Latest Records
Newest first across public DOJ and U.S. Attorney press releases.
Wednesday 28 January 2026
United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of West Virginia hits quarter billion-dollar milestone in Fiscal Year 2025Read the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WV - In Fiscal Year 2025, the Affirmative Civil Enforcement Unit (ACE Unit) of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of West Virginia (USAO NDWV) reached a major milestone by recovering over a quarter of a billion dollars in False Claims Act (FCA) and Controlled Substances Act (CSA) damages and civil penalties since the unit formed and actively began tracking this data in 2003.
The ACE Unit is responsible for civilly recovering damages resulting from government fraud, such as health care fraud, COVID-19 fraud, and contractor fraud. The ACE Unit also seeks civil penalties and administrative remedies against health care professionals engaged in the illegal diversion of controlled substances.
“Combatting fraud, waste, and abuse of government funds and preventing the illegal diversion of controlled substances, such as opioids, are among our top priorities,” said United States Attorney Matthew L. Harvey. “Congratulations to the ACE Unit on reaching this milestone and be aware we intend to increase our efforts in the new year to continue to maximize these types of recoveries.”
The ACE Unit was able to reach the $250,000,000 threshold by collecting $5,324,902 in recoveries in Fiscal Year 2025. In the largest civil settlement, four labor organizations agreed to pay a total of approximately $5.1 million dollars to settle allegations they violated the FCA by applying for and obtaining loans under the COVID-19 Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) for which they knew or should have known they were ineligible.
Additionally in Fiscal Year 2025, the USAO NDWV recovered close to $1.5 million in restitution for crime victims and asset forfeiture actions. The office also obtained the forfeiture of firearms and other items of property involved in criminal offenses.
USP Cannan Inmate Charged with Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily InjuryRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Carey Lynn Pappan, age 31, of Guthrie, Oklahoma, was indicted by a federal grand jury on assault charges.
According to United States Attorney Brian D. Miller, the indictment alleges that on October 22, 2025, Pappan, an inmate at the United States Penitentiary Canaan, assaulted another person resulting in serious bodily injury.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Bureau of Prisons (BOP) investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah R. Lloyd is prosecuting the case.
The maximum penalty under federal law for this offense is 10 years of imprisonment, 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 and Criminal Informations are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
# # #
U.S. Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of Tennessee Recognizes National Human Trafficking Prevention MonthRead the Press Release
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — Today the Eastern District of Tennessee observes National Human Trafficking Prevention Month and joins the Departments of Justice (DOJ) and Homeland Security (DHS) in reaffirming the administration’s commitment to combating all forms of human trafficking and protecting victims and survivors. Human Trafficking Prevention Month presents an opportunity for DHS and DOJ, through Homeland Security Task Forces (HSTF) to intensify operational efforts, raise public awareness, and strengthen partnerships across federal, state, and local agencies to disrupt trafficking networks, protect vulnerable individuals, and ensure traffickers are brought to justice.
“This Department of Justice is working tirelessly alongside our partners to dismantle human trafficking networks, help survivors, and protect vulnerable populations from being exploited,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “Under this administration we have seen an increase in human trafficking prosecutions, and during Human Trafficking Prevention Month we reaffirm our commitment to prosecuting traffickers and encourage Americans to report instances of human trafficking in their communities.”
“Through the Homeland Security Task Force, President Trump is taking the fight directly to human trafficking networks and disrupting their modern-day slave trade while seizing their assets and arresting their kingpins and foot soldiers. The American people should not have to live in fear of cartels, gang bangers, and foreign terrorists preying upon the most vulnerable among us,” the United States Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem said in a statement. “The Homeland Security Task Force is the largest coordinated campaign against transnational criminal organizations in U.S. history, and I’m proud to co-lead it with Attorney General Bondi.”
“During Human Trafficking Prevention Month, the FBI reiterates our work with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies and national victim-based advocacy groups in joint task forces to protect our communities across the country,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “The horrifying reach of human trafficking spreads far and wide. Homeland Security Task Forces are fighting back to disrupt these perilous networks and put a stop to that reach. The FBI will continue our investigations and bring justice to those exploited by human traffickers.
“Human trafficking violates the fundamental rights and dignity due to all people, while simultaneously fueling crime and violence in our communities,” said U.S. Attorney Francis M. Hamilton III. “In collaboration with our Homeland Security Task Force and all our law enforcement partners, the United States Attorney’s Office is committed to stamping out human trafficking in the Eastern District of Tennessee and vindicating the rights of its victims by prosecuting traffickers to the fullest extent of the law.”
In January 2025, President Donald J. Trump signed Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. Section 6 of this order directed the Attorney General and the Secretary of Homeland Security to jointly establish HSTFs in every state nationwide. The HSTF objective is to end the presence of criminal cartels, foreign gangs, and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs) throughout the United States; dismantle cross-border human smuggling and trafficking networks; end the scourge of human smuggling and trafficking, with a particular focus on such offenses involving children; and ensure the use of all available law enforcement tools to faithfully execute the immigration laws of the United States.
In January 2026, DHS and DOJ are surging resources to fight and raise awareness about human trafficking, including:
- Identifying ongoing investigations and prioritizing featured operations across 45 federal locations and 10 state locations with an emphasis on border states.
- Coordinating with FBI Human Trafficking Squads and multi-agency Human Trafficking Task Forces to conduct victim recovery.
- Partnering with AMTRAK and FAMS to increase law enforcement resources and distribute posters with QR codes for reporting human trafficking in all station bathrooms and trains.
- Running advertisements related to $250 million recovery from Backpage to distribute to victims and additional victim restitution efforts by DOL-OIG.
- Organizing Human Trafficking seminars and outreach events with DHS Center for Countering Human Trafficking at high schools and colleges to highlight the role of HSTFs in addressing human trafficking.
On August 25, 2025, HSTF officially launched its effort to protect the Homeland with a September Surge encompassing 400 operations nationwide. In just 43 days, HSTF nationwide operations resulted in 3,266 arrests and seizures including:
- 1,041 Sinaloa members,
- 856 Cártel Jalisco Nueva Generación (“CJNG”) members,
- 641 MS-13 members,
- 456 Tren de Aragua members,
- 1,067 weapons
- More than $3,250,000 in currency
- Approximately 91 metric tons of narcotics
###
U.S. Attorney's Office Collects $21,776,549 in Criminal and Civil Actions, and $8,278,063 in Asset Forfeiture Actions in Fiscal Year 2025Read the Press Release
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — United States Attorney Francis M. Hamilton III announced today that the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Tennessee collected $21,776,549 in criminal and civil actions in Fiscal Year 2025. Of this amount, $7,570,426 was collected in criminal actions and $14,206,123 was collected in civil actions.
Additionally, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Tennessee worked with other U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and components of the Department of Justice to collect an additional $8,579,057 in matters pursued jointly with these offices. Of this amount, $15,563 was collected in criminal actions and $8,563,494 was collected in civil actions.
The U.S. Attorneys’ Offices, along with the Department’s litigating divisions, are responsible for enforcing and collecting civil and criminal debts owed to the U.S. and criminal debts owed to federal crime victims. The law requires defendants to pay restitution to victims of certain federal crimes who have suffered a physical injury or financial loss. While restitution is paid to the victim, criminal fines and felony assessments are paid to the department’s Crime Victims Fund, which distributes the funds collected to federal and state victim compensation and victim assistance programs.
Additionally, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Tennessee, working with partner agencies and divisions, collected $8,278,063 in asset forfeiture actions in FY 2025. Forfeited assets deposited into the Department of Justice Assets Forfeiture Fund are used to restore funds to crime victims and for a variety of law enforcement purposes.
###
Two Davenport Co-Conspirators Sentenced to Federal Prison for Cocaine ChargesRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – Two Davenport residents were sentenced to federal prison on January 28, 2026, for conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance and distribution of a mixture and substance containing cocaine base.
According to public court documents and evidence presented at sentencing, Lloyd Demico Franklin, 44, and Michelle Collins, 40, sold cocaine base (“crack cocaine”) in the Quad Cities area for several years. From June 2022 to December 2024, law enforcement conducted 20 controlled purchases from Franklin and Collins and purchased a total of more than 500 grams of crack cocaine.
Franklin was sentenced to a 25-year prison term for conspiracy to distribute crack cocaine, followed by a five-year term of supervised release. Collins was sentenced to a three-year prison term for one count of distribution of a controlled substance, followed by a three-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
United States Attorney David C. Waterman of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. The FBI Quad Cities Resident Agency of the Omaha Field Office, Moline Police Department, and Scott County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case.
Tulsan Sentenced for Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
TULSA, Okla. – A Tulsa man was sentenced today for Possession of Child Pornography in Indian Country, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson.
U.S. District Judge John F. Heil, III, sentenced Scott James Berkshire, 64, to 168 months imprisonment, followed by lifetime supervised release. Upon his release, Berkshire will also be required to register as a sex offender.
In July 2024, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children received a CyberTip that included sexually
explicit images of two minor children. Agents obtained a search warrant for the account associated with the tip and found that Berkshire was the account holder. Court records show that Berkshire was involved in several chat rooms discussing the sexual abuse of children. In one chat, Berkshire chatted with an undercover agent about meeting to engage in sexual intercourse with a child under 12-years-old.When agents searched Berkshire’s devices, they found photos and videos of children under 12 years old being sexually abused. Berkshire will remain in custody pending transfer to the U.S. Bureau of Prisons.
Homeland Security Investigations, the Tulsa Police Department, the Tulsa County Sheriff’s Office, and the Oklahoma Bureau of Investigations investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alicia Hockenbury prosecuted the case.
This investigation was conducted by the Homeland Security Investigations Tulsa-led Tornado Alley Child Exploitation and Trafficking Task force. This operation is a proactive investigation by local, state, federal, and tribal law enforcement within the Northern District and is focused on predators seeking to exploit children.
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.
Three North Idaho Child Exploitation Defendants Sentenced to over Forty Years in Federal Prison CombinedRead the Press Release
COEUR D’ALENE – U.S. Attorney Bart M. Davis announced the results of three separate child exploitation cases in North Idaho today.
- Registered Sex Offender in Lewiston Sentenced to 300 Months in Federal Prison for Attempted Sexual Exploitation of a Child
Jesse Eugene Burnett, 42, of Lewiston, was sentenced to 300 months in federal prison for attempted sexual exploitation of a child.
According to court records, in April 2024, FBI agents were contacted by a mother who discovered her 10-year-old daughter had been exchanging sexually explicit images with an adult male on a messaging application. Although the child told the male that she was thirty, the male commented that she looked young. Using legal process, law enforcement identified Burnett, a registered sex offender living in Lewiston. Law enforcement posed as the child using the child’s phone. When Burnett was told by “the child” she was actually only thirteen-years-old, Burnett replied, “so no more pics then.” However, within days, he again requested explicit images. Burnett was arrested in June 2024 and admitted that he believed he was speaking with a child and continued to solicit sexually explicit images.
District Judge David C. Nye also ordered that Burnett be placed on supervised release for 15 years following his prison sentence. Burnett will continue to be required to register as a sex offender.
U.S. Attorney Davis commended the joint efforts of the Lewiston Police Department, the Des Moines Police Department, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, which led to the charges. Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam Johnson prosecuted this case.
- Moscow Man Sentenced to 100 Months in Federal Prison for Possession of Child Sex Abuse Material (CSAM)
Nathanael Dewayne Jensen, 26, of Moscow, was sentenced to 100 months in federal prison for possession of CSAM.
Court records show that in August 2024, law enforcement received CyberTips from multiple online platforms reporting the presence of CSAM in certain accounts on their platforms. Using numerous search warrants and other investigative tools, law enforcement determined the accounts belonged to Jensen, who lived in Moscow. A search of Jensen’s cell phone pursuant to a search warrant revealed CSAM videos and images on the phone, along with evidence showing that Jensen had exchanged CSAM files with another user.
District Judge David C. Nye also ordered that Jensen be placed on supervised release for 15 years following his prison sentence. Jensen will be required to register as a sex offender because of this conviction.
U.S. Attorney Davis thanked the Moscow Police Department, the Latah Regional SWAT team, and the Idaho Attorney General’s Office for their collaboration in this investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam Johnson and Special Assistant United States Attorney Madison Allen Gourley prosecuted this case.
- Culdesac Man Sentenced to 100 Months in Federal Prison for Possession of CSAM
Riley Neal O’Brien, 36, of Culdesac, was sentenced to 100 months in federal prison for possession of CSAM.
According to court records, in June 2022, law enforcement received a CyberTip from a social media company reporting that a user of their platform was possessing child pornography. After a thorough investigation, law enforcement identified the user as O’Brien. Law enforcement determined that O’Brien possessed CSAM images and videos on his online account and distributed CSAM to others more than 70 times between March and April of 2022.
District Judge David C. Nye also ordered that O’Brien be placed on supervised release for 5 years following his prison sentence. O’Brien will also be required to register as a sex offender.
U.S. Attorney Davis commended the work of the Nez Perce County Sherrif’s Office, the Lewiston Police Department, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation for their investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam Johnson prosecuted this case.
###
Three North Idaho Child Exploitation Defendants Sentenced to over Forty Years in Federal Prison CombinedRead the Press Release
COEUR D’ALENE – U.S. Attorney Bart M. Davis announced the results of three separate child exploitation cases in North Idaho today.
- Registered Sex Offender in Lewiston Sentenced to 300 Months in Federal Prison for Attempted Sexual Exploitation of a Child
Jesse Eugene Burnett, 42, of Lewiston, was sentenced to 300 months in federal prison for attempted sexual exploitation of a child.
According to court records, in April 2024, FBI agents were contacted by a mother who discovered her 10-year-old daughter had been exchanging sexually explicit images with an adult male on a messaging application. Although the child told the male that she was thirty, the male commented that she looked young. Using legal process, law enforcement identified Burnett, a registered sex offender living in Lewiston. Law enforcement posed as the child using the child’s phone. When Burnett was told by “the child” she was actually only thirteen-years-old, Burnett replied, “so no more pics then.” However, within days, he again requested explicit images. Burnett was arrested in June 2024 and admitted that he believed he was speaking with a child and continued to solicit sexually explicit images.
District Judge David C. Nye also ordered that Burnett be placed on supervised release for 15 years following his prison sentence. Burnett will continue to be required to register as a sex offender.
U.S. Attorney Davis commended the joint efforts of the Lewiston Police Department, the Des Moines Police Department, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, which led to the charges. Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam Johnson prosecuted this case.
- Moscow Man Sentenced to 100 Months in Federal Prison for Possession of Child Sex Abuse Material (CSAM)
Nathanael Dewayne Jensen, 26, of Moscow, was sentenced to 100 months in federal prison for possession of CSAM.
Court records show that in August 2024, law enforcement received CyberTips from multiple online platforms reporting the presence of CSAM in certain accounts on their platforms. Using numerous search warrants and other investigative tools, law enforcement determined the accounts belonged to Jensen, who lived in Moscow. A search of Jensen’s cell phone pursuant to a search warrant revealed CSAM videos and images on the phone, along with evidence showing that Jensen had exchanged CSAM files with another user.
District Judge David C. Nye also ordered that Jensen be placed on supervised release for 15 years following his prison sentence. Jensen will be required to register as a sex offender because of this conviction.
U.S. Attorney Davis thanked the Moscow Police Department, the Latah Regional SWAT team, and the Idaho Attorney General’s Office for their collaboration in this investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam Johnson and Special Assistant United States Attorney Madison Allen Gourley prosecuted this case.
- Culdesac Man Sentenced to 100 Months in Federal Prison for Possession of CSAM
Riley Neal O’Brien, 36, of Culdesac, was sentenced to 100 months in federal prison for possession of CSAM.
According to court records, in June 2022, law enforcement received a CyberTip from a social media company reporting that a user of their platform was possessing child pornography. After a thorough investigation, law enforcement identified the user as O’Brien. Law enforcement determined that O’Brien possessed CSAM images and videos on his online account and distributed CSAM to others more than 70 times between March and April of 2022.
District Judge David C. Nye also ordered that O’Brien be placed on supervised release for 5 years following his prison sentence. O’Brien will also be required to register as a sex offender.
U.S. Attorney Davis commended the work of the Nez Perce County Sherrif’s Office, the Lewiston Police Department, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation for their investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam Johnson prosecuted this case.
###
Third Defendant Charged in September 2025 School Zone ShootingRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A third defendant has been federally charged in connection with a September 2025 school zone shooting investigation in Las Cruces.
According to court records, on September 6, 2025, Las Cruces Police Department officers responded to reports of gunfire at Young Park in Las Cruces, New Mexico. No injuries were reported, but officers recovered multiple spent shell casings from the parking lot. Shortly after the incident, officers encountered two individuals, John Anthony Orta and Steven Mendoza, walking near Hermosa Heights Elementary School while carrying firearms. Both were arrested for negligent use of a deadly weapon and later charged federally with possession of a firearm in a school zone.
Handgun located on John Anthony Orta on September 6th, 2025 AR-15 style pistol located on Steven Mendoza on September 6th, 2025During the investigation, law enforcement obtained search warrants for Orta and Mendoza’s cell phones and reviewed social media messages discussing the Young Park shooting. Those messages identified Luis Angel Ruiz, 22, as the person who fired the shots and claimed ownership of the firearm involved. Investigators linked Ruiz to the firearm through social media posts showing him in possession of the weapon, eyewitness statements, and ballistic evidence.
Instagram photo of Ruiz with what appears to be the same AR-15 style piston recovered from Mendoza on September 6, 2025
On September 24, 2025, Ruiz was stopped by Las Cruces police for traffic violations and arrested for driving under the influence. During that stop, officers recovered four firearms from the vehicle, including a handgun with an obliterated serial number. Ruiz admitted the firearms belonged to him. Investigators later identified social media messages in which Ruiz attempted to sell the firearm with the removed serial number.
Ruiz is charged with discharging a firearm in a school zone and possession of a firearm with a removed, obliterated or altered serial number. He will remain in custody pending a detention hearing, which has not been scheduled. If convicted of the current charges, Ruiz faces 10 years in prison.
On December 29, 2025, Orta pled guilty to unlawful possession of a firearm in a school zone. At sentencing he faces up to five years in prison.
Mendoza remains on conditions of release pending trial, which is not currently scheduled.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Las Cruces Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office's Southern New Mexico Safe Streets Gang Task Force investigated this case with assistance from the Las Cruces Police Department's Street Crimes Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorney Maria Y. Armijo is prosecuting the case.
View the Criminal Complaint (Ruiz).pdfA complaint or indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Texas Man Sentenced to 15 Years for Enticing Minors to Engage in Illegal Sexual ActivityRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – Joshua Allen (34, Houston, TX) has been sentenced by U.S. District Judge Thomas Barber to 15 years in federal prison, followed by 15 years of supervised release, for two counts of enticing or coercing a minor to engage in illegal sexual activity. The court also ordered Allen to forfeit a cellular phone, which was used in the commission of the offense, and to register as a sex offender. Allen pleaded guilty in August 2025. U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement.
According to court documents, between October 2022 and April 2024, Allen used a social media application to persuade, induce, and entice minors to send him images and videos of child exploitation material in exchange for monetary payments.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Ilyssa M. Spergel.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Springfield Man Sentenced for Drug Trafficking OffensesRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Springfield, Mass. man was sentenced yesterday in federal court in Springfield for drug trafficking.
Marcus Hicks, 46, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Mark G. Mastroianni to 18 months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release. In September 2025 was convicted of one count of possession with intent to distribute cocaine, one count of possession of cocaine base, also known as crack cocaine, and one count of possession with intent to distribute marijuana. Hicks was indicted by a federal grand jury in September 2023.
On Nov. 21, 2022, Hicks possessed 97 grams of cocaine, 15 grams of crack cocaine and two and one-half pounds of marijuana intended for distribution.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Jarod A. Forget, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration in New England; Holyoke Police Chief Brian Keenan; and Superintendent Lawrence Akers of the Springfield Police Department made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Todd E. Newhouse of the Springfield Branch Office prosecuted the case.
Slidell Chiropractor Sentenced for Health Care FraudRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – JOHN DENNIS MICHAEL PEYROUX (“PEYROUX”), age 58, of Slidell, Louisiana, was sentenced on January 26, 2026 by U.S. District Judge Lance M. Africk for conspiracy to commit healthcare fraud, in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 1347 and 1349, in connection with a scheme to bill Medicare for over-the-counter (“OTC”) COVID-19 test kits that were not requested or otherwise ineligible for reimbursement, announced United States Attorney David I. Courcelle.
According to court documents, starting in November 2022, PEYROUX conspired with others to purchase Medicare beneficiary information, including names, Medicare identification numbers, and clearly fabricated recordings of individuals posing as beneficiaries and “requesting” OTC COVID-19 test kits. PEYROUX used that information to bill Medicare through his chiropractic clinic for test kits. On several occasions, PEYROUX billed for beneficiaries who were already deceased, or were in hospice or inpatient care and therefore ineligible to receive OTC COVID-19 tests paid for by Medicare. PEYROUX then misappropriated the credentials of a former nurse practitioner that worked for him and falsely listed the nurse practitioner as the referring provider on fraudulent claims, even though the employee did not treat the beneficiaries or order the tests. In total, in around six months, PEYROUX allegedly billed Medicare approximately $3.3 million in false and fraudulent claims for OTC COVID-19 test kits through his clinic, for which Medicare reimbursed approximately $3.2 million. Under the terms of the plea agreement, PEYROUX agreed to pay over $3.2 million in restitution to Medicare. The government also forfeited over $1 million seized from PEYROUX’s bank accounts.
Judge Africk sentenced PEYROUX to one year and one day in prison, $3,212,761.44 in restitution, 3 years of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment. PEYROUX’s brother, Steven D. Peyroux, recently pled guilty to his own role in the scheme and is scheduled for sentencing before U.S. District Judge Wendy B. Vitter on May 14, 2026.
U.S. Attorney Courcelle praised the work of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General, United States Secret Service, and the United States Postal Inspection Service in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Nicholas D. Moses, of the Financial Crimes Unit and Health Care Fraud Coordinator, and Assistant Chief Justin Woodard and Trial Attorney Kelly Z. Walters, of the Department of Justice’s Criminal Division’s Fraud Section, are in charge of the prosecution.
The Fraud Section leads the Criminal Division’s efforts to combat health care fraud through the Health Care Fraud Strike Force program. Since March 2007, this program, currently comprised of 8 strike forces operating in 27 federal districts, has charged more than 5,800 defendants who collectively have billed federal health care programs and private insurers more than $30 billion. In addition, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, working in conjunction with HHS-OIG, are taking steps to hold providers accountable for their involvement in health care fraud schemes. More information can be found at www.justice.gov/criminal-fraud/health-care-fraud-unit.
Sinaloa, Mexico Man Sentenced to 20 years for Fentanyl ConspiracyRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Sinaloa, Mexico man was sentenced in federal court on Jan. 27, 2026, for his involvement in a fentanyl drug conspiracy.
Raymundo Guadalupe Felix-Perez, 34, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Roseann A. Ketchmark to 20 years’ imprisonment without parole, 5 years supervised release, and a money judgment of $80,000. Felix-Perez previously pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute over 400 grams of fentanyl, between Oct. 27, 2020, and Jan. 24, 2023, and one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering in the Western District of Missouri.
Beginning the fall of 2020, Felix-Perez sold M30 fentanyl pills to a co-conspirator in the Western District of Missouri. The initial indictment in this matter included two defendants that were charged, Troy Lee Palmer and Dallas W. Hughs, in a six-count indictment including conspiracy to distribute fentanyl, possession with the intent to distribute fentanyl, distribution of fentanyl; and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. During the initial investigation, other members of the conspiracy were identified, including Craig Troester, Dakota Morris, Cassidie Bumgarner, Lucas Coltrain, and Jessica Moody. The final superseding indictment charged Felix-Perez, Joshua Stramel, and Kaden Bernard with the conspiracy to distribute over 400 grams of fentanyl. All members of the conspiracy have been previously sentenced with Felix-Perez being the last.
Prior to his indictment, Felix-Perez returned to Sinaloa, Mexico, where he continued to distribute fentanyl to co-conspirators in Missouri, Iowa, Arizona, and Idaho. On June 30, 2024, Felix-Perez was arrested after attempting to enter the United States in the Southern District of California.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Maureen A. Brackett. It was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; Grundy County, Missouri Sheriff’s Office; Trenton, Missouri, Police Department; Northwest Missouri Drug Task Force; U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration; Federal Bureau of Investigation; Buchanan County, Missouri Drug Strike Force; U.S. Postal Inspection Service; Mercer County, Missouri Sheriff’s Office; Kansas City, Missouri Police Department; Homeland Security Investigations; and the Internal Revenue Service.
Homeland Security Task Force
This operation is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF Kansas City comprises agents and officers from Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; U.S. Drug Enforcement with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Missouri.
Shiprock Man Charged with AssaultRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Shiprock man is facing federal charges after allegedly assaulting a man during a dispute.
According to court records, on September 18, 2025, Brian Adam Archuleta, 41, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, allegedly engaged in an argument with the victim that escalated into a physical assault. Archuleta struck the victim multiple times in the face, causing a right orbital wall fracture and requiring ten stitches.
Archuleta is charged with assault resulting in serious bodily injury. He will remain on conditions of release pending trial, which has not been scheduled. If convicted of the current charges, Archuleta faces 10 years in prison.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Farmington Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Nation Police Department and the Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Seth Teleky is prosecuting the case.
view the Criminal Complaint (Archuleta).pdfA complaint or indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Settlement for $1.7 Million with Former Physician Don J. Wagoner and His Business Entity for Fraudulently Billing the Indiana Medicaid ProgramRead the Press Release
HAMMOND - United States Attorney Adam L. Mildred announced today a settlement for nearly $1.7 million to resolve civil claims of the United States of America and the State of Indiana against former physician Don J. Wagoner, age 89, of Burlington, Indiana, and his business entity, Wagoner Medical Center, L.L.C.
According to documents in this case, during 2011-2013, former physician Don J. Wagoner practiced medicine at Wagoner Medical Center, L.L.C., which Mr. Wagoner solely owned. The Wagoner defendants had a routine practice of requiring patients seeking a prescription for opioid pills or other pain medicine to submit a urine sample for qualitative testing for the presence or absence of nine or more drugs or drug classes. Using a multiplexed screening kit costing defendants no more than approximately ten dollars, defendants tested each single urine sample for the same patient on the same day using the simple kit. Defendants then billed Indiana Medicaid and received $171.27 or more per patient, even though Indiana Medicaid billing rules only allowed them to bill $20.83 per patient. Defendants concealed this fraud by falsely certifying to Indiana Medicaid that they had collected and separately analyzed nine or more urine samples from each patient, when in fact they only had collected and analyzed one urine sample. Defendants perpetrated this fraudulent scheme for over 5,000 claims, and received a total overpayment from Indiana Medicaid of nearly $1 million, which they refused to repay. On December 29, 2017, the United States and the State of Indiana filed a Complaint under the False Claims Act to recover the overpayment resulting from the fraudulent scheme, and also civil penalties. The settlement announced today resolves that case.
The Indiana Medicaid program provides healthcare for low income, often uninsured, Indiana residents who cannot otherwise afford needed medical care. Indiana Medicaid is jointly funded by the United States and the State of Indiana. The federal False Claims Act, and the Indiana Medicaid False Claims Act, allows the federal government and the State of Indiana to recover the amount of the false claims plus civil penalties. A small portion of recoveries under the federal False Claims Act, three percent, is used to fund the cost of future health care fraud investigations and cases.
In 2013, defendant Don J. Wagoner permanently surrendered his licenses to prescribe drugs and practice medicine in connection with a state criminal investigation of his opioid‑prescribing practices, which resulted in felony drug dealing convictions of Mr. Wagoner.
“Although they no longer are endangering vulnerable Medicaid patients by practicing medicine, former physician Don Wagoner cannot be allowed to retain the fruits of his fraudulent Medicaid claims,” said United States Attorney Adam L. Mildred. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office will continue to make it a priority to pursue investigations and cases to recover funds that were fraudulently received from the Medicare and Medicaid programs.”
The settlement was reached in a case against Don J. Wagoner and Wagoner Medical Center, L.L.C. filed by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Indiana and the Indiana Medicaid Fraud Control Unit within the Indiana Attorney General’s Office. Lead counsel for plaintiff United States in this litigation and negotiation was Assistant United States Attorney Wayne T. Ault.
Scranton Heart Institute Agrees to Pay $48,709.20 to Settle False Claims Act AllegationsRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Scranton Heart Institute (SHI) has agreed to pay $48,709.20 to resolve allegations that it violated the False Claims Act by submitting false claims for payment to Medicare for CPT codes associated with PET scan services in violation of the applicable Medicare rules and regulations.
According to the United States Attorney Brian D. Miller, between December 10, 2020 and May 31, 2023, SHI knowingly and willfully received renumeration offered or paid by a mobile PET scan company to induce SHI to refer its Medicare patients to that company for PET scans, in the form of (1) significant hourly payments designated as payments for professional supervision of the mobile imaging services, and (2) allowing SHI to bill for and retain the Medicare professional component reimbursement for the mobile imaging services. Therefore, the United States contends that SHI submitted false claims to Medicare associated with imaging services using certain CPT codes that resulted from violations of the Anti-Kickback Statute. Additionally, the United States contends that the renumeration SHI received from the mobile PET scan company created a financial relationship between SHI’s physician and the mobile PET scan company that did not satisfy any exception to the physician self-referral law.
“Kickback schemes can jeopardize medical decision making, which may significantly impact patient care and program costs,” said Special Agent in Charge Maureen Dixon of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “HHS-OIG is committed to working with the U.S. Attorney’s Office and other partners to investigate alleged violations of the Anti-Kickback Statute in the Medicare program.”
This matter was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Tamara Haken and the Affirmative Civil Enforcement Unit of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania with assistance from the Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG).
The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only and there has been no determination of liability.
# # #
Sopchoppy Man Pleads Guilty to Armed Trafficking of MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – Howard Neil Martin, 46, of Sopchoppy, Florida, pleaded guilty in federal court to three counts: possession with the intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine; carrying a firearm during a drug-trafficking offense; and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. The plea was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “When President Donald J. Trump and Attorney General Pam Bondi launched Operation Take Back America to deploy the full might of the Department of Justice toward eliminating the threats to our community posed by violent felons and drug traffickers, this was precisely the kind of criminal they had in mind. I am extremely proud of this successful prosecution that will keep a dangerous, drug-peddling felon off our streets, and we will continue to aggressively prosecute offenders like this defendant until our communities are drug-free and safe.”
Court documents reflect that deputies with the Wakulla County Sheriff’s Office responded to a report about a burglary in progress at a residence. When they arrived, the defendant was parked in the driveway and was engaged in a verbal dispute with someone watching the residence for the homeowner. Officers could see a firearm in plain view inside the defendant’s truck and, upon running his criminal history, learned that he was a convicted felon. Officers ultimately searched the truck and located approximately half a pound of crystal methamphetamine.
Martin faces up to life imprisonment, as well as a sentencing enhancement because he had previously been convicted of a serious violent felony, specifically, aggravated battery with a deadly weapon.
The case involved a joint investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Wakulla County Sheriff’s Office, with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney James A. McCain.
Sentencing is scheduled for April 3, 2026, at 10:00 am at the United States Courthouse in Tallahassee before Chief United States District Judge Allen C. Winsor
This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime, human and drug trafficking.
As part of its PSN strategy, the United States Attorney’s Office is encouraging everyone to lock their car doors, particularly at night. Burglaries from unlocked automobiles are a significant source of guns for criminals in the Northern District of Florida. Please do your part and protect yourself by locking your car doors.
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.
Richmond felon sentenced to over four years in prison for federal firearm convictionRead the Press Release
RICHMOND, Va. – A Richmond man was sentenced today to four years and four months in prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm.
According to court documents, on Sept. 18, 2024, Henrico County Police officers found Rashon Lamar Lofton, 40, passed out in the driver seat of a vehicle with the engine running at a fuel pump of a convenient store in Richmond. A passenger was also passed out in the vehicle. After observing indicia of drug use in the vehicle, the officer was removing Lofton from the car when he observed a firearm in Lofton’s pants pocket. The officer placed Lofton in handcuffs and recovered the firearm, which was loaded with nine rounds of ammunition, including a round in the chamber.
At the time of his arrest, Lofton previously had been convicted of, among other crimes, possession with intent to distribute marijuana (twice) and assault. As a previously convicted felon, Lofton cannot legally possess firearms or ammunition.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Washington Field Division investigated this case.
Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric Gilliland, an Assistant Attorney General with the Virginia Attorney General’s Office, prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:25-cr-12.
Rheumatologist Agrees to Resolve False Claims Act Allegations Related to Unapproved DrugsRead the Press Release
CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Steven L. Mendelsohn, a medical doctor specializing in rheumatology, has agreed to pay $549,554.26 to resolve False Claims Act allegations arising from the submission of reimbursement claims to Medicare for prescription arthritis drugs that were not approved by the Food & Drug Administration for marketing and distribution in the United States, U.S. Attorney Russ Ferguson announced today.
This settlement resolves allegations that, in 2019, Dr. Mendelsohn sought reimbursement from Medicare for immunosuppressive drugs that were administered intravenously to his patients to treat rheumatoid arthritis that were not purchased from a licensed or authorized drug distributor. The United States alleged that the drugs were intended for foreign markets. Those drugs were thus not approved by the FDA for marketing and distribution in the United States.
“When patients receive intravenous drugs, they have no insight into what is being put inside their bodies. The FDA plays an important role in ensuring only safe and proper pharmaceuticals are used,” said U.S. Attorney Russ Ferguson. “Dr. Mendelsohn sidestepped that oversight to buy cheaper drugs abroad yet receive full reimbursement from Medicare at the expense of the American taxpayer. This settlement holds him accountable and ensures that Medicare funds are only used for FDA-approved drugs.”
“Health care professionals are legally obligated to uphold the integrity of the Medicare program,” said Kelly Blackmon, Special Agent in Charge at the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “Protecting the safety of Medicare patients is essential, and HHS-OIG is committed to ensuring taxpayer dollars are not spent on unapproved or unauthorized treatments that put patients at risk.”
“The FDA’s comprehensive regulatory framework is designed to ensure the safety, efficacy, and quality of drugs distributed to American consumers,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Juan Berrios, FDA Office of Criminal Investigations Miami Field Office. “We commend the efforts of the Department of Justice to protect public health and hold accountable those who place profits over patient safety.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Holly H. Snow handled this affirmative civil enforcement matter with assistance from the Office of Inspector General of the Department of Health and Human Services and the FDA Office of Criminal Investigations.
The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only. There has been no determination of liability.
Repeat offender felon sentenced to five years for illegal reentry into U.S.Read the Press Release
HOUSTON – A 31-year-old Mexican national with multiple felonies who illegally resided in Houston has been ordered to federal prison for illegally reentering the country again without authorization, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Javier Andres Rivera pleaded guilty Nov. 12, 2025.
U.S. District Judge Keith Ellison has now ordered Rivera to serve 60 months in federal prison. Not a U.S. citizen, he is expected to face removal proceedings following his imprisonment. At the hearing, the court considered Rivera’s criminal history and noted that, despite a prior lengthy prison sentence, he has continued to reoffend and has not demonstrated a positive rehabilitative trajectory.
Rivera has felony convictions for aggravated robbery with a firearm, possession of more than 50 pounds of marijuana, terroristic threats and illegal reentry. He was first removed from the United States in November 2011 and illegally returned three times.
Authorities discovered him again in July 2025 after arresting him for unlawful possession of a firearm.
Rivera will remain in custody pending transfer to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement – Enforcement and Removal Operations conducted the investigation. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Carrie Law prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
Repeat Health Care Fraud Offender Sentenced for Defrauding New Hampshire MedicaidRead the Press Release
Repeat Health Care Fraud Offender Sentenced for Defrauding New Hampshire Medicaid
CONCORD – A Florida man was sentenced today to one year and one day in prison for causing psychotherapy sessions to be fraudulently billed to New Hampshire Medicaid.
According to court documents, Erik X. Alonso, 55, of Miami, Florida, was convicted in 2015 of conspiracy to commit health care fraud and related offenses in the Southern District of Florida. The Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG) maintains an Exclusion List that identifies individuals who cannot receive payment from federal health care programs, including Medicaid. As a result of his conviction, Alonso, a psychotherapist, was placed on the Exclusion List.
According to court documents, in March 2022, Alonso began working for a telehealth mental health provider based in New Hampshire, through which he provided services billed to New Hampshire Medicaid patients despite knowing he was on the Exclusion List. Alonso also caused the telehealth provider to submit claims to New Hampshire Medicaid for counseling services that were not provided as represented, including in instances in which Alonso requested – and later received – a patient’s assistance with personal tasks. As a result of the scheme, Alonso admitted that he caused New Hampshire Medicaid to pay approximately $173,998 based on false and fraudulent claims.
Alonso pleaded guilty on October 23, 2025, to one count of health care fraud. At sentencing, Alonso was ordered to pay $173, 998.83 in restitution.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office previously entered into a resolution with the telehealth mental health provider, LifeWorks Counseling Associates, PLLC and its owner, Dr. David Ferruolo, to resolve a parallel civil matter under which they paid $300,000 to resolve allegations that they violated the False Claims Act by improperly billing Medicaid for services provided by an individual (Alonso) excluded from the Medicaid program.
U.S. Attorney Erin Creegan for the District of New Hampshire, Special Agent in Charge Roberto Coviello of HHS-OIG, and Special Agent in Charge Ted E. Docks of the FBI Boston Field Office made the announcement.
HHS-OIG and the FBI investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Vicinanzo of the District of New Hampshire and Trial Attorneys Thomas D. Campbell, John W. Howard, and Danielle H. Sakowski of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section prosecuted the case.
Pottsville Man Indicted for Production and Distribution of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
SCRANTON -- The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Bryce Robert Elliott, age 21, of Pottsville, Pennsylvania, was indicted by a federal grand jury for the production and distribution of child pornography.
According to United States Attorney Brian D. Miller, the indictment alleges that Elliott, sometime between December of 2024 and January of 2026, engaged in the production of videos depicting sexual activity with a toddler, which he then distributed over the internet.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney Luisa Honora Berti 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 each count is 50 years’ imprisonment, 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 and Criminal Informations are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
# # #
Philadelphia Business Owner Sentenced to Three Years in Prison for Wire Fraud and Tax EvasionRead the Press Release
PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney David Metcalf announced that John Frances “Jack” Griffin, 62, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was sentenced today to 36 months in prison and three years of supervised release by United States District Judge Chad F. Kenney for wire fraud and tax evasion. Judge Kenney also ordered Griffin to pay $899,948 in restitution — $776,205 of that going to the victims of the fraud and the remaining $123,743 in restitution to the Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”).
As detailed in court filings and statements, Griffin was the principal and founder of Second Story Farming Inc., which did business as Metropolis Farms. Second Story Farming had several lines of business, including growing crops in vertical farms to sell to customers, developing sustainable vertical farming technologies, and selling vertical farming systems to customers. Vertical farming refers to a practice of growing crops indoors vertically in horizontally stacked layers to reduce the amount of space needed.
In 2017, Griffin, through Second Story Farming, sold vertical farming systems along with the equipment, supplies, materials, and operational instructions necessary to operate them, to two companies. Before doing so, Griffin provided financial projections to them that grossly overstated the anticipated revenues that could be generated by the vertical farms and grossly understated the anticipated expenses necessary to operate them. The purchasers relied on those projections when they bought the vertical farms from Griffin.
Rather than use those funds to provide them with vertical farms he promised, Griffin used most of the money to pay, among other things, his own personal expenses, such as his mortgage and clothes from Nieman Marcus.
From 2015 through 2018, Griffin received more than $650,000 in income from his work at Second Story Farming. Despite earning this income, Griffin did not file tax returns for any of those years. Instead, Griffin tried to conceal that he received income, by, among other things, withdrawing cash from his personal and business bank accounts, paying personal expense from his business’s bank accounts, and transferring funds from his business to his wife.
This case was investigated by IRS Criminal Investigation, the FBI, and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Francis Weber and Trial Attorney Catriona M. Coppler of the Department of Justice Criminal Division’s Tax Section.
Peruvian National Involved in Credit Card Theft, Identity Theft Scheme Pleads GuiltyRead the Press Release
David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that ERICK CHRISTIAN LUNA DE LA CRUZ, 34, a citizen of Peru residing in Edison, New Jersey, pleaded guilty today in New Haven federal court to an offense related to his participation in a credit card theft and identity theft scheme.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in 2022, the FBI and local law enforcement agencies in Connecticut and elsewhere began investigating a series of distraction thefts of wallets from victims, typically elderly women, at Trader Joe’s grocery stores, TJ Maxx stores, and other retail stores in Connecticut and elsewhere. The investigation revealed that Luna de la Cruz and others traveled throughout the U.S. in order to steal wallets from unwary victims, and then use the victims’ credit and debit cards to purchase electronic devices and other items at other stores. Luna de la Cruz and his associates stopped at shipping providers along their route to ship the goods they purchased to a co-conspirator’s address in New Jersey.
Luna de la Cruz pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit access device fraud, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of five years.
Luna de la Cruz was arrested on June 28, 2024. He is released on a $100,000 bond under electronic monitoring pending sentencing, which is scheduled for April 22.
This investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Manchester (Conn.) Police Department, with the assistance of the Orange (Conn.) Police Department, the Fairfax County (Va.) Police Department, the Spartanburg County (S.C.) Sheriff’s Office, the Spartanburg Police Department, the Warwick (R.I.) Police Department, the Cary (N.C.) Police Department, and the Metropolitan Nashville (Tenn.) Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Nathan J. Guevremont and Michael S. McGarry.
Overland Park, Kansas Man Sentenced to 189 Months for Child PornographyRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – An Overland Park, Ks. man was sentenced on Jan. 27, 2026, by the Honorable Roseann A. Ketchmark to 189 months imprisonment in the Bureau of Prisons to be followed by 15 years of supervised release.
Jason M. Shellenbergar, 50, previously pleaded guilty to two counts of distribution of child pornography; one count of receipt of child pornography; and one count of possession of child pornography involving a victim under the age of 12. At the time of these offenses, Shellenbergar was living in Independence, Missouri.
Shellenbergar will be required to register as a sex offender upon his release from prison and will be subject to federal and state sex offender registration requirements, which may apply throughout his life.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Maureen A. Brackett. It was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation-Child Exploitation Task Force and the Kansas City, Missouri Police Department.
Project Safe Childhood
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc . For more information about Internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab "resources."
Ohio Man Sentenced to Prison for Federal Drug CrimeRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Marquize Kuame Damon Scott, also known as “Q,” 27, of South Point, Ohio, was sentenced today to five years and 10 months in prison, to be followed by four years of supervised release, for distribution of 50 grams or more of a methamphetamine mixture.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on June 14, 2024, Scott sold 83.9 grams of methamphetamine to a confidential informant in exchange for $700 in Huntington. As part of his guilty plea, Scott admitted to conducting the transaction and to arranging it beforehand.
Scott also admitted to additional criminal conduct. On June 10, 2024, Scott sold approximately 55 grams of methamphetamine and approximately 2.3 grams of cocaine to a confidential informant in exchange for $500 on Hal Greer Boulevard in Huntington.
United States Attorney Moore Capito made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Cabell County Sheriff's Office.
United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Courtney L. Finney prosecuted the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:25-cr-48.
###
New York Man Admits Fencing Jewelry Stolen from Mall Stores and Kiosks Across the U.S.Read the Press Release
David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and P.J. O’Brien, Special Agent in Charge of the New Haven Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, today announced that SALIM SAKAL, 55, of Brooklyn, New York, waived his right to be indicted and pleaded guilty yesterday before U.S. District Judge Kari A. Dooley in Bridgeport to an offense related to his buying and selling jewelry stolen from mall-based stores and kiosks across the country.
According to court documents and statements made in court, between May 2023 and April 2024, an organized jewelry theft ring of Colombian nationals burglarized jewelry stores and kiosks in malls in Connecticut, Illinois, Indiana, New Jersey, Ohio, and Virginia. The total losses from the burglaries exceed $4.4 million. Members of the conspiracy also cased additional jewelry stores and kiosks in Iowa, Indiana, Wisconsin, Illinois, and Delaware.
Sakal was the co-owner of Ramoun Jewelry, located in Corona, New York, which sold jewelry and gold to retail customers. The business also purchased jewelry and gold from third parties. Sakal conspired with members of the organized jewelry theft ring to receive, store, and sell jewelry stolen from seven burglaries between August 2023 and April 2024. Sakal paid his co-conspirators cash for the stolen merchandise for a fraction of the actual retail amount, and then sold it to others, including those he knew would melt down the gold. Ramoun did not have a valid second-hand dealer license required under the laws and regulations of New York City, and he did not maintain required records, including the identifying information of the sellers, a description of the items purchased, and the date and time of the purchase.
To date, none of the stolen jewelry has been recovered by law enforcement.
Sakal pleaded guilty to conspiracy to sell and receive stolen goods, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of five years.
Sakal has agreed to pay restitution of $2,471,457, jointly and severally with others convicted in this case.
Sakal is released on a $1,000,000 bond pending sentencing, which is scheduled for April 17.
This investigation has been conducted by the FBI New Haven’s Transnational Organized Crime Task Force with the assistance of the Milford (Conn.) Police Department, the Hamilton Township (N.J.) Police Division, the Delaware State Police, the Henrico County (Va.) Police Division, the New York State Police, the New York Police Department, the Pensacola (Fla.) Police Department, the Paterson (N.J.) Police Department, the Mentor (Ohio) Police Department, the Fort Wayne (Ind.) Police Department, the Greece (N.Y.) Police Department, and the Lombard (Ill.) Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys David T. Huang and Conor M. Reardon.
U.S. Attorney Sullivan thanked the U.S. Attorney’s Offices in the Middle District of Florida, Southern District of Florida, Eastern District of New York, and Southern District of New York, and FBI Field Offices in New York, Dallas, Miami, and Tampa for their assistance.
New Hampshire Man Pleads Guilty to Trafficking Multiple High-Powered FirearmsRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Nashua, N.H. man pleaded guilty yesterday in federal court in Boston to trafficking nine firearms, including two semiautomatic rifles, into Massachusetts in over a one-month period.
Dennis T. Michaud, Jr., 23, pleaded guilty to one count of trafficking in firearms. U.S. District Court Judge Richard G. Stearns scheduled sentencing for April 28, 2026. Michaud was arrested and charged in March 2025.
Beginning in or around February 2025, Michaud was identified as an illegal firearms dealer. From Feb. 7 through Feb. 11, 2025, undercover law enforcement contacted Michaud through Snapchat to arrange for the purchase of a semiautomatic rifle. During those communications, Michaud stated that he was located in New Hampshire and that he could bring the firearm to Massachusetts. On Feb. 11, 2025, in Pepperell, Mass., Michaud met with a confidential source operating at the direction of law enforcement to conduct the transaction. There, Michaud provided the confidential source with a Good Time Outdoors CXV Core 15 .223/5.56 caliber semiautomatic rifle and a 30-round .223/5.56 caliber magazine in exchange for $900.
On Feb. 18, 2025, Michaud agreed to sell three additional firearms. Later that day, Michaud met the source at an agreed upon location in Pepperell, Mass. where he provided the following three firearms as well as accompanying ammunition and accessories in exchange for $2,100: a Taurus Raging Hunter .454 Casull Revolver and approximately five rounds of .454 Casull ammunition; a Rossi Interarms M68 .38 Special Revolver and approximately five rounds of .38 Special ammunition; and a Walther PPS 9mm Pistol with approximately six Walther PPS 9mm magazines and various firearm parts and/or accessories.
In addition, on Feb. 27, 2025, Michaud agreed to sell two more firearms: a Radical Firearms RF-15 .223/5.56 caliber semiautomatic short-barreled rifle along with a 30-round .223/5.56 caliber magazine and a Sig Sauer P227 Equinox .45 caliber pistol along with a 10-round Sig Sauer P227 .45 caliber magazine. During the transaction Michaud provided the confidential source the two agreed-upon firearms and ammunition. Michaud also stated that possessing the semiautomatic short-barreled rifle would constitute “three felonies” due to the stock and 30-round magazine affixed to the firearm.
On March 20, 2025 Michaud sold three more firearms, two magazines and ammunition to the confidential source in exchange for $2,250: a Century Arms 7.62x39mm YSKA AK Rifle; a Smith & Wesson M&P 9mm Pistol; and a Taurus PT-22 .22 caliber Pistol. The defendant was immediately taken into custody following the transaction.
Michaud does not possess a federal firearms license.
The charge of trafficking in firearms without a license provides for a sentence of up to 15 years in prison, up to three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Thomas Greco, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives, Boston Field Division made the announcement. Valuable assistance was provided by the Massachusetts State Police; and the Nashua (N.H.), Worcester and Pepperell Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sandra Gonzalez Sanchez of the Major Crimes Unit is prosecuting the case.Nevada Child Predator Sentenced in the District of Utah to 25 Years’ ImprisonmentRead the Press Release
ST. GEORGE, Utah – A Nevada woman was sentenced today to 300 months’ imprisonment after she sexually exploited a child, recorded the sexually explicit conduct and then distributed it to a co-offender, with whom she had a relationship.
Alexandria Marie Wright, 32, of Moapa, Nevada, pleaded guilty in June 2025 to production of child pornography.
In addition to Wright’s term of imprisonment, U.S. District Court Judge Ann Marie McIff Allen, sentenced Wright to a lifetime of supervised release.
According to court documents and admissions made at Wright’s change of plea and sentencing hearings, beginning on an unknown date and continuing through October 31, 2021, in the District of Utah, Wright began exchanging sexual messages and media with her co-conspirator. In the fall of 2021, Wright and her co-conspirator met to have consensual sex and discussed sexually abusing a child, to whom Wright had access to. On Halloween, Wright brought a four-year-old victim that she knew to her co-conspirator, and they sexually abused the child for the purpose of producing a visual depiction of the abuse. The co-conspirator was arrested on August 7, 2024 in Kansas, which led to the recovery of sexually explicit images of the child, and the instant prosecution.
“These unthinkable acts will not go unanswered,” said U.S. Attorney Melissa Holyoak of the District of Utah. “Child predators will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. It is our hope that the victim and the victim’s family can move forward knowing justice is served against Wright and that she is removed from society and away from preying on other children.”
The case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and Lola Police Department in Lola, Kansas.
Assistant United States Christopher Burton of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah 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 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.
Montgomery County Woman Sentenced to Five Years in Prison for Defrauding FEMA of over $1.7 Million in Hurricane Ida Disaster BenefitsRead the Press Release
PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney David Metcalf announced that Jasmine Williams, 34, of Plymouth Meeting, Pennsylvania, was sentenced today to five years in prison by United States District Judge Kelley Brisbon Hodge for a scheme to defraud the Federal Emergency Management Agency (“FEMA”) in the wake of Hurricane Ida.
Williams was charged by indictment in April 2024 with one count of fraud related to a major disaster declaration, 24 counts of wire fraud, and seven counts of mail fraud. She pleaded guilty to all 32 charges in September of last year.
As presented in court filings, in September 2021, President Joseph R. Biden issued a major disaster declaration for much of the eastern part of Pennsylvania, after the remnants of Hurricane Ida struck the Commonwealth. This declaration authorized FEMA to provide financial assistance to residents whose homes and properties were damaged by the hurricane.
As further detailed in court filings and admitted to by the defendant, Williams recruited others over social media, advertising that she could assist them in applying for FEMA benefits. Court filings show that Williams solicited participants in her scheme, whether they were renters, owners, or homeless. Williams then submitted fraudulent documents to FEMA on behalf of almost 200 others, including fraudulent leases, letters from landlords, utility bills, earning statements, and home repair estimates.
In exchange, Williams requested half of the payout for herself, amassing hundreds of thousands of dollars. When one participant did not pay, Williams took to social media, posting the participant’s personally identifiable information and an extended video criticizing her for not paying the 50% Williams charged. Williams also used social media to solicit images of damaged homes to submit in support of the fraudulent applications.
In total, the Court determined that FEMA paid $1,744,982.64 in assistance based on false representations made by Williams from October 2021 through March 2023.
This case was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security Office of Inspector General, with assistance from FEMA Fraud Prevention and Investigations, and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Ruth Mandelbaum and S. Chandler Harris.
Missouri Kindergarten Teacher Admits Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
CAPE GIRARDEAU – A former Farmington, Missouri kindergarten teacher on Wednesday admitted possessing and sharing child sexual abuse material.
Erika L. Morton, 37, pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court in Cape Girardeau to one count of possession of child pornography. She admitted sending child sexual abuse material (CSAM) via the Kik Messenger app.
In February 2025, the Missouri State Highway Patrol received a cybertip reporting that a Kik user had uploaded several video files containing images of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct. Investigators traced the account to Morton and interviewed her on June 17, 2025. Morton admitted that she was the Kik user responsible for sending the CSAM and admitted that she used her cell phone to obtain the material while at her home in Ste. Genevieve County, her plea agreement says.
Morton is scheduled to be sentenced in April. The charge carries a penalty of up to 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both prison and a fine.
The Missouri State Highway Patrol and the FBI investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jack Koester is prosecuting the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Department of Justice Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Milwaukee Woman Pleads Guilty to Aiding in the Preparation of False Tax ReturnsRead the Press Release
Brad D. Schimel, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on January 28, 2026, Jasmeika Simon, (age 33) of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, pled guilty to one count of Aiding in the Preparation of False Tax returns, in violation of Title 26, United States Code, Section 7206(2).
According to the plea agreement, Simon worked as a tax preparer who prepared and filed federal tax returns for clients for a fee. For the 2021, 2022, and 2023 tax years, Simon electronically filed approximately 361 federal tax returns with the IRS. Of those, approximately 331 contained indicators and evidence of fraud. Most of the 1040 tax returns filed by Simon on behalf of her clients reported materially false income related to business income and losses, household employee wages, and/or ordinary dividends. They also reported a variety of materially false refundable credits and other payments including sick and family leave credits, child and dependent care credits, fuel tax credits, IRC Section 1341 credits, and/or false income tax withholdings. As a result of Simon’s material misrepresentations, her clients received larger refunds to which they were not entitled, which increased Simon’s commissions. Throughout the course of her scheme, Simon intended a loss to the IRS of approximately $3,337,051, and caused an actual tax loss, based on fraudulent refunds paid, of $1,832,477. As a result of her fraudulent conduct, Simon also obtained approximately $234,508 in fees and commissions to which she was not entitled.
Simon faces up to 3 years imprisonment and a fine of up to $250,000. She will be sentenced by United States District Court Judge Brett H. Ludwig on June 8, 2026.
This case was investigated by the IRS Criminal Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Peter J. Smyczek.
# # #
For further information contact:
Public Affairs Officer Steve Caballero
(414) 297-1700
Follow us on X
Mexican National Sentenced to Prison TimeRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Manuel De Jesus Tinoco-Calderon, 36 years old, of Mexico and a resident of South Bend, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Cristal C. Brisco after pleading guilty to felony reentry of removed alien, announced United States Attorney Adam L. Mildred.
Tinoco-Calderon was sentenced to time served. He has been in custody since August 15, 2025.
According to documents in the case, Tinoco-Calderon was previously removed from the United States in September of 2007.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement with assistance from the Notre Dame Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Luke N. Reilander.
Mexican National Couple Sentenced for Making and Selling Thousands of Counterfeit IdentificationsRead the Press Release
TULSA, Okla. – A Mexican national couple sentenced for making and selling thousands of counterfeit identifications to clients throughout the United States, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson.
U.S. District Judge Sara E. Hill sentenced Karina Garcia-Salazar, 47, for Conspiracy to Transfer Identification Documents and Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Use or Transfer Five or More Documents. Judge Hill ordered Garcia-Salazar to 60 months imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release.
Garcia-Salazar’s co-defendant, Jorge Augusto Prieto-Gamboa, 41, was sentenced in December 2025 for Conspiracy to Possess Fire or More Documents with Intent to Transfer. Judge Hill ordered Prieto-Gamboa to serve 15 months imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release.
From August 2020 through their arrest in February 2025, Garcia-Salazar and Prieto-Gamboa worked together to create thousands of fake immigration documents. Court records show that the defendants sold the fake documents in several controlled buys orchestrated by agents. During those buys, agents confirmed that Garcia-Salazar and Prieto-Gamboa were working together to sell identification cards and Social Security cards.
A search warrant was served on their home in Tulsa. During that search, agents found at least 67 fake completed documents and seized several electronic devices for further search. After searching their devices, agents found more than 2,000 different identification documents, including Social Security cards, lawful permanent resident cards, state driver’s licenses and ID cards, foreign ID cards, and passports. Screenshot communications found showed conversations with clients that included photos, dates of birth, other information needed to complete the false documents, and photos verifying that the documents were completed. Agents also found client ledgers and images of envelopes mailed across the United States.
Bank records and surveillance obtained by agents show that Garcia-Salazar used a fake Mexican passport to open a local checking account rather than her permanent resident card. Cash deposits made by both defendants and peer-to-peer transactions showed that the couple charged $120 to $150 for fake cards. The fake passport used by Garcia-Salazar and more than $32,000 in cash were also found during the search warrant.
During the investigation, agents confirmed that at least one ID was made and sold to a separate defendant charged in the Northern District of Oklahoma. He admitted to smuggling and trafficking three kilograms of methamphetamine and three kilograms of black tar heroin into the United States.
Court records show that Garcia-Salazar obtained a lawful permanent resident card and that Prieto-Gamboa entered the United States unlawfully in 2002. The couple will remain in custody pending transfer to the U.S. Bureau of Prisons.
Homeland Security Investigations investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles Greenough prosecuted the case.
This case was investigated and prosecuted by the Dallas Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) as part of Operation Take Back America. HSTFs, which were established by President Trump in Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion, are joint operations led by the Department of Justice and the Department of Homeland Security. Operation Take Back America is a nationwide federal initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
Manitowoc Woman Receives Prison Time for Money Laundering Scheme Involving MillionsRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brad D. Schimel announced that on January 27, 2026, Cherie Campion (age: 64) was sentenced to eighteen months’ imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, by United Stated District Judge Lynn Adelman. Campion was also ordered to pay over $10 million in restitution.
Campion, through her temporary staffing agency, generated and submitted thousands of fraudulent invoices, causing respective losses of $5,000,000 and $5,389,371.51 for the two companies she deceived. Campion pled guilty to two counts of money laundering, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1956(a)(1)(B)(i).
While imposing sentence, Judge Adelman emphasized that this was “significant” misconduct, involving large dollar amounts and lies that continued over the course of years. Judge Adelman also noted that Campion’s crimes were sophisticated and involved “intricate operations,” including the generation of fake financial records; the creation of a fictitious persona to deceive her victims; and Campion’s employment of a “voice modulator” to facilitate her deception. Although Judge Adelman concluded that Campion was unlikely to reoffend, given her age and lack of prior criminal history, Judge Adelman nevertheless believed an imprisonment term was necessary to “promote general deterrence,” and hopefully dissuade other would-be white-collar criminals.
“As the Judge said, this should be a message to all would-be fraudsters and embezzlers that they will be caught and imprisoned,” said U.S. Attorney Schimel. “I am proud of the very capable and hard-working investigation and prosecution team that brought this offender to justice.”
“Cherie Campion devised an elaborate fraud scheme which caused significant loss to the victims. The sentencing of Campion and the accompanying restitution order of more than $10 million serves justice for the victims of this fraud scheme,” said FBI Milwaukee Special Agent in Charge Alan Karr. “The FBI is committed to working with our law enforcement partners to diligently pursue those who defraud and exploit others for personal gain.”
“Today’s sentencing of Campion demonstrates our commitment to pursuing those who engage in deception and fraud,” said Adam Jobes, IRS Criminal Investigation Special Agent in Charge of the Chicago Field Office. “IRS Criminal Investigation provides financial investigative expertise in our joint work with our law enforcement partners. Pooling the skills of each agency creates a formidable team to uncover wrongdoing. Today’s actions highlight our collective efforts to enforce the law and protect the public’s trust.”
“The U.S. Postal Inspection Service works diligently to preserve the integrity of the U.S. Mail,” said Mary T. Johnson, Acting Inspector in Charge of the Chicago Division of the United States Postal Inspection Service. “This sentencing reflects the successful teamwork across many federal law enforcement agencies. We want the public to know that Postal Inspectors will aggressively pursue anyone who attempts to use the Postal Service for criminal activity. We will not allow the U.S. Mail to be used to commit fraud, and we aim to keep the mail safe and secure for the American public."
“Ms. Campion’s fraud caused significant losses to the two affected companies,” said Special Agent in Charge Vincent Zehme, of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Office of Inspector General (FDIC OIG), Chicago Regional Office. “This type of sophisticated fraud scheme not only causes losses to the victim companies but also undermines the integrity of our Nation’s banks when fraud proceeds are laundered through our financial systems. Her prison sentence and significant restitution of over $10 million should send a message that FDIC OIG will continue to work tirelessly with our law enforcement partners to bring these schemes to a halt.”This matter was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation, the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation-Office of Inspector General, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kevin Knight.
# # #
For further information contact:
Public Affairs Officer Steve Caballero
(414) 297-1700
Follow us on X
Members of a Local Heroin and Drug Trafficking Organization Sentenced to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Kurt L. Wall announced the sentencing of five individuals by U.S. Chief Judge Shelly D. Dick in connection with a large-scale cocaine and heroin trafficking network based in East Baton Rouge Parish.
Francisco Palma, age 45, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, was sentenced to 156 months in federal prison following his conviction for conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute cocaine and heroin, unlawful use of communication facilities, unlawful travel in aid of a racketeering enterprise, possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and money laundering. The Court further sentenced Palma to serve three years of supervised release following his term of imprisonment.
Chief Judge Dick previously sentenced four other individuals in connection with this scheme. Juan Villareal, age 40, of Roma, Texas, was sentenced to 78 months in federal prison following his conviction for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine and heroin and unlawful use of communication facilities. The Court further sentenced Villareal to serve three years of supervised release following his term of imprisonment and entered a forfeiture money judgment of $100,000 against him, representing the amount of proceeds that he obtained from the offenses.
Richard Antunez, age 36, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, was sentenced to 70 months in federal prison following his conviction for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine and heroin, distribution of cocaine and heroin, and unlawful use of communication facilities. The Court further sentenced Antunez to serve three years of supervised release following his term of imprisonment.
Marco Antonio Filos, age 44, of Marrero, Louisiana, was sentenced to 26 months in federal prison following his conviction for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine and heroin, unlawful travel in aid of a racketeering enterprise, and unlawful use of communication facilities. The Court further sentenced Filos to serve two years of supervised release following his term of imprisonment.
Clarence Corey Anderson, age 44, of Prairieville, Louisiana, was sentenced to two years of probation following his conviction of unlawful use of communication facilities.
According to admissions made during his plea, beginning in or before October of 2017, and continuing until January 31, 2019, Palma conspired with others to obtain, distribute, and possess with the intent to distribute large quantities of cocaine, in excess of five kilograms, and heroin in the Middle District of Louisiana.
As part of the conspiracy, Palma, along with Juan Villareal, purchased or obtained kilogram quantities of cocaine and heroin from sources in Mexico and supplied these drugs to each other if one or the other ran out before the next shipment came in. Palma distributed cocaine and heroin to Richard Antunez, Marcos Antonio Filos, and Corey Anderson for further distribution in Baton Rouge, New Orleans, and elsewhere.
Palma and other members of his organization used telephones, which were listed in their names and the names of others, to discuss, negotiate, and arrange the purchase and sale of heroin. They also used telephones to facilitate the exchange of monies related to the buying and selling of heroin. Palma and the other members used public and private places to carry out the exchange of cocaine and heroin and cash from the drug transactions.
Agents seized over $250,000 in illegal drug proceeds, luxury vehicles, heroin, cocaine, and marijuana, and thirteen firearms during the investigation. The United States separately obtained forfeiture judgments for proceeds from the sale of a 2010 Rolls Royce Ghost and $253,110 in cash through civil forfeiture.
This investigation was led by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff’s Office, Iberville Parish Sheriff's Office, and Baton Rouge Police Department, and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Eli J. Abad. Assistant United States Attorney J. Brady Casey litigated the associated forfeiture proceedings.
Luzerne County Man Sentenced to 20 Years’ Imprisonment for Drug Distribution Resulting in DeathRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Christian Barnes, age 38, of Luzerne County, Pennsylvania, was sentenced on January 27, 2026, to 20 years in prison by United States District Judge Karoline Mehalchick for conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute fentanyl resulting in serious bodily injury and death.
According to United States Attorney Brian D. Miller, on November 4, 2021, Barnes sold approximately 1.3 grams of fentanyl to Jennifer Giuli, age 43, of Luzerne County. Giuli, in turn, then sold a half gram of the fentanyl that she received from Barnes to a Kingston, Luzerne County, resident, who later died after ingesting the fentanyl. Both Barnes and Giuli pleaded guilty to the charge of drug delivery resulting in death. On May 27, 2025, Judge Mehalchick also sentenced Jennifer Giuli to 240 months’ imprisonment.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Kingston Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jenny P. Roberts prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America (https://www.justice.gov/dag/media/1393746/dl?inline) 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.
###
Long Island Tax Preparer Pleads Guilty to Nearly $12 Million Tax Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
Earlier today, in federal court in Central Islip, Damaris Beltre, a former tax preparer in Freeport, New York, pleaded guilty to two counts of wire fraud and one count of aiding and assisting in the preparation of false tax returns. The proceeding was held before United States District Judge Sanket J. Bulsara. When sentenced, Beltre faces a maximum sentence of 53 years’ imprisonment, as well as restitution of approximately $12 million.
Joseph Nocella, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York and Harry T. Chavis, Jr., Special Agent in Charge, Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation, New York (IRS-CI New York) announced the guilty plea.
“Beltre brazenly defrauded the government and callously put her clients in jeopardy to line her own pockets,” stated United States Attorney Nocella. “Today’s guilty plea should serve as a warning to anyone who, like this defendant, views federal programs and the federal treasury as their own personal piggybanks, that you will be arrested and vigorously prosecuted.”
Mr. Nocella also expressed his appreciation to the United States Customs and Border Protection, New York Field Office, the Freeport Police Department, and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) for their assistance on the case.
“Beltre was a shady tax preparer with a complete disregard for U.S. law or the American public she failed when she fraudulently claimed tens of millions of dollars in COVID-19-related tax credits. She hoarded funds meant for those with a legitimate need just to fatten her own pockets. With today’s plea, she can move forward with facing the full consequences of her actions,” stated IRS-CI New York Special Agent in Charge Chavis.
As set forth in court filings and at today’s guilty plea proceeding, Beltre owned and operated multiple corporate entities offering tax preparation and other financial services in Freeport, New York. From approximately January 2021 through April 2024, Beltre personally prepared, and supervised employees in the preparation of, false and fraudulent individual income tax returns, and associated schedules and forms, for her client-taxpayers, which were submitted to the IRS.
The tax returns that Beltre prepared and caused to be prepared for her clients listed false dependents and fraudulently claimed tens of millions of dollars in COVID-19-related tax credits and motor fuel income tax credits to directly reduce tax liability and provide substantial refunds to which her clients were not entitled. Beltre’s clients paid over $1 million in fees for her services preparing these false returns, which included a percentage of any tax refund issued. For example, in April 2023, a federal agent acting in an undercover capacity (the UC) hired Beltre to prepare his individual income tax return. If prepared accurately, the UC would have owed the IRS approximately $205. By contrast, the defendant prepared an income tax return for the UC which contained false and fraudulent statements and baseless tax credits, and which thereby claimed a refund of over $14,243. Beltre charged the UC $2,200 in fees to prepare and submit the fraudulent tax return. As a result of this years-long scheme, the IRS improperly issued nearly $11 million in tax refunds to the defendant’s clients, and failed to collect several million dollars as a result of fraudulently reduced tax liabilities.
In a separate Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) fraud scheme, from approximately April 2020 through July 2022, Beltre filed and caused to be filed false payroll reports and income tax returns with the IRS on behalf of her corporate clients to fraudulently obtain PPP loans from the SBA, totaling approximately $1 million. Beltre used these proceeds, and those generated from the tax preparer fraud scheme described above, for personal expenses, including paying personal debts, to fund a home in the Caribbean, and to purchase a car and jewelry.
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 and Victim Witness Coordinator Stephanie Marroquin.
The Defendant:
DAMARIS BELTRE
Age: 58
Freeport, New YorkE.D.N.Y. Docket No. 25-CR-081 (SJB)
Local doctor who tied up, repeatedly raped a woman in 1989 sentenced to 15 years in prison for making false statements to FBIRead the Press Release
DAYTON, Ohio – A Sycamore Township man who admitted to tying up and repeatedly raping a woman in 1989 was sentenced in U.S. District Court here today to the statutory maximum 180 months in prison for making false statements about the rapes to federal agents.
Frederick Louis Tanzer, 67, pleaded guilty in September 2025 to three counts of the false‑statements crime.
“Before admitting that he was the man who committed these horrific rapes in 1989, Tanzer lied to the FBI. His DNA confirmed his guilt, and evidence points to Tanzer being a serial rapist,” said U.S. Attorney Dominick S. Gerace II. “Tanzer poses a grave risk to the public and deserves to be in prison not only for his lies but also for the despicable attack he was trying to cover up.”
“The strong investigative work by the Cincinnati Police Department and the FBI led to Frederick Tanzer’s identification and his admission of his heinous crimes,” stated FBI Cincinnati Special Agent in Charge Jason Cromartie. “I commend the investigators who never gave up in their pursuit of justice for the victim.”
According to court documents, on Aug. 1, 1989, Tanzer broke into the home of Dana Beatty (then Dana Sandbo) in Cincinnati and repeatedly raped her over the course of five and a half hours. Tanzer, masked and dressed from head to toe in black Lycra, held a knife to the victim’s throat, dragged her into her bedroom, blindfolded her with surgical tape, bound her hands and feet to her bed frame, and then repeatedly, and with extreme violence, raped her vaginally, anally and orally.
The case remained unsolved for nearly 35 years. In 2024, the FBI, working with the Cincinnati Police Department, confirmed that DNA taken from Tanzer’s coffee cup matched the semen left by the man who attacked Dana Beatty in 1989.
When approached about the rapes, the defendant made several distinct and materially false statements to a federal agent and a Cincinnati Police Department detective, including denying having seen or interacted with the victim on the date of the attack.
The statute of limitations for the crimes committed during the 1989 attack expired in approximately 1995.
Tanzer was arrested in December 2024 and has remained in custody since.
Dominick S. Gerace II, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio; Jason Cromartie, Special Agent in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Cincinnati Division; and Cincinnati Interim Police Chief Adam Hennie announced the sentence imposed today by U.S. District Judge Michael J. Newman. The IRS-Criminal Investigation Cincinnati Field Office assisted in the investigation. Assistant United States Attorneys Kelly K. Rossi and Julie D. Garcia are representing the United States in this case.
While the United States Attorney’s Office typically does not identify crime victims, Dana Beatty is identified here by name at her request.
# # #
Lincoln County Man Sentenced to Prison for Federal Gun CrimeRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Kevin James Murphy, 30, of West Hamlin, was sentenced today to five years and 10 months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, for being a felon in possession of a firearm.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on March 11, 2025, Murphy was the front seat passenger in a vehicle pulled over by law enforcement officers in Huntington. During the traffic stop, officers directed Murphy to exit the vehicle and asked if he had any weapons. As part of his guilty plea, Murphy admitted that officers seized a Taurus Model G2C 9mm from his waistband after he told them he had a firearm. Murphy further admitted that the seized firearm was reported stolen, and that officers also seized approximately 29 grams of methamphetamine, digital scales, plastic bags, and 9mm ammunition from his backpack in the vehicle during the traffic stop. Murphy also admitted that he possessed and intended to distribute the seized methamphetamine and possessed the seized firearm in connection with that offense.
Federal law prohibits a person with a prior felony conviction from possessing a firearm or ammunition. Murphy knew he was prohibited from possessing a firearm because of his prior felony convictions for attempt to commit a felony-possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance on March 29, 2016, and being a person prohibited from possessing firearms on June 29, 2019, both in Cabell County Circuit Court.
United States Attorney Moore Capito made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Huntington Police Department, the Huntington Violent Crime and Drug Task Force. and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Courtney L. Finney prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:25-cr-99.
###
Last of Four Individuals Charged in $63 Million Mail Theft Conspiracy, Including Two Postal Employees Pleads GuiltyRead the Press Release
DETROIT – Four individuals who were charged in an Information last year for their involvement in a $63 million scheme that involved stealing checks from the mail and selling them online have all since pleaded guilty, United States Attorney Jerome F. Gorgon Jr. announced today.
Gorgon was joined in the announcement by U.S. Postal Service Inspector General Tammy Hull; Acting Inspector in Charge Sean McStravick, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Detroit Division; Special Agent in Charge Karen Wingerd, Detroit Field Office, Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation; Special Agent in Andrew McKay, Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration, Mid-Atlantic Field Division; and Megan Howell, Special Agent-in-Charge, Great Lakes Region, U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General.
Jaiswan Williams, 32, of Rochester Hills, Daquan Foreman, 32, of Eastpointe, Vanessa Hargrove, 40, of Detroit, and Crystal Jenkins, 32, of Detroit, all pleaded guilty to conspiracy to aid and abet bank and wire fraud. Williams also pleaded guilty to money laundering, and accepted responsibility for $1.5M of fraudulent pandemic unemployment insurance benefit claims submitted between May 2020 and September 2021.
Hargrove and Jenkins were United States Postal Service employees who diverted and ultimately stole checks and other negotiable instruments from the mail, including a high volume of tax refund checks issued by the U.S. Treasury. Williams and Foreman were the administrators of the online marketplaces used to sell the checks.
According to the Information, postal employees Hargrove and Jenkins would provide the stolen checks to Williams and Foreman in exchange for payments. Williams and Foreman would take those checks and market them for sale via Telegram Messenger, a cloud-based, cross-platform instant messaging application. Prices varied based on the face-value of the checks. One of the Telegram channels, named “Whole Foods Slipsss,” was used to advertise high-dollar checks, while another channel, named “Uber Eats Slips,” was used to advertise lower-dollar checks. “Slips” is a term commonly used in these schemes to refer to stolen checks. Transactions were completed off-platform using a variety of electronic payment systems. Purchasers of these checks would then attempt to fraudulently cash them using a variety of methods.
All four defendants face up to 30 years in prison for the conspiracy. Williams also faces up to 20 years on the money laundering charge.
Sentencing hearings will be held later this year, in front of U.S District Judge Judith E. Levy, as follows:
D-1 Jaiswan Williams: April 14, 2026
D-2 Daquan Foreman: March 3, 2026
D-3 Vanessa Hargrove: March 3, 2026
D-4 Crystal Jenkins: May 27, 2026
This multi-agency investigation was led by the U.S. Postal Service Office of the Inspector General (USPS-OIG), with the assistance of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS); the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations (IRS-CI); the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA); and the Department of Labor Office of the Inspector General (DOL-OIG), and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan A. Particka.
Last Defendant in Akron Drug Conspiracy Case Sentenced to PrisonRead the Press Release
AKRON, Ohio – The last of seven defendants has been sentenced to prison for his role in a trafficking conspiracy that peddled opioids and other drugs throughout communities in Summit County and the surrounding areas.
Jonnell L. Ammons, aka Nell, 36, of Akron, Ohio, was sentenced to 125 months (10 years and four months) in prison by U.S. District Judge Donald C. Nugent after a federal jury convicted him in September 2025 of the following charges:
- Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine and Fentanyl
- Use of a Communication Facility to Facilitate a Felony Drug Offense
In addition to the sentence on the drug charges, he was also ordered to serve three years of supervised release after imprisonment.
According to court documents, from about May 2023 to January 2024, Ammons was engaged in illicit activities with an Akron-area drug trafficking organization known for dealing in methamphetamine, fentanyl, and cocaine. As one of seven co-conspirators, he played a key role in pushing illegal drugs out into the communities of Northeast Ohio. The individuals in the conspiracy used residential and commercial buildings in Akron to store the illicit drugs before selling them. Members of the conspiracy also used firearms as a means of security to protect their drugs in storage before selling. Throughout the investigation, agents seized methamphetamine, fentanyl, cocaine, and three loaded firearms. More than $8,500 in cash, a Rolex watch, and a Chevrolet Corvette, were also seized by federal agents.
The following co-defendants in the case are currently serving sentences in federal prison for their roles in the conspiracy:
- Terrance D.N. McCormick, aka, TNasty, 41; 420 months (35 years)
- Jonez S. Ammons, aka, Nez, 34; 151 months (12 years and 6 months)
- Karim S. Davis, 33; 42 months (3 years and 6 months)
- Tyler J. Sands, 24; 140 months (11 years and 7 months)
- Ashley E. Steiner, 36, 102 months (8 years and 6 months)
- Jonte J. Averiett, aka, Sticks, 24, 30 months (2 years and 6 months)
All defendants resided in Akron.
This wiretap case was investigated by the DEA Cleveland Field Office.
Assistant United States Attorneys Peter E. Daly and Joseph P. Dangelo for the Northern District of Ohio led the prosecution.
Justice Department Recognizes Arizona’s Successful Completion of Disability Access Reforms at Statewide Corrections FacilitiesRead the Press Release
The Justice Department announced today the successful completion of reforms required under an agreement with the Arizona statewide prison system, the Arizona Department of Corrections, Rehabilitation, and Reentry (ADCRR). The Department concluded its Nov. 16, 2023 agreement with ADCRR, which resolved the Justice Department’s findings that ADCRR violated Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) by discriminating against incarcerated individuals with vision disabilities, including those who are blind or have low vision.
“The Civil Rights Division continues its commitment to upholding the Americans with Disabilities Act,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “We commend ADCRR for its work to protect the ADA rights of people with disabilities, including those who are blind or have other vision disabilities, incarcerated in state facilities.”
Under the agreement, ADCRR implemented a series of reforms, including revising policies and practices, training personnel, providing necessary modifications, aids, and services, and providing assistive technology to people with vision disabilities in ADCRR custody. ADCRR also implemented screening and documentation procedures and appointed ADA coordinators to facilitate implementation of the agreement across the state.
The Justice Department plays a central role in advancing the ADA’s goals of equal opportunity, and full participation for people with disabilities, including people who are incarcerated. For more information on the Civil Rights Division, please visit www.justice.gov/crt. For more information on the ADA, please call the department’s toll-free ADA Information Line at 1-800-514-0301 (TTY 1-833-610-1264) or visit www.ADA.gov.
Justice Department Joins Lawsuit Against Racial Discrimination in Admissions at UCLA’s Medical SchoolRead the Press Release
Today, the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division sought intervention in a lawsuit against the David Geffen School of Medicine at the University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) over the school’s continued use of race in its admissions policies and practices. The underlying lawsuit against UCLA was brought by several groups, including Students for Fair Admissions (SFFA). In 2023, SFFA won a historic victory against Harvard University and the University of North Carolina, in which the Supreme Court determined that U.S. universities were no longer allowed to use race as a factor in admissions decisions. SFFA, and now the United States, allege in this lawsuit that UCLA has continued to use race in its admissions decisions after the Supreme Court’s decision in SFFA v. Harvard.
“As the Supreme Court has made clear, admission into our nation’s educational institutions cannot be based on discriminatory racial policies,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “Today’s intervention is the Department of Justice’s latest effort to hold our universities accountable for unlawful policy — especially in the state of California.”
“Even after the Supreme Court banned race-balancing, the Geffen School kept discriminating by using illegal DEI preferences in admissions,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “As the Supreme Court stated more than 80 years ago, a free people, founded on the doctrine of equality, regard distinctions between citizens solely because of their ancestry as inherently odious. This Civil Rights Division will not tolerate such conduct and welcomes the Court’s role in ensuring justice.”
“The law is clear: Discrimination on the basis of race is illegal and immoral,” said First Assistant U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli for the Central District of California. “As a state where so many of its leaders pride themselves on being on the ‘right side of history,’ California can and must do better.”
The lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California, notes that the Geffen School gathers data on the race of its applicants, and uses racial preferences to illegally balance its admissions classes by race such that they will “look like” America.
The United States’ complaint notes that, based on admissions data obtained from the Geffen School, large disparities exist between the academic preparation of minority applicants and non-minority applicants. This invidious racism not only violates the U.S. Constitution, but stigmatizes minority applicants as less qualified, and causes the medical school to admit applicants who are substantially less qualified to become medical doctors.
This case is brought by the Educational Opportunities Section of the Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division.
You can view the complaint here.
Jersey City Man Admits to Conspiring to Transport Stolen GoodsRead the Press Release
CAMDEN, N.J. – A Jersey City man admitted to engaging in a conspiracy to burglarize logistics warehouses and transport the stolen goods, Senior Counsel Philip W. Lamparello announced.
Derek Spivey, 37, of Jersey City, New Jersey, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Edward S. Kiel to an information charging him with one count of conspiring to transport stolen goods. Spivey also pleaded guilty to violating the conditions of his supervised release from a prior conviction for possessing a firearm as a felon.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
Spivey conspired with Jamil Bethea, Jamal Reid, Rasheed Sharpe, and others to burglarize trailers at logistics warehouses in New Jersey and Pennsylvania, transport the goods stolen from those warehouses, and sell the stolen goods to others. As part of the conspiracy, burglars stole $50,000 of Department of Defense laptops from a Pennsylvania warehouse in January 2025; $200,000 of high-end perfume from a Pennsylvania warehouse in March 2025; and $20,000 of liquor from a New Jersey warehouse in March 2025. Spivey and his co-conspirators then transported stolen goods into and through New Jersey for the purpose of selling them.
The count of conspiracy carries a maximum penalty of 5 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000, or twice the gross loss to the victim or gain to the defendant, whichever is greatest. Sentencing is scheduled for June 1, 2026.
Bethea, Reid, and Sharpe previously pleaded guilty for their roles in the conspiracy and are scheduled to be sentenced later this year.
Senior Counsel Lamparello credited agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Atlantic City Resident Agency, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Stefanie Roddy in Newark, with the investigation leading to this plea. He also thanked the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Philadelphia Field Division with its assistance in the investigation.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey Bender of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Camden.
26-022 ###
Defense counsel: Thomas Young, Esq., Assistant Federal Public Defender
spivey.information.pdfIndictment Charges Dubai Resident with Fraud, Money Laundering, and Identity Theft OffensesRead the Press Release
David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and P.J. O’Brien, Special Agent in Charge of the New Haven Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, today announced that a federal grand jury in Bridgeport has returned a nine-count indictment SAUL SHALEV, 36, a dual U.S.-Israeli national, with offenses stemming from an alleged scheme that defrauded numerous small and medium-sized businesses and commercial lenders.
The indictment was returned on August 20, 2025, and Shalev was arrested in Barcelona, Spain, on September 15, 2025, at the request of the United States. Shalev appeared yesterday before U.S. Magistrate Judge S. Dave Vatti in Bridgeport and was ordered detained.
As alleged in court documents and statements made in court, Shalev holds U.S. and Israeli passports, lived in Brooklyn, New York, until approximately February 2019, and most recently resided in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Between approximately December 2019 and November 2022, Shalev defrauded more than 20 small and medium-sized businesses (“SMBs”). As part of the scheme, Shalev obtained information about commercial loans received by the SMBs and offered the SMBs the opportunity to refinance the loans or to obtain additional financing, either from the original lender or from a new lender. Shalev, using stolen identities and making fraudulent representations, acted as a broker between SMBs and potential lenders. After obtaining new or additional financing for an SMB from a commercial lender, Shalev provided fraudulent payoff instructions to the SMB with respect to a prior loan, causing the SMB to send all or part of the loan proceeds to an account he controlled. Shalev also fraudulently received a commission from the lender.
The indictment specifically alleges that
- In December 2020, Shalev used a stolen identity and posed as a broker between an auto dealership in Ohio and a commercial lender in Connecticut. Shalev caused the lender to make a loan of $343,000 to the auto dealer, caused the auto dealer to make a payoff payment of $190,668.06 to a commercial lender in Colorado that was actually directed to an account controlled by Shalev, and received a commission from the Connecticut lender of $42,000.
- In August 2021, Shalev used a stolen identity and posed as a broker between a healthcare provider in Indiana and the Connecticut lender. Shalev caused the lender to make a loan of $145,500 to the healthcare provider, caused the healthcare provider to make payoff payments totaling $156,838.85 to the commercial lender in Colorado that were actually directed to an account controlled by Shalev, and received a commission from the Connecticut lender of $18,000.
- In November 2022, Shalev posed as a broker between a provider of home improvement services in Michigan and a commercial lender in Pennsylvania. Shalev caused the lender to make a loan of $196,000 to the Michigan business, advised the business that the loan proceeds were sent in error, and instructed the business to “return” the proceeds to an account he controlled.
It is alleged that Shalev converted stolen funds into cryptocurrency.
The indictment charges Shalev with three counts of wire fraud, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years on each count; four counts of money laundering, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years on each count; and two counts of aggravated identity theft, an offense that carries a mandatory consecutive term of imprisonment of two years on each count.
U.S. Attorney Sullivan stressed that an indictment is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Connecticut Cyber Task Force (CCTF), the Stamford Police Department, and the Greenwich Police Department. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs and Spanish authorities provided significant assistance in securing Shalev’s arrest and January 23 extradition.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Edward Chang.
Indianapolis Man Sentenced to 5 Years in Federal Prison for Defrauding Elderly VictimsRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that U.S. District Judge Camela C. Theeler has sentenced an Indianapolis, Indiana, man convicted in a federal jury trial of Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud. The sentencing took place on January 26, 2026.
Abdul Waheed Mohammed, age 33, was sentenced to five years in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund and $163,000 in restitution.
Mohammed was indicted for Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud and Wire Fraud by a federal grand jury in November 2024. Mohammed was found guilty on the Conspiracy charge after a three-day jury trial in October 2025.
In September 2023, Mohammed and several co-conspirators, including co-defendant Shalinee Vyas, were involved in a scam targeting elderly victims across the United States and fraudulently taking money from them. The victims were told and convinced by these scammers that they had committed a crime or had their bank accounts hacked. In September 2023, those working with Mohammed contacted an elderly victim in the Rapid City area and falsely claimed to be law enforcement officers. The victim was told she had been involved in a crime and would be arrested if she did not do exactly what she was told, which included paying over cash and gold to resolve the non-existent criminal matter. The scammers also told the victim she could not speak about the matter to anyone, or she would be arrested. Over the course of a week, the victim lost more than $100,000 to the scammers when they came to the victim’s home to pick up cash and gold.
After these events, the victim’s friends noticed a change in her behavior that ultimately led to uncovering the scam. The victim notified law enforcement of the communications and law enforcement learned that another $95,000 in gold was to be picked up by a scammer. Law enforcement then conducted an operation and arrested Mohammed when he arrived at the victim’s home to pick up the gold. Following Mohammed’s arrest, law enforcement located numerous messages in Mohammed’s phone from Vyas to Mohammed and others directing Mohammed to various locations throughout the United States to collect cash from elderly victims who were being scammed, including the pick-up of gold in Rapid City.
“This defendant and his ring of thieves systematically preyed upon the elderly and vulnerable to rob them of their life savings and hard-earned retirement funds,” said U.S. Attorney Parsons. “It really takes a special kind of rotten to make a living scaring, threatening, stealing from, and impoverishing our senior citizens in what are supposed to be their golden years. I’m so proud of these law enforcement officers for catching these criminals and holding them accountable.”
This case was investigated by the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration, the Department of Homeland Security, and the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office. Supervisory Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Patterson prosecuted the case.
Mohammed was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
If you or someone you know is asked to do any of these things mentioned in the above case, you are dealing with a fraudster, and you should do the following immediately:
• Do not send any more money
• Save copies of your communications, receipts, bank records, etc.
• Call your local police department, sheriff’s office, or the FBI
• Submit a complaint online at IC3.gov
In addition, an individual employed by the federal government will never:
• Tell you to withdraw any of your money from your bank accounts.
• Ask you to convert your money into gold bars or some other form of currency.
• Come to your house or meet you at a predetermined location and take money from you.
• Ask you to wire money to an account.
• Ask you to send money via CashApp, Zelle, Apple Pay, or any other peer-to-peer platform.
• Ask you to send cryptocurrency.
• Ask you to buy gift cards and send them.
(either by mailing the physical cards or by scratching them off and sending pictures of the redemption information)• Tell you they need remote access to your computer or any of your accounts.
• Ask you for your social security number, bank account information, or any other sensitive information over phone or email.
Huntington Woman Pleads Guilty to Fentanyl CrimeRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Tabatha Rae Gardner, 35, of Huntington, pleaded guilty today to distribution of fentanyl.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on October 31, 2024, Gardner sold approximately 3.47 grams of fentanyl to a confidential informant in a garage behind the residence of Gardner’s grandmother in Huntington.
Gardner is scheduled to be sentenced on May 11, 2026, and faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, at least three years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $1 million.
Gardner’s co-defendant, Tina Marie Dixon, 52, of Huntington, pleaded guilty on January 6, 2026, to possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and cocaine base, also known as “crack,” and is scheduled to be sentenced on April 13, 2026.
United States Attorney Moore Capito made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Huntington Police Department.
United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Lesley C. Shamblin is prosecuting the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:25-cr-172.
###
Hudson Valley Law Enforcement Symposium – Federal, State, and Local Officials Gather to Combat Violent Crime, Narcotics Traffickers, and Child Sex OffendersRead the Press Release
On January 27, 2026, over 100 federal, state, and local law enforcement officials gathered at the Orange County Government Center to discuss their efforts to combat crime on behalf of the people of New York. Participants included, among many others, the U.S. Attorneys for the Southern and Northern Districts of New York, leaders of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”), Homeland Security Investigations (“HSI”), the Drug Enforcement Administration (“DEA”), the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (“ATF”), District Attorneys and Sheriffs from Albany County, Rockland County, Orange County, Westchester County, Dutchess County, Greene County, and Rensselaer County, and senior leaders of the New York State Police.
The presentations and discussions focused on combining resources across offices and departments to combat the greatest threats to the quality of life and safety of the good people of the Hudson Valley. Areas identified as requiring a collective effort included:
- Removing gun-toting career criminals from our streets;
- Dismantling sophisticated narcotics production and distribution enterprises, including the violent transnational gangs that have invaded communities across the Hudson Valley;
- Protecting our children from sexual predators.
Several case studies involving multi-agency efforts that led to highly successful prosecutions were discussed with an eye toward greater cooperation in the future. The participants also discussed community engagement and community priorities, including “hot spots” where the need for a combination of federal, state, and local resources is most acute.
“It is invaluable to hear directly from our state and local partners,” said U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York Jay Clayton. “Our principal objective is to deliver a better quality of life, including safe streets, for the people of the Hudson Valley, and we can best achieve that objective if we work in concert with our state and local partners. Together, we have brought—and will continue to bring—our most violent and most dangerous criminals to justice.”
“Public safety does not stop at district or county lines,” said Acting United States Attorney for the Northern District of New York John A. Sarcone III. “This symposium underscores the power of strong partnerships among federal, state, and local law enforcement to confront the most serious threats facing our communities—violent crime, narcotics trafficking, and the exploitation of children. By sharing intelligence, coordinating resources, and aligning our priorities, we are better positioned to dismantle criminal organizations, protect the most vulnerable, and deliver real results for the people we serve.”
“Drugs, guns, and violent crime are endemic public safety concerns that know no boundaries,” said Orange County District Attorney David M. Hoovler. “In order to best protect the residents of Orange County from these ever-present dangers, we must work with our law enforcement partners, near and far. I am grateful not only for all of the law enforcement professionals who attended the symposium, but also for the commitment to work together to serve the residents of the Hudson Valley. This historic event highlights the importance of collaboration in effective law enforcement in the 21st century.”
“This meeting was a tremendous opportunity to gather officials from federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies to share information and ideas on how we can leverage our resources to identify, investigate, and bring to justice the dangerous criminals bringing harmful narcotics and weapons into our communities,” said Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Albany Field Office Craig Tremaroli. “I’m incredibly grateful to all the partners who made the time to attend this important discussion, and I look forward to working together to achieve our shared goal of keeping all our communities safe.”
“DEA New York remains steadfast in our commitment to working alongside our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners to target those looking to distribute illicit narcotics throughout the Hudson Valley region,” said DEA New York Enforcement Division Special Agent in Charge Farhana Islam. “These symposiums provide us the opportunity to gather and collaborate with our partners, which helps strengthen our resolve to enhance public safety and helps protect our communities from drug poisonings which are harming our neighbors.”
“HSI New York was honored to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with our fellow law enforcement leaders at the Hudson Valley Law Enforcement Symposium, united by our shared commitment to protecting our communities,” said HSI New York Acting Special Agent in Charge Michael Alfonso. “Bringing together the strength and expertise of federal, state, and local partners is how we turn the tide against violent crime, drug traffickers, and those who prey on our children. When we unite our resources and resolve, we deliver real results—making the Hudson Valley a safer place for every New Yorker.”
“We appreciate our U.S. Attorneys for hosting and participating in this collaborative effort,” said Special Agent in Charge of ATF’s New York Division Bryan DiGiralamo. “ATF’s Crime Gun Intelligence, when combined with strong partnerships across all levels of law enforcement, enhances investigations and plays a critical role in reducing violent gun crime and keeping our communities safe.”
“Special thanks to our United States Attorneys for the Southern and Northern Districts of New York, and the Orange County District Attorneys’ Office, for bringing together our federal, state and local law enforcement partners for this meeting,” said DEA Northeast Regional Associate Chief of Operations Frank Tarentino. “The DEA is committed to working with all our law enforcement partners across the region in targeting those drug trafficking organizations and individuals who are responsible for the most harm. This is the DEA’s focus, both here and abroad, and we will continue this fight until we have a fentanyl-free America.”
Hays man pleads guilty to assault on Fort Belknap Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS - A Hays man accused of assaulting two females on the Fort Belknap Indian Reservation admitted to charges today, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
The defendant, Lane Blake Kirkaldie, 21, pleaded guilty to one count of assault with a dangerous weapon and one count of simple assault. Kirkaldie faces a term of imprisonment of ten years, a $250,000 fine, and 3 years of supervised release.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided and will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing was set for May 28, 2026. Kirkaldie was released with conditions pending further proceedings.
The government alleged in court documents that in the early hours of January 1, 2025, Kirkaldie and a group of people attended a gathering at a house on the Fort Belknap Indian
Reservation. According to witnesses, there was an altercation that resulted in Kirkaldie being told to leave the house. Jane Doe 1 and Jane Doe 2 left the house with him. The trio walked to a business in Lodge Pole, which is equipped with surveillance cameras. In one of the surveillance videos, Kirkaldie can be seen throwing things before lunging toward Jane Doe 2. The video also shows him making threatening comments while holding a glass bottle.
A different surveillance video shows both Jane Does leave the building, with Kirkaldie trailing them outside. He tried to approach Jane Doe 2, and Jane Doe 1 put herself between them. She held Kirkaldie back as Jane Doe 2 returned inside. After he pushed her away, Kirkaldie struck Jane Doe 1 in the head with the glass bottle, which cut her head badly enough to require stitches.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case. The FBI and Fort Belknap Law Enforcement Services conducted the investigation.
XXX