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25 September 2026
A McDuffie County man was sentenced to 10 years in prison for drug-related chargesRead the Press Release
AUGUSTA, Georgia: A Dearing man has been sentenced in federal court for distributing methamphetamine.
The sentences were imposed by U.S. District Court Judge J. Randal Hall and announced by Margaret E. “Meg” Heap, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Georgia.
Shawn Duwell Grier, 54, of Dearing, Georgia, was sentenced to 120 months in prison and a $2,500 fine followed by four years of supervised release after pleading guilty to Possession with Intent to Distribute 500 grams or more of Methamphetamine.
Grier’s co-defendant, Willie Miles, 80, of Augusta, was sentenced to five years of probation after pleading guilty to Possession with Intent to Distribute 50 grams or more of Methamphetamine.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court documents and testimony, investigators with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) initiated an investigation into the distribution of narcotics by Grier. With the assistance of the McDuffie County Sheriff’s Office, investigators conducted a search of Grier’s residence where large quantities of cocaine and methamphetamine were discovered.
Investigators determined that Grier would receive quantities of methamphetamine from a distributor in Atlanta, and on at least one occasion, he directed Miles to make the pick-up and delivery.
“Peddling dangerous narcotics inflicts profound harm on our communities, fueling addiction and undermining public safety,” said U.S. Attorney Heap. “Thanks to the dedicated, collaborative efforts of the DEA and the McDuffie County Sheriff’s Office, these individuals have been held accountable, and a significant supply of dangerous drugs have been permanently removed from our streets.”
“Methamphetamine distribution threatens the safety and well-being of our communities,” said Michael J. Connolly, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Atlanta Field Division. “This 10-year sentence represents accountability and is the result of law-enforcement officers working together to investigate and disrupt the illegal drug trade. We thank the McDuffie County Sheriff’s Office for their partnership and continued commitment to keeping dangerous drugs out of our communities.”
The DEA and McDuffie County Sheriff’s Office assisted in the investigation of this case and was prosecuted for the United States by Southern District of Georgia Assistant U.S. Attorney Kelsey L. Scanlon.
54-Year-Old Brentwood Man Sentenced to 25 Years in Prison for Producing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
OAKLAND - Zane Ishmael Covington was sentenced today to 25 years in federal prison for production, receipt, and possession of child pornography. U.S. District Judge Jon S. Tigar handed down the sentence.
Covington, a 54-year-old Brentwood resident, was charged by complaint on September 29, 2025, and subsequently indicted by a federal grand jury on October 30, 2025, for these charges. Covington pleaded guilty on June 5, 2026, to all counts charged in the federal indictment. According to the plea agreement, Covington admitted to producing visual depictions of sexually explicit conduct in May 2021 and February 2022, involving two minor victims, both of whom were under 5 years old and to whom he held a position of trust.
In addition, Covington received child pornography involving a minor younger than 10 years old in August 2025, and, beginning from an unknown date continuing through October 1, 2025, Covington possessed hundreds of videos and images of child pornography involving prepubescent minors and toddlers.
United States Attorney Craig H. Missakian and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) San Francisco Special Agent in Charge Jeffrey Brannigan made the announcement.
In addition to the prison term, Judge Jon S. Tigar also sentenced the defendant to a 10-year period of supervised release and ordered a $400 special assessment, forfeiture of electronic devices, and restitution in an amount to be determined on November 20, 2026. Covington remains in federal custody.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kelly I. Volkar is prosecuting the case with the assistance of Jessie Chelsea, Amala James, Andy Ding, and Yenni Weinberg. The prosecution is the result of an investigation by the HSI San Francisco, the Contra Costa County Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, and the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office.
**MEDIA ADVISORY: U.S. Attorney, FBI Announce Formation of Gator Task Force to Strengthen Resources in the Fight Against Violent Crime and Drug Trafficking in North LouisianaRead the Press Release
LAFAYETTE/SHREVEPORT - Zachary A. Keller, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Louisiana, and the FBI New Orleans Field Office, will host a press conference to announce the formation of Gator Task Force, a new initiative to combat violent crime and drug trafficking in North Louisiana.
The purpose of the Task Force is to surge resources alongside federal, state, and local partners, continue to proactively arrest violent criminals and fugitives, and increase the swift dismantling of violent gangs. Through this initiative, the U.S. Attorney’s Office and FBI, with their law enforcement partners, seek to aggressively restore safety in our communities.
WHEN: Monday, September 28, 2026, at 10:00 a.m.
WHERE: U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana
300 Fannin Street, Suite 3201
Shreveport, LouisianaMEDIA INSTRUCTIONS: • Members of the media should check in on the first floor with Court Security.
• Weapons may need to be secured in the lockbox.
• After checking in, proceed to the 3rd floor, check in at the front desk; proceed to library.
• Parking is not designated.The following officials are scheduled to speak: • U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller
• Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry
• FBI New Orleans SAC Jonathan Tapp
• ATF SAC Joshua Jackson
• Louisiana State Police Superintendent Colonel Frank Besson
• Shreveport Police Chief Wayne Smith
• Caddo Parish Sheriff Henry Whitehorn, Sr.
• Caddo Parish District Attorney James StewartIn addition to the agencies represented above, the following agencies also provide crucial assistance to operations initiated by the new Task Force:
Louisiana Attorney General’s Office
Drug Enforcement Administration
Sabine Parish Sheriff’s Office
Homeland Security Investigations
Louisiana Division of Probation & ParoleA link to FBI operational photos will be provided following the press conference.
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Event Contact: Ginger Green
[email protected]
(318) 676-3617 (office)
(318) 614-5240 (cell)Lesley Hill, Public Affairs - FBI
(504) 816-3274
[email protected]Public Affairs: U.S. Attorney's Office - WDLA
[email protected]
(337) 262-6704
24 September 2026
York Tax Preparer Sentenced to 18 Months in Prison in Bank Fraud Scheme for Submission of Fraudulent PPP Loan ApplicationsRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Dommonick T. Chatman, age 50, of York, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 18 months’ imprisonment to be followed by three years supervised release by Senior United States District Judge Malachy E. Mannion for one count of bank fraud in connection with numerous fraudulent Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan applications that were filed, with his knowledge and approval, through his business, The Chatman Group, LLC. Judge Mannion also ordered Chatman to pay $341,438.82 in restitution to the U.S. Government.
According to United States Attorney Brian D. Miller, Chatman previously pleaded guilty and admitted that over the course of several months in 2021, he either participated in preparing, or approved of another employee’s preparation of, fraudulent PPP loan applications for almost twenty different individuals. The total amount of funds requested in connection with such loans exceeded $400,000, and the amount disbursed in response to such applications was approximately $341,438.82.
To obtain a PPP loan, a qualifying small business was required to apply for it and provide information on its operations, including the number of employees and expenses. In addition, businesses generally had to provide supporting documentation.
Numerous applications filed through Chatman’s business were fraudulent because the applicants either did not have businesses that were in existence as of February 15, 2020, as required by the PPP rules, or did not have the income required to get a PPP loan for the amounts that they were requesting in their respective applications. Chatman admitted that he had prepared tax returns for a number of these applicants, as they were existing clients of The Chatman Group whom he knew personally. Chatman therefore knew that these clients’ applications were fraudulent.
Chatman also received approximately 5% of each individual loan, or about $1,000, for each loan application that his company filed. When an employee assisted in the processing of these applications, Chatman shared the proceeds with this employee.
Chatman also obstructed the government’s investigation by disposing of a handwritten list of the names of clients who had received PPP loan applications through his company.
The Fraud Section leads the Criminal Division's prosecution of fraud schemes that exploit the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). Since the inception of the CARES Act, the Fraud Section has prosecuted over 150 defendants in more than 95 criminal cases and has seized over $75 million in cash proceeds derived from fraudulently obtained PPP funds, as well as numerous real estate properties and luxury items purchased with such proceeds. More information can be found at Justice.gov/OPA/pr/justice-department-takes-action-against-covid-19-fraud.
The case was investigated by the FBI Philadelphia’s Capital Area Resident Agency and the U.S. Department of the Treasury, Office of Inspector General. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ravi Romel Sharma and K. Wesley Mishoe prosecuted the case.
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York Drug Trafficker Sentenced to Six Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Charles D. Smalley, age 44, of York County, Pennsylvania, was sentenced on September 22, 2026, to 72 months’ imprisonment by United States District Judge Jennifer P. Wilson for drug trafficking.
According to United States Attorney Brian D. Miller, Smalley was sentenced for his role in a drug trafficking ring that involved shipping kilogram quantities of methamphetamine to York, Pennsylvania. Smalley pled guilty to conspiring to distribute crystal methamphetamine.
The case arose from investigation of the drug trafficking operation of Jashan Moore, a/k/a
“Dream.” During this investigation, police intercepted a parcel containing over seven kilograms of methamphetamine destined for Smalley’s home. On June 5, 2023, the police delivered a parcel to the home and watched Smalley and Natasha Myers handle and then turn over the parcel to Moore.When imposing sentence, Judge Wilson highlighted Smalley’s criminal history and the seriousness of the offense. The judge also considered that Smalley was a fugitive for a year after he pled guilty. In March 2025, co-defendant Natasha Myers was sentenced to 40 months in prison. In December 2025, co-defendant Jashan Moore was sentenced to 186 months in prison.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the York City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael A. Consiglio is prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
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York County Man Indicted for Robbery Spree in YorkRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Clyde Fa, age 52, of York, Pennsylvania, was indicted by a federal grand jury for a string of robberies in York as well as firearms offenses.
According to United States Attorney Brian D. Miller, the indictment alleges that Fa committed five armed robberies and one attempted robbery of various businesses in York, Pennsylvania, between October 20, 2025 and December 12, 2025. The indictment also alleges that Fa possessed and brandished a Glock semi-automatic handgun during the robberies. Further, the Indictment also alleges that at the times he possessed the firearm, Fa was a convicted felon prohibited from possessing firearms.
The FBI Philadelphia’s Capital Area Resident Agency, the York City Police Department, and the West Manchester Township Police Department investigated the case. Special Assistant United States Attorney Mark Monroe is prosecuting the case.
Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. As a key component of Operation Take Back America, PSN serves a central role in the Department’s commitment to make our country safe. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities.
The maximum penalty under federal law for the offense of Interference of Commerce by Robbery is 20 years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. The maximum penalty under federal law for the offense of possession of a firearm in furtherance of interference of commerce by robbery is life imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. The maximum penalty under federal law for the offense of felon in possession is 15 years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. A sentence following the finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
Indictments and Criminal Informations are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
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Vermont Man Indicted for Distribution of Child Sex Abuse MaterialsRead the Press Release
CONCORD – Vermont resident Alexander Henry, 20, was indicted last week by a federal grand jury on one count of distribution of child sex abuse materials (CSAM), U.S. Attorney Erin Creegan announces. The defendant was arrested and first appeared in federal court in Vermont yesterday. He will appear in federal court in Concord, New Hampshire at a later date.
The charge of CSAM distribution carries a mandatory minimum sentence of five years and a maximum sentence of twenty years. 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. The details contained in the indictment are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Homeland Security Investigations is investigating this case with valuable assistance from the Newport Police Department and Vermont Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Christopher R. Mignanelli and Matthew Vicinanzo are prosecuting the case.
The case is brought as part of Project Safe Childhood. In 2006, the Department of Justice created Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better 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/.
Uzbek National Extradited to the United States to Face Charges for Providing Material Support to Foreign Terrorist OrganizationsRead the Press Release
Davud Ansariy, a citizen of Uzbekistan and naturalized citizen of the United States, also known as “Kozimjon Gafurov” and “Kozim,” will be arraigned in federal court in Brooklyn this afternoon before U.S. Magistrate Judge Lara K. Eshkenazi on an indictment charging him with one count of conspiring and one count of provision of material support to the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham (ISIS) and Al-Nusrah Front (ANF), both foreign terrorist organizations at the time of the charged conduct. Ansariy was extradited to the Eastern District of New York from Tbilisi, Georgia, on Sept. 23, where he was arrested in August 2026.
“After a decade on the run, Ansariy is back in the United States where he must answer to the charge that he supported two of the most ruthless terrorist groups in the world, ISIS and the al‑Nusrah Front,” said Assistant Attorney General for National Security John A. Eisenberg. “As alleged in the indictment, Ansariy ran a network that raised money, arranged travel, and paved the way for individuals who hoped to fight for these foreign terrorist organizations. We thank our partners, domestic and otherwise, for helping us to ensure that terrorists are apprehended wherever they hide.”
“More than a decade ago, the defendant fled the United States in an effort to evade justice for his extremely serious crimes,” said U.S. Attorney Joseph Nocella Jr. for the Eastern District of New York. “As alleged, the defendant facilitated an expansive network that sought to finance the travel of foreign fighters to wage violent jihad. His extradition and prosecution should serve as a reminder that our office and our law enforcement partners will work relentlessly to hold accountable those who would provide support to terrorists seeking to harm the United States. Ansariy will now face justice for his actions in a U.S. courtroom.”
“This individual allegedly raised funds to help two foreign terrorist organizations and left the U.S. before he could be held accountable,” said Assistant Director Jarod Brown of the FBI’s Counterterrorism Division. “The passage of years and geographic distance will not stop the FBI; we will find those who help foreign terrorist groups and work with our partners to see justice is served. The FBI is committed to finding networks set up to fund terrorist acts and will shut them down.”
According to court filings, Ansariy was the leader of a group of radicalized individuals based primarily in Brooklyn, New York, who planned to travel to Syria to become ISIS or ANF fighters, or who financed the travel of aspiring fighters. The government’s investigation uncovered an extensive financial support network that raised money for those seeking to travel to Syria to join and fight for foreign terrorist organizations. The network’s participants referred to the group as “chayxona,” an Uzbek word which translates to “tea house” or “tea party.” The group also raised money to help support the families that fighters left behind when they traveled to Syria, and to help support the widows and families of those who were killed fighting. As a result of these “tea party” collections, Ansariy and others funded the travel of at least three individuals to Syria in 2013. All three are believed to have been killed in Syria.
In May 2016, Ansariy departed the United States for Turkey on a one-way ticket that he purchased the previous day. His departure from the United States came five days after the arrest of one of Ansariy’s co-conspirators, on May 11, 2016. Since then, Ansariy has remained a fugitive. A federal grand jury in Brooklyn returned an indictment against the defendant in November 2021.
If convicted of the charges, Ansariy faces a maximum penalty of 35 years in prison.
The FBI investigated the case, with the assistance of the New York Police Department, New York State Police, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Port Authority Police Department, and the U.S. Marshals Service. The Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs, the FBI Office of the Law Enforcement Attache in Tbilisi and the Prosecutor’s Office of Georgia secured the arrest and extradition of Ansariy.
The government’s case is being handled by the Eastern District of New York’s National Security and Cybercrime Section. Assistant U.S. Attorney Lindsey R. Oken is prosecuting the case, with assistance from Trial Attorney Joseph Kaster of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Irisa Chen and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Douglas Pravda for the Eastern District of New York.
Uzbek National Extradited to the United States to Face Charges for Providing Material Support to Foreign Terrorist OrganizationsRead the Press Release
Davud Ansariy, a citizen of Uzbekistan and naturalized citizen of the United States, also known as “Kozimjon Gafurov” and “Kozim,” will be arraigned in federal court in Brooklyn this afternoon before United States Magistrate Judge Lara K. Eshkenazi on an indictment charging him with one count of conspiring to and one count of provision of material support to the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham (ISIS) and Al-Nusrah Front (ANF), both foreign terrorist organizations at the time of the charged conduct. Ansariy was extradited to the Eastern District of New York from Tbilisi, Georgia on Sept. 23, 2026 where he was arrested in August 2026.
Joseph Nocella, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, John A. Eisenberg, Assistant Attorney General for the Justice Department’s National Security Division, and James C. Barnacle, Jr., Assistant Director in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, New York Field Office (FBI) announced the charges and extradition.“More than a decade ago, the defendant fled the United States in an effort to evade justice for his extremely serious crimes,” stated United States Attorney Nocella. “As alleged, the defendant facilitated an expansive network that sought to finance the travel of foreign fighters to wage violent jihad. His extradition and prosecution should serve as a reminder that our Office and our law enforcement partners will work relentlessly to hold accountable those who would provide support to terrorists seeking to harm the United States. Ansariy will now face justice for his actions in a United States courtroom.”
Mr. Nocella expressed his appreciation to the Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs, the FBI Office of the Law Enforcement Attache in Tbilisi and the Prosecutor’s Office of Georgia which secured the arrest and extradition of Ansariy.
“After a decade on the run, Ansariy is back in the United States where he must answer to the charge that he supported two of the most ruthless terrorist groups in the world, ISIS and the al‑Nusrah Front,” stated Assistant Attorney General Eisenberg. “As alleged in the indictment, Ansariy ran a network that raised money, arranged travel, and paved the way for individuals who hoped to fight for these foreign terrorist organizations. We thank our partners, domestic and otherwise, for helping us to ensure that terrorists are apprehended wherever they hide.”
“Ansariy’s era as a fugitive from justice has come to an end after nearly a decades’ long search by the FBI and our partner agencies,” stated FBI Assistant Director in Charge Barnacle. “The FBI will not relent in its mission to protect the homeland, by rooting out extremists who support these violent terrorist organizations. By cutting off the stream of money overseas to ISIS and ANF, we weaken their network, and send a strong message to their followers: they can run, but they cannot hide from the FBI.”
According to court filings, Ansariy was the leader of a group of radicalized individuals, based primarily in Brooklyn, New York, who either planned to travel to Syria to become ISIS or ANF fighters, and/or who financed the travel of aspiring fighters. The government’s investigation uncovered an extensive financial support network that raised money for those seeking to travel to Syria to join and fight for foreign terrorist organizations. The network’s participants referred to the group as “chayxona,” an Uzbek word which translates to “tea house” or “tea party.” The group also raised money to help support the families that fighters left behind when they traveled to Syria, and to help support the widows and families of those who were killed fighting. As a result of these “tea party” collections, Ansariy and others funded the travel of at least three individuals to Syria in 2013. All three are believed to have been killed in Syria.
In May 2016, Ansariy departed the United States for Turkey on a one-way ticket that he purchased the previous day, just five days after the arrest of one of Ansariy’s co-conspirators. Ansariy did not return to the United States until his extradition. A federal grand jury in Brooklyn returned an indictment against the defendant in November 2021.
The charges in the indictment are allegations and Ansariy is presumed innocent until proven guilty. If convicted of the charges, Ansariy faces up to 35 years in prison.
The government’s case is being handled by the Office’s National Security and Cybercrime Section. Assistant United States Attorney Lindsey R. Oken is in charge of the prosecution and was assisted by Assistant United States Attorney Irisa Chen, Trial Attorney Joseph Kaster of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section, and former Assistant United States Attorney Douglas Pravda.
The Defendant:
DAVUD ANSARIY (also known as “Kozimjon Gafurov” and “Kozim”)
Age: 41
UzbekistanE.D.N.Y. Docket No. 21-CR-594 (WFK)
ansariy_indictment.pdf ansariy_detention_letter.pdfUnited States Recovers $375,000 in Fraud Proceeds from a Business Email Compromise ScamRead the Press Release
The United States District Court for the Northern District of Iowa entered a judgment Tuesday forfeiting to the United States roughly $375,000 in proceeds from a scam that targeted an Iowa business.
In a business email compromise scam, criminals impersonate a company’s executives or vendors to trick the company’s employees into transferring money or clicking a malicious link. Often, the criminals will use an altered email header or deceptively similar email address to make the company’s employee believe the email is from a trusted source. According to the FBI, these scams cost businesses more than $55 billion from 2013 to 2023.
In this case, the scammer impersonated the Iowa company’s vendors and instructed the employee to direct a payment to a scammer-controlled bank account. The Iowa company, thinking it was paying real invoices as instructed, sent payments in mid-2022 totaling more than $800,000 to the scammer’s account. From there, the scammer transferred the funds to other bank accounts to make it difficult to track the stolen money. Among other seizures, the United States seized $372,583.77 of the fraud proceeds from a Wells Fargo bank account belonging to Manuel and Ibrahim Hazim. The scammer deposited the fraud proceeds into the Hazims’ account with a series of checks indicating in the memo line that they were for a “Mack Truck,” “procurement,” and “payment.” The Iowa company reported the fraud to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center.
The Hazims claimed that they did not know about the scam and were therefore the rightful owners of the money. They claimed the money was from a currency exchange in which an unknown source would deposit dollars directly into the Hazims’ Wells Fargo account and they would then wire Nigerian currency to a Nigerian broker. Investigation showed that the Hazims did not own or sell a Mack Truck or engage in any other legitimate business transaction with the individual who deposited the funds.
The District Court found that the money was involved in a crime and was therefore subject to being forfeited. It also found that the Hazims had not sworn to the truth of their claims as required by the law and thus could not show that they were innocent owners. It ordered that the money be paid to the United States.
“Criminals continue to target Americans with email compromise scams,” said U.S. Attorney Leif Olson. “Protect yourself by examining the addresses of incoming emails for differences from previous emails. Follow up in person or by phone to make sure requests are legitimate, especially when someone asks you to change where to send payment. If you or your company are targeted by one of these scams, report it to your bank, to law enforcement, and to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center. We will use every available tool to track down scammers and recover the money they stole”
The Internet Crime Complaint Center is run by the FBI and serves as the country’s hub for reporting cybercrime. Visit www.ic3.gov for updated information regarding business email compromise scams as well as other cyber fraud schemes.
The case was handled by Assistant United States Attorneys Brandon J. Gray and Brian J. Keogh and investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
If you have information about money in or laundered through the United States that was involved in fraud, contact law enforcement or visit tips.fbi.gov.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl. The case file number is 23-CV-102.
United States Files Request to Intervene in Case Brought by X Corp. and Elon Musk Seeking to Annul Decision by European CommissionRead the Press Release
The United States filed an application to intervene in the captioned cases, X Internet and X Holdings v. Commission, Case No. T-114/26 and Musk v. Commission, Case No. T-121/26, before the General Court of the Court of Justice of the European Union (GCEU) in Luxembourg in support of the applications to annul the Dec. 5, 2025, Decision of the European Commission that found them liable for violations of the European Union’s Digital Services Act (DSA) and imposed a fine of €120,000,000 jointly and severally, based on “the total worldwide annual turnover of the single economic unit ultimately controlled by Elon Musk or that of X Holdings Corp.”
“The European Commission inappropriately attempted to expand its regulatory authority to reach American companies not present or operating within its jurisdiction,” said Assistant Attorney General Brett A. Shumate of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “We will not tolerate the European Commission engaging in regulatory overreach to try and control American engines of innovation and economic growth.”
Article 40 of the Statute of the Court of Justice of the European Union provides that a natural or legal person, including a State, may intervene in disputes before the Court where that person “can establish an interest in the result of the case to the Court.”
This is the first case challenging an enforcement action under the DSA to reach the General Court. The Department of Justice coordinated with the Department of State in preparing the intervention application, given the broad interest in protecting American companies from foreign extraterritorial enforcement action and the implications for U.S.-EU relations. The United States has a clear interest in ensuring that the effect of any judgment concerning the Commission’s Decision is consistent with how territorial jurisdiction is generally understood in international law, and does not otherwise prejudice, U.S.-headquartered digital services companies, which contribute significantly to the U.S. economy. The United States has significant concerns about the European Commission’s approach to determining who is the “provider” of digital services for the purposes of attributing liability under the DSA, and whether this approach is consistent with established principles and limitations on the appropriate reach of extraterritorial jurisdiction and the “corporate veil” principle, which is fundamental to the U.S. economic and legal system, and many others, which provides that that there is, in general, no entitlement to look behind the corporate structure in order to take action against shareholders. Critically, the Commission’s approach extended legal scrutiny to Mr. Musk himself as a private individual and implicated entirely separate and unrelated American corporate entities under his ownership, despite those entities having no connections to the digital services at issue.
If the approach in the European Commission Decision is upheld, this may have significant implications for “very large online platforms” and other similar entities operating in the digital services sector within the EU, many of which are domiciled (at parent level) within the United States. The United States looks forward to the opportunity to address these concerns and issues in detail before the General Court.
U.S. Postal Carrier Charged with Destroying Campaign MailersRead the Press Release
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – A federal grand jury has indicted a U.S. Postal employee for destroying U.S. mail, announced U.S. Attorney Phillip W. Williams Jr.
A one-count indictment filed in U.S. District Court charges Sekondi Watts, 43, Center Point, Alabama, with destruction of mail by a U.S. Postal employee.
According to the indictment, in April 2026, Watts destroyed a batch of campaign mailers for a candidate running for state Senate. The incident occurred in Shelby County, Alabama.
“This indictment reflects our commitment to protecting the integrity of our elections and the U.S. Mail, and we stand ready to prosecute anyone who interferes with fair and honest elections,” said U.S. Attorney Williams. “We appreciate the work of our law enforcement partners in investigating this matter.”
“With Election Day just around the corner, our office is on high alert and is committed to rooting out election integrity crimes in whatever form they take,” said Assistant U.S. Attorney and Election Crimes Coordinator Brett A. Janich.
The U.S. Postal Service-OIG investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brett A. Janich is prosecuting the case.
An indictment contains only charges. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
U.S. Attorney Ryan Raybould meets with Guatemalan leaders to strengthen joint efforts against cartel networksRead the Press Release
DALLAS — United States Attorney Ryan Raybould and Criminal Chief Fabio Leonardi of the Northern District of Texas traveled to Guatemala this week to expand cooperative efforts with Guatemalan justice‑sector partners to prosecute transnational cartels and disrupt the financial networks that support them.
During the visit, Raybould met with the President of Guatemala, the Attorney General, vetted investigative units, Guatemalan prosecutors and leadership from the FBI, Homeland Security Investigations and the Drug Enforcement Administration.
The trip focused on strengthening joint investigations targeting cartel money‑movement systems, including fraud networks, bulk‑cash operations, trade‑based laundering, cryptocurrency channels and other financial mechanisms that cartels use to move illicit proceeds across borders.
“Cartels are not just violent criminal organizations—they are global financial machines built to exploit international borders. And We will not allow those borders to protect them,’ said U.S. Attorney Ryan Raybould. “Our message is unequivocal: we will follow their money, expose their networks and work with our Guatemalan partners to bring every facilitator, broker and launderer to justice. If you move cartel money, we will find you.”
Officials emphasized that Dallas–Fort Worth is a critical choke point in cartel finance investigations due to its rapidly expanding financial sector, central transportation hub and concentration of federal agencies specializing in financial crime, cyber operations, cryptocurrency tracing and money‑laundering enforcement.
The Department of Justice and Guatemalan authorities reaffirmed their commitment to coordinated operations, expanded evidence sharing, and joint prosecution strategies targeting cartel financial infrastructures.
U.S. Attorney Aaron F. Reitz announces strategic priorities for Southern District of TexasRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – U.S. Attorney Aaron F. Reitz has issued strategic guidance outlining the Southern District of Texas’s law enforcement, prosecution, and investigation priorities, as well as the principles he expects to guide the office’s work.
See full text linked here and below:
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We all swore an oath to “protect and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies—foreign and domestic.” That’s our mission as a U.S. Attorney’s Office: to uphold the Constitution and Rule of Law against their enemies in federal court.
The survival of our republic depends on the foundation of a self-governing people. Written law—like the Constitution, Bill of Rights, and federal statutes—orders complex civilizations like ours. But that only works for a people who first rule themselves. Law-followers get freedom, peace, and independence. Law-breakers get the sword—removed from civil society and punished through swift, certain, and fair prosecution.
That’s where we come in: advancing the Rule of Law so that law-abiding individuals, families, and communities can flourish, free from the predations of criminals and criminality.
To that end, we will organize our resources, focus our efforts, and use our prosecutorial discretion in the aggressive pursuit of the following law-enforcement priorities.
PRIORITIES
- Enhance public safety
We will relentlessly reduce the violence that flows from gangs, recidivists, drug and human traffickers, and those with no respect for human life.
- Destroy transnational criminal and foreign terrorist organizations
We will hunt down cartels and other criminal enterprises that deal in drugs, women and children, weapons, and illegal aliens, and smoke out their networks of bosses, money launderers, stash houses, suppliers, and allies.
- Defend American sovereignty
We will secure our border and help deport and punish illegal aliens, whose very existence on American soil is criminal. We will protect the integrity of our elections. We will guard our institutions against foreign interference.
- Eradicate public corruption
We will hold accountable those in power who betray public trust through bribery, procurement or grant fraud, election crimes, and abuse of office.
- Protect the American taxpayer against fraud
We will ensure that taxpayer dollars are used only for their lawful intended purpose by prosecuting those who fraudulently steal funds or rig systems related to federal benefits, government contracts, natural disasters, and immigration.
CHARACTER
As we pursue these priorities, we will do so with the following character traits:
- Judgment
Understanding right and wrong, good and evil, and how to distinguish between them, weigh consequences wisely, and act with prudence.
- Justice
Giving to every person what he is owed, without fear or favor, in fidelity to law and truth.
- Integrity
Doing the right thing every time—aligning word, deed, and conscience so that our conduct in the dark is the same as in the light.
- Courage
Exercising the moral strength to do what is right despite danger, pressure, or personal cost in the pursuit of worthy objectives.
- Loyalty
Showing faithfulness to and solidarity with America’s founding principles, the Constitution and our Article II Executive Power role within it, the law, our oath, the Office, and your colleagues.
SDTX LEADS THE WAY
The Southern District of Texas is at the forefront of the most sophisticated federal law enforcement work in the nation. No other district has the combined diversity and complexity of scale, geography, population, coastline, economy, or border like we do. The sheer scope of SDTX means we carry a responsibility that no other district carries.
I intend for us to meet that responsibility. Together, we will drive the President’s and Attorney General’s law enforcement priorities harder, faster, more effectively, and more aggressively than any office in the country. The stakes here are higher than anywhere else. We must seek justice. And we must win. Duty demands it and the citizens of this district deserve nothing less.
Two Sisters Accused of Stealing from Federally Funded Tribal Housing EntityRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – Two sisters are accused of paying fake vendors with money from a federally funded housing entity serving Santa Ana Pueblo in order to collect most of that money back in cash.
According to the indictment and statements made in court, Tamaya Housing Incorporated is the tribally designated housing entity for Santa Ana Pueblo and receives federal funding from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Indian Housing Block Grant Program to provide affordable housing to Pueblo members.
At the time of the alleged offenses, Sharilene Jeff, 51, served as Interim Executive Director of Tamaya Housing Inc. and had access to the organization’s financial accounts as well as federal grant funds. At the time, Sandra Jeff, 58, served as the office manager. Sandra and Sharilene Jeff are sisters. According to public records, Sandra Jeff previously served as a member of the New Mexico House of Representatives.
From November 2021 through May 2022, Sharilene Jeff and Sandra Jeff allegedly conspired to cause Tamaya Housing Inc. to pay individuals for work they had not performed in exchange for those individuals returning most of the money to them in cash.
In April 2022, Sharilene Jeff allegedly caused approximately $50,000 to be transferred from Tamaya Housing Inc.’s bank account to an individual who had performed no work for Tamaya Housing Inc. Later that month, Sandra Jeff traveled to Las Vegas, Nevada, where she allegedly collected approximately $40,000 in cash from that individual.
The following month, Sharilene Jeff allegedly caused approximately $63,500 to be transferred from Tamaya Housing Inc.’s bank account to another individual and instructed the recipient to withdraw $40,500 in cash while keeping $23,000. According to the indictment, Sharilene Jeff later collected cash from that individual while attending a work conference in Seattle, Washington, and Sandra Jeff subsequently collected additional cash from that individual in Arizona.
The indictment further alleges that as part of the conspiracy the Defendants instructed recipients to withdraw cash in small amounts to avoid detection and to falsely claim that contracts existed with Tamaya Housing Inc. if questioned about the payments.
“Every dollar stolen from a federally funded housing program is a dollar that cannot be used to serve the families who depend on it,” said First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison. “These programs depend on the integrity of the people responsible for administering them, and allegations of theft undermine the trust that makes them work. We will work with our law enforcement partners to hold accountable those who divert federal resources for personal gain, regardless of the positions they hold.”
“Sharilene Jeff and Sandra Jeff’s alleged abuse of their positions by orchestrating a scheme to divert funds intended to provide affordable housing to Santa Ana Pueblo members in order to line their own pockets is intolerable,” said Special Agent in Charge Grant Permenter of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Office of Inspector General. “The funds entrusted to them were meant to provide a service for the vulnerable community members—not for personal gain. HUD OIG remains committed to working with our law enforcement partners to follow the money, expose fraud schemes, and hold accountable those who misuse federal funds and betray the trust placed in them.”
In addition to the conspiracy charge, Sharilene Jeff is charged with five other counts of theft from Tamaya Housing Inc., and Sandra Jeff is charged with two additional counts of theft from Tamaya Housing Inc. Each alleged theft is for property valued at $5,000 or more.
Sharilene Jeff is currently detained pending trial. Sandra Jeff is on release but under federal supervision pending trial. Trial has not yet been scheduled. If convicted, they both face up to 10 years in prison.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Special Agent in Charge Grant Permenter of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Office of Inspector General, made the announcement today.
The matter was investigated by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Office of Inspector General and the Santa Ana Pueblo Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jena Ritchey and Sean Sullivan are prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Two Defendants Sentenced to Prison for Bank Fraud Conspiracy, Aggravated Identity Theft, and Illegal Firearms PossessionRead the Press Release
MOBILE, AL – Two defendants were sentenced to 69 months and 40 months in prison, respectively, for conspiring to commit bank fraud involving stolen mail, aggravated identity theft, and illegal firearms possession.
According to court documents, EW Nelson, 39, of Coden, and Thomas William Peters, III, 45, of Irvington, participated in a conspiracy to commit bank fraud involving items stolen from the U.S. mail between March 2024 and May 2024. Nelson and Peters each pleaded guilty and admitted that they stole U.S. mail to obtain checks, credit cards, debit cards, money orders, and other personal identifying information of victims, which they used to generate counterfeited and forged financial instruments and commit fraudulent transactions to obtain illicit profits.
In April 2024, Peters and Nelson worked together to conduct several fraudulent transactions at banks in Tillman’s Corner and Theodore using stolen identifying information of mail-theft victims. Bank surveillance video captured Peters making the unauthorized transactions.
On May 9, 2024, a business in Mobile reported that a white Chevrolet Equinox had been captured on video stealing mail from the business. Three days later, Mobile County Sheriff’s Office deputies attempted to conduct a traffic stop of the Equinox, which Peters was driving. Peters led deputies on a high-speed chase, crashing the Equinox in a ditch in south Mobile County. Deputies arrested Peters and seized two loaded pistols, drug paraphernalia, several stolen checks, altered money orders, and deposit slips and receipts from the Equinox. Peters admitted that he illegally possessed the guns after having previously been convicted of several felonies, mostly theft and drug-related offenses. Peters also admitted to engaging in a fraud scheme with Nelson, who manufactured the counterfeited financial instruments that Peters fraudulently deposited at various banks.
On May 15, 2024, agents executed a search warrant at Nelson’s residence in Coden. There, agents located and seized stolen mail, driver’s licenses, debit cards, credit cards, and other evidence of fraud. Nelson admitted to agents that he stole mail and manufactured counterfeited checks. Evidence extracted from phones and laptops belonging to Nelson and Peters confirmed their extensive involvement in mail theft and bank fraud.
U.S. District Judge Kristi K. DuBose sentenced Nelson to serve 69 months in prison and Peters to serve 40 months in prison. In addition to the prison terms, the court ordered Nelson and Peters to pay $2,817.65 in victim restitution. Upon their release from prison, Nelson and Peters will each serve five-year terms of supervised release, during which time they will be subject to drug testing and treatment and credit restrictions. The court also ordered the defendants to pay a total of $500 in special assessments.
U.S. Attorney Sean P. Costello of the Southern District of Alabama made the announcement.
The United States Postal Inspection Service, the Mobile County Sheriff’s Office, the Mobile Police Department, and the Jackson Police Department investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Justin Roller prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States.
Two Accused of Using Homeless Persons to Cash Checks Stolen from the MailRead the Press Release
ST. LOUIS – Two men have been accused of recruiting homeless persons to cash checks at St. Louis-area financial institutions that had been stolen from the mail.
Eight people have been indicted in connection with the investigation and accused of depositing U.S. Treasury checks with a total value of $3.4 million and then withdrawing or attempting to withdraw the money. Samuel Stewart, 27, of St. Louis, was indicted May 6 on one count of conspiracy to commit bank fraud, five counts of bank fraud, ten counts of possession of stolen mail, eight counts of aggravated identity theft and nine counts of forging endorsement on Treasury checks. Royce Finger, 22, of Maryland Heights, faces one count of conspiracy to commit bank fraud, six counts of bank fraud, ten counts of possession of stolen mail, eight counts of aggravated identity theft and nine counts of forging endorsement on Treasury checks.
The final defendant to be arrested, David Sims, appeared in U.S. District Court in St. Louis Thursday for a detention hearing.
The indictment says that from as early as November 2024 through January 2026, Stewart and Finger received Treasury checks that had been stolen in Florida, Minnesota, California and Tennessee. They then created fraudulent driver’s licenses, U.S. passports and other identification documents so the checks could be cashed, the indictment says. The pair provided housing and clothing to their co-conspirators, the indictment says. They took them to the banks after coaching them so they could answer questions from bank staff about why the checks bore addresses in other states, the indictment says. The defendants told bank employees that they had recently moved to the St. Louis and provided fake utility bills and identification to bolster the lies, the indictment says.
Sims, 68, Jose Marti, 37, and Christopher Brown, 50, face various counts of all five charges. Cynthia Conner, 51, Ryan Ewald, 47, and Lisa Taca, 48, also face various counts of conspiracy to commit bank fraud, possession of stolen mail and aggravated identity theft. The indictment says they deposited the checks and withdrew the money.
In one example provided in the indictment, Stewart and Finger gave Sims a fake ID that he used to deposit a stolen $937,809 Treasury check. The defendants then caused the withdrawal of $597,890. On July 21, 2025, Stewart and Finger gave Sims a fake passport and a stolen $669,185 Treasury check, the indictment says. Sims later returned to the bank and withdrew $6,500.
The conspiracy and bank fraud charges are punishable by up to 30 years in prison, a $1 million fine or both prison and a fine. The forging charge is punishable by up to 10 years and the same fine. Possession of stolen mail carries a penalty of up to five years and/or a $250,000 fine and aggravated identity theft carries a mandatory two years in prison consecutive to any other sentence.
All defendants have appeared in court and pleaded not guilty. Charges set forth in an indictment are merely accusations and do not constitute proof of guilt. Every defendant is presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty.
IRS Criminal Investigations, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jolene Taaffe is prosecuting the case.
Three California Women Sentenced to Prison for Cross-Country Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that three Oakland, California women were sentenced by United States District Judge Keli M. Neary for their roles in a cross-country fraud scheme.
According to United States Attorney Brian D. Miller, Judge Neary recently sentenced Chartanae Ajanee Lovely, age 29, Davida Algie Fortenberry, age 30, and Laje Elise Ford, age 30, for their involvement in a years-long fraud scheme. All defendants were required to pay restitution and were sentenced as follows:
- On August 26, 2026, Ford was sentenced to 6 months in prison, 2 years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.
- On September 1, 2026, Fortenberry was sentenced to one year and one day in prison, 3 years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.
- On September 22, 2026, Lovely was sentenced to 18 months in prison, 3 years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.
The women pled guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud. They were caught in 2021 by members of the Susquehanna Township Police after they used stolen bank account information to buy gift cards at a Giant Food Store.
Investigators uncovered that Fortenberry, Lovely, and Ford had flown in that day from Oakland, California, to Pittsburgh where they rented a car and drove to five different Giant Food Stores across Central Pennsylvania. At the stores, they bought thousands of dollars in gift cards using the stolen bank account information. The stolen bank account information was from Middle Eastern banks, including Emirates NBD Bank, Gulf International Bank, and Saudi National Bank. Police also found that the women had flown to Pennsylvania two weeks before and did the same thing at Giant Food Stores in the Philadelphia area. Thereafter, investigators uncovered that Fortenberry, Lovely, and Ford had been a part of a multi-year fraud scheme doing similar conduct at retailers across the nation.
Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. As a key component of Operation Take Back America, PSN serves a central role in the Department’s commitment to make our country safe. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities.
The case was investigated by the United States Secret Service and the Susquehanna Township Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael A. Consiglio prosecuted the case.
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Texas Man Pleads Guilty to Attempting to Possess Contraband in PrisonRead the Press Release
JACKSON, MS – A Dallas man pleaded guilty today to Attempted Possession of Contraband in Prison.
According to court documents and statements made in open court, Guillermo Perez, 29, arranged for a large amount of marijuana and suboxone strips to be delivered, via drone, to the federal prison where he was incarcerated. Law enforcement officers stopped the delivery before it could be completed. Perez had previously been convicted of violent firearm offenses in Texas and was serving sentences for those convictions at the time of this offense. It is contrary to federal law for an inmate of a federal prison to attempt to possess contraband items, such as controlled substances.
He is scheduled to be sentenced on January 22, 2027, and faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison consecutive to the sentences he is already serving. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
U.S. Attorney J.E. Baxter Kruger of the Southern District of Mississippi; FBI Special Agent in Charge Robert A. Eikhoff; and BOP Director William K. Marshall III made the announcement.
The FBI is investigating the case.
Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael FiggsGanter and Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles W. Kirkham are prosecuting the case.
St. Louis Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison for Attempted Enticement of a Minor and Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – A St. Louis, Missouri man was sentenced on September 22, 2026, to 10 years in federal prison for attempted enticement of a minor and possessing child pornography.
According to public court documents and evidence presented at sentencing, on August 5, 2025, Bryan Nicholas Williams, 40, began messaging an undercover officer posing as a 13-year-old female about sex acts and requesting photos. Williams arranged to meet in Iowa City less than a week later and he was arrested. Williams's phone was seized and a forensic search revealed Willams used the device to receive, view, and possess images and videos containing child sexual abuse material.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Williams will be required to serve a seven-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. Williams was also ordered to pay $10,000 in restitution.
United States Attorney David C. Waterman of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. The Iowa City Police Department investigated the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the 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 https://www.justice.gov/psc.
Springfield Man Sentenced to Seven Years for Illegal Possession of FirearmsRead the Press Release
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Springfield, Mo. man was sentenced in federal court yesterday for being an unlawful user of a controlled substance while in possession of firearms.
Jayden Lamar Wright, 21, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Megan Blair Benton to 84 months in federal prison without parole and three years of supervised release. Wright pleaded guilty to two counts of unlawfully possessing firearms as a user of a controlled substance on April 9, 2026.
On Feb. 22, 2024, an agent with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) conducted a search of Wright’s vehicle after it was present at the scene of a double homicide and seized four semi-automatic pistols belonging to Wright. Wright admitted that he was an active user of marijuana.
On March 8, 2024, ATF agents observed Wright carrying a 9mm pistol with an extended magazine as he entered a gun show in Springfield. An undercover ATF agent approached Wright and negotiated the purchase of the 9mm pistol and a magazine. Investigators later observed Wright purchasing a new semi-automatic pistol and extended magazine at the gun show. That firearm was seized during a traffic stop along with a third firearm that Wright had purchased at the gun show.
A year later, police approached Wright in connection with another investigation. Wright fled but was detained shortly thereafter and was found to be carrying another firearm.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Alfredo De La Rosa and Jessica Eatmon. It was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Greene County, Missouri Sheriff’s Office, and the Springfield, M Police Department.
Project Safe Neighborhoods
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
South Portland Man Sentenced for Trafficking CocaineRead the Press Release
PORTLAND, Maine: A South Portland man was sentenced on September 22, 2026, in U.S. District Court in Portland for distributing controlled substances.
U.S. District Judge John A. Woodcock, Jr. sentenced Lynel Moultrie, 43, to 21 months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release. Moultrie pleaded guilty on March 12, 2026.
According to court records, in February and March 2024, an undercover agent with the Maine Drug Enforcement Agency posing as a drug runner purchased cocaine from Moultrie on at least three occasions. Those transactions were surveilled and recorded by law enforcement.
The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, the Maine Drug Enforcement Agency, the South Portland Police Department, and the Gorham Police Department investigated this case.
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Six Indicted on Drug-Trafficking Charges in Connection with Federal InvestigationRead the Press Release
Baltimore, Maryland – The U.S. Attorney’s Office announced, today, that six individuals face indictment stemming from a federal drug trafficking organization (DTO) investigation.George Robinson, 58, of Baltimore; Shane Green, 50, of Baltimore; Shawn Hearn, 53, of Baltimore; Cori Grant, 47, of Baltimore; Vanessa Dancy, 59, of Baltimore; and Angela Pugh-Smith, 61, of Dayton, Ohio, are charged with drug-trafficking crimes in connection with the federal investigation. The co-conspirators are all charged with conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute controlled substances while some of them face additional charges.
Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the indictment with Special Agent in Charge Cindy Marx, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) – Washington Division; Special Agent in Charge Jimmy Paul, FBI Baltimore Field Office; Clinton J. Fuchs, U.S. Marshal for the District of Maryland (USMS); and Commissioner Richard Worley, Baltimore Police Department (BPD).
According to the indictment, Robinson is also charged with three counts of possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance. Additionally, Grant, Green, Hearn, and Pugh-Smith are each charged with one count of possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance.
As revealed in court documents, in September 2025, the DEA began investigating the DTO after it learned about Robinson’s reputation as a well-known, large-scale drug supplier in Baltimore. Confidential sources informed law enforcement that Robinson owned numerous legitimate businesses that he used to launder money. Additionally, the confidential sources estimated Robinson obtained between 50 to 150 kilograms of cocaine at a time. One source also believed Robinson possessed heroin and/or fentanyl.
Then during the investigation, law enforcement observed that between October 2025 and May 2026, on six different occasions, Robinson received large drug shipments concealed inside steel structures. The steel structures were packed in crates that were loaded on flatbed trailers and delivered to two warehouses in Baltimore. Robinson then allegedly unloaded the drugs and concealed them inside these warehouses. Law enforcement also discovered that Robinson stored drug proceeds inside the crates and steel structures, loaded them onto flatbed trailers, and then shipped them to his drug supplier.
On May 6, law enforcement executed search warrants at Robinson’s residence, warehouses, laundromat, and other locations associated with DTO members. During the search, investigators seized more than 140 kilograms of cocaine; approximately 10 kilograms of fentanyl; smaller amounts of a variety of drugs; approximately $1.3 million; firearms; drug-packing paraphernalia; and dozens of cellular devices.
If convicted, the co-conspirators face a minimum of 10 years and a maximum of life in federal prison for all counts charged in the indictment.
Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge determines sentencing after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the DEA, FBI, USMS, and BPD for their work in the investigation, along with the Baltimore County Police Department and Washington County Sheriff’s Office, for their valuable assistance. Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys John W. Sippel, Jr., and Calvin Miner who are prosecuting this federal 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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Shreveport Man Charged in Violent Carjacking after Escape from Custody and Multi-Agency ManhuntRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT – On September 17, 2026, a federal criminal complaint was filed charging Tre'veon Jackson, 24, of Shreveport, with Carjacking with Serious Bodily Injury. Jackson was arrested by the United States Marshals Service in Marshall, Texas, and now faces federal charges in Shreveport. Jackson faces up to 25 years in federal prison for the charge.
“When dangerous offenders like Mr. Jackson escape from custody, it’s an all-hands-on-deck situation that requires federal, state, and local law enforcement working together to eliminate the threat. Our Office is proud to have sprung into action alongside our partners to bring federal charges against Mr. Jackson and coordinate with the United States Marshals Service, the FBI, and state and local partners to bring this offender back into custody,” said United States Attorney Zachary A. Keller. “This Office is grateful to all of our law enforcement partners, particularly the United States Marshals Service, for their exceptional diligence locating and apprehending Mr. Jackson. We look forward to seeing justice done in this case.”
“We don’t want to get into the specifics of the capture, but I will say that the United States Marshals Service has the most talented men and women in law enforcement today,” said United States Marshal Brian H. Barber. “This is what we train for, and this is what we do. When we got the call that there was a fugitive, our investigators and deputies were in pursuit within minutes. There was no way Mr. Jackson was getting away with the United States Marshals Service looking for him.”
According to court documents, on September 14, 2026, Jackson escaped from custody during a medical transport. Shortly after his escape, Jackson allegedly approached a man outside a hotel in Bossier City, violently assaulted him, and stole his vehicle. It is further alleged that Jackson then led law enforcement officers on a high-speed chase reaching speeds of over 110 miles per hour before crashing the vehicle and fleeing on foot. A multi-agency manhunt ensued, and Jackson remained at large for several days until he was finally located and arrested in Marshall. He is now in federal custody.U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.
The FBI, U.S. Marshals Service, the Bossier City Police Department, Marshall Police Department, Harrison County Sheriff’s Office, the Texas State Technical College Police Department, and the Texas Rangers investigated this case. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Allison Foster and Samuel Crichton, with assistance from Legal Assistant Emily Favrot.
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
This case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. As a key component of Operation Take Back America, PSN serves a central role in the Department’s commitment to make our country safe. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities. Learn more at www.justice.gov/psn.
You find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer. The case number for this matter is 5:26-mj-00233-01.
CONTACT: Public Affairs: [email protected]
United States Attorney’s Office: www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
X: @USAO_WDLA
Facebook: USAO_WDLA
(337) 262-6704Six Members of Local Criminal Organization Sentenced to Federal Prison for Drug Trafficking and Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
Six individuals were sentenced by Judge Brian A. Jackson for various charges, including firearm and drug trafficking offenses resulting from an investigation into a drug trafficking organization based out of Ascension Parish.
According to admissions made during their pleas, the defendants engaged in an extensive drug trafficking conspiracy where cocaine, fentanyl, methamphetamine, oxycodone, and heroin was distributed in the Middle District of Louisiana. Agents seized several hundred grams of substances containing fentanyl and cocaine, along with multiple firearms.
Leroy Miles, age 47, of Donaldsonville, Louisiana, was sentenced to 180 months in federal prison for conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances, possession of firearms and ammunition by a convicted felon, and possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Miles was further sentenced to serve four years of supervised release following his term of imprisonment and ordered the firearms and ammunition involved be forfeited.
James Miles, age 49, of Donaldsonville, Louisiana, was sentenced to 158 months in prison, and three years of supervised release for conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances.
Joseph Brown, age 39, of Donaldsonville, Louisiana, was sentenced to 92 months in prison, and four years of supervised release for conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances and distribution of heroin and fentanyl.
Marishell Ealem, age 40, of Donaldsonville, Louisiana, was sentenced to 80 months in prison, and 3 years of supervised release for conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances and distribution of heroin and fentanyl.
Corey Powe, age 57, of Donaldsonville, Louisiana, was sentenced to 60 months in prison for possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Powe was further sentenced to serve three years of supervised release following his term of imprisonment and ordered the firearms involved be forfeited.
Destiny Renee McBride, age 35, of Donaldsonville, Louisiana, was sentenced to 18 months in prison, and three years of supervised release for conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances.
U.S. Attorney Kurt L. Wall praised the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration, Baton Rouge Police Department, Iberville Sheriff’s Office, Gonzales Police Department, and Ascension Parish Sheriff’s Office, with critical assistance from Homeland Security and the Internal Revenue Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeremy S. Johnson led the prosecution.
“Every law enforcement agency throughout the Middle District is committed to eliminating these drug trafficking organizations,” Wall said. “The teamwork involved in this investigation is further proof that our Homeland Security Task Force is working.”
“Armed drug trafficking poses an immediate, dangerous threat to public safety,” said DEA Assistant Special Agent in Charge Keith Bakewell. “By leveraging the full strength of the Homeland Security Task Force and our local law enforcement partners, we systemically dismantled a Donaldsonville drug organization, stripping them of illegally possessed rifles, handguns, and lethal doses of fentanyl.”
These prosecutions are part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF New Orleans comprises agents and officers from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Homeland Security Investigations (HSl), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), and the United States Marshals Service (USMS), Us. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations (ICE-ERO), the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI), the United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), the U.S. Coast Guard, Investigative Service (CGlS), U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Office of Field Operations (CBP OFO), U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Us. Border Patrol (CBP BP) with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney's Office for Middle District of Louisiana.
Ruston and Monroe Men Sentenced for Methamphetamine DistributionRead the Press Release
LAFAYETTE – On September 18, 2026, United States District Judge David C. Joseph sentenced Charles Lamar Williams, 31, of Ruston, to 208 months in federal prison for Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine, followed by five years of supervised release, after his guilty plea on March 16, 2026.
The same day, Judge Joseph sentenced Cameron Donnell Brown, 35, of Monroe, to 48 months in federal prison for Distribution of Methamphetamine, followed by five years of supervised release. His guilty plea was entered on June 18, 2026.
WILLIAMS
According to court documents, on August 16, 2025, Williams possessed a large quantity of controlled substances inside a Ford Fiesta parked at an apartment complex in Ruston. Agents recovered 161.139 grams of pure methamphetamine, 85 grams of cocaine, 11.692 grams of cocaine base, 11 units of hydrocodone, approximately 984 grams of marijuana, 148 grams of synthetic marijuana, 34 fluid units of promethazine, and several units of bromazolam.
BROWN
According to court documents, on March 27, 2023, Brown visited a U.S. Post Office facility in Houston, Texas, and mailed a package containing over two kilograms of methamphetamine pills to individuals in Bastrop, Louisiana. Records show Brown knew what the pills were when he mailed the package and knew they were intended for distribution.
U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcements.
These cases were investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and United States Postal Service.These cases were prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Allison L. Duncan (Williams) and William Gaskins (Brown), with assistance from Legal Assistant Ginger Green and Paralegal Specialist Stephanie Stewart.
This prosecution was part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities.
You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.
Related court documents and information may be found under the following case numbers: 3:25-CR-00294-01 (Williams); and 3:25-CR-00206-02 (Brown).
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Cara Alexander: (337) 262-6704Roanoke Woman Indicted for COVID Fraud Scheme – Case Advances Fraud Division CrackdownRead the Press Release
ROANOKE, Va. – A Roanoke, Virginia woman, who allegedly obtained money from two separate COVID-19-era government programs and then lied on her taxes, was arraigned yesterday in federal court.
Jazmin Jennings, 38, was indicted September 3, 2026 on six charges of making false tax returns and fraudulently obtaining money from two separate COVID-19-era government programs.
According to the indictment, Jennings submitted tax returns for 2020, 2022, and 2023, which falsely underreported her income and did not disclose the operation of her home healthcare business.
The indictment further alleges that Jennings exploited the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), a COVID-19 relief program administered by the Small Business Administration (SBA) that provided forgivable loans to small businesses for job retention and other expenses. As relayed in the indictment, Jennings’s PPP application falsely reported her business’s gross receipts and claimed that the PPP funds would be used for authorized purposes. Jennings obtained her PPP loan with the help of Jameika Austin. Austin is currently serving 8 years in federal prison for her role in submitting over 100 fraudulent PPP loan applications that caused the disbursement of almost $2,000,000 in PPP funds.
Finally, the indictment alleges that Jennings also exploited pandemic unemployment benefits by falsely claiming that she was not employed, when in actuality she was employed through her business.
First Assistant United States Attorney Robert N. Tracci; Ian Kaufmann, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Richmond Division; and Kareem A. Carter, Special Agent in Charge of IRS – Criminal Investigation, Washington DC Field Office, made the announcement.
The FBI and IRS – Criminal Investigation are investigating the case.
Assistant United States Attorney Drew O. Inman is prosecuting the case.
On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division (“Fraud Division”). The Fraud Division is laser-focused on investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.
An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Repeat Drug Trafficker Sentenced to 15 Years in Federal Prison for Trafficking MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
TEXARKANA – A Danville, Arkansas man was sentenced yesterday to 180 months in federal prison, followed by 10 years of supervised release, for possessing with intent to distribute more than 500 grams of a mixture or substance containing methamphetamine—his second federal drug trafficking conviction. The Honorable Judge Susan O. Hickey presided over the sentencing hearing in the United States District Court, at Texarkana.
According to court records, on January 25, 2025, Christopher Brent Garner, age 42, was a passenger in a vehicle stopped by Arkansas State Police in Little River County, for having no visible license plate. During the traffic stop, the Trooper noted that Garner and the vehicle’s driver were both visibly shaking as they explained their recent purchase of the vehicle. While speaking to the pair from outside the vehicle, the Trooper observed items inside it that he recognized as indicative of methamphetamine use. The Trooper had Garner step out and patted him down for weapons. In doing so, the Trooper felt an object in Garner’s pants that he knew was consistent in size and shape with a glass methamphetamine pipe. After seizing the pipe, the Trooper asked Garner how much methamphetamine he had on his person. Garner said he wasn’t sure and allowed the Trooper to recover an amount of methamphetamine from his pants. Garner then told the Trooper there was an additional, larger quantity of methamphetamine hidden atop the vehicle’s spare tire. Upon lowering the spare tire, the Trooper found a box resting on top of it. Inside the box were two zipper baggies containing a total of 1.8 pounds of a mixture or substance containing methamphetamine. Garner told the Trooper that the driver did not know he had the drugs. Following Miranda warnings, Garner admitted he had intended to distribute that methamphetamine to customers in western Arkansas.
Garner previously served a 100-month federal prison sentence for aiding and abetting the possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute in the Court’s Fort Smith Division. (See W.D. Ark. Docket No. 2:13-CR-20014-001).
United States Attorney Kevin R. Holmes made the announcement. The Arkansas State Police, the Little River County Sheriff’s Department, and the FBI investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Graham Jones prosecuted the case for the United States.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the U.S. 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.
Related court documents may be found on the Public Access to Electronic Records website at www.pacer.gov.
Queens Resident Sentenced to 42 Months in Federal Prison for Vehicle Theft SchemeRead the Press Release
David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that LEI ZHOU, also known as “Lei Lei,” 43, of Flushing, New York, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge Sarala V. Nagala in Hartford to 42 months of imprisonment for offenses related to a series of vehicle thefts from a Greenwich car dealership utilizing personal information from identity theft victims.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Zhou and others used stolen personal and financial information and stolen or counterfeit identity cards from multiple identity theft victims to apply for loans to purchase or lease at least six luxury vehicles with a total value of more than $650,000 from a car dealership in Greenwich. They then transported the vehicles to New York and sought to resell them.
As an example, on October 4, 2022, Zhou, using a stolen identity, obtained $114,175.31 in financing to purchase a 2021 Chevrolet Corvette from the Greenwich dealership. Zhou also submitted a forged $14,000 check in the name of another identity theft victim as a down payment toward the purchase. He then transported the Corvette to New York for resale.
Most of the vehicles were repossessed before they could be resold.
Zhou has been detained since his arrest on August 30, 2024. On May 22, 2026, he pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit bank and wire fraud and one count of aggravated identity theft.
Zhou, a citizen of China and lawful permanent resident of the U.S., has a criminal history that includes convictions for menacing with a weapon, aggravated harassment, and attempted robbery, and a federal conviction in the Southern District of New York related to the trafficking of methamphetamine.
This matter has been investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with the assistance of the Greenwich Police Department and the New York City Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Elena L. Coronado.
Queens Man Found Guilty of Three Violent KidnappingsRead the Press Release
Abu Chowdhury was convicted today by a federal jury in Brooklyn of three counts of kidnapping and three counts of conspiring to kidnap. The convictions are in connection with the violent kidnappings of three victims (John Doe-1, John Doe-2 and John Doe-3) over a span of six weeks, from March 27, 2023 to mid-May 2023. The verdict followed a two-week trial before United States District Judge Nina R. Morrison. Prior to this trial, two additional trials were held in March and June 2026 for co-conspirators of the defendant. Specifically, on April 9, 2026, Iffat Lubna, Chowdhury’s then-girlfriend and now wife, was found guilty by a jury of kidnapping and conspiring to kidnap John Doe-2 and John Doe-3. On June 26, 2026, Syed Rubel Ahmed and Sultana Razia were found guilty by a jury of kidnapping John Doe-1. When sentenced, Chowdhury, Lubna, Ahmed, and Razia each face a maximum of life imprisonment.
Joseph Nocella, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York; James C. Barnacle, Jr., Assistant Director in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, New York Field Office (FBI); and Jessica S. Tisch, Commissioner, New York City Police Department (NYPD), announced the verdict.
“Today’s verdict holds the defendant accountable for the sadistic kidnappings and torture of three separate individuals,” stated United States Attorney Nocella. “The acts committed by the defendant, along with his co-defendants and co-conspirators, were brutal, senseless, and cannot be tolerated in a civilized society. Our Office is committed to investigating and prosecuting violent crime that endangers our community.”
Mr. Nocella expressed his appreciation to the Joint Violent Crimes Task Force, which is comprised of agents from the FBI and detectives from the NYPD, for their assistance with the investigation.
"Chowdhury’s role in three vicious kidnappings has come to light and the jury has found him guilty of barbaric crimes. Along with our partners at the NYPD, the FBI will continue the fight to apprehend these individuals, and bring them to justice. Americans deserve safe communities – not fear, violence, or lawlessness,” stated FBI Assistant Director in Charge Barnacle.
The March 27, 2023 Kidnapping of John Doe-1 in Jamaica, Queens
As proven at trial, over the course of approximately 13 hours on March 27, 2023, Chowdhury, Ahmed, Shahed Alom, Razia, Ruhel Choudhury, and another co-conspirator abducted and assaulted John Doe-1 in Jamaica, Queens. John Doe-1 had been walking in the vicinity of 181st Street and Hillside Avenue when Chowdhury forced him into a Honda SUV. Inside the SUV, Chowdhury began beating John Doe-1 as Ruhel Choudhury drove them around Queens. During the kidnapping, Chowdhury forced John Doe-1 to exit the SUV and filmed the victim standing naked in a residential neighborhood. His criminal co-conspirators communicated with Chowdhury via cellular telephone during the kidnapping, met Chowdhury at different points throughout the night, and took part in further beating and threats to kill John Doe-1. When John Doe-1 begged for water from the kidnappers, the kidnappers gave him water laced with a sedative. John Doe-1 lost consciousness and woke up in a local hospital with multiple injuries the day after he had been abducted. Ruhel and Alom pleaded guilty to their roles in the kidnapping and are awaiting sentencing.
The May 10, 2023 Kidnapping of John Doe-3 in Long Island City, Queens
As proven at trial, over the course of approximately three days, beginning on May 10, 2023, Chowdhury and Lubna lured and trapped John Doe-3 in Chowdhury’s car, tortured him, and shuttled him around various locations in Queens. John Doe-3 and Lubna were college classmates in Bangladesh who reconnected in 2023, after both had moved to the United States. Prior to his kidnapping, Chowdhury had asked John Doe-3 about Lubna’s reputation in college, and shared John Doe-3’s responses with Lubna. Chowdhury and Lubna were enraged by John Doe-3’s characterization of Lubna’s reputation and kidnapped him to punish him for the alleged smearing. While Lubna and Chowdhury kicked and struck John Doe-3 in the car, Chowdhury also called his other criminal partners to join him and Lubna in beating John Doe-3 behind a public school. They used weapons such as a rod and a knife to inflict pain on John Doe-3. They also tied him up and gagged his mouth. Chowdhury forced John Doe-3 to take a pill, which caused him to lose consciousness. Later during the kidnapping, Chowdhury and Lubna took John Doe-2 (discussed below) and John Doe-3 to a hotel room, where they told John Doe-3 that if he did not beat John Doe-2, Chowdhury would beat John Doe-3 again.
The May 11, 2023 Kidnapping of John Doe-2 in Jackson Heights, Queens
As proven at trial, over the course of approximately three days beginning on May 11, 2023, Chowdhury and Lubna abducted and assaulted John Doe-2. John Doe-2 had been waiting to meet Lubna outside a restaurant in the vicinity of 72nd Street and Broadway in Jackson Heights, Queens, for what he thought was a date when Chowdhury forced John Doe-2 into a minivan and began beating him. During the kidnapping, Chowdhury, Lubna, and Ruhel Choudhury took John Doe-2 to a hotel, where Chowdhury sexually assaulted John Doe-2 with a rod. Chowdhury also made a ransom call to John Doe-2’s father, demanding $20,000 for the victim’s safety. On the third day of the kidnapping, Chowdhury tied up and blindfolded John Doe-2, leaving him at an abandoned house. John Doe-2 was able to free himself by chewing through his restraints, breaking open a window and asking residents in the neighborhood to call 911. John Doe-2 was hospitalized for one week from his injuries.
* * * * *
The government’s case is being handled by the Office’s General Crimes Section. Assistant United States Attorneys Stephanie Pak, Vincent Chiappini, Joshua Tannen, John Vagelatos, Andrew D. Grubin and Erik Paulsen are in charge of the prosecution with assistance from Paralegal Specialist Katrina Batista.
The Defendants:
ABU CHOWDHURY
Age: 36
Jamaica, QueensIFFAT LUBNA
Age: 27
Jamaica, QueensSYED RUBEL AHMED
Age: 46
Jamaica, QueensSHAHED ALOM
Age: 32
Jamaica, QueensRUHEL CHOUDHURY
Age: 36
Jamaica, QueensSULTANA RAZIA
Age: 41
Woodside, QueensE.D.N.Y. Docket No. 23-CR-278 (S-2) (NRM)
Previously deported alien residing in Sacramento sentenced to 31 months in prison for illegally possessing firearms and illegal reentryRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Luis Eduardo Torres-Hernandez, 40, a Mexican national residing in Sacramento, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Daniel J. Calabretta to 31 months in prison for one count of being an unlawful alien in possession of firearms and one count of illegally reentering the United States after being previously removed, U.S. Attorney Eric Grant announced.
According to court documents, in September of 2024, undercover law enforcement agents found Torres-Hernandez in the Sacramento area when he sold them multiple sets of false identification documents, including Permanent Resident green cards and Social Security cards. On a subsequent date, agents recovered several firearms from his possession, including a Windham Weaponry 5.56 caliber rifle, a Ruger 9 mm caliber pistol and a Sig Sauer 9 mm caliber pistol. Torres-Hernandez is in the United States illegally and has been previously removed from the United States on multiple occasions, and is accordingly prohibited from possessing firearms.
Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Dhruv M. Sharma prosecuted the case.
On April 2, 2026, Torres-Hernandez pleaded guilty to the illegal firearms possession and reentry.
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.
Previously Removed Illegal Alien from Honduras Charged for Drug Trafficking and Immigration Crimes Following Undercover OperationRead the Press Release
SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – A federal grand jury in Salt Lake City returned an indictment charging a previously removed illegal alien from Honduras with drug trafficking and immigration crimes after agents recovered over 4,500 grams of fentanyl.
Francisco Antonio Rodriguez Raudales, 32, residing illegally in Salt Lake City, Utah, was initially charged by complaint on September 10, 2026.
According to court documents, on September 9, 2026, agents conducted a controlled purchase of fentanyl during an undercover operation from a known source of supply for a drug trafficking organization. At the controlled purchase location, Rodriguez Raudales allegedly removed a large bag of blue pills from a backpack that field-tested positive for fentanyl (1081.9 grams). As a result, Rodriguez Raudales was detained. In addition to the large bag of fentanyl, agents recovered a small bag of blue pills on Rodriguez Raudales (69.05 grams) which field-tested positive for fentanyl. During a search of Rodriguez Raudales’s apartment, agents recovered additional bags of blue pills that field-tested positive for fentanyl (2,318.79 grams), and a package of powder that field-tested positive for fentanyl (1,105.38 grams). In total, agents recovered 4,575.12 grams of fentanyl during the operation.
Rodrigez Raudales was previously removed from the United States on March 8, 2012, and December 13, 2023.
Rodriguez Raudales is charged with possession of fentanyl with intent to distribute, and reentry of a previously removed alie006E. A two-day jury trial is scheduled for November 24, 2026 at the Orrin G. Hatch United States Courthouse in downtown Salt Lake City.
United States Attorney Melissa Holyoak of the District of Utah made the announcement.
The case is being investigated jointly by the FBI Wasatch Metro Drug Task Force (WMDTF). Valuable assistance was provided by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Special Assistant United States Attorney Peter Reichman is prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Pensacola Felon Sentenced for Federal Gun & Drug OffensesRead the Press Release
Pensacola, Florida – Travis W. Carroll, 26, of Pensacola, Florida, was sentenced to five and a half years in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, possession of a firearm or ammunition by a convicted felon, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “Keeping dangerous, violent felons off our streets is absolutely imperative, and thanks to the excellent investigative work by the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office and our federal law enforcement partners, that is exactly what we have accomplished in this case. We will continue to aggressively prosecute these cases to deliver the safe, crime-free streets that our citizens deserve.”
Court documents reflect that law enforcement received reports of an armed robbery at the Beacon Food Store in Pensacola, Florida. Law enforcement responded to the scene and observed the defendant, who matched the description given of the armed robbery suspect, riding an electric bicycle nearby. The defendant, who is a convicted felon legally prohibited from possessing firearms, ran a stop sign and was pulled over. During the contact with the defendant, law enforcement located a loaded firearm, methamphetamine, a scale, and more than $600.00 in U.S. Currency on his person.
The case involved an investigation by the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Chris Patterson and Thomas S.P. Geeker.
Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. As a key component of Operation Take Back America, PSN serves a central role in the Department’s commitment to make our country safe. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities.
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl.
Northwest Arkansas Man Sentenced to More Than 12 years in Federal Prison for Firearms OffenseRead the Press Release
FAYETTEVILLE – A Fayetteville, Arkansas man was sentenced to 150 months in prison on one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. The Honorable Chief Judge Timothy L. Brooks presided over the September 23, 2026, sentencing hearing in the United States District Court in Fayetteville.
According to court documents, Steve Robinson, age 31, fled from the Arkansas State Police on January 29, 2026, when a trooper attempted to make a traffic stop on Robinson’s vehicle. During the pursuit Robinson jumped the curb near the intersection at Steamboat Drive in Fayetteville and drove into the IHOP parking lot. Robinson continued driving through a gas station parking lot at a high rate of speed and continued through a residential street eventually getting stuck in the snow. Robinson then fled on foot and was ultimately apprehended by officers, at which time a 9mm caliber pistol was located in his jacket pocket. Court records show Robinson has an extensive criminal history, including crimes of violence.
Unites States Attorney Kevin R. Holmes of the Western District of Arkansas made the announcement. The Arkansas State Police, Fourth Judicial District Drug Task Force, Springdale Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney David Harris prosecuted the case.
Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. As a key component of Operation Take Back America, PSN serves a central role in the Department’s commitment to make our country safe. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities.
Related court documents may be found on the Public Access to Electronic Records website at www.pacer.gov.
Neshoba County Man Sentenced for Possession with the Intent to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
Jackson, MS – A Neshoba County man was sentenced to 108 months in prison for possessing with intent to distribute methamphetamine, announced U.S. Attorney Baxter Kruger of the Southern District of Mississippi, Special Agent in Charge Robert A. Eikhoff of the Federal Bureau of Investigation made the announcement.
According to court documents, Jerithan Willis, 43, possessed with intent to distribute methamphetamine in the Pearl River Community of Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians Reservation.
In August of 2025, a federal grand jury indicted Willis for his role in the distribution of methamphetamine. On March 3, 2026, Willis entered a plea of guilty to the charge.
On September 23, 2026, Willis was sentenced to 108 months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release upon his release from prison. He was also fined $1,500.
The conviction was a result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Safe Trails Task Force which is comprised of officers from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Choctaw Police Department, Neshoba County Sheriff’s Department, and various state and local law enforcement agencies.
U.S. Attorney Kruger commended the work of the Safe Trails Task Force, the Neshoba County Sheriff’s Department, and the Choctaw Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Kevin J. Payne, Brian K. Burns, and Special Assistant United States Attorney Kalleigh McCoy.
Neshoba County Man Pleads Guilty to Causing a Head-On CollisionRead the Press Release
Jackson, MS – On September 18, 2026, Titan Xavier Steve, 22, pleaded guilty to involuntary manslaughter in a DUI crash that killed a grandmother and seriously injured her grandson.
According to court documents, on December 8, 2025, Steve caused a head-on collision in the Pearl River Community of the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians Reservation. It was later determined that Steve was under the influence of alcohol at the time of the crash. He was indicted by a federal grand jury in February of 2026.
U.S. Attorney Baxter Kruger of the Southern District of Mississippi, and Robert Eikhoff, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Jackson Office, made the announcement.
Steve is scheduled to be sentenced in January of 2027 and faces up to eighteen years in prison. A federal district judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The Choctaw Police Department and the FBI investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kevin J. Payne, Brian K. Burns and Special Assistant United States Attorney Kalleigh McCoy prosecuted the case.
Native and citizen of China accused of bilking an elderly victim out of $53,000 denied bond hearingRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Chun Yan, 42, a native and citizen of China, who entered the U.S. illegally from Mexico in 2023, has been denied a bond hearing as he awaits removal by the Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
According to court documents, on February 24, 2026, Yan traveled six hours from Brooklyn, NY, to the home of an elderly woman in Ogdensburg, NY, in the Western District of New York. The woman was falsely told that a federal agent was going to freeze her assets if she didn’t pay the Federal Trade Commission, so she handed over $53,000 in cash to Yan, who returned less than a month later in an attempt to take another $50,000 from the victim. On March 19, 2026, Yan was arrested by the Ogdensburg Police Department and charged with Grand Larceny in the Second Degree, Attempted Grand Larceny in the Second Degree, and Conspiracy in the Fourth Degree. After being released by local law enforcement the next day, Yan was arrested and detained by ICE and remains in ICE custody until he is removed from the United States.
In an attempt to obtain release, Yan filed an immigration habeas petition, stating that he “was randomly arrested by ICE.” U.S. District Judge Meredith A. Vacca denied his petition, citing the Laken Riley Act, which mandates detention for those arrested or charged with an applicable crime at the time of their immigration detention.
The case was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel B. Moar.
Mobile Man Sentenced in Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
MOBILE, AL – Montreal Leonta Anderson was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Kristi K. DuBose to 37 months in prison for Bank Robbery.
According to court documents, Montreal Leonta Anderson, 30, of Mobile, Alabama, entered a PNC Bank branch in Mobile on March 3, 2025. Anderson handed a teller a note demanding money. The teller activated the silent alarm, and officers with the Mobile Police Department quickly responded and took Anderson into custody. After serving 37 months in the Bureau of Prisons, Anderson will be on a supervised release term of three years.
U.S. Attorney Sean Costello of the Southern District of Alabama made the announcement.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Mobile Police Department investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica S. Terrill prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States.
Middleboro Man Arrested for Attempted Sex Trafficking of a ChildRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Middleboro, Mass., man has been arrested for allegedly attempting to sex traffic of a child.
Kenneth Berry, 45, was indicted by a federal grand jury in Boston on one count of attempted sex trafficking of a child. Berry was arrested yesterday and, following an initial appearance in federal court in Boston, was released on conditions.
According to the indictment, on or about June 12, 2026, Berry knowingly attempted to sex traffic a minor in Massachusetts.
The charge of attempted sex trafficking of a child provides for a sentence of no less than 10 years and up to life in prison, five years and up to a lifetime of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Ted E. Docks, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Massachusetts State Police, the Boston Police Department and the Brockton Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brad A. Rocheville of the Criminal Division is prosecuting the case.
The case is brought as part of Project Safe Childhood. In 2006, the Department of Justice created Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identity and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov/.
The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Michigan City Man Sentenced to 292 Months in Prison for Production of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Rodney McLean, 38 years old, of Michigan City, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to production of child pornography, announced United States Attorney Adam L. Mildred.
McLean was sentenced to 292 months in prison and 5 years of supervised release.
“Rodney McLean will spend the next 24 years in prison after he made videos of himself having sexual intercourse with a person under the age of 16. After another person located the videos and reported them to Michigan City PD, McLean was referred to the Homeland Security Investigations division and ultimately indicted and arrested. Child exploitation and production of child pornography cases are a parent’s worst nightmare. These offenses have life-altering, lasting impacts on victims and their families and require severe punishment to deter others from engaging in this heinous behavior. The United States Attorneys’ Office will use whatever resources at our disposal to aggressively prosecute these offenders and get justice for their victims.” Said U.S. Attorney Mildred.
This case was investigated by the Homeland Security Investigations with assistance from the Indiana State Police, Indiana State Police ICAC, the Mishawaka Police Department, and the Michigan City Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Andrew A. Krumwied and former Assistant United States Attorney Hannah T Jones.
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.
Michigan City Man Sentenced to 292 Months in Prison for Production of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Rodney McLean, 38 years old, of Michigan City, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to production of child pornography, announced United States Attorney Adam L. Mildred.
McLean was sentenced to 292 months in prison and 5 years of supervised release.
“Rodney McLean will spend the next 24 years in prison after he made videos of himself having sexual intercourse with a person under the age of 16. After another person located the videos and reported them to Michigan City PD, McLean was referred to the Homeland Security Investigations division and ultimately indicted and arrested. Child exploitation and production of child pornography cases are a parent’s worst nightmare. These offenses have life-altering, lasting impacts on victims and their families and require severe punishment to deter others from engaging in this heinous behavior. The United States Attorneys’ Office will use whatever resources at our disposal to aggressively prosecute these offenders and get justice for their victims.” Said U.S. Attorney Mildred.
“Protecting children from exploitation is among Homeland Security Investigations’ highest priorities,” said HSI Chicago Special Agent in Charge Matthew Scarpino. “This investigation reflects the determination of our special agents and law enforcement partners to uncover these offenses, safeguard victims, and hold offenders accountable. No child should endure this abuse, and HSI Chicago will continue to pursue every available lead to bring those who commit these crimes before the court.”
This case was investigated by the Homeland Security Investigations with assistance from the Indiana State Police, Indiana State Police ICAC, the Mishawaka Police Department, and the Michigan City Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Andrew A. Krumwied and former Assistant United States Attorney Hannah T Jones.
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.
Mexican National Charged with Illegal Voting in MidlandRead the Press Release
MIDLAND, Texas – A Mexican national was federally charged in Midland Wednesday for voting in a federal election, announced U.S. Attorney Justin R. Simmons for the Western District of Texas.
According to court documents, Imelda Magallanes, 51, was granted Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR) status in December 2010 and renewed her LPR card in 2023. Voting records from the Midland County Elections Office indicate that Magallanes first registered to vote in October 2020 using her Texas driver’s license as identification. Voting records also reveal that Magallanes voted in the November 2024 general election.
Magallanes is charged with one count of voting by an alien in a federal election. If convicted, she faces up to one year in federal prison and a fine not to exceed $100,000. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations is investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jacob Parker is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Memphis Man Sentenced to 9 Years in Federal Prison for Armed Robbery of RestaurantRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – Alonzo Frazier, 27, was sentenced to nine years in prison following his conviction for an armed business robbery in Memphis. United States Attorney D. Michael Dunavant, of the Western District of Tennessee, announced the sentencing today.
According to court documents, on January 9, 2025, officers with the Memphis Police Department responded to an armed robbery at Tim’s Chicken located at 3220 South Perkins Road in Memphis, Tennessee. Employees reported that a male wearing a black face mask, gloves, a dark colored hoodie, and dark shoes with green shoestrings entered the business armed with a tan and black handgun with a light attachment. Frazier forced the cashier to open the cash register at gunpoint. Frazier grabbed the entire cash drawer containing approximately $150 and ran out of the business.
Officers located Frazier walking nearby wearing a white short-sleeve undershirt in 32-degree weather, wearing dark shoes with green shoestrings, armed with a tan and black handgun with a light attachment. Frazier ran away from officers, but he was arrested after a short foot chase. Frazier told police, “I did it", and he had approximately $148 on his person. Frazier was later transported for questioning, and he gave a full confession to committing the robbery.
Frazier pled guilty on June 22, 2026 and was sentenced by United States District Judge Mark S. Norris on September 22, 2026 to 108 months’ federal imprisonment to be followed by three years of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant said: "Business owners and employees have a fundamental right to be safe from armed robbers who terrorize our communities with their lawlessness. The senselessness of gun violence has a long-lasting effect on victims of armed robbery, and we will no longer allow gun crime to rule our streets. This sentence sends a clear message that there will always be a reckoning, a real and significant consequence, for the commission of violent crimes."
"Alonzo Frazier made a deliberate choice to commit a crime, and that choice put innocent people's lives at risk," said Special Agent in Charge Terence G. Reilly of the FBI Nashville Field Office. "A business robbery is serious enough, but when a firearm is used, the danger to our community becomes even more profound. This sentence is a direct result of the hard work and dedication of the FBI Safe Streets Task Force in Memphis, and our partners at the Memphis Police Department. Their relentless efforts helped ensure that a violent offender was held accountable."
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Memphis Police Department's (MPD) Safe Streets Task Force.
Assistant United States Attorney Regina Brittenum prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States.
This case is part of the Safe Streets Task Force’s efforts to prosecute violent crimes in Memphis, Tennessee, and surrounding areas. This case is also part of the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime Initiative to prosecute violent crimes in Memphis, Tennessee, and surrounding areas. The Criminal Division and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Tennessee have partnered, along with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies, to confront violent crimes committed by gang members and associates through the enforcement of federal laws and use of federal resources to prosecute the violent offenders and prevent further violence.
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For more information, please contact our 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.
Mechanicsburg Man Indicted for Production of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Joshua Kenee, age 36, of Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania, was indicted by a federal grand jury for production and receipt of child pornography and coercion and enticement of a minor.
According to United States Attorney Brian D. Miller, the indictment alleges that in September 2022 and September 2025, respectively, Kenee enticed and coerced two minor victims to produce child pornography, and that he received multiple images of child pornography from those victims.
This matter was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations. Assistant United States Attorney Michael Scalera is prosecuting the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc.
The maximum penalty under federal law for these offenses is life in prison, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
Indictments are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
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Maryland Man Sentenced for Sexually Exploiting Ecuadorian MinorsRead the Press Release
Baltimore, Maryland – A federal judge sentenced a Maryland man, today, for sexually exploiting minor victims living in South America.
U.S. District Judge Brendan A. Hurson sentenced William Foster Alger, 76, of Hagerstown, to 138 months in federal prison, followed by lifetime supervised release, for coercion and enticement of a child. Alger pled guilty to the child sex-abuse charges in March 2026.
Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the sentence with Special Agent in Charge Akil Baldwin, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) – Maryland; Colonel Paul Joey Kifer, Chief of Police of the Hagerstown Police Department (HPD); and Gina Cirincion, State’s Attorney for Washington County.
According to court documents, between November 2023 and December 2024, Alger used mobile phones and online applications to persuade, induce, entice, and coerce three minor victims to engage in sexual activity. Alger paid the victims’ mothers, through Western Union payments, to send him images of the minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct.
The victims, who were ages 6 to 16 at the time of the exploitation, lived in Ecuador where Alger traveled to frequently. He eventually purchased land in Ecuador and built a residence. Alger’s iCloud account included numerous photos of him at his Ecuador residence with minor victims and their mothers.
This case is part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorney’s 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 justice.gov/psc. For more information about Internet safety education, please visit justice.gov/psc and click on the “Resources” tab on the left of the page.
Know2Protect is a Department of Homeland Security national public awareness campaign to educate and empower children, teens, parents, trusted adults and policymakers to prevent and combat online child sexual exploitation and abuse; explain how to report online enticement and victimization; and offer resources for victims and survivors and their supporters. Learn more about Know2Protect at www.dhs.gov/know2protect.
U.S. Attorney Hayes commended HSI, HPD, and the Washington County State’s Attorney’s Office for their work in the investigation. Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul E. Budlow who prosecuted the federal 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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Manager of Long Island Company Sentenced to 30 Months in Prison for Embezzling from Customer Credit AccountsRead the Press Release
Earlier today, in federal court in Central Islip, Tony Ream, also known as “Tony Ream-Hendley” and “Tony Moul Ream,” a former credit supervisor of a health care products and services company in Melville, New York, was sentenced by United States District Judge Sanket J. Bulsara to 30 months’ imprisonment for wire fraud. Over the course of four years, Ream sent wire transfers totaling approximately $1.6 million from the company’s bank account to a bank account that he controlled, and used those funds for his own personal gain. In addition to the prison term, Judge Bulsara ordered Ream to pay restitution in the amount of $1.6 million to the company, and a $1,000 fine. Ream had previously pleaded guilty to this crime in September.
Joseph Nocella, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, and James C. Barnacle, Jr., Assistant Director in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, New York Field Office (FBI), announced the sentence.
“The defendant profited by abusing the trust placed in him by his employer, but his lies and crimes caught up with him,” stated United States Attorney Nocella. “Today’s prison sentence gives the defendant ample time to reflect on his bad choices and how he will pay back the money he stole.”
“Tony Ream’s theft betrayed the trust of his employer and their customers out of selfish greed. The FBI continues to hold accountable fraudsters who utilize the wallets of unsuspecting clients to finance their personal purchases,” stated FBI Assistant Director in Charge Barnacle.
As set forth in court filings and statements made in court during plea and sentencing proceedings, Ream was employed by a company headquartered in Melville (the Company) that is a distributor of health care products and services, and serves as the world’s largest provider of health care solutions to office-based dental and medical practitioners worldwide. Ream was hired by the Company in 2019 to work in its credit department and became a credit supervisor. From approximately October 2020 through November 2024, Ream siphoned corporate funds from customer refund accounts, some of which were inactive, and diverted the funds to his own personal accounts, masking the fraud by recording each transaction as a refund that was issued to a customer. Ream also deceived his subordinates into unwittingly taking steps that facilitated his embezzlement scheme. In total, Ream embezzled approximately $1.6 million from the Company, which he spent on his wedding, luxury international vacations, and a failed restaurant venture in South Carolina.
The government’s case is being handled by the Criminal Section of the Office’s Long Island Division. Assistant United States Attorney Charles P. Kelly is in charge of the prosecution, with the assistance of Paralegal Specialist Samantha Schroder.
The Defendant:
TONY REAM (also known as “Tony Ream-Hendley” and “Tony Moul Ream”)
Age: 35
Greenville, South CarolinaE.D.N.Y. Docket No. 25-CR-179 (SJB)
Macon Man Guilty of Distributing Fentanyl and Meth with a Machine GunRead the Press Release
MACON, Ga. – A federal jury found a Macon resident guilty of armed drug trafficking, including distributing fentanyl and methamphetamine while in possession of a machine gun, resulting from an Operation Take Back America investigation.
Suspected fentanyl (purple substance in plastic bag) and marijuana belonging to Reese were seized on June 18, 2025, in Case 5:25-cr-00008, U.S. v. Reese.
“Families in our country are suffering from the tragic loss of loved ones due to fentanyl and drug overdoses. Brazen, armed criminals pushing the deadliest drugs into our communities will be found and brought to justice,” said U.S. Attorney William R. “Will” Keyes. “These cases are saving lives, and I am proud of the unwavering commitment of prosecutors and law enforcement at every level to disrupt the flow of these deadly drugs and ensure traffickers are held accountable.”
“This conviction holds a repeat offender accountable for distributing dangerous drugs,” said Michael J. Connolly, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Atlanta Field Division. “Fentanyl continues to devastate families and communities, and removing drug distributors from our streets is an important part of protecting the public. This case also demonstrates what can be accomplished through joint police work and cooperation among law-enforcement agencies. Together, we remain committed to working toward a Fentanyl Free America.”
“This conviction holds accountable an armed repeat offender who continued trafficking dangerous drugs, despite already facing federal drug charges. Drug trafficking doesn’t just affect those who use drugs; it impacts families, neighborhoods, and entire communities,” said GBI Director Chris Hosey. “This case began with a tip from a community member, demonstrating the important role the public plays in helping law enforcement identify and disrupt criminal activity. The GBI and our law enforcement partners remain committed to investigating those who threaten the safety of our communities and ensuring they are held accountable for their actions.”
“This conviction sends a clear message that those who bring dangerous drugs and illegal firearms into our community will be held accountable. Fentanyl, methamphetamine, and gun violence have taken far too much from too many families, and every time we remove these drugs and weapons from our streets, we have an opportunity to prevent another tragedy,” said Bibb County Sheriff David Davis. “I’m proud of the work of our investigators and grateful for the strong partnership we share with our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners. By working together, we are not only enforcing the law, but we are also protecting lives and making our community safer.”
“This case reflects the power of collaboration, especially as we continue to confront the threat of fentanyl that endangers countless lives,” said Warner Robins Police Chief Wayne Fisher. “The Warner Robins Police Department is steadfast in our commitment to work alongside our federal, state, and local partners to protect the safety of our community.”
Tony Jermaine Reese, 46, of Macon, was found guilty of one count of distribution of fentanyl; four counts of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl; three counts of distribution of methamphetamine; three counts of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine; one count of possession with intent to distribute cocaine; two counts of possession with intent to distribute cocaine base; one count of possession of a machine gun in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime; one count of illegal possession of a machine gun; two counts of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime; and three counts of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Reese faces a mandatory minimum of 40 years, with a maximum of life in prison. The trial began on Monday, September 21, and concluded on Wednesday, September 23, before U.S. District Judge Marc Treadwell in Macon. The Court will schedule the sentencing hearing for a later date. There is no parole in the federal system.
According to the filed indictment, court documents, and statements made in court, an anonymous community member tipped off Macon Crimestoppers in June 2023 about Reese dealing drugs from a shed located at Dottie Court in Macon. Working with a confidential source, law enforcement conducted controlled purchases of methamphetamine from Reese, who had multiple firearms in the shed and a camera surveillance system. Agents executed a search warrant in August 2023, finding methamphetamine and fentanyl, along with firearms.
Bag of fentanyl on table (l) seized in August 2023; the shed with the door open (r) is where Reese was trafficking illegal drugs in Case5:25-cr-00008, U.S. v. Reese.
On Aug. 24, 2023, Reese was taken into custody in Peach County in possession of fentanyl, methamphetamine, powder cocaine, crack cocaine, and other illegal drugs, along with a loaded Glock 17 handgun with an extended magazine and a switch converter attached, making the firearm an automatic weapon, or a machine gun. Agents found cellphones, unused plastic baggies and syringes, a digital scale, and $11,262 in the truck he was traveling in.
Machine gun, fentanyl, methamphetamine, and other drugs and items seized in August 2023 in Case 5:25-cr-00008, U.S. v. Reese.
Despite state charges for the 2023 crimes, investigators learned in 2025 that Reese was continuing to traffic drugs from his shed on Dottie Court. Investigators with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI), the Warner Robins Police Department, and the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office conducted an operation in June 2025, purchasing methamphetamine and fentanyl from Reese at his shed.
Green bag with almost three kilograms of methamphetamine Reese picked up in metro Atlanta for distribution in Central Georgia on June 18, 2025, in Case 5:25-cr-00008, U.S. v. Reese.
On June 18, 2025, Reese was under surveillance during a suspected narcotics resupply trip to metro Atlanta, where he was seen meeting with an individual at an apartment complex and receiving a large green bag. On his return trip to Macon, Reese was taken into custody with nearly three kilograms of methamphetamine found in the green bag. Officers executed a search warrant at the three sheds on Dottie Court the same day. Officers found more methamphetamine, fentanyl, crack cocaine, blue pills, and other substances.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
The DEA, the GBI, the Warner Robins Police Department Narcotics Intelligence Unit, the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office, and the Peach County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case, with valuable assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Julius Jefferson and Monica Brown are prosecuting the case for the Government.
Lincoln Man Sentenced for Conspiracy to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Lesley A. Woods announced that David Samuel Leibbrandt, 44, of Lincoln, Nebraska, was sentenced on September 24, 2026, in federal court in Lincoln for conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine mixture and 50 grams or more of methamphetamine actual between August 1, 2025, and October 10, 2025. United States District Judge Susan M. Bazis sentenced Leibbrandt to 135 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After Leibbrandt’s release from prison, he will begin a five-year term of supervised release.
On October 10, 2025, investigators with the Lincoln Lancaster County Narcotics Task Force were conducting surveillance on Leibbrandt’s Lincoln residence. They saw a U.S. Postal Service truck arrive and the driver left a package on the porch. A short time later, someone came out of the house and retrieved the package. About an hour later, Leibbrandt’s co-defendant, Jessie Feaster, Jr., arrived at Leibbrandt’s residence and went inside. After a few minutes, Feaster returned to his vehicle and left. Investigators followed Feaster to another location in Lincoln where Feaster was contacted and he agreed to let them search his car. A sandwich bag was found on the front passenger seat which contained approximately one pound of methamphetamine. Purity testing at the Nebraska State Patrol Crime Lab showed at least 410 grams of actual (pure) methamphetamine.
Later that same day, investigators executed a search warrant at Leibbrandt’s residence. During that search, they found seven bags containing methamphetamine with a total weight of more than 2.7 kilograms. Purity testing on one of the packages showed at least 1.8 kilograms of actual methamphetamine. Leibbrandt was arrested and agreed to talk to investigators. He admitted receiving 10 pounds of methamphetamine earlier that day and said he had already sold more than three pounds from that quantity, including the pound he sold to his co-defendant.
Feaster pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine mixture and 50 grams or more of methamphetamine actual. His sentencing is set for October 15, 2026, before Judge Bazis in Lincoln.
This case was investigated by the Lincoln/Lancaster County Drug Task Force.
Leicester Man Sentenced to Prison for Distributing Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
ASHEVILLE, N.C. – Logan Pierce Plowucha, 21, of Leicester, North Carolina, was sentenced to nine years in prison followed by a lifetime of supervised release today for distributing child sexual abuse material (CSAM), announced Russ Ferguson, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina. Plowucha was also ordered to register as a sex offender when he is released from prison.
According to filed court documents, in August 2025, Plowucha began communicating with an undercover HSI agent in an online chatroom dedicated to the exchange of CSAM and discussions of the sexual exploitation of children. Between August and September 2025, during his communications with the HSI agent, Plowucha used an encrypted messaging app to distribute CSAM to the undercover agent, including videos depicting prepubescent minors being sexually abused, including infants and bestiality. In September 2025, Plowucha met with an HSI undercover agent. During the meeting the undercover agent observed that Plowucha had CSAM files on his cellphone and online. Plowucha was arrested on the same day. During an interview with law enforcement, Plowucha admitted that he had been sending CSAM to the undercover agent. A forensic examination of the defendant’s phone revealed that Plowucha had more than 1,400 CSAM videos and images.
Plowucha remains in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service until he is transferred to the custody of the Federal Bureau of Prisons upon designation of a federal facility.
In making the announcement U.S. Attorney Russ Ferguson commended the HSI Greenville Office, the U.S. Marshals Service Carolinas Regional Fugitive Task Force, and the Waynesville Police Department for their work on this case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexis Benjamin of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Asheville prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
Las Vegas Woman Charged for Conspiracy to Distribute Fentanyl and Possession of FirearmsRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Las Vegas woman made her initial appearance in federal court yesterday for conspiracy to distribute fentanyl, a Schedule II controlled substance, and possession of two firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime as a result of a Las Vegas Homeland Security Task Force investigation.
“Fentanyl is a deadly poison that is devastating our communities,” said First Assistant United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada. “We will continue to use every federal resource to target, disrupt, and prosecute the networks flooding our streets with these lethal drugs and illegal weapons.”
“Fentanyl traffickers who use the mail to move deadly drugs into our communities should know there is no safe route and no hiding place,” said Jonathan Sherwin, deputy special agent in charge for HSI Las Vegas. “Through the Las Vegas Homeland Security Task Force, HSI, the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Henderson Police Department and our partners will continue to intercept fentanyl, seize the firearms and cash that fuel these crimes and hold accountable those who endanger the public for profit.”
“The City of Henderson takes a strong stance against fentanyl and illegal drug activity,” said Henderson Police Chief Reggie Rader. “We do not tolerate these actions here or in the surrounding area, and we are proud to work alongside our local and federal law enforcement partners to help keep our residents and neighbors safe.”
According to allegations in the complaint, on September 21, 2026, inspectors with the United States Postal Inspection Service conducted a controlled delivery of approximately one kilogram of fentanyl to the residence of Olga Josefina Mexia. Upon delivery of the package, Henderson SWAT entered into the residence. During a search of the residence, law enforcement found bulk cash, fentanyl powder in bulk and individually packaged, and two firearms.
Photos of cash, fentanyl powder in individual bags, and a firearm found in defendant’s residence, U.S. v. Olga Josephina Mexia, Case No. 2:26-mj-00722-BNW
Mexia is charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance and one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for October 7, 2026, before United States Magistrate Judge Brenda Weksler.
This case was investigated by HSI, the United States Postal Inspection Service, and the Henderson Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Joshua Brister.
This case is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of U.S. law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. The Las Vegas HSTF comprises agents and officers with the FBI, HSI, DEA, ATF, IRS-CI, the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department, the United States Marshals Service, and Nevada Gaming Control Board with the prosecution being led by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Nevada.
A complaint 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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