicted: $685,437)
Working out of her Sioux Falls home, the defendant allegedly submitted fraudulent income tax returns on behalf of dozens of unwitting clients from approximately 2020 through 2023. The tax returns included a variety of falsely claimed items, such as Schedule A deductions and childcare tax credits, thereby inflating individual tax refunds. Defendant was indicted in January 2026 on 45 counts of Aiding and Assisting in the Preparation and Presentation of a False and Fraudulent Tax Return and faces a maximum penalty of three years on each count. The defendant has pleaded not guilty. The case was investigated by IRS-Criminal Investigation.
Superintendent Embezzlement, Bureau of Indian Education School—Pine Ridge (Indicted: $700,000)
The superintendent of a federally funded Bureau of Indian Education school on the Pine Ridge Reservation was indicted on charges of embezzlement and theft from a tribal organization, larceny, and theft of government property for allegedly stealing approximately $700,000 through multiple schemes. The school receives most of its operating budget from the federal government. The defendant has pleaded not guilty. Trial is scheduled for June 2026. Forfeiture proceedings are underway to recover stolen funds for the school and community. The case was investigated by the Department of Interior, Office of Inspector General.
RECENT STATE CASES IN SOUTH DAKOTA
Stealing from Children: Lonna Carroll, former DSS administrative assistant, was sentenced to seven years and ordered to repay $1.78 million for stealing from Child Protection Services between 2010 and 2023.
Exploiting Trust: Mark Rathbun, former state driver’s license examiner, faces an 85-count indictment for possession of child pornography and unlawful access of computer systems. Charges include using confidential driver’s license data and creating or sharing computer-generated pornographic images of minors. Rathbun’s case is pending. He is presumed innocent under the U.S. Constitution.
Falsifying Inspections: Renee Strong, former Department of Public Safety employee, was convicted for forging food service inspections.
Concealing Fraud: Danielle Degenstein, former Department of Revenue employee, was sentenced and fined for failing to report a colleague’s creation of fake vehicle titles.
Medicaid Fraud: Sharon Monson of Pierre was indicted on five felony charges for allegedly defrauding the South Dakota Medicaid Program of approximately $588,000. Monson, owner of At Home Nursing, faces charges including unlawful receipt of medical benefits, aggravated grand theft, perjury, and failure to maintain necessary records. The case is pending, and Monson is presumed innocent.
HOW TO REPORT FRAUD
Members of the public who have information about fraud against federal programs are encouraged to come forward. Reports can be made confidentially.
• U.S. Attorney's Office, District of South Dakota: (605) 330-4400 (Sioux Falls); (605) 224-5402 (Pierre); (605) 342-7822 (Rapid City) | www.justice.gov/usao-sd
• South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation: (605) 773-3331
• FBI: tips.fbi.gov | 1-800-CALL-FBI
• USDA OIG (crop/food programs): 1-800-424-9121
• HHS OIG (Medicare/Medicaid): 1-800-HHS-TIPS
• GAO FraudNet: gao.gov/fraudnet | [email protected] | (800) 424-5454
Individuals with inside knowledge of fraud against the government may also be eligible to file a qui tam lawsuit under the False Claims Act and may receive between 15% and 30% of any government recovery. Federal law prohibits retaliation against whistleblowers.
U.S. Attorney Leah B. Foley Announces Fraud Coordinators and Benefit & Voter Fraud TeamRead the Press Release
BOSTON – United States Attorney Leah B. Foley has named two federal prosecutors to lead the newly formed Benefit and Voter Fraud Team in response to the rampant fraud being uncovered in Massachusetts. The Team’s mission will be to actively and aggressively root out benefit fraud in Massachusetts, including SNAP fraud, MassHealth fraud, childcare subsidy fraud and voter fraud, just to name a few. In support of this effort, a new hotline has been established for members of the public to report suspicion of benefit fraud: 1-855-SCAM-MA-1 (855-722-6621).
The District of Massachusetts is committed to assisting the Administration’s war on fraud and will support the work of the Vice President’s Anti-Fraud Task Force and the Department of Justice’s National Fraud Enforcement Division through independent investigations brought by the Benefit and Voter Fraud Team.
The Benefit and Voter Fraud Team will be led by two Fraud Coordinators, Assistant U.S. Attorneys Philip Mallard and Mark Grady. AUSA Mallard will be responsible for overseeing the district-wide effort, coordinating with multiple federal agencies to identify benefit fraud and develop a plan of action. AUSA Mark Grady will supervise the federal investigations and prosecutions for the office, working closely with partner agencies.
“Both Phil and Mark are seasoned federal prosecutors who each bring tremendous assets to the Fraud Team. With a combined 40+ years of prosecutorial experience, they will hit the ground running and make a lasting impact on the widespread and prolific benefit fraud we are seeing across the state,” said Foley.
AUSA Mallard is a longtime state and federal prosecutor, first serving as an Assistant District Attorney in Essex County where he investigated and prosecuted gangs, murders and numerous types of fraud. He has extensive experience prosecuting SNAP fraud, procurement fraud, identity theft and embezzlement, among others. AUSA Mallard joined the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s Organized Crime and Gang Unit in 2018 where he is responsible for investigating violent crime, including complex gang and murder cases such as the Latin Kings and Trinitarios.
AUSA Mark Grady is Deputy Chief of the Major Crimes Unit where he manages and prosecutes a range of immigration, child exploitation, violent crime and fraud cases. He has deep prosecutorial experience in the fraud space, including fraud cases against the Massachusetts State and Boston Police, SNAP, housing, Social Security and employment fraud. He previously served in the Public Corruption Unit, Worcester Branch Office and the Civil Division. AUSA Grady has been a federal prosecutor for nearly 25 years and previously served as an Assistant District Attorney in Suffolk County.
Since December 2025, Foley’s office has charged 15 individuals with nearly $9 million in fraud including SNAP benefit fraud and MassHealth fraud.
“It has become apparent that there are insufficient guardrails in place in Massachusetts to address the rampant benefit fraud across the state. It is time to hold criminals stealing taxpayer benefits accountable. This has gone on far too long and the buck stops with me,” said Foley.
Earlier today, Foley’s office announced charges against nine individuals, including a Dominican national for allegedly stealing nearly $300,000 in SNAP, Social Security and MassHealth benefits in Massachusetts using a stolen identity. The charges in these cases were brought after an analysis of recipient data showed the same identity was receiving benefits at the same time in two or more states post COVID. According to the charging documents, in December 2024, Massachusetts DTA issued SNAP benefits to approximately 495 identities simultaneously receiving SNAP benefits in Puerto Rico.
“This is the tip of the iceberg,” said Foley. “We have dozens of investigations in the pipeline that will come to fruition in the coming weeks. My office is committed to stepping up and taking benefit fraud seriously.”
The Benefit and Voter Fraud Team will employ resources from Homeland Security Investigations in New England; U.S. Department of Agriculture - Office of Inspector General, Northeast Region; U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General; U.S. Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service; U.S. Housing and Urban Development, Office of Inspector General; U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services; Social Security Administration - Office of Inspector General, Office of Investigations; U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General; Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation, Boston Field Office; and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service.
Two Illegal Aliens from Romania Sentenced for Credit Card Skimmer Scheme in Alabama and MississippiRead the Press Release
Acting United States Attorney Kevin Davidson announced today that two Romanian nationals unlawfully present in the United States have been sentenced to federal prison for their roles in a scheme to install credit card “skimming” devices on grocery store point-of-sale terminals across Alabama and Mississippi.
On March 26, 2026, a federal judge sentenced 24-year-old Denis Adelin Ionescu, of Drobeta-Turnu Severin, Romania, to 46 months in prison, and 33-year-old Ioan Victor Stanciu, also of Drobeta-Turnu Severin, to 24 months in prison. Ionescu previously pleaded guilty to possession of device-making equipment, while Stanciu pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit access device fraud. There is no parole in the federal system.
According to plea agreements and other court records, in March 2025, law enforcement began investigating the installation of a “skimmer” device on a point-of-sale terminal at a grocery store in Ozark, Alabama. Investigators quickly identified Ionescu and Stanciu, along with others, as suspects in the scheme.
A “skimmer” is an electronic device used to capture and store information from credit, debit, or Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards when they are swiped or inserted. After installing these devices, members of the conspiracy, including Ionescu and Stanciu, retrieved the skimmers and extracted stolen account information. The conspirators then used the compromised data to conduct fraudulent transactions, including unauthorized withdrawals and purchases.
Further investigation revealed that Ionescu and Stanciu were linked to additional skimming devices installed at retail locations in Dothan, Alexander City, Eufaula, Bessemer, Tuscaloosa, Gadsden, Mobile, Talladega, and Gulfport, Mississippi. In total, the conspirators placed 23 skimming devices at 12 separate locations.
Based on the volume of compromised card data, the intended loss was calculated at $1,794,978.36. The actual loss attributable to known fraudulent transactions was $50,978.36. The court ordered restitution in that amount.
A co-conspirator, Marian Catalin Matei, 24, also a Romanian national, previously pleaded guilty to possession of device-making equipment and is scheduled to be sentenced on May 21, 2026.
The United States Secret Service, Bessemer Police Department, and Ozark Police Department investigated the case, with Assistant United States Attorney Joel Feil prosecuting.
Three Western Pennsylvania Residents Charged with Robbery, Carjacking, Kidnapping, Firearms, Postal, and Narcotics Violations in Connection with Winter Crime SpreeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. – Three individuals from Greensburg, Pittsburgh, and West Mifflin, Pennsylvania, have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of federal robbery, carjacking, robbery, and violations of firearms, postal, and other laws, United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
The 14-count Indictment named Armoni Burton, 25, of Greensburg; Ausaun Porter, 22, of Pittsburgh; and Lawrence Strothers Jr., 21, of West Mifflin as defendants. Burton was arrested by agents with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives in downtown Pittsburgh on March 25, 2026, while the other defendants are currently detained on state charges.
According to the Indictment, the defendants committed a series of crimes from late-December 2025 through January 2026. On or about January 7, 2026, Burton and Porter are alleged to have carjacked a vehicle at gunpoint in White Oak and kidnapped its occupant, striking the victim several times, binding the victim’s wrists and ankles, threatening the victim, stealing marijuana from the victim, and using the victim’s cell phone to place at least one call to demand ransom for the victim’s release before they attempted to place the victim, bound, in a dumpster located in the Greenfield neighborhood of Pittsburgh. The Indictment charges Burton and Porter with kidnapping, conspiracy to commit kidnapping, carjacking, robbery, conspiracy to commit robbery, discharge of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime in relation to this incident.
Burton is additionally charged with the robbery of a postal delivery person on December 31, 2025, as well as possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, possession of stolen mail, and conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute marijuana on January 21, 2026. The Indictment further charges Porter with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and conspiracy to distribute marijuana on January 21, 2026. Strothers is charged with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon on January 21, 2026.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to life in prison, a fine of up to $1 million, or both for Burton; up to life in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, or both for Porter; and up to 15 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, or both for Strothers. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorneys Katherine C. Jordan and V. Joseph Sonson are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, United States Postal Inspection Service, Allegheny County Police Department, and Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Three Men Sentenced to Prison in Multimillion Dollar Tax Refund Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
Three family members were sentenced today to prison following a jury trial that resulted in convictions for their roles in a multimillion-dollar tax refund fraud scheme. David Hunt was sentenced to 92 months in prison, his son Baylon Hunt was sentenced to 38 months in prison, and Baylon’s half-brother Corey Burt was sentenced to 94 months in prison for orchestrating a scheme to file tax returns in the names of purported trusts they controlled. A fourth family member who was also convicted at trial is scheduled to be sentenced in May.
According to statements made in court and evidence presented at trial, the Hunts, of Arlington, Texas, Burt, formerly of Long Beach, Mississippi, and another family member orchestrated a scheme to file tax returns in the names of purported trusts they controlled. In total, they sought more than $8.5 million in tax refunds that the trusts were not entitled to receive. As part of their scheme, Baylon Hunt and the other family member submitted additional fake documents to the IRS including falsified financial instruments and altered money orders. Even after receiving warning letters to discontinue their fraudulent submissions, they continued filing false returns and other documents with the IRS.
As a result of the scheme, the co-conspirators received over $1.7 million in fraudulent proceeds from the IRS, which they shared and used to purchase luxury goods, furniture, cryptocurrency, a Cadillac Escalade and a house in Mississippi.
All four defendants were convicted at trial of conspiracy to defraud the United States. David Hunt, Burt, and the other family member were also convicted of multiple counts of aiding and assisting in the preparation of false tax returns. Baylon Hunt was acquitted of two counts of aiding and assisting in the preparation of false tax returns.
In addition to the terms of imprisonment, the defendants were jointly ordered to pay $1,774,864 in restitution to the United States.
Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division and U.S. Attorney Ryan Raybould for the Northern District of Texas made the announcement.
IRS Criminal Investigation investigated the case.
Trial Attorneys Melissa Siskind and Daniel Lipkowitz of the Criminal Division’s Tax Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark McDonald of the Northern District of Texas prosecuted the case.
Texas Man Pleads Guilty to Participating in Online Neo-Nazi Group that Exploited Children into Producing Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
LOS ANGELES – A Texas man and convicted rapist pleaded guilty today to leading a child exploitation enterprise connected to an internet-based extremist group that entices and targets children into producing child sexual abuse material (CSAM) and images of self-harm.
Kaleb Christopher Merritt, 26, a.k.a. “eTerror,” of Spring, Texas, pleaded guilty to one count of engaging in a child exploitation enterprise.
Merritt is in federal custody in Los Angeles but also is serving a 33-year prison sentence in Virginia.
“Going after dangerous pedophiles is one of the top priorities of our office,” said First Assistant United States Attorney Bill Essayli. “This sick, perverted criminal led an effort to prey on vulnerable children through the internet. The only way to keep the public safe is to lock him up in prison for as long as possible, and that’s exactly what we will fight for at sentencing.”
“This guilty plea exposes the depravity of CVLT, a criminal enterprise that systematically targeted vulnerable children, coerced them into producing abuse material, and threatened to destroy their lives if they resisted,” said Assistant Attorney General for National Security John A. Eisenberg. “Merritt was one of the online administrators who made CVLT's monstruous machinery of child exploitation run. NSD thanks our law enforcement partners here and around the world whose work enabled the Department to bring these charges.”
“This guilty plea marks a significant step toward accountability for the actions of this network of predators,” said HSI Los Angeles Special Agent in Charge Eddy Wang. “HSI special agents uncovered this scheme through extensive investigation, analysis of electronic communication, and victim reporting to ultimately identify those responsible for this deplorable conduct.”
According to his plea agreement, Merritt was a member and leader of CVLT – pronounced “cult” – which was a group of individuals dedicated to the online sexual exploitation of children, primarily vulnerable girls. CVLT members, including Merritt, worked together online to entice and coerce children into self-producing CSAM and to engage in self-harm. CVLT members – Merritt included – hurt at least five minor victims.
CVLT consisted of multiple individuals, including Merritt and co-defendants Clint Jordan Lopaka Nahooikaika Borge, 42, a.k.a. “Whoops,” of Pahoa, Hawaii, Rohan Rane, 29, and Collin John Thomas Walker, 24, a.k.a. “Wrath,” of Bridgeton, New Jersey.
The purpose of CVLT’s child exploitation was to create an army of sadist followers. CVLT espoused neo-Nazism, nihilism, and pedophilia as its core principles, among others, and exposed children to material depicting and promoting these principles. This included repeated uses of Nazi symbols and language and the distribution of bondage, discipline, sadist, and masochistic (BDSM) and gore CSAM.
The defendants each joined the CVLT as early as 2020 and served as leaders of the group, including hosting servers, controlling membership and access, and directing and instructing victims during the creation of CVLT extortion videos and other materials.
Together, the defendants groomed and coerced numerous minors into self-harm by exposing them to violent and extremist content and extreme philosophies, such as neo-Nazism, nihilism, pedophilia, and anarchy.
Having degraded and groomed the children, the defendants would then knowingly employ, use, persuade, induce, entice, and coerce children to self-produce CSAM and self-harm.
United States District Judge Hernán D. Vera scheduled a January 7, 2027, sentencing hearing, at which time Merritt will face a mandatory minimum sentence of 20 years in federal prison and a statutory maximum sentence of life imprisonment.
Rane is in custody in France on CSAM-related charges pending extradition to the United States. Walker and Borge pleaded guilty in October 2025 and December 2025, respectively, to one count of engaging in a child exploitation enterprise and are expected to be sentenced in the coming months. They remain in federal custody.
Homeland Security Investigations, the Los Angeles Police Department, the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department, the Henry County Sheriff’s Office (Virginia), the Iowa State University Police, Police Nationale (France), the National Crime Agency (United Kingdom), the New Zealand Department of Internal Affairs, and EUROPOL are investigating this matter.
Assistant United States Attorney Kellye Ng of the Major Crimes Section and Justice Department Trial Attorneys Justin Sher and James Donnelly of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section are prosecuting this case.
This case is a part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
St. Petersburg Man Who Called in Threat to MacDill Air Force Base ChargedRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – Jonathan James Elder (35, St. Petersburg) has been arrested and charged by criminal complaint with using the telephone to make a threat to kill, injure, intimidate, or damage a building. If convicted, Elder faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison. United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement.
According to the complaint, Elder called MacDill Air Force Base on March 18, 2026, in the wake of the discovery of a suspicious package at MacDill Visitor Control Center earlier that week. When an operator at MacDill Air Force Base picked up the phone, Elder stated, “How did you like the surprise at the MacDill Visitor Center?” and then yelled “tick tick boom, it’s gonna be between your eyes.” He then hung up. This threat led to the closure of MacDill’s gates and required on-base personnel to shelter in place for approximately four hours.
Law enforcement later learned that just before this call, Elder called another phone number not affiliated with MacDill and stated:
Did you enjoy your pipe bombs at the front gate of MacDill...oh...is there anything else I can do for you...(unintelligible)...that’s why I said that you entitled little f*cking brat, now I told you if you try to f*ck with my meds again, I told you this last year, if you try to f*ck with my meds I will f*cking torture you, well you tried it again, so here you, you don’t learn, I will beat you in the face 10,000 times harder, you will get a pipe bomb that actually explodes in your f*cking face next time, f*ck you pigs.
Agents later located Elder in St. Petersburg and arrested him. He remains in federal custody.
A criminal complaint is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed a violation of the federal criminal laws, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
This investigation is being conducted by the FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force Tampa, which includes the Naval Criminal Investigative Service, the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office, and the St. Petersburg Police Department. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael J. Buchanan.
Criminal ComplaintSpringfield Man Pleads Guilty to Drug and Firearm OffenseRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Springfield, Mass. man pleaded guilty today in federal court in Springfield to possessing a firearm and cocaine possession and distribution.
Joshua Garcia, 26, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute cocaine and possessing a firearm if furtherance of drug distribution. U.S. District Court Judge Mark G. Mastroianni scheduled sentencing for June 15, 2026. Garcia was charged in March 2025.
Garcia possessed with the intent to distribute drugs and a firearm on Oct. 3, 2024.
The charge of possession with intent to distribute cocaine provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, a lifetime of supervised release and a fine of up to $1 million. The charge of possessing a firearm if furtherance of drug distribution provides for a sentence of up to life in prison, five years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Ted E. Docks, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in New England; and Colonel Geoffrey D. Noble, Superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police made the announced today. The case is being prosecuted by Todd E. Newhouse of the Springfield Branch Office.
South Bend Man Sentenced to 101 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Tony Horston, 36 years old, of South Bend, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Cristal C. Brisco after pleading guilty to possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime and being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Adam L. Mildred.
Horston was sentenced to 101 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release.
“A violent, armed, recidivist drug dealer is going to prison because the partnership of local law enforcement and federal agents interrupted his enterprise. We are safer because of their efforts,” Mildred said.
According to documents in the case, police executed a search warrant at Horston’s house and found about 2.8 kilograms of methamphetamine, about 51 grams of fentanyl, about $10,000 in cash, and three loaded firearms. Horston has multiple prior felony convictions including dealing cocaine, battery, resisting law enforcement, and unlawful carrying of a firearm, any of which prohibited him from possessing a firearm in this case.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with assistance from the Elkhart County Interdiction and Covert Enforcement Unit and the Mishawaka Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Joel Gabrielse.
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.
Sacramento Man Charged with Being Felon in Possession of a Firearm as Part of Operation Take Back AmericaRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — A federal grand jury returned a one-count indictment today against Damarion Nash, 34, of Sacramento, charging him with being a felon in possession of a firearm, U.S. Attorney Eric Grant announced.
According to court documents, on Jan. 15, 2026, Nash was found in possession of a loaded Colt .45 caliber handgun. Nash is prohibited from possessing firearms because of prior felony convictions in Sacramento County including for attempted robbery, criminal threats, possession of a controlled substance in prison, and being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition.
The Sacramento Police Department conducted the investigation with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Brad Ng is prosecuting the case.
If convicted, Nash faces a maximum statutory penalty of 15 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Any sentence, however, would be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables. The charges are only allegations; the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations, and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
This case is also part of the Special Assistant U.S. Attorney program, a partnership between the U.S. Attorney’s Office and local District Attorney’s Offices. These attorneys remain employed by the District Attorney’s Offices but work on federal investigations and can prosecute cases in both state and federal court, strengthening efforts to combat transnational organized crime and violent crime in the region. Currently, the District Attorney’s Offices of Yolo, Placer, Fresno, and Sacramento Counties are participating. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Ng serves as a Deputy District Attorney in Sacramento County.
Rock Hill Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison for Transporting a Minor with Intent to Engage in Sexual ActivityRead the Press Release
COLUMBIA, S.C. — Dai Quan Matthew Felix, 27, of Rock Hill, has been sentenced to 10 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to transportation of a minor with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity.
Evidence obtained in the investigation revealed that Felix traveled with a 14-year-old girl from August 2024 through November 2024 through North Carolina and South Carolina. During that time, Felix engaged in sexual intercourse with the minor victim. Law enforcement recovered Felix’s phone, which contained sexually explicit videos of himself and the minor victim.
United States District Judge Mary Geiger Lewis sentenced Felix to 120 months imprisonment, to be followed by a 10-year term of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system. Felix will be required to register as a sex offender for life.This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC.
This case was investigated by the FBI Columbia Field Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lothrop Morris and Elle E. Klein prosecuted the case.###
Repeat felon convicted on drug charge by a federal jury going back to prisonRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Julio Perez, 65, of Rochester, NY, who was convicted of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, was sentenced to serve 144 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Charles J. Siragusa.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Matthew T. McGrath and Brandon N. Gonzalez, who handled the trial of the case, stated that in June 2024, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Perez’s residence, seizing approximately an ounce of fentanyl and nearly $10,000 in cash. The warrant was part of a large-scale narcotics trafficking investigation led by Homeland Security Investigations and the Ontario County Sheriff’s Office. Warrants were also executed at multiple locations in both Monroe and Ontario Counties. At the time the search warrant was executed, Perez was on supervised release following federal narcotics trafficking convictions in 2018 and 2002.
Perez was convicted of this latest charge by a federal jury in November 2025. With a third narcotics trafficking conviction, the Court determined that Perez is a career offender, resulting in an enhanced sentence.
The sentence is the result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Erin Keegan, the Ontario County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff David Cirencione, the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Kevin Sucher, and the Rochester Police Department, under the direction of Chief David Smith.
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Pittsfield Man Pleads Guilty to Child Pornography OffensesRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Pittsfield man pleaded guilty today in federal court in Springfield, Mass. to receipt and possession of child sexual abuse material (CSAM).
Benjamin Shacar, 39, pleaded guilty to 10 counts of receipt of child pornography and one count possession of child pornography. U.S. District Court Judge Mark G. Mastroianni scheduled sentencing for June 22, 2026. Shacar was charged by criminal complaint in March 2021.
According to charging documents, between August 2020 and March 2021, Shacar received and possessed CSAM. During a search of Shacar’s residence a thumb drive and laptop containing multiple files depicting CSAM were located. During an on-scene interview, Shacar admitted that he viewed and downloaded CSAM from the internet.
The charge of receipt of child pornography provides for a sentence of no less than five years and up to 20 years in prison. The charge of possession of child pornography provides for a sentence of up to 10 years in prison. Each charge also provides for at least five years and up to life of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based on the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Michael J. Krol, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in New England; Hampden County Sheriff Nicholas Cocchi; Colonel Geoffrey D. Noble, Superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police; and Pittsfield Police Chief Marc Maddalena made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney’s Neil Desroches and Thomas Barnico of the Springfield Branch Office 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 the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
Physician Sentenced to 15 Years in Federal Prison for Possessing and Distributing Thousands of Images of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
DETROIT – A physician from Capac, Michigan was sentenced yesterday to 15 years in federal prison after having pleaded guilty to distributing thousands of images of child pornography, announced United States Attorney Jerome F. Gorgon, Jr.
Gorgon was joined in the announcement by Special Agent in Charge William J. Shink, United States Secret Service.
Robert Glapinski, 62, of Capac, Michigan was sentenced by United States District Judge Linda V. Parker in Detroit.
According to court records, on March 5, 2025, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children received a cybertip from Google that a user had child pornography in a Google Chat. Some of the images included the sexual exploitation and abuse of prepubescent children. An investigation later revealed that the user was Robert Glapinski, a family medicine doctor who treated both adults and children. In chats, Glapinski talked about sexually abusing female children and sharing child pornography. On April 8, 2025, investigators from the United States Secret Service and Michigan State Police Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force executed a federal search warrant at Glapinski’s residence. Glapinski was present during the time of the search and admitted to viewing, receiving, and possessing child pornography. The examination of Glapinski’s electronic items found over 2,500 images and more than 150 videos of child sexually abusive material.
“The sexual abuse of children is among the most heinous types of crimes imaginable. But when such a terrible crime is committed by a physician – a person who has taken an oath to do no harm – the punishment must be severe,” said United States Attorney Gorgon.
Special Agent Shink stated, “This case highlights the effective partnership between the Secret Service, Michigan State Police and U.S. Attorney’s Office, to combat the online exploitation of children, through investigating and prosecuting those who perpetuate the victimization of minors by receiving, possessing, and distributing such heinous material.”
This case was investigated by special agents of the United States Secret Service and the Michigan State Police Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Tara Hindelang.
Phone Sex Operator Charged with Child Sexual Abuse Material OffensesRead the Press Release
Tampa, FL –Debra Jean Schilling (71, Largo) has been charged by indictment with receipt, distribution, and possession of child sexual abuse material (CSAM). If convicted on all counts, Schilling faces a maximum penalty of 60 years in federal prison. U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement.
According to the indictment and court proceedings, in her employment as a phone sex operator, Schilling received and distributed CSAM to her clients in furtherance of their sexual conversations. Additionally, she possessed CSAM on her iCloud account.
An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Abigail K. King.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in 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.justice.gov/psc.
Oneida County Man Pleads Guilty to Enticing and Coercing a Minor and to Receiving Child PornographyRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – John Secor, Jr., age 46, of Rome, New York, pled guilty on March 25, 2026, in federal court to enticing and coercing a minor and to receiving child pornography.
First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Erin Keegan, Special Agent in Charge of the Buffalo Field Office of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) made the announcement.
As part of his plea, Secor admitted that in May of 2025, he began chatting online with a 16-year-old Oneida County girl on Facebook who had explicitly told Secor her age. Secor’s chats with the child quickly became sexual in nature with Secor requesting that the child send him sexually explicit images and videos of herself, which she did. Secor also admitted that he arranged a meeting with the child during which Secor planned to engage in sex acts with the child.
First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III stated, “This defendant’s actions were calculated, predatory, and profoundly disturbing. He targeted a minor through Facebook, manipulated her, and sought to exploit her for sexual purposes. Let me be clear: anyone who engages in this kind of conduct will be aggressively investigated, prosecuted, and punished to the fullest extent of the law. Social media companies must also recognize their responsibility in preventing such exploitation on their platforms and take stronger, proactive measures to protect vulnerable users. I thank HSI and the New York State Police for their commitment to keeping our communities safe.”
“Secor has admitted to deeply disturbing and exploitative behavior toward a child, and after today’s plea, he faces decades in federal prison,” said Erin Keegan, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations Buffalo. “Homeland Security Investigations works every day to bring predators like Secor to justice. We hope that today’s guilty plea is a positive step forward for the victim and her family as they begin to heal and move forward.”
New York State Police Superintendent Steven G. James said, “This case underscores the very real and ongoing threat that online predators pose to our children. The defendant’s actions were deliberate, measured, and manipulative, targeting a vulnerable minor for exploitation. The New York State Police remain fully committed to working alongside our federal partners to identify, investigate, and hold accountable those who seek to harm children. We will continue to use every available resource to protect our communities and ensure offenders are brought to justice.”
The charge of enticement and coercion of a minor carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in federal prison and a maximum sentence of life. The charge of receipt of child pornography carries a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in federal prison and a maximum sentence of 20 years. Both charges carry a fine of up to $250,000, and a term of supervised release of at least five years and up to life.
Secor’s sentencing is currently scheduled for July 21, 2026, before Chief United States District Judge Brenda K. Sannes in Syracuse, New York. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statutes the defendant is convicted of violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors.
HSI and NYSP investigated this case, which is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Adrian LaRochelle as part of Project Safe Childhood.
Project Safe Childhood is a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the 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 https://www.justice.gov/psc.
OB/GYN Physician Agrees to Pay $507,500 to Resolve False Claims Act Allegations Connected to Fraudulent Prescription SchemeRead the Press Release
Baltimore, Maryland – A Maryland gynecologist agreed to a settlement in connection with federal False Claims Act violation allegations.
Valinda R. Nwadike, MD, agreed to pay the United States $507,500 to resolve allegations for her role in a telemarketing scheme designed to defraud Medicare and TRICARE.
U.S. Attorney Kelly O. Hayes announced the settlement with Special Agent in Charge Maureen Dixon, Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG), and Allison Russo, Department of Defense Office of Inspector General, Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS) – Mid-Atlantic Field Office.
In April 2023, the U.S. filed a complaint against Nwadike, alleging that she violated the False Claims Act. The U.S. contends that from November 1, 2014, through January 1, 2018, Nwadike created and signed thousands of fraudulent prescriptions for compounded drugs and durable medical equipment, such as knee braces, which TRICARE and Medicare ultimately paid for. Additionally, the U.S. alleges that Nwadike wrote and signed the prescriptions after a cursory phone call with the patient, but without physically examining the patient or reviewing their medical history. As a result of Nwadike’s role in the telemarketing scheme, the U.S. paid for thousands of medically unnecessary prescriptions for compounded creams and durable medical equipment.
“When physicians write prescriptions for medically unnecessary drugs and equipment, they abuse our federal health care programs,” Hayes said. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office continues to work with our partners at DCIS and HHS-OIG to hold fraudulent providers accountable. We’re committed to protecting taxpayer dollars using all available tools, including civil settlement.”
“Civil enforcement is an important approach to safeguarding the integrity of the Medicare program,” Dixon said. “This settlement demonstrates our commitment to ensuring that Medicare program dollars are only paid for services that are actually needed and appropriate for patients.”
“This settlement highlights DCIS’ unwavering commitment to protecting the integrity of TRICARE, the DoD’s primary health care program, and ensuring that taxpayer dollars are not wasted on fraudulent schemes,” Russo said. “Healthcare fraud is not a victimless crime. It directly harms the American taxpayer and undermines the efforts of honest healthcare providers who are dedicated to serving our military members and their families. The DCIS, along with our law enforcement partners, will continue to aggressively pursue those who seek to enrich themselves at the expense of our military healthcare system.”
U.S. Attorney Hayes commended HHS-OIG and DCIS for their work in the investigation. Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Matt Shea and Roann Nichols, who handled this case, along with Investigator Ann Thiel.
For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to report fraud, please visit justice.gov/usao-md and justice.gov/usao-md/report-fraud.
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Nine Charged in Benefit Fraud CrackdownRead the Press Release
BOSTON – Nine individuals have been charged in a coordinated federal crackdown on benefit fraud schemes that exploited stolen identities to steal hundreds of thousands of dollars in taxpayer-funded programs – including Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), MassHealth and Social Security benefits. Nearly $9 million in benefit fraud has been uncovered since December 2025.
The following defendants have been charged over the past nine weeks as part of the United States Attorney’s ongoing enforcement priority to investigate and prosecute benefit fraud involving federal and state assistance programs:- Juan Felipe Chalas, 58, a Dominican national unlawfully residing in Salem, N.H., was charged with making a false statement in a passport application, aggravated identity theft and unlawfully obtaining SNAP benefits;
- Efrain Rivera, 54, a United States citizen from Puerto Rico, living in New Bedford, Mass., was charged with unlawfully obtaining SNAP benefits, misuse of a Social Security number and aggravated identity theft;
- Danis Piron Lara, 51, a Dominican national unlawfully residing in Dorchester, Mass. was charged with aggravated identity theft, unlawfully obtaining SNAP benefits and making false statements relating to a health care program;
- Erpawi Roque Collado, 53, a Lawful Permanent Resident living in Boston, Mass. who was born in the Dominican Republic, was charged with unlawfully obtaining SNAP benefits;
- John Doe aka Wilkin Emilio Pimental Pereyra, 44, a Dominican national unlawfully residing in Boston, Mass., was charged with aggravated identity theft, theft of government benefits and unlawfully obtaining SNAP benefits;
- John Doe, an individual whose true identity is unknown, who was living in Hyde Park, Mass., was charged with unlawfully obtaining SNAP benefits, misuse of a Social Security number and aggravated identity theft;
- Mercedes Soto Capellan, 53, a Dominican national unlawfully residing in Lawrence, Mass., was charged with unlawfully obtaining SNAP benefits;
- Oscar Gonzalez Melo, 59, a Dominican national unlawfully residing in Boston, Mass., was charged with unlawfully obtaining SNAP benefits, making false statements related to health care benefits, making false statements related to Social Security benefits and aggravated identity theft; and
- Cruz Augusta Pena Arias, 58, a Dominican national unlawfully residing in Salem, Mass., was charged with making a false statement in an application for a United States passport, aggravated identity theft and unlawfully obtaining SNAP benefits.
As alleged, the defendants used stolen identities – often belonging to U.S. citizens from Puerto Rico – to obtain government-issued identification, including Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) credentials and, in some instances, U.S. passports, which were then used to apply for and receive public benefits.
In some cases, the defendants are alleged to have used stolen identities over extended periods of time – including one individual who allegedly lived under a stolen identity for more than 20 years. Certain defendants are further alleged to have obtained benefits across multiple programs, including SNAP, MassHealth and Social Security.
In multiple instances, the defendants allegedly provided stolen identities to law enforcement during prior arrests, and at least one defendant has a prior conviction under the same identity.
According to the charging documents, the alleged schemes resulted in approximately $943,197 in total losses to public assistance programs – including approximately $149,775 in SNAP benefits, approximately $776,715 in MassHealth benefits and approximately $16,707 in Social Security benefits.
The charge of unlawfully obtaining SNAP benefits provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000. The charge of aggravated identity theft provides for a mandatory two-year sentence to run consecutively to any other sentence imposed, one year of supervised release and a fine of $250,000. The charge of misusing a Social Security number provides for a sentence of up to five years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000. The charge of theft of government property provides for a sentence of up to 10 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000. The charge of making a false statement in an application for a United States passport provides for a sentence of up to 10 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000. The charge of making false statements relating to a health care program provides for a sentence of up to five years in prison, one year of supervised release and a fine of $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Michael J. Krol, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in New England; Amy Connelly, Special Agent in Charge of the Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General, Office of Investigations, Boston Field Division; Charmeka Parker, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Department of Agriculture - Office of Inspector General, Northeast Region; Nathan Hebert, Special Agent in Charge of U.S. Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service, Boston Field Office; and Roberto Coviello, Special Agent in Charge of the Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General made the announcement today.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mark Grady, Suzanne Sullivan Jacobus, David G. Tobin, Jennifer Zacks, Allegra Flamm, Eric Hawkins, Julissa Walsh and Aidan Lang of the Major Crimes Unit are prosecuting the cases.
The details contained in the charging document are allegations. The defendants are presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in the court of law.
Newcomb Man Charged with Child AbuseRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Newcomb man is facing federal child abuse charges after a young child in his care was found with extensive bruising and injuries consistent with repeated physical abuse.
According to court documents, on September 15, 2025, officers with the Navajo Police Department responded to a report from school personnel after a young child was found to have extensive bruising and injuries consistent with abuse. Medical personnel documented numerous bruises and welts across the child’s body in various stages of healing, including injuries with linear patterns consistent with being struck by an object.
At the time the child was residing in the household of Dominic Thomas Jabalera, 40, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, and was under his care at the time the injuries were discovered. Investigators spoke to Jabalera, who provided inconsistent explanations for the child’s injuries, initially claiming no knowledge of any harm and later attributing the injuries to accidents and other children in the household.
As the investigation progressed, forensic interviews and prior social services records revealed multiple earlier reports of suspected abuse involving the same household, including prior observations of unexplained bruising and disclosures of fear and physical harm.
Jabalera is charged with child abuse and will remain in third party custody pending trial, which has not yet been scheduled. If convicted of the current charge, Jabalera faces up to six 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 the Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jack Burkhead is prosecuting the case.
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
New Hampshire Man Sentenced for Illegally Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
PORTLAND, Maine: A Barrington, New Hampshire man was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Portland for illegally possessing a firearm and ammunition while being a felon.
Chief U.S. District Judge Lance E. Walker sentenced Jonathan Grant, 43, to 12 months and a day in prison to be followed by 2 years of supervised release. Grant pleaded guilty on November 17, 2025.
According to court records, in March 2025, Kittery Police Department officers responded to the Kittery Trading Post regarding a potential shoplifting incident. Police were directed to a group of males who had just left the store, one of whom was identified as Grant. Officers searched Grant’s jacket and located a .22 caliber pistol and a box containing 100 rounds of .22 caliber ammunition. Grant was prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition by virtue of prior felony drug convictions in New Hampshire.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case with the assistance of the Kittery 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. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
New Bedford Couple Pleads Guilty to Defrauding Clients of over $750,000 in Connection with Their Insurance BusinessRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A married couple from New Bedford pleaded guilty yesterday in federal court in Boston to a scheme to defraud individuals seeking insurance coverage through the couple’s business, BL Insurance Brokerage, LLC.
Brendan Lawler, 58, and Lisa Lawler, 46, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud. U.S. District Court Judge Myong J. Joun scheduled sentencing for July 22, 2026. The Lawlers were charged by criminal complaint in August 2025.
From March 2023 through March 2024, the Lawlers solicited and collected insurance payments from BL Insurance’s clients, which should have been paid to the clients’ insurance providers. Instead of paying the insurance companies, the Lawlers pocketed their clients’ payments and used the money for their own purposes. To conceal this theft of client funds and to keep their BL Insurance afloat to perpetuate the scheme, the Lawlers used incoming client funds to pay outstanding balances due to other clients’ insurers. The Lawlers also created and distributed certain insurance documents to clients that falsely suggested that the clients were insured. In total, through this scheme, the Lawlers defrauded at least 50 individuals or insurance providers and stole more than $750,000 from insurance providers, premium finance companies and hard money lenders.
Members of the public who believe they may be a victim of this case or have any relevant information related to this case are requested to please fill out the attached form to be contacted by a member of law enforcement: https://forms.fbi.gov/victims/BLInsuranceVictims/view.
The charge of conspiracy to commit wire fraud provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000, or twice the gain to the defendant or loss to the victim. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Ted E. Docks, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Massachusetts Division of Insurance and Insurance Fraud Bureau. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan Cleary of the Criminal Division is prosecuting the case.
Nevada Man Pleads Guilty to Second False Tax Return SchemeRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS - A Nevada man pleaded guilty today to wire fraud, aggravated identity theft and helping file false federal returns for clients just months after pleading guilty to related charges in a separate case.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Michael J. Moore, of Las Vegas, operated a tax and accounting business known as X Tax Pros that he used to promote an illegal tax avoidance scheme. Moore advertised X Tax Pros as being the “only” tax and bookkeeping company specializing in clients from the adult entertainment industry. From approximately August 2025 through October 2025, Moore promised clients he could file tax returns that would eliminate the taxes they owed to the IRS; in fact, the returns he prepared for clients typically resulted in large tax refunds that the clients were not entitled to receive. To carry out the scheme, Moore created fraudulent entries on his clients’ tax returns, including purported losses from business entities belonging to other clients. In most cases, the entities were either defunct or dormant and no longer filed tax returns. In exchange, Moore required his clients to pay him certain fees, often taken directly out of their tax refund. In just three months, Moore’s scheme caused a tax loss to the United States exceeding $250,000.
Moore executed the present scheme after he had already pleaded guilty to carrying out a virtually identical scheme, one that caused a tax loss of at least a $3.5 million, in a related Nevada case, United States v. Michael J. Moore, Case No. 2:25-cr-00225-JAD-NJK. While awaiting sentencing in that matter, Moore concealed his identity to avoid detection while continuing his fraudulent criminal conduct.
For his latest conduct, Moore pleaded guilty to wire fraud, aiding and assisting the filing of a false tax return, and aggravated identity theft. He is scheduled to be sentenced on July 16 and faces maximum penalties of 20 years in prison for wire fraud and three years in prison for aiding and assisting the filing of a false tax return. He also faces a mandatory minimum penalty of two years in prison for aggravated identity theft. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
First Assistant United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada and Acting Special Agent in Charge Jarom Gregory of IRS Criminal Investigation’s Phoenix Field Office made the announcement.
IRS Criminal Investigation is investigating the case.
Trial Attorney Patrick Burns of the Criminal Division’s Tax Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Richard Anthony Lopez of the District of Nevada are prosecuting the case.
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Nevada Man Pleads Guilty to Second False Tax Return SchemeRead the Press Release
A Nevada man pleaded guilty today to wire fraud, aggravated identity theft and helping file false federal returns for clients just months after pleading guilty to related charges in a separate case.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Michael J. Moore, of Las Vegas, operated a tax and accounting business known as X Tax Pros that he used to promote an illegal tax avoidance scheme. Moore advertised X Tax Pros as being the “only” tax and bookkeeping company specializing in clients from the adult entertainment industry. From approximately August 2025 through October 2025, Moore promised clients he could file tax returns that would eliminate the taxes they owed to the IRS; in fact, the returns he prepared for clients typically resulted in large tax refunds that the clients were not entitled to receive. To carry out the scheme, Moore created fraudulent entries on his clients’ tax returns, including purported losses from business entities belonging to other clients. In most cases, the entities were either defunct or dormant and no longer filed tax returns. In exchange, Moore required his clients to pay him certain fees, often taken directly out of their tax refund. In just three months, Moore’s scheme caused a tax loss to the United States exceeding $250,000.
Moore executed the present scheme after he had already pleaded guilty to carrying out a virtually identical scheme, one that caused a tax loss of at least a $3.5 million, in a related Nevada case, United States v. Michael J. Moore, Case No. 2:25-cr-00225-JAD-NJK. While awaiting sentencing in that matter, Moore concealed his identity to avoid detection while continuing his fraudulent criminal conduct.
For his latest conduct, Moore pleaded guilty to wire fraud, aiding and assisting the filing of a false tax return, and aggravated identity theft. He is scheduled to be sentenced on July 16 and faces maximum penalties of 20 years in prison for wire fraud and three years in prison for aiding and assisting the filing of a false tax return. He also faces a mandatory minimum penalty of two years in prison for aggravated identity theft. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
IRS Criminal Investigation is investigating the case.
Trial Attorney Patrick Burns of the Criminal Division’s Tax Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Richard Anthony Lopez of the District of Nevada are prosecuting the case.
Mississippi Man Pleads Guilty to Insider TradingRead the Press Release
United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Jay Clayton, and Assistant Director in Charge of the New York Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”), James C. Barnacle, Jr., announced today the filing of charges against, and the guilty plea of, GERARD RYAN in connection with his participation in a scheme to commit insider trading securities fraud based on material nonpublic information that RYAN obtained from a family member who worked at a Manhattan-based pharmaceutical company. RYAN pled guilty today before U.S. District John P. Cronan.
“As he admitted today, Gerard Ryan transformed confidential drug approval information into profits for himself and others,” said U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton. “Trading on stolen information harms both other market participants and the marketplace itself. SDNY’s Securities and Commodities Fraud Task Force will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to protect American markets and investors.”
"Gerard Ryan leveraged confidential information about the official announcement of a new pharmaceutical drug to make thousands of illegal trades before informing his associate to do the same," said FBI Assistant Director in Charge James C. Barnacle, Jr. "Ryan’s conduct undermined the integrity and fairness of our securities markets. The FBI does not tolerate those who use privileged details to disrupt our economic system to line their pockets with ill-gotten gains."
According to the allegations contained in the Information, other public court documents, and statements made during court proceedings:
Kadmon Pharmaceuticals was a biopharmaceutical company based in New York, New York that developed treatments for rare diseases and conditions, specifically therapies for autoimmune diseases, fibrotic conditions, and oncology. Rezurock was Kadmon’s flagship drug and was intended to treat chronic graft-versus-host disease, a serious complication that can occur after bone marrow or stem cell transplants. In or around 2021, Kadmon was seeking FDA approval for the drug. On July 16, 2021, Kadmon announced that the FDA had approved Rezurock.
Kadmon maintained the confidentiality of information around Rezurock and its FDA approval, and prohibited its employees from, among other things, disclosing confidential business information to third parties. A family member of RYAN, who worked at Kadmon in the summer of 2021 and was subject to these confidentiality policies, was warned that Kadmon’s ongoing engagement with the FDA was “HIGHLY CONFIDENTIAL” and that discussions about those activities should be limited only to within Kadmon.
Notwithstanding Kadmon’s confidentiality policies, in advance of the public announcement that the FDA had approved Rezurock, RYAN’s family member told RYAN material nonpublic information regarding Kadmon’s interactions with the FDA. RYAN used that information, which he knew had been improperly shared with him, to execute securities transactions. For example, on or about July 15, 2021, at approximately 5:58 p.m.—after the FDA had informed Kadmon that it had approved Rezurock, but before it had been publicly announced—RYAN spoke with his family member who worked at Kadmon. After the call, RYAN purchased thousands of shares of Kadmon.
RYAN also shared the material nonpublic information about the FDA announcement with an associate who traded on the basis of that information. On or about July 16, 2021—before the public announcement of the FDA approval—the individual that RYAN tipped purchased 2,250 shares of Kadmon. RYAN texted that individual the ticker symbol for Kadmon and RYAN’s “prediction” that Kadmon’s stock price would rise approximately 355%, to “$16.99” upon the FDA announcement. RYAN’s associate then sent a text message to RYAN, “What time is the news,” a reference to the non-public FDA approval, and RYAN responded with a shush emoji, “🤫” a reference to the nonpublic information he had shared.
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RYAN, 62, of Oxford, Mississippi, pled guilty to one count of securities fraud, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison.
Mr. Clayton praised the outstanding investigative work of the FBI.
This prosecution is being handled by the Office’s Securities and Commodities Fraud Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Nicholas W. Chiuchiolo, Peter J. Davis, and Sarah Mortazavi are in charge of the prosecution.
Minnesota Man Indicted for Filing False Tax ReturnsRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – An indictment was unsealed on Tuesday charging a Minnesota man with filing false tax returns and filing false claims for refunds collectively seeking more than $500,000 he was not entitled to receive.
According to the indictment, Philip Nelson Green, of Crookston, Minnesota, filed false individual income tax returns with the IRS for the years 2019, 2020 and 2021. Each of these tax returns reported one or more false items such as wage information, tax withholdings, and child and dependent care expenses. The indictment also alleges that Green filed a false second amended 2021 income tax return and a false 2022 income tax return, both of which sought more than $250,000 in tax refunds he was not entitled to receive.
Green made his initial court appearance Tuesday before U.S. Magistrate Judge Leo I. Brisbois of the U.S. District Court for the District of Minnesota. If convicted, Green faces a maximum penalty of three years in prison for each count of filing a false tax return and five years in prison for each count of filing false claims. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
U.S. Attorney Daniel N. Rosen for the District of Minnesota made the announcement.
IRS Criminal Investigation is investigating the case.
Trial Attorneys Daniel R. Glenn and Charles A. O’Reilly of the Department of Justice’s Criminal Division, Tax Section are prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Micronesian National Pleads Guilty to Failing to Register as Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Reynold Rodriguez, age 60, a Micronesian national, entered a guilty plea to one count of Failure to Register as Sex Offender, punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
The Indictment alleged that Rodriguez was convicted of Sexual Battery in the District Court of McCurtain County, Oklahoma, on September 9, 2024, and was required to register as a sex offender, and that from October 22, 2024, until July 23, 2025, Rodriguez failed to register and update his registration despite entering, leaving, or residing in Indian country, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma.
The charge arose from an investigation by the U.S. Marshals Service.
The Honorable D. Edward Snow, 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.
Rodriguez will remain in the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending sentencing.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Nicole Paladino and Emily Wittlinger represented the United States.
Mexican National Sentenced to 18 Months in Prison for Illegally Re-entering the United StatesRead the Press Release
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – An illegal alien has been sentenced for illegally re-entering the United States after deportation, announced Acting United States Attorney Catherine L. Crosby.
Felipe Omar Hernandez-Gonzalez, 36, and a citizen of Mexico, pleaded guilty in January 2026 to having been found in the United States after being deported. U.S. District Judge Annemarie C. Axon sentenced Gonzalez to 18 months in prison.
According to court records, Gonzalez was deported in April 2018, after he was charged with DUI and assaulting his girlfriend in Hoover in February 2018. Hernandez-Gonzalez came to law enforcement’s attention again in the summer of 2025 after he beat and choked his current girlfriend in Walker County, Alabama. Court records also revealed that, in September 2017, Gonzalez pleaded guilty to and was sentenced for assault of his four-month-old daughter. The baby was taken to Children’s of Alabama where she was diagnosed with a subdural hematoma from severe head trauma.
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 investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the Walker County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan Cross prosecuted the case.
Mexican Illegal Alien Sentenced for Illegally Reentering the CountryRead the Press Release
PORTLAND, Maine: A Mexican man was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Portland for reentering the United States after a prior removal.
Chief U.S. District Judge Lance E. Walker sentenced Edgar Mandujano-Aguilar, 37, to 12 months in prison. He pleaded guilty on February 5, 2026.
According to court records, on November 6, 2025, U.S. Border Patrol Agents encountered Mandujano-Aguilar after he requested assistance from the Oxford County Sheriff’s Office to return to his home country of Mexico. After agents arrived at the Sheriff’s Office, Mandujano-Aguilar stated that he was born in Mexico, was not a U.S. citizen, and did not have any authorization to be in the country. Records checks revealed that Mandujano-Aguilar had been previously deported multiple times from the U.S., including after he had been permitted to voluntarily return to Mexico. Mandujano-Aguilar has been previously convicted multiple times for unlawful reentry after prior removal.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection investigated the case with assistance from the Oxford County Sheriff's Office.
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.
Memphis Tax Preparer Indicted for Preparing False Returns and Witness TamperingRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – A federal grand jury returned an indictment today charging a Memphis woman with helping prepare false tax returns for clients and tampering with witnesses in the government’s investigation. U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant, for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the indictment.
According to the indictment: From at least 2018 through 2024, Selma Brinson, 64, owned and operated a tax preparation business that she used to report false items on clients’ tax returns to generate inflated tax refunds. Among other false items, Brinson allegedly reported false fuel tax credits and false claims for residential energy credits on client returns. She received hundreds of thousands of dollars in client fees in exchange for preparing returns.
After learning she was the target of a federal grand jury investigation, Brinson allegedly encouraged at least two of her clients to tell federal investigators they did not recall their interactions with her. Even after Brinson’s tax preparation business was expelled from the IRS’s electronic filing program, she allegedly instructed a family member to apply for a new electronic filing number and then used that number to continue preparing and filing false tax returns with the IRS.
Brinson is charged with 24 counts of aiding and assisting the preparation of false tax returns and two counts of witness tampering. If convicted, she faces maximum penalties of three years in prison for each count of assisting in the preparation of false tax returns and 20 years for each count of witness tampering. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) investigated the case.
Trial Attorneys Caroline Pearson and Max Willner-Giwerc, of the Department of Justice’s Criminal Division, Tax Section, are prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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For more information, please contact the Media Relations Team at [email protected]. Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office on Facebook or on X at @WDTNNews for office news and updates.
Massachusetts Man Pleads Guilty to Charges Related to the Attempt to Assassinate then-Cabinet Member Nominee Scott Bessent at the U.S. CapitolRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Ryan Michael English, 24, of South Deerfield, Massachusetts, pleaded guilty today for charges related to the attempt to assassinate cabinet member nominee Scott Bessent, and carrying a dangerous weapon on the Grounds of the Capitol, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro.
English pleaded guilty before U.S. District Court Judge Rudolph Contreras to one count of unlawful receipt, possession, and/or transfer of a firearm and one count of carrying a firearm, dangerous weapon, explosive, or incendiary device on the grounds of the U.S. Capitol. Judge Contreras scheduled sentencing for August 14, 2026 at 10:00 a.m.
“Our system of justice depends on public officials being able to carry out their duties free from intimidation and fear,” said U.S. Attorney Pirro. “This defendant’s threats crossed a clear legal line, and today’s guilty plea reflects our commitment to protecting those who serve. Anyone who threatens violence against government officials will be identified, charged, and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”
Joining in the announcement was Chief Michael G. Sullivan of the U.S. Capitol Police.
According to court documents, about 3:12 p.m., on January 27, 2025, English approached a U.S. Capitol Police Officer near the South Door of the Capitol Building and stated “I’d like to turn myself in.” English further admitted to possessing a knife and two “Molotov Cocktails.”
Officers searched English and recovered a folding knife, as well as two improvised incendiary devices from the inside pockets of English’s jacket. The devices were constructed of 50 milliliter bottles of vodka with a grey cloth affixed to its top. Police recovered a green lighter from another pocket.
During the search, English allegedly confessed to being at the Capitol to kill a presidential nominee whose confirmation vote was scheduled that day before the U.S. Senate. Police recovered a note to a roommate in a pocket that said, in part, “This is terrible but I cant do nothing while nazis kill my sisters…Im so sorry for lying and plotting and lying.”
English admitted to traveling to the District of Columbia with the intention of killing a government official or burning down a think-tank based in Washington, D.C.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Capitol Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Brendan M. Horan, who is detailed to the U.S. Attorney’s Office from the United States Capitol Police, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Travis Wolf.
25-cr-00134
Mason City Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison for Conspiring to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
A man who conspired to distribute methamphetamine was sentenced today to 10 years in federal prison.
Victor Ineson, age 50, from Mason City, Iowa, received the prison term after November 24, 2025, guilty plea to one count of conspiracy to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine.
At the plea and sentencing hearings, Ineson admitted that between about April 2024 and continuing to December 2024, he and another utilized the “dark web” to purchase approximately three pounds of methamphetamine which was shipped to them from the U.S. Postal Service for further distribution in the Iowa area. Ineson was previously convicted in 2017 in federal court of manufacturing counterfeit currency.
Ineson was sentenced in Sioux City by United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand. Ineson was sentenced to 120 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a five-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system. Ineson is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Patrick T. Greenwood and investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Clear Lake Police Department, and the Cerro Gordo Sheriff’s Office.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 25-CR-03030.Follow us on X @USAO_NDIA.
Marshall man armed with Glock-switch sentenced to 100 months in federal prison for $100 robberyRead the Press Release
MARSHALL, Texas – A Marshall man has been sentenced to 100 months in federal prison in connection with a violent armed robbery in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.
Jaquallon Tyjuan Hargett, 20, pleaded guilty to Hobbs Act robbery and was sentenced to 100 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge J. Rodney Gilstrap on March 24, 2026.
According to information presented in court, on April 16, 2024, Hargett, armed with a pistol equipped with a machinegun conversion device, robbed an individual of $100 at an ATM in Daingerfield, Texas. A machinegun conversion device, also commonly referred to as a Glock-switch, is a small mechanism that can be attached to the rear of the slide of a firearm, converting a semi-automatic weapon into a fully automatic machinegun.
“This case demonstrates why we cannot, and we will not, allow Glock-switches to proliferate on the streets of East Texas,” said U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs. “This sentence, 100 months in prison for robbing $100 from a citizen of our community, shows that crime simply does not pay on our watch. Law enforcement conducted an excellent investigation that brought this criminal to justice. They have my sincere appreciation.”
“Protecting the communities we serve is fundamental to the mission of my agency,” said Daingerfield Police Chief Tracy Climer. “This successful investigation was accomplished through swift collaboration and dedicated investigative work.”
“ATF is proud to stand alongside our local, state, and federal partners in bringing this offender to justice,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Brian Garner. “This case highlights the real and growing danger posed by illegal machine gun conversion devices, which turn firearms into extremely lethal weapons. Through strong collaboration and determined investigative work, we were able to hold a violent offender accountable and make our communities safer. We will continue to prioritize cases like this to disrupt criminal activity and protect the public.”
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 investigated by the Daingerfield Police Department; Marshall Police Department; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; and Texas Department of Public Safety and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Dustin Farahnak.
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Man Pleads Guilty to Participating in Online Neo-Nazi Group that Exploited Children into Producing Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
A Texas man and convicted rapist pleaded guilty to leading a child exploitation enterprise connected to an internet-based extremist group that entices and targets children into producing child sexual abuse material (CSAM) and images of self-harm. Kaleb Christopher Merritt, 26, also known as “eTerror,” of Spring, Texas, pleaded guilty to one count of engaging in a child exploitation enterprise. Merritt is in federal custody in Los Angeles but also is serving a 33-year prison sentence in Virginia.
“This guilty plea exposes the depravity of CVLT, a criminal enterprise that systematically targeted vulnerable children, coerced them into producing abuse material, and threatened to destroy their lives if they resisted,” said Assistant Attorney General for National Security John A. Eisenberg. “Merritt was one of the online administrators who made CVLT's monstruous machinery of child exploitation run. NSD thanks our law enforcement partners here and around the world whose work enabled the Department to bring these charges.”
“Going after dangerous pedophiles is one of the top priorities of our office,” said First Assistant United States Attorney Bill Essayli of the Central District of California. “This sick, perverted criminal led an effort to prey on vulnerable children through the internet. The only way to keep the public safe is to lock him up in prison for as long as possible, and that’s exactly what we will fight for at sentencing.”
“This guilty plea marks a significant step toward accountability for the actions of this network of predators,” said Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Los Angeles Special Agent in Charge Eddy Wang. “HSI special agents uncovered this scheme through extensive investigation, analysis of electronic communication, and victim reporting to ultimately identify those responsible for this deplorable conduct.”
According to his plea agreement, Merritt was a member and leader of CVLT – pronounced “cult” – which was a group of individuals dedicated to the online sexual exploitation of children, primarily vulnerable girls. CVLT members, including Merritt, worked together online to entice and coerce children into self-producing CSAM and to engage in self-harm. CVLT members – Merritt included – hurt at least five minor victims.
CVLT consisted of multiple individuals, including Merritt and co-defendants Clint Jordan Lopaka Nahooikaika Borge, 42, also known as “Whoops,” of Pahoa, Hawaii, Rohan Rane, 29, and Collin John Thomas Walker, 24, also known as “Wrath,” of Bridgeton, New Jersey.
The purpose of CVLT’s child exploitation was to create an army of sadist followers. CVLT espoused neo-Nazism, nihilism, and pedophilia as its core principles, among others, and exposed children to material depicting and promoting these principles. This included repeated uses of Nazi symbols and language and the distribution of bondage, discipline, sadist, and masochistic (BDSM) and gore CSAM.
The defendants each joined the CVLT as early as 2020 and served as leaders of the group, including hosting servers, controlling membership and access, and directing and instructing victims during the creation of CVLT extortion videos and other materials.
Together, the defendants groomed and coerced numerous minors into self-harm by exposing them to violent and extremist content and extreme philosophies, such as neo-Nazism, nihilism, pedophilia, and anarchy. Having degraded and groomed the children, the defendants would then knowingly employ, use, persuade, induce, entice, and coerce children to self-produce CSAM and self-harm.
United States District Judge Hernán D. Vera for the Central District of California scheduled a Jan. 7, 2027 sentencing hearing, at which time Merritt will face a mandatory minimum sentence of 20 years in federal prison and a statutory maximum sentence of life imprisonment.
Rane is in custody in France on CSAM-related charges pending extradition to the United States. Walker and Borge pleaded guilty in October 2025 and December 2025, respectively, to one count of engaging in a child exploitation enterprise and are expected to be sentenced in the coming months. They remain in federal custody.
Homeland Security Investigations, the Los Angeles Police Department, the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department, the Henry County Sheriff’s Office (Virginia), the Iowa State University Police, Police Nationale (France), the National Crime Agency (United Kingdom), the New Zealand Department of Internal Affairs, and EUROPOL are investigating this matter.
Assistant United States Attorney Kellye Ng of the Major Crimes Section and Justice Department Trial Attorneys Justin Sher and James Donnelly of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section are prosecuting this case.
This case is a part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Man Admits Being Caught with MCD-Equipped Guns Three Times in St. LouisRead the Press Release
ST. LOUIS – A man caught three times with firearms equipped with devices that convert them into machine guns pleaded guilty Wednesday to gun charges.
Deverin Myers, 22, of University City, pleaded guilty to two counts of possession of a machine gun and one count of receiving a firearm while under indictment.
On Aug. 21, 2024, St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department detectives spotted Myers, who had a pistol equipped with a red machinegun conversion device (MCD) sticking out of his pocket, and other armed men in the 2900 block of James “Cool Papa” Bell Avenue. Myers was arrested and police recovered a Shadow Systems MR920 .40 S&W caliber pistol, loaded with 24 rounds of ammunition. Myers knew that he had an MCD, as he had arrested in possession of an MCD in 2023 and was charged in St. Louis Circuit Court with possession of an illegal weapon in 2024. An MCD converts a semi-automatic firearm into a fully automatic firearm.
On Aug. 18, 2025, SLMPD officers observed a blue Audi parked in front of a vacant property in the same block of James “Cool Papa” Bell Avenue. When officers approached, the vehicle sped off, violating stop signs and traffic signals. The Audi became disabled in the 3400 block of North 22nd Street and the driver and Myers ran away. Myers discarded a micro-Draco pistol as he ran, and officers later found a Glock 19 pistol equipped with an MCD and loaded with 35 rounds of ammunition in the same location. The Draco pistol had been bought five days earlier, after Myers was indicted and arraigned on the 2024 charge.
At sentencing, Myers faces up to 10 years in prison for the machine gun charges and up to five years in prison on the other gun charge.
The St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Szczucinski is prosecuting the case.
Lynn Man Charged with Receiving Stolen Government Money and Making False StatementsRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Lynn man was charged today in federal court in Boston with receiving stolen Social Security benefits and making false statements.
James C. Burdulis, 56, was charged with one count of receiving stolen government money or property and one count of false statements. Burdulis will make an appearance in federal court in Boston at a later date.
As alleged in the charging document, Burdulis received approximately $63,959 in stolen Social Security benefits from June 2019 through June 2025. Additionally, Burdulis allegedly submitted a fraudulent representative payee report to the Social Security Administration in June 2024. The charging document further alleges that Burdulis stated on the fraudulent report that he spent money received from the Social Security Administration on behalf of a beneficiary in 2023 and 2024, but that the beneficiary died several years earlier in 2019.
The charge of receiving stolen government money or property provides for a sentence of up to 10 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000, or twice the gross gain or loss, whichever is greater. The charge of false statements provides for a sentence of up to five years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000 or twice the gross gain or loss, whichever is greater. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Amy Connelly, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Social Security Administration, Office of the Inspector General, Office of Investigations, Boston Field Division made the announcement. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney James J. Nagelberg of the Major Crimes Unit is prosecuting the case.
The details contained in the charging document are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.Local Drug Trafficking Organization Dismantled by Joint Federal and State InvestigationRead the Press Release
Paducah, KY – On February 11, 2026, a federal Grand Jury in Paducah returned an Indictment charging four people with conspiring to distribute controlled substances in McCracken County.
U.S. Attorney Kyle G. Bumgarner of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Jim Scott of the DEA Louisville Field Division, Chief Brian Laird of the Paducah Police Department, Sheriff Ryan Norman of the McCracken County Sheriff’s Office, Commissioner Phillip Burnett, Jr. of the Kentucky State Police, U.S. Postal Inspector in Charge Lesley Allison of the Pittsburgh Division, Chief Jason Newby of the Hopkinsville Police Department, Chief Steve Bryan of the Madisonville Police Department, Sheriff Nicky Knight of the Calloway County Sheriff’s Office, and Nathan Kent of the Mayfield Police Department made the announcement.
According to court documents, federal and state partners have been investigating Demarlo Henderson, 41, of Paducah, Kentucky, and his drug trafficking organization (DTO), including Lafaeabeian Stingley, 54, of Hickory, Kentucky, and others for the past several months. Henderson has two prior federal convictions for trafficking in cocaine and is currently on federal supervision in the Western District of Kentucky. Between December 12, 2024, and January 18, 2026, the group obtained and distributed large amounts of cocaine in and around McCracken County. On January 8, 2026, federal search warrants were executed at numerous residences and locations in McCracken and Graves Counties. The search warrants resulted in the seizure of large amounts of cocaine, methamphetamine, and U.S. currency. On January 17, 2026, agents intercepted 2 kilograms of cocaine destined for the DTO. The investigation revealed that the cocaine had been ordered by the DTO from a source, identified as Toddriquez Bradley, 38, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Bradley has a prior federal conviction for trafficking in cocaine and is currently on federal supervision in the Middle District of Louisiana. On that date, Bradley sent a runner, Joseph K. Baker, 38, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana to deliver the drugs to the DTO. Baker was arrested when he arrived in Paducah with 2 kilograms of cocaine. Bradley was subsequently arrested in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.
Henderson was charged with one count of conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute cocaine, three counts of distribution of cocaine, and one count of possession with intent to distribute cocaine. Stingley was charged with one count of conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute cocaine, and one count of possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine. Baker and Bradley were each charged with one count of conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute cocaine and one count of possession with the intent to distribute cocaine. If convicted, Henderson faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 25 years in prison and up to life; Stingley faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison and up to life; Baker faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison and up to life; and Bradley faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years and up to life.
“Because of exceptional law enforcement work, large quantities of poison were seized before they hit the streets of Paducah,” said U.S. Attorney Kyle Bumgarner. “Now, our office will vigorously prosecute these defendants to finish the strong work started by investigators. Justice will be served.”
“This case highlights the tenacity of DEA agents and our law enforcement partners, who worked tirelessly for more than a year to shut down a source of supply for drugs flowing into Western Kentucky,” said Special Agent in Charge Jim Scott, head of DEA’s Louisville Field Division. “Mr. Henderson and his associates should expect to experience the full weight of our justice system for their efforts to poison our communities with illicit drugs.”
“The safety of our citizens is a top priority and this investigation demonstrates our commitment to the Paducah community,” said Paducah Police Chief Brian Laird. “Our partnership with the DEA, the U.S. Attorney's Office, and regional agencies is essential to these efforts. This collaboration stopped a significant amount of drugs from entering our community and is holding repeat offenders fully accountable for their actions.”
McCracken County Sheriff Ryan Norman stated, “When agencies come together to protect the public, good outcomes happen. This is a direct result of law enforcement officers being solely concerned with protecting our residents, our children, from these dangerous drugs. We have great cooperation in our area and it shows in the results.”
The defendants will make their initial appearances before a U.S. Magistrate Judge in the Western District of Kentucky at a later date. A federal district court judge will determine any sentences after considering the sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case is being investigated by the DEA Paducah Post of Duty with assistance from the Paducah Police Department, McCracken County Sheriff’s Office, Kentucky State Police, United States Postal Inspectors Service, Hopkinsville Police Department, Madisonville Police Department, Calloway County Sheriff’s Office, and Mayfield Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Leigh Ann Dycus, of the U.S. Attorney’s Paducah Branch Office, is prosecuting this 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.
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Land O’Lakes Woman Charged with Assisting After the Fact and Evidence Tampering Related to an Attempt to Detonate an Improvised Explosive Device at MacDill Air Force BaseRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – Ann Mary Zheng (27, Land O’Lakes) has been charged by indictment with assisting after the fact related to her brother, Alen Zheng, placing an improvised explosive device at the MacDill Air Force Base Visitor’s Center in Tampa and evidence tampering. If convicted on all counts, Ann Mary Zheng faces a maximum penalty of 30 years in federal prison. The indictment also notifies Ann Mary Zheng that the United States is seeking an order of forfeiture in the amount of $5,000, the proceeds of the charged criminal conduct. United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement.
According to the indictment, Ann Mary Zheng, knowing that her brother, Alen Zheng, had attempted to damage government property by fire or explosion, assisted him in order to hinder and prevent his apprehension, trial, and punishment. The indictment also charges Ann Mary Zheng with corruptly altering, destroying, mutilating, and concealing a 2010 black Mercedes-Benz GLK 350 with the intent to impair its integrity and availability for use in the federal prosecution of Alen Zheng.
An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
This case was investigated by the Joint Terrorism Task Force. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Lauren Stoia and David P. Sullivan.
IndictmentLand O’Lakes Man Charged for Attempting to Detonate an Improvised Explosive Device at MacDill Air Force BaseRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – Alen Zheng (20, Land O’Lakes) has been charged by indictment with attempted damage of government property by fire or explosion, unlawful making of a destructive device, and possession of an unregistered destructive device. If convicted, Zheng faces a minimum penalty of 5 years, up to 40 years, in federal prison. United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement.
According to the indictment and statements made in court, on the evening of March 10, 2026, Zheng unsuccessfully attempted to detonate an improvised explosive device at the MacDill Airforce Base Visitor’s Center in Tampa. Law enforcement later discovered the device, ensured it was safely disassembled, and determined it to be an improvised explosive device.
An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
This case was investigated by the Joint Terrorism Task Force. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Lauren Stoia and David P. Sullivan.
IndictmentKanawha County Man Sentenced to More than 21 Years in Prison for Federal Drug CrimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Tracey Brown, 46, of Chelyan, was sentenced today to 21 years and 10 months in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release, for distribution of 500 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing methamphetamine.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on or about December 12, 2023, Brown obtained approximately 17 pounds of methamphetamine in the Dayton, Ohio, area and transported the controlled substance to an Elkview, West Virginia, residence where he was living. Brown admitted that he distributed approximately 1 pound of the methamphetamine and intended to distribute the remaining methamphetamine with another person in the Southern District of West Virginia.
On December 13, 2023, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at the Elkview residence and seized the remaining methamphetamine.
Brown has a criminal history that includes more than 30 convictions for such offenses as malicious assault, assault, escape from work-release, destruction of property and multiple counts each of unlawful assault, battery, and violation of a protective order.
“The message should be loud and clear — if you traffic drugs in our community, we will identify you, arrest you, and hold you accountable,” said United States Attorney Moore Capito. “Thanks to the dedicated and professional police work by our law enforcement partners, Brown was prevented from distributing a massive amount of dangerous drugs in the Southern District of West Virginia.”
Capito made the announcement and commended the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office, and the U.S. Route 119 Drug Task Force for their investigation of this case. The U.S. Route 119 Drug Task Force consists of members of the Mingo County Sheriff's Office, the Logan County Sheriff's Office, the Boone County Sheriff's Office, and the West Virginia State Police.
Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney JC MacCallum and former Assistant United States Attorney Samuel D. Marsh prosecuted the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:24-cr-16.
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Justice Department Sues SeaWorld and Other Theme Parks over Wheeled Walker BanRead the Press Release
Today, the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida (collectively, the “Department”) filed a lawsuit against United Parks & Resorts Inc. and its subsidiaries (UPR), alleging UPR’s policy banning guests with disabilities from using wheeled walkers with seats, including rollators, violates Title III of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). UPR is a global theme park and entertainment company that owns, leases, or operates twelve parks and experiences in the United States, including SeaWorld Orlando, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, Discovery Cove Orlando, and Aquatica Orlando.
“The ADA requires equal access for people with disabilities, and theme parks such as SeaWorld are no exception,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “Under my leadership, the Division is committed to defending the rights of all Americans with disabilities, as the law requires.”
“The ADA requires theme park companies like UPR to provide guests with equal access, regardless of ability,” said U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe for the Middle District of Florida. “This complaint reinforces our commitment to holding public accommodations in the Middle District of Florida accountable when they engage in disability discrimination.”
The ADA prohibits discrimination based on disability by public accommodations, including UPR and its theme parks. The ADA requires UPR to permit individuals with disabilities to use manually powered mobility aids, including walkers, in areas open for pedestrian use.
The Department sued UPR based on complaints from many people with disabilities alleging UPR would not allow them to enter its parks with their wheeled walkers with seats. The lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Florida, alleges that UPR’s policy banning wheeled walkers with seats prevented children, veterans, and other individuals with disabilities from accessing the parks, facially violating the ADA. The civil complaint also alleges that UPR imposes impermissible surcharges on guests with disabilities in the form of rental fees and refuses to reasonably modify UPR’s policies, practices, or procedures, where necessary, to avoid discriminating against guests with disabilities.
The lawsuit seeks a court order to force UPR to stop discriminating against individuals with disabilities, to modify its policies to comply with the ADA, and to train its staff on the ADA. The lawsuit also seeks monetary damages to compensate aggrieved individuals subjected to UPR’s discrimination and demands UPR pay a civil penalty to vindicate the public’s interest in eliminating disability discrimination.
If you believe you have been a victim of disability discrimination by United Parks & Resorts Inc., including parks such as SeaWorld Orlando, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, Discovery Cove Orlando, and Aquatica Orlando, please file a complaint with the Civil Rights Division online at www.civilrights.justice.gov, or by calling the Department’s toll-free ADA Information Line at 1-800-514-0301 (1-833-610-1264 (TTY)). For more information on the ADA and the Civil Rights Division, please visit www.ada.gov or www.justice.gov/crt.