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11 March 2026
Chinese National Pleads Guilty to Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Ming Xia, age 41, of Flushing, New York, pled guilty on March 3, 2026, to conspiracy to commit money laundering involving the proceeds of a prostitution enterprise.
The announcement was made by First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III, Special Agent in Charge Craig Tremaroli of the Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Special Agent in Charge Erin Keegan of Homeland Security Investigations, Buffalo Field Office, Special Agent in Charge Harry T. Chavis of the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation, New York Field Division, and New York State Superintendent Steven James.
As part of his guilty plea, Xia admitted to operating several spas in the Capital Region where employees provided commercial sex services to customers. The spas generated over $2 million in proceeds, which Xia admitted laundering through third parties and using to purchase assets, including several properties. As part of his plea, Xia agreed to forfeit $198,000 in cash that was seized by law enforcement, two commercial properties, and four residences.
First Assistant United States Attorney Sarcone stated, “Mr. Xia did not merely run an illegal business, he built a multimillion-dollar enterprise on the commodification of women, treating them as instruments for financial gain while laundering the proceeds to enrich himself through cash and real estate. Let this guilty plea serve as a clear warning: those who exploit others for personal profit and attempt to hide their gains will be identified, prosecuted, and stripped of their ill-gotten assets. I thank the FBI, HSI, IRS, and NYSP for all their work in safeguarding our communities from those who exploit human beings for profit.”
FBI Special Agent in Charge Craig Tremaroli stated, “Mr. Xia admitted to operating an extensive commercial sex enterprise and laundering the profits, and now he’s facing a substantial amount of time in federal prison. This case illustrates how committed the FBI remains to working with our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners to investigate and shut down these disturbing businesses and ensure anyone who operates them is swiftly brought to justice.”
HSI Special Agent in Charge Erin Keegan stated, “By turning neighborhood spas into brothels and washing millions in criminal proceeds through our communities, Ming Xia treated the Capital Region as his personal cash register. His scheme exploited vulnerable workers, poisoned legitimate commerce, and robbed residents of the basic expectation that local businesses are safe and lawful. This guilty plea sends a clear message: HSI and our invaluable Homeland Security Task Force partners will strip criminals of their profits, seize their assets, and shut down any operation that tries to hide behind a respectable storefront.”
“Ming Xia’s guilty plea is the result of law enforcement doing straightforward, old‑fashioned police work. When someone uses a business as a cover to move millions in dirty cash, we’re going to follow the money and shut it down. Working alongside our federal and state partners, IRS‑CI will continue to trace financial footprints, uncover hidden profits, and ensure that those who abuse the financial system for personal gain are held fully accountable,” said Harry T. Chavis, Special Agent in Charge of IRS-CI New York.
NYSP Superintendent Steven G. James said, “Efforts to intercept illegal business practices are an integral part of protecting our communities in New York State. This guilty plea sends a clear message that we will continue to be relentless in the fight against money laundering and those who engage in inappropriate acts for money. The culmination of this investigation would not have been possible without the dedication and expertise of our members, partners at the United States Attorney’s Office and all other law enforcement agencies involved in this case.”
Sentencing is scheduled for July 1, 2026, before United States District Judge Anne M. Nardacci. Xia faces up to 20 years in prison and a maximum fine of $500,000. The charge also carries a term of supervised release of up to 3 years. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statute the defendant is convicted of violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors.
The FBI, HSI, IRS-CI, and NYSP are investigating the case with assistance from the Brooklyn District Attorney’s Office, Human Trafficking Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorney Katherine Kopita is prosecuting the case.
Chevron Agrees to Pay a $1M Civil Penalty for Violations of the Clean Air Act’s Renewable Fuel StandardRead the Press Release
Today, the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division (ENRD) announced a settlement with Chevron U.S.A. Inc. for violations of the Clean Air Act’s Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) program. Under the agreement, Chevron will pay a civil penalty of just over $1 million and has retired credits worth about $3.6 million to remedy its violations.
In June 2023, Chevron disclosed that, from January 2022 through August 2022, the company invalidly generated over 2.2 million advanced biofuel production credits, known as Renewable Identification Numbers or RINs, on renewable diesel that had previously been used for RIN generation and sold to third parties.
“Today’s action demonstrates the Administration’s commitment to the Renewable Fuel Standard program by ensuring that Renewable Identification Numbers generated and traded represent actual renewable fuel gallons produced,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Adam Gustafson of ENRD. “The benefits that flow from the Renewable Fuel Standard program to rural American communities depend on the integrity of program credits, and this action ensures the reliability of Renewable Identification Numbers in the marketplace.”
Under the RFS program, renewable fuel producers may generate RINs on renewable fuel they produce that is used in the United States. RINs may only be generated once on any volume of renewable fuel to prevent the potential double counting.
The RFS program is a national policy that requires a certain volume of renewable fuel be used to replace or reduce the quantity of fossil fuel in transportation fuel, home heating oil, or jet fuel. Refiners and importers, known as “obligated parties”, must acquire and retire a specific number of RINs each year based on the amount of petroleum fuel that they produce and import into the U.S. market. Obligated parties can acquire RINs by producing renewable fuels themselves and blending that fuel into gasoline or diesel, or by purchasing them from other parties in the RIN market. Chevron is both a renewable fuel producer and an obligated party because it produces both renewable diesel and petroleum fuels.
Prior to executing the settlement, Chevron retired valid RINs to offset the ones it had generated, worth about $3.6 million. The success of the RFS program relies on the integrity of the RIN market. This resolution furthers the goals of, and promotes public trust in, the RFS program.
Attorneys with ENRD’s Environmental Enforcement Section filed the Stipulation of Settlement with the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas. The Stipulation of Settlement is available at: www.justice.gov/enrd/consent-decrees.
Box Elder Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Federal Prison for Receipt of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that U.S. District Judge Camela C. Theeler has sentenced a Box Elder, South Dakota, man convicted of Receipt of Child Pornography. The sentencing took place on March 9, 2026.
David Derby, 29, was sentenced to 15 years in federal prison, followed by 10 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay $190 in restitution and $100 in special assessments to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Forfeiture was also ordered.
Derby was indicted for the charge by a federal grand jury in September 2025. He pleaded guilty on November 12, 2025.
Between September 2024 and April 8, 2025, Derby used the internet-based application Kik and his Motorola cellular phone and Samsung tablet computer to receive video files containing sexually explicit visual depictions of minors into his Kik account. Law enforcement officers located video files of child pornography in Derby’s Kik account. One of the videos was of a juvenile male being sexually assaulted.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
This case was investigated by the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation’s Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, the Rapid City Police Department, and the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office. Former Assistant U.S. Attorney Heather Knox and Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathryn N. Rich prosecuted the case.
Derby was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Boston Lawyer Sentenced to over Three Years in Prison for Stealing over $2 Million from ClientsRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Boston lawyer was sentenced yesterday in federal court in Boston for defrauding two of his clients of over $2 million.
Patrick J. Dolan, 60, of North Attleboro and Haverhill, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Nathaniel M. Gorton to 39 months in prison, to be followed by two years of supervised release. Dolan was also ordered to pay $2,022,833 in restitution as well as $2,087,372.55 money judgment. In October 2025, Dolan pleaded guilty to four counts of wire fraud. Dolan was charged in July 2025.
Between November 2018 and November 2024, Dolan devised a scheme to defraud his clients and other individuals who entrusted Dolan to maintain funds in accounts he controlled for their benefit. Specifically, Dolan stole over $2 million that he was holding in escrow pending the outcome of a family trust lawsuit in which Dolan represented one of the parties. Dolan used the stolen funds for himself and his family members, including by making transfers to shell companies, using funds to make mortgage, tuition and student loan payments as well as using funds to pay for personal items and services.
In addition, Dolan stole at least $87,500 from a supplemental needs trust that Dolan established for another client and used those funds to make a down payment towards the purchase of real property located in Haverhill, where Dolan subsequently resided with his family. Dolan also made false statements to his clients and others regarding the stolen funds, falsified bank statements and falsified accounting records.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Ted E. Docks, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation Boston Division made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kristina E. Barclay of the Public Corruption & Special Prosecutions prosecuted the case.
Berks County Man Indicted for Possessing Contraband in PrisonRead the Press Release
SCRANTON- The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Ramsee Munoz, age 35, of Reading, Pennsylvania, was indicted by a federal grand jury on one count of possessing contraband in prison.
According to United States Attorney Brian D. Miller, the indictment alleges that Munoz, an inmate at Federal Correctional Institute Schuylkill, possessed a weapon, specifically a 6- and 1/3-inch metal object, sharpened on both sides with one side being serrated, on September 18, 2025, in Schuylkill County, Pennsylvania.
The Federal Bureau of Prisons and the Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney James M. Buchanan is prosecuting the case.
The maximum penalty under federal law for this offense is 5 years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. A sentence following the finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
Indictments and Criminal Informations are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
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Armed Drug Trafficker Sentenced to 5 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that CHRISTOPHER PURVIS, 29, was sentenced today to 60 months of imprisonment, consecutive to federal and state sentences that he is currently serving, for possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on May 7, 2022, New Britain Police attempted to stop a car in which Purvis was an occupant. As officers approached the car, Purvis accelerated at a high rate of speed. The car crashed a short time later and Purvis and others ran from the scene. A search of the car revealed quantities of fentanyl and cocaine, and a loaded Glock 9mm handgun that had been reported stolen. Analysis of the firearm and drug packaging revealed the presence of Purvis’ DNA.
Purvis pleaded guilty on August 8, 2025.
Purvis is currently serving a 72-month federal sentence for trafficking fentanyl and cocaine in northern Vermont, and a concurrent six-year Connecticut state sentence for firearm and threatening offenses.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Hartford Task Force and the Bristol Police Department. The Task Force includes personnel from the DEA Hartford Resident Office, the Connecticut State Police, and the Bristol, Hartford, East Hartford, Enfield, Manchester, Middletown, New Britain, Rocky Hill, Wethersfield, and Windsor Locks Police Departments. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Natasha Freismuth and Christopher Lembo.
Arizona Woman Pleads Guilty to Federal Assault Charges in Drunk Driving CrashRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – An Arizona woman pleaded guilty to a 2023 drunk driving crash that seriously injured two people.
According to court documents, on December 30, 2023, Shaina Shorty, 36, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, drove while intoxicated and crashed into a vehicle occupied by Jane Doe 1 and Jane Doe 2. As a result of the crash, both Jane Doe 1 and Jane Doe 2 sustained serious bodily injuries.
Shorty pleaded guilty to two counts of assault resulting in serious bodily injury. At sentencing she faces up to 10 years in prison.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Farmington Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Nation Police Department and Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron O. Jordan is prosecuting the case.
Anchorage man sentenced to over 13 years for role in Alaska drug trafficking conspiracyRead the Press Release
ANCHORAGE, Alaska – An Anchorage man was sentenced today to over 13 years in prison for conspiring with others to traffic fentanyl, methamphetamine and heroin in Alaska on behalf of a drug trafficking organization allegedly run by a California inmate.
According to court documents, on March 23, 2023, Richard Frye, 37, and co-conspirator Tiffani Couch, 32, drove their other co-conspirator Anna Petla, 26, to the Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport and dropped her off. Law enforcement officials contacted Petla inside the airport and found her in possession of nearly 3,000 blue fentanyl pills and over 80 grams of methamphetamine that she was planning to transport to Sand Point for distribution.
Law enforcement officials subsequently contacted Frye and Couch as they waited in their vehicle outside the departure area and detained both. Officers searched the vehicle and found over 500 blue fentanyl pills and over 40 grams of other controlled substances.
On June 9, 2023, law enforcement officials contacted Frye and Couch during a traffic stop in Anchorage. Frye was a fugitive with an outstanding arrest warrant and attempted to flee the traffic stop. Officers searched the vehicle and recovered roughly 1,400 blue fentanyl pills, over 12 grams of other controlled substances and two loaded ammunition magazines.
Frye, as part of the conspiracy involving the drug trafficking organization, intended to distribute to others both the controlled substances police seized from his vehicle in March 2023, and those seized from his vehicle in June 2023.
After law enforcement officials arrested Frye and Couch following the traffic stop on June 9, Frye was booked into custody at the Anchorage Correctional Complex. During booking staff found a suspicious mass in Frye’s stomach during a body scan. It was later determined that before his arrest, Frye ingested fentanyl and suboxone wrapped in cellophane and condoms with the intent to distribute these substances inside the correctional facility.
Frye posted state bail and was released. Frye spoke to the alleged leader of the drug trafficking organization on the phone after his releases and discussed a plan to smuggle suboxone strips into the Anchorage Correctional Complex again because the substance was going for “300 a piece right now” inside the complex. Frye was ordered detained again following a bail hearing in state court on June 23, 2023. On June 25, 2023, correctional officers discovered Frye attempted to secrete on his body roughly 70 suboxone strips into the detention facility with the intent to distribute them inside the facility.
Court documents also explain that between December 2022 and March 2023, Frye used a digital money transferring service to send over $8,800 to a co-conspirator’s account. During the same time frame, Frye received nine transfers totaling over $1,000 from the same co-conspirator.
“With today’s sentence, we are one step closer to dismantling Alaska’s largest drug trafficking enterprise,” said U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford for the District of Oregon. “I am grateful for the collaboration between local, state, and federal law enforcement partners to hold those involved in trafficking fentanyl accountable.”
“This defendant’s actions show the lengths traffickers will go to peddle poison in correctional facilities and in our communities in Alaska,” said Robert A. Saccone, Special Agent in Charge, DEA Seattle Field Division. “Cases like this demonstrate DEA’s unwavering commitment to disrupting the fentanyl supply chain and holding accountable those who distribute these deadly drugs. Through enforcement, education, awareness, and strong partnerships with our law enforcement colleagues, we are working every day toward a Fentanyl Free America. Together, we can protect our communities and save American lives.”
Co-defendants in this case are as follows:
- Couch, of Anchorage, pleaded guilty on May 9, 2025, to one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute controlled substances. Couch was sentenced to four years in prison and three years’ supervised release on Feb. 5, 2026.
- Petla, of Dillingham, pleaded guilty on June 4, 2025, to one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute controlled substances. Petla was sentenced to four years in prison and three years’ supervised release on Oct. 28, 2025.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Alaska has been recused from this case expect for certain personnel. Assistant U.S. Attorney Steven D. Clymer from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of New York has been appointed as Special Attorney to the United States Attorney General to assist with this and other recused cases. He reports to and acts under the direction of the Deputy Attorney General, or his delegee, or U.S. Attorney Bradford in these cases. Special Attorney Clymer supervises personnel from the District of Alaska who have been exempted from the recusal.
The Drug Enforcement Administration Seattle Field Division Office and Anchorage District Office, FBI Anchorage Field Office, IRS Criminal Investigation Seattle Field Office, U.S. Postal Inspection Service Seattle Division and Anchorage Domicile, Homeland Security Investigations Anchorage, Alaska Office, Alaska State Troopers and Anchorage Police Department investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Stephan Collins, Chris Schroeder and Alana Weber are prosecuting the case.
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Alabama Resident Pleads Guilty to Armed Felony Assaults and Transporting Stolen VehicleRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Jason Paul New, age 20, of Semmes, Alabama, entered a guilty plea in federal district court to four counts of Assault with a Dangerous Weapon with Intent to do Bodily Harm in Indian Country, each punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine, one count of Use, Carry, Brandish, and Discharge of a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence, punishable by no less than ten years in prison consecutive to any other sentence and a $250,000 fine, and one count of Interstate Transportation of a Stolen Vehicle, punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
The Indictment alleged that on May 30, 2025, New assaulted four victims with a dangerous weapon, intending to do bodily harm, and that New knowingly used, carried, brandished, and discharged a firearm during and in relation to that crime of violence. The Indictment further alleged that on May 30, 2025, New unlawfully transported a stolen motor vehicle from the State of Alabama to the State of Oklahoma, knowing the vehicle was stolen.
The crimes occurred in Atoka County, within the boundaries of the Choctaw Nation Reservation, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma.
The charges arose from an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Atoka Police Department, the Atoka County Sheriff’s Office, the Stringtown Police Department, the Oklahoma Highway Patrol, the City of Kiowa Police Department, and the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation.
The Honorable Gerald L. Jackson, Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.
A U.S. District Court Judge will determine the sentence to be imposed after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
New will remain in the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending sentencing.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lewis M. Reagan represented the United States.
Aetna Agrees to Pay $117.7 Million to Resolve False Claims Act AllegationsRead the Press Release
Aetna Inc., a national insurer incorporated under the laws of Pennsylvania, has agreed to pay $117,700,000 to resolve allegations that it violated the False Claims Act by submitting or failing to withdraw inaccurate and untruthful diagnosis codes for its Medicare Advantage Plan enrollees in order to increase its payments from Medicare.
Under the Medicare Advantage (MA) Program, also known as Medicare Part C, Medicare beneficiaries may opt out of traditional Medicare and enroll in private health plans offered by insurance companies known as Medicare Advantage Organizations, or MAOs. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) pays MAOs a fixed monthly amount adjusted for various risk factors that affect expected health expenditures for the beneficiary. In general, CMS pays MAOs more for sicker beneficiaries expected to incur higher healthcare costs. To make these “risk adjustments,” CMS collects medical diagnosis codes from the MAOs.
The United States alleges that Aetna submitted inaccurate and untruthful patient diagnosis data to CMS in order to inflate the risk adjustment payments it received from CMS, failed to withdraw the inaccurate and untruthful diagnosis data and repay CMS, and falsely certified in writing to CMS that the data was accurate and truthful. The settlement announced today resolves these allegations.
“The government pays private insurers over $530 billion each year to care for Americans enrolled in Medicare Advantage,” said Assistant Attorney General Brett A. Shumate of the Justice Department's Civil Division. “We will continue to hold accountable insurers that knowingly submit inaccurate or unsupported diagnoses to improperly inflate reimbursement.”
“The government pays Medicare Advantage Organizations to facilitate vital healthcare to our seniors and other vulnerable citizens. When corporations or individuals threaten the Medicare Advantage program by diverting those limited government resources through fraud, waste, or abuse, we will continue to pursue all available remedies against them,” said U.S. Attorney David Metcalf for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania.
“Medicare Advantage relies on accurate reporting and attempts to manipulate the system undermine both the program’s integrity and the beneficiaries it serves,” said Acting Deputy Inspector General for Investigations Scott J. Lampert of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “Today’s settlement makes clear that no company is beyond accountability, no matter how large or well known. Those who seek to exploit Medicare Advantage should expect to be identified and held responsible, and HHS‑OIG will continue to protect taxpayer funds and the integrity of this vital program.”
The United States contends that, for payment year 2015, Aetna operated a “chart review” program in which it paid diagnosis coders to review medical records (also known as “charts”) and identify all medical conditions that the charts supported. Aetna relied on the results of those chart reviews to submit additional diagnosis codes to CMS to obtain additional payments. However, Aetna’s chart reviews did not substantiate some diagnosis codes previously reported by Aetna to CMS. Aetna did not delete or withdraw those diagnosis codes, which would have required Aetna to reimburse CMS. The United States alleges that Aetna used the results of its chart reviews to identify instances where Aetna could seek additional payments from CMS while ignoring those same results when they indicated Aetna was overpaid.
The settlement also resolves further allegations that, for payment years 2018 to 2023, Aetna knowingly submitted or failed to delete or withdraw inaccurate and untruthful diagnosis codes for morbid obesity to increase the payments it received from CMS for beneficiaries enrolled in its MA plans. The medical records for individuals diagnosed as morbidly obese typically include one or more Body Mass Index (BMI) recordings. Aetna submitted or failed to delete inaccurate and untruthful diagnosis codes for morbid obesity for individuals whose recorded BMI was inconsistent with a diagnosis of morbid obesity, and these codes increased the payments made by CMS.
The civil settlement related to morbid obesity resolves a lawsuit filed under the whistleblower provisions of the False Claims Act, which permit private parties to sue on behalf of the government when they believe that a defendant has submitted false claims for government funds and receive a share of any recovery. The qui tam case is captioned United States ex rel. Mary Melette Thomas v. Aetna Inc., et. al., number 24-cv-339 in U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania. The settlement in this case provides for the whistleblower, a former Aetna risk-adjustment coding auditor, to receive a $2,012,500 share of the settlement amount.
The resolution obtained in this matter was the result of a coordinated effort between the Justice Department’s Civil Division, Commercial Litigation Branch, Fraud Section, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, in conjunction with HHS-OIG.
The investigation and resolution of this matter illustrate the government’s emphasis on combating healthcare fraud. One of the most powerful tools in this effort is the False Claims Act. Tips and complaints from all sources about potential fraud, waste, abuse and mismanagement, can be reported to the Department of Health and Human Services at www.oig.hhs.gov/fraud/report-fraud or 800-HHS-TIPS (800-447-8477).
The matter was handled by Fraud Section Attorneys Nelson Wagner and Edward Crooke and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Peter Carr and Gregory B. in den Berken, and Civil Chief Gregory David, for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania.
The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only and there has been no determination of liability.
Aetna CR agreement.pdf Aetna MO agreement.pdf5 Indicted by Federal Grand Jury in Bowling Green for a Drug Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Bowling Green, KY – A federal grand jury in Bowling Green returned an Indictment on February 11, 2026, charging three men and two women with conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and cocaine, and other drug trafficking related offenses.
U.S. Attorney Kyle G. Bumgarner of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge John Nokes of the ATF Louisville Field Division, and Director Tommy Loving of the Bowling Green/Warren County Appalachia High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (AHIDTA) Drug Task Force made the announcement.
The indictment alleges that as early as April 1, 2025 and continuing to on or about October 16, 2025, Davon M. Grandberry, 30, Jarru R. Cavitt, 30, Ashley M. Huff, 36, O’Shay D. Everett, 33, and Shelby D. Puckett, 28, conspired and agreed together to knowingly and intentionally possess with the intent to distribute, and distributed, five-hundred (500) grams or more of a methamphetamine mixture, and five-hundred (500) grams or more of cocaine. Each defendant was then charged with additional crimes they allegedly committed as part of the conspiracy. Specifically:
Grandberry is charged with distributing a methamphetamine mixture on April 18 and May 2, 2025. Grandberry is also charged with distributing 50 grams or more of a methamphetamine on August 21, 2025.
Cavitt and Grandberry are charged jointly with distributing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine on August 27 and September 2, 2025.
Cavitt and Everett are charged jointly with possessing with the intent to distribute cocaine on September 22, 2025.
Cavitt and Huff are charged jointly with possessing with the intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and 500 grams or more of cocaine on September 22, 2025.
Cavitt and Puckett are charged jointly with possessing with the intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine on September 24, 2025.
Altogether, over 50 pounds of methamphetamine, 2 kilograms of cocaine, and approximately $20,000 in cash were seized as part of this investigation. These crimes took place in Warren, Hart, and Butler Counties.
Grandberry, Cavitt, and Huff, have all been arraigned before a U.S. Magistrate Judge of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Kentucky. Grandberry and Cavitt were detained pending further proceedings. Huff was released on special conditions. Everett and Puckett will make their appearance before a U.S. Magistrate Judge at a later date.
If convicted, the defendants face a minimum sentence of 10 years in prison and a maximum sentence of life. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors.
There is no parole in the federal system.
This case is being investigated by the ATF Bowling Green Field Office and the Bowling Green/Warren County Appalachia High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (AHIDTA) Drug Task Force, with assistance from the Greater Hardin County Narcotics Task Force.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark J. Yurchisin II of the United States Attorney’s Office Bowling Green Branch is prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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10 March 2026
Zuni Man Pleads Guilty to ManslaughterRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Zuni man pleaded guilty to the shooting death of an individual in the heat of passion.
According to court documents, on December 1, 2024, Glendon Laate, 49, a member of the Zuni Pueblo, shot and killed John Doe with a homemade shotgun in the heat of passion.
Laate pleaded guilty to voluntary manslaughter. At sentencing Laate faces up to 15 years in prison.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Gallup Resident Agency of the FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Zuni Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meg Tomlinson and Michael Pahl are prosecuting the case.
Wilmington Man Sentenced to 37 Months in Federal Prison for Unlawful Possession of AmmunitionRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, Del. – A Wilmington man was sentenced today to 37 months in federal prison for possession of ammunition by a convicted felon. U.S. District Judge Maryellen Noreika imposed the sentence.
According to court documents, on June 15, 2024, Wilmington Police Department officers attempted to stop a car for a suspected illegal window tint. The driver, later identified as Andre McDougal, 45, fled from officers before losing control of his car and crashing into a commercial fence. He then reversed his car and continued fleeing until he crashed into a residential building. Police then arrested McDougal after a brief foot chase. A later lawful search of the car revealed approximately 50 rounds of ammunition. McDougal was prohibited from possessing ammunition because of multiple prior felony convictions.
U.S. Attorney Benjamin L. Wallace of the District of Delaware and Special Agent in Charge Charles Doerrer of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives’ Baltimore office made the announcement.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jacob Laksin prosecuted the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:24-cr-92-MN.
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West Mifflin Felon Charged with Unlawful Possession of AmmunitionRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of West Mifflin, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of possession of ammunition by a convicted felon, United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
The one-count Indictment named Davion Xavier Thompson, 22, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment, on January 23, 2026, Thompson, who had been previously convicted of a felony, knowingly possessed a Glock-style handgun with an extended magazine. Attached to the rear of the unserialized firearm was a machinegun conversion device, also known as a Glock switch. Under federal law, Thompson is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition as a result of his multiple prior felony convictions involving firearms.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 15 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Kelly M. Locher is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General’s Narcotics Task Force, Allegheny County District Attorney’s Narcotics Enforcement Team, Stowe Township Police Department, and McKees Rocks Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
United States Attorney's Office Files Civil Forfeiture Action to Recover $3.4 Million in Cryptocurrency Involved in an Online Investment Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
BOSTON – The United States Attorney’s Office filed a civil forfeiture action to recover approximately 3,444,470 USDT (Tether), alleged to be proceeds of an online investment fraud scheme and money laundering scheme. The cryptocurrency currently has an estimated value of approximately $3,444,470.
In late 2024, the government began an investigation into a cryptocurrency investment fraud scheme that targeted at least four individuals, including two Massachusetts residents, a resident of Utah and a resident of South Carolina. In such fraud schemes, scammers obtain funds from victims using manipulative tactics. The scammer establishes a level of trust with a victim in online communications and then entices the victim into investing in a fraudulent cryptocurrency scheme. The victim’s funds are stolen by the criminal, or criminals, ultimately causing the victim financial and emotional harm. Perpetrators behind these cryptocurrency investment schemes are often located overseas.
As alleged in court documents, unknown subjects initially communicated with the victims through what appeared to be misdirected messages via texts or through encrypted messaging applications such as WhatsApp and Telegram. After cultivating a relationship, the unknown subjects – who usually appear to be one individual, but may not be only one individual – then convinced the victims to invest in an exclusive Ethereum (ETH) investment opportunity that the unknown subjects claimed was backed by physical gold.
The unknown subjects directed the victims to purchase ETH and transfer the cryptocurrency to intermediary wallets controlled by the unknown subjects. The victims believed they were investing in a legitimate platform, when in fact the unknown subjects were instead sending victim funds to intermediary wallets, converting victim funds from ETH into USDT, transferring that USDT to unhosted wallets and stealing the funds.
The government seized 3,444,470 USDT involved in this scheme in February and March of 2025.
It is a violation of federal law to use wire communications as part of a scheme to defraud or to obtain money or property by means of false or fraudulent pretenses. It is also a violation of federal law to conduct a financial transaction knowing that the transaction is designed to conceal the nature, location, source, ownership, or control of criminal proceeds. A civil forfeiture action allows third parties to assert claims to property, which must be resolved before the property can be forfeited to the United States and returned to victims.
This is one of several civil forfeiture actions the U.S. Attorney’s Office has filed seeking to forfeit cryptocurrency involved in fraud schemes targeting Massachusetts victims.
Members of the public who believe they are victims of a cybercrime – including cryptocurrency scams, romance scams, investment scams and business email compromise fraud scams – should contact [email protected].
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Ted E. Docks, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Field Office made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Woburn Police Department and the New England State Police Information Network (NESPIN). Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Lyons of the Asset Recovery Unit is prosecuting the civil forfeiture action.
The details contained in the civil forfeiture complaint are allegations only.
U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah Collects $13,502,232.06 in Civil and Criminal Actions in Fiscal Year 2025Read the Press Release
SALT LAKE CITY, Utah –U.S. Attorney Melissa Holyoak announced today that the District of Utah collected $13,502,232.06 in criminal and civil actions in Fiscal Year 2025. Of this amount, $8,716,979.03 was collected in criminal actions and $4,758,253.03 was collected in civil actions.
Additionally, the District of Utah worked with other U.S. Attorney’s Offices and components of the Department of Justice to collect an additional $65,084,852.14 in cases pursued jointly by these offices. Of this amount, $11,526.48 was collected in criminal actions and $65,073,325.66 was collected in civil actions.
“The U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to providing restitution to victims of federal crimes,” said U.S. Attorney Melissa Holyoak of the District of Utah. “Financial recoveries are a critical part of the Department’s mission to hold those who violate the law accountable for the injury they cause to crime victims and the general public.”
In June 2025, the District of Utah recovered $1,250,333 for the victims of Patrick Brody’s fraudulent real estate investment Ponzi scheme.
In July 2025, the District of Utah recovered $350,000 for victims of Jacob Dalton’s securities fraud scheme. After his conviction, the United States discovered that Dalton attempted to use a close family member to shield the funds from recovery and avoid paying restitution. Decisive action by the United States prevented the funds from being lost and led to garnishment of the funds for payment to Dalton’s victims. See press release: Utah County Man Sentenced to 24 Months in Prison After Running a $1.6M Affinity Fraud Scheme.
The U.S. Attorneys’ Offices, along with the department’s litigating divisions, are responsible for enforcing and collecting civil and criminal debts owed to the U.S. and criminal debts owed to federal crime victims. The law requires defendants to pay restitution to victims of certain federal crimes who have suffered a physical injury or financial loss. While restitution is paid to the victim, criminal fines and felony assessments are paid to the department’s Crime Victims Fund, which distributes the funds collected to federal and state victim compensation and victim assistance programs.Additionally, the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the District of Utah, working with partner agencies and divisions, collected $11,267,324 in asset forfeiture actions in FY 2025. Forfeited assets deposited into the Department of Justice Assets Forfeiture Fund are used to restore funds to crime victims and for a variety of law enforcement purposes.
U.S. Attorney’s Office Concludes Investigation into Fatal ShootingRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON - The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia announced today that there is insufficient evidence to pursue federal criminal civil rights or District of Columbia charges against two Metropolitan Police Department officers for a fatal shooting that occurred on Nov. 14, 2025, and fatally injured a 41-year-old District resident inside a residence in the 4400 block of Reservoir Road, NW.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office and the MPD. Internal Affairs Division conducted a comprehensive review of the incident, which included a review of law enforcement and civilian accounts, security camera footage, Body Worn Camera (BWC) footage, physical evidence, recorded radio communications, forensic reports, and reports from MPD.
According to the evidence, on Nov. 14, 2025, officers were summoned to a residence in the 4400 block of Reservoir Road, NW. The police had been notified that an internal alarm had been triggered. The owner of the home was not home at the time and notified the police.
Upon their arrival, officers observed that the lights were on in the house and that there was someone inside. An officer went to the basement door and observed a male, later identified as Kevin Booker, in the basement. The officer identified himself and requested that Mr. Booker unlock the door. Mr. Booker ignored the request and left the basement area. The officers entered the house through an unlocked door.
While searching for the male, the officers loudly identified themselves and announced the presence of law enforcement. As one officer proceeded to the second floor, Mr. Booker emerged from a darkened room brandishing a knife and a screwdriver and charged at the officer. The officer immediately discharged his service weapon striking Mr. Booker. A second officer arriving at the landing at that point discharged an Electronic Control Device (ECD), commonly known as a Taser. Despite lifesaving efforts by law enforcement and an emergency medical team, Mr. Booker succumbed to his injuries and died later at a hospital.
After a careful, thorough, and independent review of the evidence, federal prosecutors found insufficient evidence to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the officer willfully violated the civilian’s rights.
Investigations generally
The U.S. Attorney’s Office reviews all police-involved fatalities to determine whether sufficient evidence exists to conclude that any officers violated either federal criminal civil rights laws or District of Columbia law.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office remains committed to investigating allegations of excessive force by law enforcement officers and will continue to devote the resources necessary to ensure that all allegations of serious civil rights violations are investigated fully and completely. The Metropolitan Police Department’s Internal Affairs Division investigates all police-involved fatalities in the District of Columbia.
U.S. Attorney Russ Ferguson Convenes Summit with Federal, State, and Local Law Enforcement on Public Safety in Mecklenburg CountyRead the Press Release
CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Today, U.S. Attorney Russ Ferguson convened a summit focused on public safety and reducing violent crime in Mecklenburg County, bringing together leaders and representatives from federal and state law enforcement agencies, local police departments, prosecutors, and other stakeholders across the county.
“Violent crime in Mecklenburg County is getting more serious by the day, and we must do something to stop it,” said U.S. Attorney Ferguson. “No one should go to sleep at night worried bullets are going to come through their window. But solving the problem is going to take all of us, and that is the point of this summit: to work together to keep our citizens safe.”
Participants discussed law enforcement initiatives, including past successes and future plans, and how to better coordinate to reduce violent crime. The group discussed all facets that play a role in reducing crime, including bond in state court cases, recidivism, juvenile crime, and crime prevention.
The summit also focused on safety on public transportation—the veins and arteries of our community.
And leaders at the summit addressed root causes of crime, such as the mental health crisis in our community that plays a long-term role in a large number of violent crime cases.
Federal representatives reiterated their commitment to local crime reduction efforts and explored ways the federal government can support partnerships to enhance public safety.
“The public is safest when we work together,” Ferguson said. “By sharing ideas and coordinating our efforts, we can better respond to crime and address its root causes and collateral effects, such as mental health issues.”
U.S. Attorney General Bondi presents awards for Southern District of Georgia child exploitation caseRead the Press Release
BRUNSWICK, GEORGIA: United States Attorney General Pamela Bondi presented awards to Emanuel County law enforcement personnel and prosecutors Monday, March 9, 2026, at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center in Brunswick following her remarks at graduation ceremonies for the first 2026 trainee class for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. The Attorney General’s Award for Exceptional Policing recognized the cooperative efforts of the Emanuel County Sheriff’s Office, the Middle Judicial Circuit (MJC) District Attorney’s Office, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Georgia in identifying and charging five individuals in a child sexual exploitation and trafficking operation in Swainsboro, Georgia, leading to a 16-count superseding federal indictment returned in January in USA v. Williams et. al. The presentation included MJC Chief Investigator Rocky Davis (from left); Assistant U.S. Attorney Sherri A. Stephan; AG Pam Bondi; MJC District Attorney Tripp Fitzner; Southern District of Georgia U.S. Attorney Margaret E. “Meg” Heap; Emanuel County Sheriff’s Office Investigator Sgt. Michael Reddish; and, Emanuel County Sheriff Jeffrey Brewer.
Two Former NYPD Officers Charged with Federal Civil Rights ViolationsRead the Press Release
Earlier today, a three-count indictment was unsealed in federal court in Brooklyn charging Justin McMillan and Justin Colon, two former New York City Police Department (NYPD) officers, with felony conspiracy against rights and willfully depriving an individual of her constitutional rights while acting under color of law, in connection with an incident that occurred while they were on duty in the 115th Precinct in Queens, New York in July 2024. The defendants were arrested today and are scheduled to be arraigned this afternoon before United States Magistrate Judge Peggy Cross-Goldenberg. They resigned from the NYPD in March 2025.
Joseph Nocella, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, James C. Barnacle, Jr., Assistant Director in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, New York Field Office (FBI), and Jessica S. Tisch, Commissioner, New York City Police Department, announced the charges.
“As alleged, the defendants’ response to a 311 complaint about prostitution on their beat was to commit multiple criminal acts that shock the conscience and violated the civil rights of a vulnerable victim,” stated United States Attorney Nocella. “Upholding the integrity of law enforcement and holding accountable those who violate their sworn duty will always be a priority of our Office. These defendants will be vigorously prosecuted because the community and their former colleagues in the NYPD deserve nothing less.”
Mr. Nocella expressed his appreciation to the Queens District Attorney’s Office for its assistance in the matter.
“Former NYPD officers Justin McMillan and Justin Colon allegedly failed to appropriately respond to a non-emergency call and instead used their official authority to commit a series of criminal acts, violating the rights of a vulnerable individual,” stated FBI Assistant Director Barnacle. “In doing so, they allegedly betrayed their sworn commitment to serve and abused the power entrusted to them while on duty. While the overwhelming majority of NYPD officers uphold the highest standards of integrity and honor, the FBI will continue to hold accountable those who tarnish the badge.”
“We hold our police officers to the highest standards and have zero tolerance for misconduct of any kind," stated NYPD Commissioner Tisch. “The alleged actions taken by Justin McMillan and Justin Colon are despicable and a complete violation of the public's trust in the NYPD. Let me be perfectly clear: Any officer who violates their oath will be investigated, exposed, and held fully accountable. That standard will never change. I want to thank the NYPD’s Internal Affairs Bureau and the U.S. Attorney's Office for their work on this investigation.”
As alleged in court documents, McMillan and Colon were police officers on duty in the 115th Precinct on July 19, 2024, when they responded to a 311-call related to prostitution inside a residential building on 89th Street near Roosevelt Avenue in Jackson Heights, Queens. When the officers arrived at the location, they shut off their body-worn cameras and stole a key to the entrance door from a woman who had just exited the premises. Without reporting the contact, the officers then proceeded with their foot patrol duties.
Approximately eight hours later, at about 4:50 a.m. on July 20, 2024, the defendants returned to the location, unlocked the entrance door with the stolen key and found a woman engaged in sex with a customer. The customer fled, leaving the victim naked and alone in the dark with the defendants. While Colon kept watch, McMillan stole money from the woman’s purse and groped her bare breast and buttock. The victim fled, and the officers returned to their patrol and ultimately to their stationhouse.
The charges in the indictment are allegations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. If convicted of the charges, McMillan and Colon face up to ten years in prison.
The government’s case is being handled by the Office’s Human Trafficking and Civil Rights Section. Assistant United States Attorney Erin Reid is in charge of the prosecution.
The Defendants:
JUSTIN MCMILLAN
Age: 26
Atlantic Beach, Long IslandJUSTIN COLON
Age: 24
Long Island City, QueensE.D.N.Y. Docket No. 26-CR-49 (FB)
Tucson Man Sentenced to 10 Years for Deadly Human Smuggling Related Crash Near ArivacaRead the Press Release
TUCSON, Ariz. – Samuel Lopez-Ozuna, 20, of Tucson, Arizona, was sentenced to 10 years in prison by U.S. District Judge Angela M. Martinez after pleading guilty to Transportation of Illegal Aliens for Profit, Resulting in Death, stemming from a deadly crash in 2024.
On Aug. 9, 2024, U.S. Border Patrol agents attempted to pull over a Chevrolet Tahoe on suspicion that the driver, Lopez-Ozuna, was smuggling illegal aliens near Arivaca, Arizona, about five miles north of the border. Instead of yielding to law enforcement, Lopez-Ozuna fled at a high speed, causing the Tahoe to crash and roll almost immediately. Lopez-Ozuna was smuggling seven aliens, all of whom were ejected from his vehicle during the crash. One person died and three others were seriously injured.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s U.S. Border Patrol, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, and the Pima County Sheriff’s Department conducted the investigation. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Arizona, Tucson, handled the prosecution.
CASE NUMBER: 24-CR-6035-TUC-AMM (EJM)
RELEASE NUMBER: 2026-047_Lopez-Ozuna
Thirteen members of a prison-based methamphetamine distribution ring sentencedRead the Press Release
ROME, Ga. – Thirteen members of a prison-based methamphetamine distribution ring have been convicted and sentenced. Before they were identified by federal agents, state inmates Edward Kelvin Pope, David Wilson, and Kevin Josue Campos Rivera coordinated with Jose Santos Isaola Cisneros, a federal inmate at the Federal Correctional Institution in Atlanta, to distribute methamphetamine to couriers and customers throughout north Georgia. At the time of the offense, Pope, also known as “Paw Paw,” was a 68-year-old felon serving life imprisonment plus 70 years for armed robbery, kidnapping, and other violent crimes.
“From behind prison walls, these defendants egregiously continued to violate the law by coordinating the distribution of massive amounts of methamphetamine throughout north Georgia,” said U.S. Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg. “The prison sentences imposed in this case without the possibility of parole follow a multiyear, closely coordinated partnership among federal, state, and local law enforcement to protect our communities from the spread of deadly drugs.”
“Methamphetamine continues to fuel addiction, violence, and instability in our communities,” said Jae W. Chung, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Atlanta Field Division. “These defendants believed they could orchestrate a drug trafficking organization from inside a correctional facility, but the sentences show that law enforcement will pursue traffickers wherever they operate. DEA will continue working tirelessly to disrupt and dismantle networks responsible for distributing dangerous drugs.”
“The U.S. Marshals Service, in conjunction with our partners at the DEA, the U.S. Attorney’s Office, and state agencies, will never stop in our efforts to bring criminals to justice,” said Chief Deputy John B. Stevens, U.S. Marshals Service, Northern District of Georgia. “It doesn’t matter if you are already in custody, if you continue to violate the laws of the United States, we will come for you, and you will be held accountable.”
According to U.S. Attorney Hertzberg, the charges, and other information presented in court: The investigation began in November 2020 when law enforcement learned that Pope and Wilson were using couriers outside of Central State Prison in Macon, Georgia, to distribute methamphetamine to customers in and around the metro Atlanta area. Agents identified other inmates involved in the methamphetamine ring, including Isaola, a federal inmate, and Campos Rivera, a fellow state inmate at Central State Prison. The investigation also identified Marcelo Ibarra, a distributor who sold kilogram quantities of methamphetamine on behalf of Isaola to various customers.
The investigation established that the organization repeatedly distributed large quantities of methamphetamine in north Georgia, including:
- On April 30, 2021, Pope, Wilson, and Isaola supplied Ibarra with approximately two kilograms of methamphetamine that Ibarra distributed at a gas station in Cartersville, Georgia.
- On June 14, 2021, Wilson and Campos Rivera conspired with Luis Cisneros Ruiz to sell approximately one kilogram of methamphetamine that Cisneros Ruiz distributed in a restaurant parking lot in Stockbridge, Georgia. Two weeks later, agents searched Cisneros Ruiz’s residence in Stockbridge, Georgia, where they found an active methamphetamine conversion lab and seized more than 3,000 kilograms of methamphetamine.
- On August 11, 2021, Wilson and Campos Rivera conspired with Carlos Ruben Ramirez Romero to supply approximately one kilogram of methamphetamine to a drug customer who was actually an undercover DEA agent. Agents later searched Ramirez’s apartment in Norcross, Georgia, and located approximately 13 kilograms of methamphetamine, $49,000 in bulk U.S. currency, and a rifle.
The following defendants were sentenced in this case:
- Jose Santos Isaola Cisneros, 35, of Hampton, Georgia, was sentenced to 25 years in prison to be followed by ten years of supervised release, after pleading guilty to conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute methamphetamine and conspiracy to engage in concealment money laundering.
- Ramon Rodriguez, Jr., 46, of Dalton, Georgia, was sentenced to 20 years in prison to be followed by twenty years of supervised release, after pleading guilty to conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute methamphetamine and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking.
- Carlos Ruben Ramirez Romero, 41, of Norcross, Georgia, was sentenced to 19 years in prison to be followed by five years of supervised release, after pleading guilty to conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute methamphetamine and cocaine, possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, and conspiracy to engage in concealment money laundering.
- David Wilson, 53, of Carrolton, Georgia, was sentenced to 18 years, and four months in prison to be followed by eight years of supervised release, after pleading guilty to conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute methamphetamine, possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, and conspiracy to engage in concealment money laundering.
- Kevin Josue Campos Rivera, 27, of Snellville, Georgia, was sentenced to 15 years in prison to be followed by five years of supervised release, after pleading guilty to conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute methamphetamine and conspiracy to engage in concealment money laundering.
- Gustavo Omar Martinez, 37, of Lawrenceville, Georgia, was sentenced to 14 years in prison to be followed by four years of supervised release, after pleading guilty to conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute methamphetamine and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking.
- Luis Cisneros Ruiz, 27, of Stockbridge, Georgia, was sentenced to 12 years in prison to be followed by five years of supervised release, after pleading guilty to conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute methamphetamine.
- Edward Kelvin Pope, 72, of Commerce, Georgia, was sentenced to serve ten years in prison to be followed by five years of supervised release, after pleading guilty to conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute methamphetamine and conspiracy to commit money laundering.
- Marcelo Ibarra, 33, of Dalton, Georgia, was sentenced to eight years six months in prison to be followed by four years of supervised release, after pleading guilty to conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute methamphetamine and cocaine and conspiracy to engage in concealment money laundering.
- Julio Estuardo Mijangos Chinchilla, 37, of Atlanta, Georgia, was sentenced to six years five months in prison to be followed by four years of supervised release, after pleading guilty to conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute methamphetamine.
- Kelyn Roxana Ortiz Flores, 36, of Norcross, Georgia, was sentenced to four years and three months in prison, after pleading guilty to assault of a federal agent and conspiracy to engage in concealment money laundering.
- Max Donald Whitlock, 55, of Nicholson, Georgia, was sentenced to three years and five months in prison to be followed by five years of supervised release, after pleading guilty to conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute methamphetamine.
- Oscar Valdez Samaniego, 45, of Rex, Georgia, was sentenced to three years and five months in prison to be followed by four years of supervised release, after pleading guilty to conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute methamphetamine.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the U.S. Marshals Service, with valuable assistance provided by the Cartersville Police Department, the Henry County Sheriff’s Office, and the Georgia Department of Corrections.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Laurel B. Milam and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua May prosecuted this case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
These prosecutions are also part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. The Atlanta Wilhelm HSTF comprises agents and officers from ATF, CGIS, DEA, FBI, ICE-HSI, IRS-CI, DOL-OIG, DSS, USMS, USPIS, and USSS, as well as numerous state and local agencies, with the prosecution being led by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office in Atlanta recommends parents and children learn about the dangers of drugs at the following web site: www.justthinktwice.gov.
For further information please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office at [email protected] or (404) 581-6185. The Internet address for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia is http://www.justice.gov/usao-ndga.
The Department of Justice Approves Historic Number of Settlements to Camp Lejeune Victims and FamiliesRead the Press Release
Today, the Department of Justice Civil Division announced the approval of 649 Elective Option (EO) offers in the past three weeks, totaling $175 million, under the Camp Lejeune Justice Act.
Since Jan. 20, 2025, the Department of Justice has paid more than $421 million in EO settlements to compensate service members who were exposed to contaminated water at Camp Lejeune. This brings the total approved settlement offers since the 2023 announcement of the EO to 2,531, totaling more than a half billion dollars (approximately $708 million).
“At the direction of the President and Attorney General, this Department of Justice has reprioritized approving settlements for Camp Lejeune victims and families, many of whom sadly had to wait years for justice,” said Associate Attorney General Stanley Woodward. “I am proud of the work we have done in the past year to speed up the compensation approval process and we will continue to approve settlements on a weekly basis.”
The “Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act of 2022” or the “Honoring our PACT Act of 2022” (“PACT Act), Public Law 117–168, was signed into law on Aug. 10, 2022. Section 804 of the PACT Act, the “Camp Lejeune Justice Act of 2022,” aims to compensate service members and others who were exposed to contaminated water at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, between 1953 and 1987 and developed cancer or another disease that was at least “as likely as not” caused by the exposure. During the relevant time period, two of the eight Camp Lejeune water supply systems were contaminated, and one other intermittently received contaminated water during water shortages. The estimated face value of claims submitted to the Department of the Navy exceeds $335 trillion.
In 2023, the Department of Justice, in conjunction with the Department of the Navy, implemented an EO program. The EO serves as an off-ramp to litigation, creating a faster and easier way for those with qualifying illnesses to settle their claims and avoid the cost and time-consuming nature of litigation. Payments to an individual claimant under the EO range from $100,000 to $550,000 and are available to qualified claimants regardless of whether they were present in a part of the base that received contaminated water.
Texas Trio to Serve More Than 22 Years in Federal Prison Collectively Following Attempted Armed Robbery of Brink's TechnicianRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – RAYMOND ISHUN EDWARDS, 33; MARCUS ELEBY-KING, 33; and HAROLD ELEBY-KING, 35, of Texas, have been sentenced to serve cumulatively 273 months in federal prison for attempted armed bank robbery, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
According to public records, on September 30, 2024, an armed Brink’s technician was working on an ATM in Midwest City when he was approached by two masked men. One of the men, later identified as Harold Eleby-King, pointed a firearm at the victim’s head while the other masked man, later identified as Edwards, unsuccessfully attempted to access the ATM. The men then took the victim’s firearm after a physical struggle before they fled in a car driven by Marcus Eleby-King. The three were arrested the following day in Wichita, Kansas.
On December 3, 2024, a federal Grand Jury charged Edwards, Harold Eleby-King, and Marcus Eleby-King with attempted armed bank robbery. The three defendants have since pleaded guilty and admitted they knowingly attempted to take money controlled by a bank by force, violence, and intimidation.
At a sentencing hearing on March 5, 2026, Chief U.S. District Judge Timothy D. DeGiusti sentenced Edwards to serve 92 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release. Harold Eleby-King and Marcus Eleby-King were previously sentenced, with Harold receiving 97 months and Marcus receiving 84 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release for both.
This case is the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Midwest City Police Department, and the Wichita Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney David Nichols, Jr. prosecuted the case.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Tennessee Tax Preparer Pleads Guilty to $80M Pandemic-Relief Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON — The owner of a tax preparation business in Tennessee pleaded guilty today to orchestrating a massive fraud scheme that steered approximately $80 million in pandemic relief funds designed to help small businesses and workers to herself and her clients.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Renata Walton, 45, of Mississippi, owned and operated a tax preparation business in Moscow, Tennessee. From approximately March 2022 through August 2023, Walton conspired with one of her employees to file false tax returns for clients seeking fraudulent refunds based on the employee retention credit (ERC) and paid sick and family leave credit. Congress created both the ERC and the paid sick and family leave credit to aid struggling businesses during the COVID-19 global pandemic. The employee, Nicole Jones, also known as Nicole Dickerson, of Cordova, Tennessee, previously pleaded guilty on Aug. 15, 2025, for her role in the offense.
Among other schemes, Walton and Jones reported fictitious wages on clients’ tax returns to fraudulently claim the ERC and paid sick and family leave credits, knowing their clients had not paid wages to their employees in those amounts and were not entitled to the credits. Walton also filed false applications to the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) for loans from the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program, government funding intended to provide financial assistance to Americans suffering economic harm during the COVID-19 pandemic. To support these false claims, Walton submitted false tax forms to the SBA. As a result of the scheme, clients received tax refunds, often exceeding $100,000, and then Walton and Jones received a fee from the clients, which was typically around $15,000 per return.
When the IRS began contacting clients to recover the fraudulently issued pandemic program funds, Walton obstructed the IRS’s efforts. She gave the clients letters to provide to the IRS falsely asserting, among other things, that the fictitious wages Walton and Jones reported on their tax returns to claim the ERC were legitimate. Walton and Jones also did not file tax returns for tax year 2022, so they did not pay taxes on the income they earned through their criminal schemes.
In total, Walton filed tax returns and other documents claiming nearly $80 million in pandemic funds and tax refunds that she and her clients were not entitled to receive, causing a loss of more than $52 million to the United States. Jones was also responsible for a portion of these fraudulent claims.
Both Walton and Jones face a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison for conspiracy to commit wire fraud, a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison for each count of wire fraud, a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison for each count of money laundering, a maximum penalty of three years in prison for each count of assisting in the preparation of a false tax return and a maximum penalty of one year in prison for willful failure to file a return. Walton also faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison for obstruction of justice.
A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Walton is scheduled to be sentenced on June 18. Jones is scheduled to be sentenced on June 9.
Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division and U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant of the Western District of Tennessee made the announcement.
IRS Criminal Investigation is investigating the case.
Trial Attorney Caroline Pearson of the Criminal Division’s Tax Section and Assistant U.S. Attorneys William Bateman and Tony Arvin for the Western District of Tennessee are prosecuting the case.
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CRM
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If you have questions, please use the contacts in the message or call the Office of Public Affairs at 202-514-2007.
Tennessee Tax Preparer Pleads Guilty to $80M Pandemic-Relief Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
The owner of a tax preparation business in Tennessee pleaded guilty today to orchestrating a massive fraud scheme that steered approximately $80 million in pandemic relief funds designed to help small businesses and workers to herself and her clients.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Renata Walton, 45, of Mississippi, owned and operated a tax preparation business in Moscow, Tennessee. From approximately March 2022 through August 2023, Walton conspired with one of her employees to file false tax returns for clients seeking fraudulent refunds based on the employee retention credit (ERC) and paid sick and family leave credit. Congress created both the ERC and the paid sick and family leave credit to aid struggling businesses during the COVID-19 global pandemic. The employee, Nicole Jones, also known as Nicole Dickerson, of Cordova, Tennessee, previously pleaded guilty on Aug. 15, 2025, for her role in the offense.
Among other schemes, Walton and Jones reported fictitious wages on clients’ tax returns to fraudulently claim the ERC and paid sick and family leave credits, knowing their clients had not paid wages to their employees in those amounts and were not entitled to the credits. Walton also filed false applications to the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) for loans from the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program, government funding intended to provide financial assistance to Americans suffering economic harm during the COVID-19 pandemic. To support these false claims, Walton submitted false tax forms to the SBA. As a result of the scheme, clients received tax refunds, often exceeding $100,000, and then Walton and Jones received a fee from the clients, which was typically around $15,000 per return.
When the IRS began contacting clients to recover the fraudulently issued pandemic program funds, Walton obstructed the IRS’s efforts. She gave the clients letters to provide to the IRS falsely asserting, among other things, that the fictitious wages Walton and Jones reported on their tax returns to claim the ERC were legitimate. Walton and Jones also did not file tax returns for tax year 2022, so they did not pay taxes on the income they earned through their criminal schemes.
In total, Walton filed tax returns and other documents claiming nearly $80 million in pandemic funds and tax refunds that she and her clients were not entitled to receive, causing a loss of more than $52 million to the United States. Jones was also responsible for a portion of these fraudulent claims.
Both Walton and Jones face a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison for conspiracy to commit wire fraud, a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison for each count of wire fraud, a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison for each count of money laundering, a maximum penalty of three years in prison for each count of assisting in the preparation of a false tax return and a maximum penalty of one year in prison for willful failure to file a return. Walton also faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison for obstruction of justice.
A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Walton is scheduled to be sentenced on June 18. Jones is scheduled to be sentenced on June 9.
Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division and U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant of the Western District of Tennessee made the announcement.
IRS Criminal Investigation is investigating the case.
Trial Attorney Caroline Pearson of the Criminal Division’s Tax Section and Assistant U.S. Attorneys William Bateman and Tony Arvin for the Western District of Tennessee are prosecuting the case.
Swiss Businessman Extradited to the United States Pleads Guilty to International Securities Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
A Swiss executive pleaded guilty today to participating in a multimillion-dollar securities fraud scheme after living abroad as a fugitive for nearly 11 years.
According to court documents, Martin Schlaepfer, 67, a Swiss national, identified himself to victims as the Chief Executive Officer of Malom Group AG, a purported Swiss investment company. Beginning as early as October 2009, Schlaepfer and his co-conspirators located in Switzerland and Las Vegas, Nevada, orchestrated a scheme in which they promoted investments that they knew to be fictitious. Schlaepfer and his co-conspirators told victims that, for an up-front payment, Malom would provide access to lucrative investment opportunities and substantial cash loans. To effectuate this scheme, the co-conspirators provided victims with fabricated bank documents purporting to show that Malom held hundreds of millions of dollars in overseas bank accounts. When victims wired their money into an escrow account controlled by the co-conspirators, the money was released and disbursed to, among others, Schlaepfer for his own personal use. As a result of the scheme, victims were defrauded of approximately $6 million.
Schlaepfer was indicted in December 2013. He was arrested in Italy in September 2024, pursuant to an Interpol Red Notice, and extradited to the United States in July 2025. Three of Schlaepfer’s co-conspirators, Anthony Brandel, James Warras and Sean Finn, were found guilty of conspiracy and multiple counts of wire fraud and securities fraud following separate jury trials in 2015 and 2020 and each sentenced to 87 months in prison. A fourth defendant, Joseph Micelli, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud and securities fraud in 2015 and was sentenced to 60 months in prison. A fifth defendant, Hans-Jurg Lips, remains at large outside the United States. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Schlaepfer pleaded guilty to securities fraud and is scheduled to be sentenced on June 9. He faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division and First Assistant U.S. Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada made the announcement.
The FBI’s Las Vegas Field Office is investigating the case.
Senior Counsel Anna G. Kaminska and Assistant U.S. Attorney Richard Anthony Lopez for the District of Nevada are prosecuting the case. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs worked with Italian authorities to secure the extradition of Schlaepfer from Italy.
Swiss Businessman Extradited to the United States Pleads Guilty to International Securities Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS — A Swiss executive pleaded guilty today to participating in a multimillion-dollar securities fraud scheme after living abroad as a fugitive for nearly 11 years.
According to court documents, Martin Schlaepfer, 67, a Swiss national, identified himself to victims as the Chief Executive Officer of Malom Group AG, a purported Swiss investment company. Beginning as early as October 2009, Schlaepfer and his co-conspirators located in Switzerland and Las Vegas, Nevada, orchestrated a scheme in which they promoted investments that they knew to be fictitious. Schlaepfer and his co-conspirators told victims that, for an up-front payment, Malom would provide access to lucrative investment opportunities and substantial cash loans. To effectuate this scheme, the co-conspirators provided victims with fabricated bank documents purporting to show that Malom held hundreds of millions of dollars in overseas bank accounts. When victims wired their money into an escrow account controlled by the co-conspirators, the money was released and disbursed to, among others, Schlaepfer for his own personal use. As a result of the scheme, victims were defrauded of approximately $6 million.
Schlaepfer was indicted in December 2013. He was arrested in Italy in September 2024, pursuant to an Interpol Red Notice, and extradited to the United States in July 2025. Three of Schlaepfer’s co-conspirators, Anthony Brandel, James Warras and Sean Finn, were found guilty of conspiracy and multiple counts of wire fraud and securities fraud following separate jury trials in 2015 and 2020 and each sentenced to 87 months in prison. A fourth defendant, Joseph Micelli, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud and securities fraud in 2015 and was sentenced to 60 months in prison. A fifth defendant, Hans-Jurg Lips, remains at large outside the United States. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Schlaepfer pleaded guilty to securities fraud and is scheduled to be sentenced on June 9, 2026. He faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, First Assistant United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada, and Special Agent in Charge Christopher S. Delzotto for the FBI’s Las Vegas Field Office made the announcement.
The FBI’s Las Vegas Field Office is investigating the case.
Senior Counsel Anna G. Kaminska and Assistant United States Attorney Richard Anthony Lopez are prosecuting the case. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs worked with Italian authorities to secure the extradition of Schlaepfer from Italy.
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St. Louis Man Accused of Robbing Vietnam Veteran at Veterans Administration HospitalRead the Press Release
ST. LOUIS – A St. Louis man has been accused of robbing someone in the parking lot of the John J. Cochran Veterans Hospital in St. Louis.
Lafayette Hutchins, 68, was indicted in U.S. District Court on February 18 with one count of robbery within the special territorial jurisdiction of the United States, namely the parking lot of the John J. Cochran Veterans Hospital. Hutchins was arrested Tuesday, appeared in court and pleaded not guilty.
A motion seeking to have Hutchins held in jail until trial accuses Hutchins of robbing a Vietnam veteran at gunpoint.
A charge set forth in an indictment is merely an accusation and does not constitute proof of guilt. Every defendant is presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty.
The Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Derek Wiseman is prosecuting the case.
St. Louis Carjacker Sentenced to 162 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
ST. LOUIS – U.S. District John A. Ross on Tuesday sentenced a felon to 13 1/2 years in prison for carjacking a woman in St. Louis in 2024.
On Jan. 5, 2024, Deionte Grice approached the woman, who had just parked her 2020 Kia Optima in the 5300 block of Devonshire Avenue in St. Louis. Grice pointed a gun at her, demanded her belongings and took her car, phone and purse. Grice later struck a curb as he drove into Forest Park, disabling the vehicle. He abandoned it and got on a MetroBus.
St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department officers stopped the bus and found Grice with the stolen purse and two handguns.
Grice, 31, of St. Louis, pleaded guilty in October to one count of carjacking and one count of brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence. He also admitted violating his supervised release in a 2020 case in which he pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm.
The St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Martin prosecuted the case.
St. Louis Area Fentanyl and Methamphetamine Distributor Sentenced to 19 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
ST. LOUIS – U.S. District Henry E. Autrey on Monday sentenced a man involved in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl in the St. Louis area to 19 years in prison.
Neil Phifer, 40, was one of 13 defendants charged with drug conspiracy in 2023. All have pleaded guilty. Phifer was the last to be sentenced.
Phifer pleaded guilty on August 5, 2025, to one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl. He admitted receiving multiple kilograms of meth and fentanyl from his supplier in California and distributing those drugs in the St. Louis area through his network. Investigators repeatedly conducted controlled purchases of fentanyl from Phifer and seized cocaine, meth and fentanyl from someone who bought it from Phifer. Investigators also intercepted a total of $40,300 in proceeds of drug sales being mailed back to California and 5.8 kilograms of meth that were being shipped to St. Louis.
During an August 2022 court-approved search of an apartment in St. Louis, investigators found 5.4 kilos of fentanyl, 1.4 kilos of meth and other drugs as well as Phifer’s handgun and $16,850 in drug proceeds. After Phifer moved apartments, he was caught with cocaine base, fentanyl, drug paraphernalia, drug proceeds and 1.6 kilos of meth, his plea agreement says. At his next apartment, investigators found cocaine base, 1.5 kilos of fentanyl and another pistol.
California-based drug supplier Stanley Harris, 51, is serving a 200-month sentence and another supplier, Victor Medina, 43, of Los Angeles, is serving a sentence of 120 months. During the investigation, packages mailed by Harris containing more than 14 kilos of meth and two kilos of fentanyl were seized and more than $90,000 in cash from drug sales heading to Harris were intercepted.
“The U.S. Postal Inspection Service is charged with defending the nation’s mail system from illegal use. With the collaborative efforts of our federal law enforcement partners, Postal Inspectors investigate those utilizing the U.S. Mail for illicit activities, including the distribution of narcotics. Today’s sentencing reflects the diligent investigative work by Postal Inspectors, and our law enforcement partners,” said Acting Inspector in Charge, Mary Johnson, who leads the Chicago Division, which includes the St. Louis Domicile Office.
“The exceptional work of the DEA’s agents and partners broke down a criminal drug trafficking network stretching from California to Missouri,” DEA St. Louis Field Division Special Agent in Charge Michael Davis said. "Our investigation led to the removal of kilogram quantities of poisonous drugs and firearms from an organization known for inciting fear. Now, Neil Phifer is staring down a 19-year sentence in federal prison for his role pushing fentanyl, methamphetamine and cocaine into our communities. Our agents work tirelessly to save American lives and reduce violent crime fueled by drug trafficking and this sentencing is a testament to our resolve.”
The Drug Enforcement Administration, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the FBI and the U.S. Marshals Service investigated the case with assistance from officers with the North County Police Cooperative and police departments in St. Louis, St. Louis County, Shrewsbury, Ballwin and St. Charles City.
This prosecution is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States.
Springfield Man Sentenced for Illegally Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Springfield, Mo., resident, was sentenced for illegally possessing a firearm.
Joseph Bradley Garrison, 48, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Stephen R. Bough to 46 months imprisonment for his illegal possession of a firearm. Judge Bough also ordered the sentence to run consecutively with his prior state conviction in Lawrence County, Mo., case number 12LW-CR01381, for second degree burglary, stealing, and tampering with a motor vehicle.
On June 30, 2023, Springfield, Mo., police officers conducted a traffic stop of Garrison, as he was walking in the street despite a sidewalk being present. As they contacted Garrison, he was asked if he had anything illegal or dangerous on him. Garrison admitted he had a firearm on his person, but that the firearm did not work. Officers conducted a search of Garrison and found a firearm and a small improvised explosive device. Upon review, the explosive device was safety denotated by the Springfield, Mo,, Fire Marshal. Law enforcement then evaluated the firearm found on Garrison’s person and it was determined that the firearm could readily be repaired and returned to a functional status. Officers confirmed Garrison was a convicted felon, with two prior convictions for being a felon in possession of a firearm, as well as 11 other felony offenses for various crimes that include first degree assault, burglary, resisting arrest, tampering with a motor vehicle, possession of a controlled substance, and forgery. Any of these felony convictions made Garrison a prohibited person from possessing either the firearm or the improvised explosive device.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Patrick Carney. It was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the Springfield, Missouri, Police Department.
South Florida Tax Preparer and Two Others Sentenced for Conspiring to Defraud Covid 19 Relief ProgramRead the Press Release
MIAMI – The final defendant in a scheme to fraudulently obtain Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act has been sentenced in federal court.
U.S. District Judge Ed Artau sentenced Max Alberto Mera Ulloa to 27 months in federal prison, followed by one year of supervised release, after he pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud.
“This scheme exploited emergency relief programs funded by the American taxpayer,” said U.S. Attorney Jason A. Reding Quiñones for the Southern District of Florida. “These defendants submitted more than 165 fraudulent loan applications and then demanded kickbacks from the very funds meant to keep workers employed. Today’s sentence closes out this case and sends a clear message: those who steal from programs designed to help our communities will be investigated, prosecuted, and held accountable.”
“These sentences stand as a reminder that stealing from federal programs is stealing from taxpayers—and we will not let those crimes go unanswered,” said Special Agent in Charge Ron Loecker of the IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI), Florida Field Office. “IRS Special Agents, alongside our law enforcement partners, will continue to safeguard taxpayer dollars by ensuring criminal conduct carries real consequences.”
According to court documents, between May 2020 and March 2021, Christian Mendoza, Guillermo Lopez Carrazana, and Mera Ulloa, all residents of Miami‑Dade County, conspired to submit more than 165 false and fraudulent PPP loan applications to the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). The SBA administered the emergency relief program under the CARES Act to help small businesses maintain payroll and cover essential expenses during the Covid‑19 pandemic.
The defendants owned and operated several businesses, including G LUX LLC, Global Tax & Accounting Group Corp., CM Logistics Systems LLC, and Max Mera Corporation. Through these entities, they submitted fraudulent loan applications that misrepresented payroll expenses and employee information in order to obtain substantial loan amounts under false pretenses.
The conspirators also carried out a kickback scheme where they had the borrower pay them a portion of the money they received from submitting the fraudulent loan applications. Rather than using the PPP loan proceeds for their intended purposes, the defendants used the funds for personal enrichment.
Mendoza and Lopez Carrazana also pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud.
Mendoza, a tax preparer, was sentenced on Dec. 19, 2025, to 33 months in federal prison, followed by 12 months of supervised release, and ordered to pay $2,287,855 in restitution.
Lopez Carrazana was also sentenced on Dec. 19, 2025, to 22 months in federal prison, followed by 18 months of supervised release. A restitution hearing for Lopez Carrazana is scheduled for March 10.
A restitution hearing for Mera Ulloa is scheduled for May 6.
U.S. Attorney Reding Quiñones; Special Agent in Charge Brett D. Skiles of the FBI, Miami Field Office; and Special Agent in Charge Loecker of IRS-CI, Florida Field Office, made the announcement.
FBI Miami and IRS‑CI, Florida Field Office, investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Roger Cruz prosecuted the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicole Grosnoff is handling asset forfeiture.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or at http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov, under case no. 25-cr-20178.
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Second Man Charged with Murder Relating to Methamphetamine TraffickingRead the Press Release
HONOLULU – A second man, Taliau Tauvela-Afalava, 31 of Aiea, Hawaii, was charged and made his initial appearance in court today for his role in a murder stemming from the victim’s alleged failure to pay for methamphetamine. This superseding indictment adds Tauvela-Afalava as a co-defendant with Filimone Tavake, 38, of San Francisco, whom the grand jury indicted on March 21, 2024 and law enforcement arrested on March 22, 2024.
According to court documents, on March 27, 2021, Tauvela-Afalava and Tavake allegedly killed the victim in connection with a drug distribution conspiracy. The victim was shot multiple times as he was standing outside his home. Video surveillance footage obtained during the investigation showed a vehicle with no license plates driving near the victim’s home shortly before the shooting. Subsequently, the vehicle parked and video captured two males walking toward the street where the victim’s residence was located. A few minutes later, gun shots were heard on the surveillance video, and the same two males were seen running from the direction of the victim’s residence toward the vehicle. Law enforcement identified and located the vehicle seen in the video. A law enforcement analysis connected the vehicle’s infotainment system to phone numbers linked to Tavake and Tauvela-Afalava.
Tauvela-Afalava is charged with carry, use and discharge of a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime; causing the death of a person through use of a firearm; killing while engaged in conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine; and conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
If convicted, Tauvela-Afalava faces a mandatory minimum penalty of 20 years in prison and a maximum penalty of life in prison.
Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; U.S. Attorney Ken Sorenson for the District of Hawaii; Special Agent in Charge David K. Porter of the FBI Honolulu Field Office; and Interim Chief Rade K. Vanic of the Honolulu Police Department made the announcement.
“The Second Superseding Indictment charging Taliau Tauvela-Afalava as the second shooter in the death of victim Malakai Maumalanga demonstrates our firm commitment to investigating and charging the violent crime often associated with drug trafficking,” said United States Attorney Ken Sorenson.
“These allegations underscore the devastating reality that where illegal drugs flow, violence inevitably follows,” said FBI Honolulu Special Agent in Charge David Porter. “The FBI, alongside our local partners, is committed to protecting our communities by removing the most violent offenders from our streets.”
“The Honolulu Police Department worked closely with the FBI during this investigation,” said Lieutenant Deena Thoemmes, HPD Criminal Investigation Division, Homicide Detail. “We remain committed to partnering with federal authorities to hold those responsible for violent crimes accountable.”
The charges in the indictment are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. In the case of conviction, any sentence would be imposed by a United States District Judge based on the statutory sentencing factors and the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines.
The FBI and Honolulu Police Department are investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Nammar and Trial Attorney Christina Taylor (detailee) of the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section are prosecuting the case.
Second Man Charged with Murder Relating to Methamphetamine TraffickingRead the Press Release
A second man, Taliau Tauvela-Afalava, 31 of Aiea, Hawaii, was charged and made his initial appearance in court yesterday for his role in a murder stemming from the victim’s alleged failure to pay for methamphetamine. This superseding indictment adds Tauvela-Afalava as a co-defendant with Filimone Tavake, 38, of San Francisco, whom the grand jury indicted on March 21, 2024 and law enforcement arrested on March 22, 2024.
According to court documents, on March 27, 2021, Tauvela-Afalava and Tavake allegedly killed the victim in connection with a drug distribution conspiracy. The victim was shot multiple times as he was standing outside his home. Video surveillance footage obtained during the investigation showed a vehicle with no license plates driving near the victim’s home shortly before the shooting. Subsequently, the vehicle parked and video captured two males walking toward the street where the victim’s residence was located. A few minutes later, gun shots were heard on the surveillance video, and the same two males were seen running from the direction of the victim’s residence toward the vehicle. Law enforcement identified and located the vehicle seen in the video. A law enforcement analysis connected the vehicle’s infotainment system to phone numberes linked to Tavake and Tauvela-Afalava.
Tauvela-Afalava is charged with carry, use and discharge of a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime; causing the death of a person through use of a firearm; killing while engaged in conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine; and conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
If convicted, Tauvela-Afalava faces a mandatory minimum penalty of 20 years in prison and a maximum penalty of life in prison.
Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division;U.S. Attorney Kenneth M. Sorenson for the District of Hawaii; Special Agent in Charge David K. Porter of the FBI Honolulu Field Office; and InterimChief Rade K. Vanic of the Honolulu Police Department made the announcement.
The FBI and Honolulu Police Department are investigating the case.
Trial Attorney Christina Taylor (detailee) of the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Nammar for the District of Hawaii are prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
San Diego Man Indicted for $6 Million Counterfeit U.S. Postage Stamp SchemeRead the Press Release
SAN DIEGO –Wayne Fister, aka Wayne Wong, was indicted by a federal grand jury for selling millions of counterfeit U.S. postage stamps, earning more than $6 million as part of the scheme.
The indictment, unsealed yesterday, charged Fister with Mail Fraud, Selling Counterfeit Stamps, and Money Laundering.
According to court documents and statements made in court, since July 2024, Fister used his account in an online marketplace to sell the counterfeit U.S. postage stamps.
In one instance, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service intercepted five different packages intended for Fister, in total containing more than one million counterfeit stamps. Fister is alleged to have procured the counterfeit stamps from a manufacturer in China as part of the mail fraud scheme.
Fister is also accused of using a significant portion of criminal proceeds from counterfeit stamp sales to purchase a home in San Diego.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Nathan Brooks and Alyssa Sanderson.
*The charges and allegations contained in an indictment or complaint are merely accusations, and the defendants are considered innocent unless and until proven guilty.
DEFENDANT Case Number 26cr0723
Wayne Fister Age: 38 San Diego, CA
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Mail Fraud – Title 18, U.S.C., Section 1341
Maximum Penalty: Twenty years in prison and $1 million fine
Selling Counterfeit Stamps – Title 18, U.S.C., Section 501
Maximum Penalty: Five years in prison and $250,000 fine
Money Laundering – Title 18, U.S.C. Section 1957
Maximum Penalty: Ten years in prison and $250,000 fine
INVESTIGATING AGENCY
United States Postal Inspection Service
Sacramento Woman Pleads Guilty to Fraudulent Investment SchemeRead the Press Release
Maria Dickerson, also known as “Dulce Pino,” “Maria Dulce Pino Dickerson,” and “Dulce Brubaker,” 49, of Sacramento, pleaded guilty today to one count of wire fraud and one count of securities fraud, U.S. Attorney Eric Grant announced.
According to court documents, from 2020 through 2024, Dickerson created an investment scheme through which she sold interests in an illusory shell company, Creative Legal Fundings of CA (CLF), to investors. Dickerson promised investors that their investments were safe and secure, and backed by substantial starting capital. To appear credible and to attract investors, Dickerson falsely claimed to some investors that CLF was associated with a multinational casino and resort corporation’s CEO. She promised investors at least a 10% rate of return per month on their principal investment with additional compounding monthly interest if they left their money invested with her. In reality, Dickerson did not register the sale of her securities with the Securities and Exchange Commission, and she used new investor money to pay off older investors and to fund a lavish lifestyle. This lavish lifestyle included vacations, gambling, private jet travel, as well as high-end purchases like Mercedes-Benz vehicles and a home in Sacramento. Through her false statements, Dickerson induced approximately 156 investors to contribute more than $10 million to her scheme.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and IRS Criminal Investigation are conducting the investigation with assistance from the Alabama Securities Commission. Assistant U.S. Attorney Dhruv M. Sharma is prosecuting the case.
Dickerson is scheduled to be sentenced by Senior U.S. District Judge John A. Mendez on July 28, 2026. She faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine on the wire fraud count, and a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $5 million on the securities fraud count. The actual sentence, however, will be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables.
Registered Sex Offender Convicted Rapist Sentenced for Producing Video of Child Sex AbuseRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, N.C. – A federal judge sentenced Shawn Keith Green, 55, to 27 years in federal prison for Production of Child Pornography. Green pleaded guilty to the offense.
According to court documents and other information presented in court, a cloud storage service reported to the National Center of Missing and Exploited Children one of their users uploaded child sexual abuse material (child pornography) to an account. The North Carolina SBI linked the account to Inmate Green, a registered sex offender, living in Duplin County. The United States Secret Service executed a search warrant on Inmate Green’s account, finding over 10,000 images and videos depicting the rape and abuse of children, some as young as newborn infants. Law enforcement executed a residential search warrant at Inmate Green’s house. They seized digital devices that contained additional child sexual abuse material.
“We will never tolerate disgusting behavior like this. These spiders think they can lurk in the dark corners of the internet and hurt innocent children, but we will shine the light on them and stomp them out. We thank the SBI, United States Secret Service, and the Duplin County Sheriff for catching this pervert.” said U.S. Attorney Ellis Boyle.
“The United States Secret Service (USSS), collaborating with United States Attorney’s Office (Eastern District), NCSBI and Duplin County Sheriff’s Office, successfully removed a significant threat from our community. This case highlights the importance of inter-agency cooperation in maintaining public safety,” said USSS Special Agent in Charge Steven Gutierrez.
In February of 2022, Inmate Green used the internet to communicate with an unknown female, likely outside the United States. Inmate Green sent a live stream of him sexually abusing a child. Inmate Green encouraged the woman to sexually abuse a 10-year-old child and agreed to pay her if she did. Inmate Green recorded the video chat to preserve it, and uploaded the video to his cloud account. The woman and the child have not been identified.
In 2007, Inmate Green pleaded guilty to three counts of second-degree sexual offense and two counts of second-degree rape for the sexual assaults against three adult women. On three separate days in 2005 and 2006, he raped the women while threatening them with a knife. He bragged about raping these women in text messages found on his phone.
Ellis Boyle, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, made the announcement after sentencing by Chief U.S. District Judge Richard E. Myers II. The United States Secret Service, NC SBI and the Duplin County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Charity Wilson prosecuted the case.
A copy of this press release is located on our website. Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 7:25-CR-33.
Raleigh Man Arrested for Child Sexual ExploitationRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – The FBI arrested Andrew Swenson, 42, of Raleigh, on a federal warrant in downtown Raleigh. The FBI obtained the warrant after a U.S. magistrate judge signed a federal criminal complaint. The Complaint accuses Swenson of sexually soliciting one minor online and traveling to sexually abuse another minor.
According to the complaint, Swenson met a thirteen-year-old online after another criminal advertised her for sexual abuse. Swenson chatted with her on social media platforms Zangi and Discord and persuaded her to send images of child sexual abuse material. He made plans to drive to her home in Nebraska, pick her up, and bring her to North Carolina to continue to sexually abuse her.
The FBI executed a search warrant at Swenson’s residence. His roommate reported that Swenson routinely travels out of town to have sex with what Swenson claimed were women. In Swenson’s bedroom, investigators found bags containing rope, zip ties, and duct tape:
The FBI also discovered that Swenson had recently met a woman on the internet who had an infant baby, traveled to visit her in New York, and produced images and videos of him sexually abusing the baby.
“Those who prey on children and solicit them to produce child abuse sexual material are morally reprehensible and will be held accountable for their heinous crimes,” said Reid Davis, the FBI Special Agent in Charge in North Carolina. “The FBI remains committed to protecting our children.”
Swenson is charged with coercion and enticement of a minor and production of child pornography and faces a mandatory minimum of fifteen years and a maximum of life in prison if convicted of all charges.
Ellis Boyle, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, made the announcement. FBI, Wake County Sheriff’s Office, Raleigh Police Department, and Apex Police Department are investigating the case, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Erin C. Blondel is prosecuting the case.
A copy of this press release is located on our website. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No.5:26-mj-1351-RJ.
A criminal complaint is merely an accusation. The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Previously Deported Jamaican National Sentenced to Prison for Passport Fraud OffenseRead the Press Release
David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that MARLON DAMIAN WHITE, also known as Damian Marlon White, 47, a citizen of Jamaica last residing in Hartford, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Vernon D. Oliver in Hartford to six months of imprisonment for making a false statement in a U.S. passport application.
According to court documents and statements made in court, White was admitted to the U.S. as a lawful permanent resident in 1995. In subsequent years, he was convicted of various offenses, including a state conviction in New York for assault in the second degree, and a federal conviction in the Southern District of New York for a narcotics distribution offense for which he was sentenced to 24 months of imprisonment. After his federal conviction, White lost his status as a lawful permanent resident of the U.S. and, in February 2006, was deported to Jamaica.
White returned to the U.S. and, on May 6, 2024, used a false name, false birth date, and false place of birth to apply for a U.S. passport in Hartford. During the application process, White provided a counterfeit birth certificate and driver’s license falsely representing that he was born in and resided in California.
White has been detained since his arrest on October 9, 2025. He pleaded guilty to the offense on December 15.
White will be removed to Jamaica when he completes his prison term.
This matter was investigated by the U.S. Department of State, Diplomatic Security Service. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Hal Chen.
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.
Pocahontas County Man Sentenced to Prison for Violating the Federal Sex Offender Registration and Notification ActRead the Press Release
BECKLEY, W.Va. – Paul Charles Clement, 43, of Hillsboro, was sentenced today to one year and one day in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release, for failure to register as a sex offender as required by the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act (SORNA) after relocating from Virginia to West Virginia.
According to court documents and statements made in court, from on or about March 8, 2024, through in or around December 2024, Clement resided in the Ronceverte area of Greenbrier County, West Virginia, after relocating from Virginia. Clement knew he was required to comply with the provisions of SORNA because of his conviction on two felony counts of carnal knowledge of a child 13 to 15 years old in Botetourt County, Virginia, Circuit Court on December 2, 2002.
United States Attorney Moore Capito made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the United States Marshals Service (USMS) and the West Virginia State Police.
Chief United States District Judge Frank W. Volk imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan T. Storage prosecuted the case.
SORNA is part of the Adam Walsh Child Protection and Safety Act of 2006 and provides a comprehensive set of minimum standards for sex offender registration and notification in the United States. SORNA seeks to strengthen the nationwide network of sex offender registration and notification programs, in part by requiring registered sex offenders to register and keep their registration current in each jurisdiction in which they reside, work, or go to school.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 5:25-cr-89.
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Pittsburgh Felon Pleads Guilty to Failing to Surrender for 10-Year Term of Imprisonment and Distributing Fentanyl and Heroin While a FugitiveRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to failure to surrender for a term of imprisonment and to violating a federal narcotics law, United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
Julian Thompson, 33, pleaded guilty before United States District Judge W. Scott Hardy to one count of failure to surrender and one count of distributing a mixture containing fentanyl and heroin.
In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that, on November 21, 2024, Thompson was sentenced in the Western District of Pennsylvania to 10 years of imprisonment on his convictions for possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl and possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon, with the Court granting a request to allow Thompson to self-surrender to the Bureau of Prisons at a later date. Thompson failed to surrender on the date instructed, leading to a search and investigation by the U.S. Marshals Service Western Pennsylvania Fugitive Task Force.
In the summer of 2025, authorities learned that Thompson had returned to Pittsburgh and was distributing controlled substances as part of a new drug investigation being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). In September 2025, the FBI purchased controlled substances from Thompson, which included a mixture containing fentanyl and heroin packaged across more than 250 glassine bags (with one glassine bag commonly considered a single dose). Authorities then executed federal search warrants upon Thompson and a residence, along with the arrest warrant related to Thompson’s failure to surrender. The searches resulted in the seizure of a loaded drum magazine, jewelry, and $65,900.
Judge Hardy scheduled sentencing for July 21, 2026. The maximum total penalty for the failure to surrender count is up to 10 years in prison, which must be served consecutively to any other offense, a fine of up to $250,000, or both. The maximum total penalty for the distribution of controlled substances count is up to 30 years in prison, a fine of up to $2 million, or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant. Pending sentencing, Judge Hardy ordered Thompson remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Assistant United States Attorney Brendan J. McKenna is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The U.S. Marshals Service and Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Thompson.
Pasco Man Sentenced to 5 Years Imprisonment for Receipt of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Spokane, Washington – First Assistant United States Attorney Pete Serrano announced that on March 5, 2026, District Court Judge United States District Judge Mary K. Dimke, sentenced Ricardo Velazquez Reyes, age 23, of Pasco, Washington, to five years of imprisonment for the Receipt of Child Pornography. Judge Dimke also ordered that following his sentence, Velazquez Reyes serve a 15 year term of supervised release, register as a sex offender, and abide by a number of conditions pertaining to Velazquez Reyes’s use and access to electronic devices. Velazquez Reyes was also ordered to pay $154,000 in restitution to minor children depicted and identified in the sexual exploitation files he received, possessed and distributed.
According to court documents, a Special Agent with Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) conducted an undercover investigation into individuals utilizing an online platform to distribute, receive and possess files known to law enforcement to constitute child pornography. On multiple occasions spanning from December of 2023 through March of 2024, Velazquez Reyes distributed known child pornography files depicting minor children to the undercover Special Agent. In March of 2024, a search warrant was executed at Velazquez Reyes’s residence in Pasco. HSI agents and members of the Southeast Regional Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force (SER-ICAC) served the warrant. Multiple electronic devices were seized from Velazquez Reyes’s residence. An HSI forensic examiner located more than 1,000 child pornography files on Velazquez Reyes’s electronic devices. These files depicted minor children, including those under the age of 12, engaged in sex acts, bondage and defecation. Velazquez Reyes was interviewed by detectives with the SER-ICAC on scene. Velazquez Reyes admitted that he had obtained child pornography utilizing the dark web and that he was sexually stimulated by child pornography. Velazquez Reyes also advised that he was enrolled as a student in a cybersecurity program at a local college at the time of his arrest.
“Mr. Velazquez Reyes distributed sickening images and videos depicting the sexual abuse of minor children in our community and abroad” stated First Assistant Serrano. “This material often depicts the worst day of a young child’s life, yet Mr. Velazquez Reyes distributed these images and videos and gained personal gratification from them. Thanks to the proactive work of Homeland Security Investigations and the Southeast Regional ICAC team, Mr. Velazquez Reyes was identified, apprehended and prosecuted for his conduct, preventing the further distribution of these horrific images and videos.”
“Every image or video of child sexual abuse represents a real child who was victimized,” said Damon Jansen Commander of the Southeast Regional Internet Crimes Against Children (SER-ICAC) Task Force. “When offenders download, possess, and distribute this material, they are continuing the cycle of abuse for those victims. This case highlights the importance of proactive investigations and strong partnerships between Homeland Security Investigations and our Southeast Regional ICAC Task Force. Together, we are committed to identifying offenders, rescuing victims, and holding those who exploit children accountable.”
“By leveraging our advanced cyber capabilities, HSI relentlessly pursues those who traffic in the abuse of children and ensures they are brought to justice,” said HSI Seattle Acting Special Agent in Charge April Miller. “Together with our local partners, we are protecting vulnerable victims and helping to rescue children worldwide from this horrific exploitation.”
The case was investigated by the Southeast Regional Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, which is comprised of special agents with Homeland Security Investigations and local detectives from the Richland, Kennewick, and Pasco Police Departments, along with the Benton County Sheriff’s Office. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Laurel J. Holland.
4:24-CR-6015-MKD
Pensacola Man Pleads Guilty to Selling MacHine Gun Conversion DevicesRead the Press Release
PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – Alaisjah Dayshawn Perkins, 22, of Pensacola, Florida, pleaded guilty in federal court to receipt, possession, transfer, and making of a firearm which is not registered in the National Firearms Registration & Transfer Record and not identified by a serial number. The plea was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “Operation Take Back America was launched to devote the full might of the Department of Justice toward protecting our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime, and this successful prosecution delivers on that mission. Our brave state and federal law enforcement partners are on the front lines of the fight against violent criminals, and my office will continue to back up their efforts with aggressive prosecutions to keep our citizens safe.”
Court documents reflect that on April 26, 2025, law enforcement officers observed posts on a Facebook profile advertising the sale of machinegun conversion devices (MCDs). Subsequently, an undercover officer began communicating with the defendant. Between April and May 2025, law enforcement conducted multiple undercover purchases of several MCDs from the defendant. Pursuant to a search warrant for the defendant’s home, officers located tools and supplies for manufacturing MCDs. The defendant was arrested and a bag of 13 MCDs was located in his pocket. The MCDs were sent to the Firearms and Ammunition Technology Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives for technical examination, and were determined to be designed to convert AR-style firearms from semi-automatic to fully automatic.
Perkins faces up to ten years’ imprisonment. If Perkins is sentenced to a term of imprisonment, such term could be followed by up to a three-year term of supervised release. Thus, if Perkins were to violate any conditions of his release, he could potentially face an additional period of incarceration related to violating his supervision.
This case was a joint investigation by Escambia County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Christopher C. Patterson.
Sentencing is scheduled for May 19, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. at the United States Courthouse in Pensacola before United States District Judge M. Casey Rodgers.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
The 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.
Ohio Man Pleads Guilty to Role in Postal Carrier RobberyRead the Press Release
CLEVELAND – A 21-year-old man has pleaded guilty to his role in robbing a postal carrier of the key used to open U.S. Mail collection boxes. The robbery was part of a larger conspiracy to steal checks and later cash them for personal benefit and use.
Je’Vion Tolliver-Maddox, of Cleveland, pleaded guilty on March 9 to the following charges in the superseding indictment:
- Robbery of Mail, Money, or Other Property of the United States
- Stealing Keys Adopted by the Post Office
- Conspiracy to Commit Bank Fraud
- Bank Fraud
According to court documents, Tolliver-Maddox was one of the individuals who robbed a U.S. Postal Service (USPS) worker while delivering mail on Cleveland’s West 48th Street on the afternoon of Sept. 9, 2025. Co-conspirator Terran Johnson, 29, also of Cleveland, allegedly used a firearm to threaten the postal worker with violence and demanded the arrow key that opens USPS mailboxes. The postal worker complied, and the defendants fled the scene in Tolliver-Maddox’s white Ford sport utility vehicle (SUV). Later that same evening, Tolliver-Maddox went to the Cleveland Division of Police’s Fifth District to report that his car, a white Ford SUV, was stolen, despite evidence showing he was in the car during the robbery.
Following the robbery of the arrow key, agents discovered Tolliver-Maddox was altering checks—that had been stolen out of USPS mailboxes—with his name to deposit into his bank accounts. He also recruited others on social media platforms to further the conspiracy and fraudulently deposit checks into their own bank accounts. Victim banks implicated in the scheme were insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation and included: U.S. Bank, Citizen’s Bank, PNC Bank, Huntington, Citi Bank, Fifth Third Bank, and First Bank.
A federal grand jury indicted co-conspirator Johnson on March 4 for his role in the conspiracy and was additionally charged with using a firearm to threaten the postal worker with violence. He faces up to 30 years in prison. An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. Defendants are entitled to a fair trial in which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Tolliver-Maddox is scheduled to be sentenced July 9 and faces a maximum prison sentence of 30 years.
The investigation in this case was conducted by The United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) and the Cleveland Division of Police.
Assistant United States Attorney Brenna L. Fasko for the Northern District of Ohio led the prosecution.
About the United States Postal Inspection Service
USPIS is the law enforcement branch of the United States Postal Service. To report mail theft or other crimes committed through, or towards, the United States Postal Service, call the USPIS at 1-877-876-2455 or visit uspis.gov/report. For more information about combatting mail theft visit uspis.gov/project-safe-delivery.
New York woman pleads guilty to mail fraudRead the Press Release
BILLINGS – A New York woman accused of selling diet pills laced with methamphetamine through the mail admitted to charges today, Acting U.S. Attorney Tim Racicot said.
The defendant, Carrie Ann Taylor, 50, pleaded guilty to one count of mail fraud. Taylor faces 20 years of imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Timothy J. Cavan presided. U.S. District Judge William W. Mercer will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing will be set at a later date. Taylor was released with conditions pending further proceedings.
The government alleged in court documents that on September 5, 2023, victim John Doe 1 submitted an online tip regarding the sale of diet pills laced with methamphetamine. John Doe 1 said he ordered “Skald” brand diet pills on eBay in February of 2023 and started taking them in May. John Doe 1 was drug tested by his employer in June and failed a drug test. John Doe 1 believed the “Skald” diet pills were laced with illegal drugs. An FBI special agent met with John Doe 1 and collected what was left of the “Skald” diet pills. The pills were tested and showed positive results for methamphetamine.
The investigation revealed Taylor also mailed diet pills to a woman in Montana, Jane Doe 1. Taylor sent Jane Doe 1 six bottles of pills labelled “Skald Oxydynamic Fat Scorcher” in March of 2023. Jane Doe 1 told the FBI she used the pills for several months but did not experience weight loss, so she stopped taking them. She threw out most of the remaining pills but still had one bottle. Agents took custody of the bottle, tested the pills, and determined they contained methamphetamine.
On April 3, 2024, an FBI undercover agent ordered two kinds of diet pills from Taylor’s eBay account, “PhenQ Ultra” and “PhenGold.” Both orders were sent to Billings, and both tested positive for methamphetamine. At the same time, agents ordered bottles of “PhenQ Ultra” and “PhenGold” directly from the manufacturers. Those pills tested negative for methamphetamine.
On April 4, 2024, agents learned Taylor sent Jane Doe 2, located in Randolph, Wisconsin, illicit diet pills. The FBI reached out to local law enforcement and were able to collect the pills from Jane Doe 2. They were tested and also tested positive for methamphetamine.
In total, the FBI collected pills from five separate shipments sent by Taylor. Some were sent in 2023 and some in 2024. Every single pill tested had methamphetamine in it. Taylor fraudulently sold every bottle of pills by falsely claiming the pills were legitimate diet supplements manufactured by real supplement companies including brand names “Skald,” “PhenQ,” and “PhenGold.” The pills were shipped and delivered in bottles falsely labelled as these products.
The FBI determined Taylor began selling the counterfeit diet pills through eBay on October 27, 2021 and continued to do so until April 5, 2024.
Several customers told Taylor her pills were counterfeit and one manufacturer sent her a cease-and-desist notice accusing her of selling counterfeit versions of their products. Taylor’s victims were harmed in various ways. John Doe 2, a member of the U.S. Army, tested positive for meth during a random urinalysis and had to spend a significant sum of money hiring a lawyer to defend against allegations he was abusing drugs. John Doe 3 reported being fired from his job after testing positive for meth following a workplace drug test.
During the entire scheme, Taylor sold approximately 1,517 bottles of counterfeit diet pills and made about $56,454.26 in profits.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case. The FBI conducted the investigation.
XXX
New York City Man Sentenced for Trafficking EcstasyRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Nan Wu, age 38, of New York, New York, was sentenced on March 5, 2026, to 78 months in prison for trafficking methylenedioxymethamphetamine, commonly referred to as “MDMA” or “ecstasy,” through the mail. First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Erin Keegan, Special Agent in Charge of the Homeland Security Investigations, Buffalo Office, made the announcement.
As detailed in Wu’s plea agreement, Wu worked with a drug trafficking organization that used the dark web and postal system to traffic MDMA from points outside of the United States to New York City for distribution. Wu received packages in the mail containing MDMA and delivered the MDMA to a co-conspirator in New York City. The packages entered the United States through the Champlain, New York Port of Entry and were seized by HSI. In total, HSI seized more than 10 kilograms of MDMA meant for Wu and his co-conspirators as part of the case.
United States District Judge Anne M. Nardacci also ordered a 3-year term of supervised release to follow Wu’s release from prison.
First Assistant United States Attorney Sarcone stated: “Nan Wu thought he could hide behind the anonymity of the dark web and misuse the U.S. mail to flood our communities with dangerous drugs. He was wrong. Thanks to the vigilance of federal law enforcement, this trafficking scheme was shut down and more than 10 kilograms of MDMA were seized. This case underscores the importance of continuing to marshal the resources, partnerships, and vigilance needed to stop criminals from exploiting the U.S. mail system to traffic dangerous drugs into our communities.”
HSI Special Agent in Charge Erin Keegan stated: “Nan Wu’s 78‑month prison sentence reflects the damage caused by his role funneling ecstasy into New York and fueling addiction and potential crime in our neighborhoods. This investigation disrupted a global supply line, removed more than 10 kilograms of MDMA from circulation, and shielded the community from drugs meant to slip through undetected. HSI Albany and our law enforcement partners are relentless in tracking and dismantling international narcotics schemes that exploit our ports of entry and the postal system.”
HSI investigated this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Douglas Collyer prosecuted this case.
New Orleans Man Sentenced for Conspiracy and Interstate Transport of Stolen VehiclesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – On February 24, 2026, CHRISTOPHER MYERS (“MYERS”), age 33, a resident of Slidell, was sentenced on February 26, 2026 by United Stated District Judge Susie Morgan, after previously pleading guilty, to six months of imprisonment, to be followed by three years of supervised release, announced U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle. A $100 mandatory special assessment fee was also imposed.
According to the indictment, MYERS, and others, devised a scheme to create fake credit profiles to secure funding for auto loans. The credit profiles used both stolen and fake social security numbers, drivers’ license numbers, and dates of birth. Once they secured the loan they would purchase vehicles from local car dealerships. Once the group took possession of the vehicles, they would never pay back the auto loan, sell the vehicles for their personal enrichment, or use the vehicles for their personal enjoyment.
U.S. Attorney Courcelle praised the work of Homeland Security Investigations, Louisiana State Police, and Pearl River County Sherriff’s Office in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Paul J. Hubbell of the General Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.
* * *
More than 50 Charged in Thefts of Millions of Dollars in California Benefits for Low-Income FamiliesRead the Press Release
SAN DIEGO – More than 50 defendants have been charged in a yearslong crackdown on organized theft rings – many with ties to Romania – that steal millions of dollars in public assistance benefits from low-income families who depend on those funds for food, housing, and other necessities.
The cases are part of an ongoing enforcement effort in the Southern District of California targeting crews that allegedly exploit the government’s Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) system. Investigators say members of these rings often descend on ATMs, often in the pre-dawn hours almost immediately after the funds are dispersed by the state, rapidly draining funds from compromised accounts and leaving vulnerable victims without the benefits they rely on to survive.
“These criminals target people living one paycheck away from crisis,” said U.S. Attorney Adam Gordon. “Exploiting that vulnerability is as cruel as it is criminal.”
“These charges underscore the serious consequences faced by individuals who exploit federal programs for personal gain,” said Special Agent in Charge Robb R. Breeden of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “This scheme diverted valuable taxpayer funds from programs designed to support people most in need. Working closely with our law enforcement partners, HHS‑OIG will continue to pursue those who target the vulnerable and compromise public trust in government assistance programs.”
“The U.S. Secret Service and our partners on the Southern California Cyber Fraud Task Force are committed to combatting EBT fraud and credit card skimming,” said Andre Remy, the Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Secret Service’s San Diego Field Office. “This years-long investigation is a testament to the hard work and tireless dedication of law enforcement to actively investigate and arrest criminals that target our most vulnerable community members.”
Four of the most recent defendants appeared in federal court last week to face charges that they each stole public assistance benefits from low-income families that need the funds to pay for food, housing, and other necessities.
The four defendants are Razvan Balu, Juan Trandafir, Hassib Baraekzay, and Veronica Ochoa. Balu and Trandafir, both Romanian, are respectively accused of stealing $160,000 and $145,250 from victims’ CalWORKS benefit accounts. CalWORKS administers grants from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services that are designed to help families remain housed. Baraekzay and Ochoa, who are U.S. citizens, are each charged with stealing more than $20,000 of CalWORKS benefits.
Last week’s arrests bring the total number of people charged with stealing CalWORKS benefits by the U.S. Attorney’s Office in San Diego to 52 since 2023. These federal arrests are the work of the U.S. Secret Service’s Southern California Cyber Fraud Task Force (SoCal CFTF).
The defendants sentenced so far in this crackdown are collectively responsible for stealing at least $4 million from the EBT accounts of hundreds of California victims, including scores of San Diego County residents. Please see chart below for status of all cases charged.
EBT theft has significantly impacted California, with substantial losses reported in recent years. Between June 2022 and January 2026, more than $310 million was stolen from EBT beneficiaries in California, primarily through unauthorized ATM withdrawals.
Balu was arrested March 1 in Los Angeles County for Conspiracy to Commit Access Device Fraud during a SoCal CFTF operation targeting EBT card skimming fraud at ATMs, while Baraekzay and Ochoa were arrested in San Diego County on March 2 and 3.
According to the complaint charging Balu, between January 1, 2026, and March 1, 2026, Balu used the public assistance account information of approximately 210 victims who live in San Diego, Fresno, Los Angeles, Kern, Kings, and Tulare counties. He used this account information to make unauthorized withdrawals at Los Angeles County ATMs in which he accessed, attempted to steal, and stole from the victims’ public assistance benefit accounts.
During this period, Balu attempted to withdraw $196,650 and successfully withdrew $159,990 from the victims’ accounts.
EBT is a card-based system used to distribute government assistance benefits like CalFresh (food assistance) and CalWORKs (cash aid). It works like a debit card, allowing recipients to purchase food and withdraw cash at participating retailers and ATMs.
According to charging documents, the U.S. Secret Service has gathered evidence indicating members of what appear to be one or more criminal enterprises are stealing California EBT account information by installing skimmers on point-of-sale terminals and inside ATMs, often in communities with higher concentrations of public benefit recipients. The skimmed data is then often re-encoded onto the magnetic strips of cards that members of the conspiracy use to make unauthorized withdrawals and purchases.
These re-encoded cards are sometimes referred to as “cloned” cards. Cloned cards can be a blank white plastic card, or another debit, credit, or gift card. Cloned cards may have names or numbers embossed on the physical face of the card. A common feature of cloned cards is that the account number encoded on the card’s magnetic strip will not match the number embossed on the card’s face. To facilitate the use of the stolen EBT benefits, members of the scheme will commonly put stickers bearing the account’s PIN on the physical cards, or access devices, that are swiped at a point-of-sale terminal, along with the account balance.
Once in possession of the cloned cards, account PIN, and anticipated balance, the thieves will go to ATMs, often in the pre-dawn hours, to drain those benefits before the rightful recipients can access them.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sabrina Fève.
If you or someone you know has had EBT benefits stolen, San Diego County’s Department of Health & Human Services Agency requires that the theft be reported within 10 days. More information for San Diego County victims is available at:
https://www.sandiegocounty.gov/content/sdc/hhsa/programs/ssp/ebt_fraud.html.
DEFENDANT Case Number 24MJ1234
Razvan Balu 35 Drobeta Turnu Severin City, Romania
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Conspiracy to Commit Access Device Fraud – Title 18, 18 U.S.C. §§ 1029(b)(2), 1029(a)(2), 1029(a)(4), and (c)(1)(A)
Maximum penalty: Five years in prison and $250,000 fine, or twice the pecuniary gain or loss
INVESTIGATING AGENCIES
U.S. Secret Service’s Southern California Cyber Fraud Task Force
San Diego District Attorney’s Office
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Office of Inspector General
California Department of Social Services
San Diego Police Department
San Diego Sheriff’s Department
U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Office of Inspector General
Homeland Security Investigations
Los Angeles District Attorney’s Office
United States Attorney’s Office for the Central District of California
*The charges and allegations contained in an indictment or complaint are merely accusations, and the defendants are considered innocent unless and until proven guilty.
LAST NAMEFIRST NAMECourt Case #
Date of Arrest
Disposition
Restitution Ordered
MIHAIBEATRICE23CR0794
3/17/2023
16 months
$305,274.52
GROSURADU23CR1164
6/3/2023
10 months
$25,700.00
CALINRICHARD23CR1165
6/3/2023
18 months
$95,304.06
IONITAGABRIEL23CR1165
6/3/2023
18 months
$21,510.00
IRIMIACONSTANTIN23CR1300
6/1/2023
18 months
$139,780.00
PIPKINSDEVONTE23CR1303
6/2/2023
11 months
$17,030.00
TROFINTUDOR23CR1655
7/18/2023
21 months
$186,450.00
CICAFLORIAN24CR0229
7/14/2023
State Custody TX
IORDACHEGABRIEL24CR0229
1/24/2024
20 months
$446,535.87
UDRICAROBERT24CR0229
1/29/2024
33 months
$446,535.87
UDRICAGABRIEL24CR0229
1/29/2024
20 months
$446,535.87
PUICUTAMIHAELA24CR0229
Fugitive
BUDAIOAN24CR0510
2/12/2024
6 months
$13,360.00
IONITAVASILE24CR0819
4/1/2024
6 months
$5,730.00
GEANGASUANDREI24CR0819
4/1/2024
6 months
$5,730.00
UNGURU DUCILADUMITRU24CR0822
4/2/2024
12 months + 1 day
$32,290.00
CALINROBERTO24CR0822
4/2/2024
6 months
$1,140.00
DOGARUMARIAN24CR0823
4/1/2024
30 months
$182,530.00
GASPARRAZVAN24CR0878
4/2/2024
10 months
$12,860.00
CRACIUNCATALIN24CR0967
4/16/2024
30 months
$223,240.00
PETRACHENICUSOR24CR1610
6/29/2024
14 months
$37,640.00
BUCURAURELIAN24CR2116
8/21/2024
8 months
$37,320.00
UNGURU DUCILAMARINELA25CR1815
4/30/2024
18 months
$22,710.00
TRANDAFIRJUAN24MJ1736
3/3/2026
Pending removal to SDCA
ARTENIANDREI24CR2103
9/5/2024
24 months
$483,650.00
ARTENIALIN25CR2872
6/23/2025
24 months
$483,650.00
FUMEASANDU24CR1877
8/13/2024
14 months
$47,060.00
BALAZSALIN24CR2047
9/9/2024
24 months
$154,260.00
IGNATIONUT24CR2009
8/28/2024
14 months
$30,060.00
STOICAROBERT24CR2194
9/23/2024
15 months
$88,040.00
STEFANMIHAI24MJ3480
fugitive
MIHAILESCUDORIN24CR2485
10/8/2024
37 months
$397,265.00
ARDELIANUVASILE25CR4656
10/29/2026
Motion Hearing/Trial Setting set for 03/20/2026
PARASCHIVCARMEN25CR4656
10/29/2026
Motion Hearing/Trial Setting set for 03/20/2026
IONITANICOLAE25CR1476
3/31/2025
16 months
$152,240.00
CHIVEAALBERTO25CR2983
7/2/2025
7 months
$199,100.00
YORDANOVYORDAN25CR0126
12/4/2024
14 months
$41,660.00
Chaabani Chaima24CR2713
9/24/2024
Sentencing set for 4/13/2026
StoicaFlorin25CR1148
3/4/2025
13 months
$46,160.00
VirtanRemus Cristian25CR0926
3/4/2025
14 months
$72,597.00
Nazaire
Devon25CR03054
5/29/2025
Sentencing set for 3/20/2026
PavelescuCristian25MJ2246
Fugitive
FrumosuAurelian25MJ2246
State Custody CA
MaresPetre Daniel25CR2002
5/2/2025
Sentencing set for 4/14/2026
MoldovanMarius Liviu25CR3822
5/5/2025
10 months
$41,460.00
MoiseiAdrian Florin25CR3061
7/11/2025
24 months
$142,240.00
OpreaViorel26MJ0156
2/10/2026
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Michigan Man Sentenced for Role in Cocaine Trafficking OrganizationRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Westland, Michigan, has been sentenced in federal court on his conviction of cocaine trafficking, United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
United States District Judge Robert J. Colville imposed a sentence of three years of probation on Roy Brown, 57, also ordering Brown to serve the first 30 days of his probation period on home detention. Brown previously pleaded guilty in the case to conspiring to distribute cocaine between August 2023 and August 2024.
According to information presented to the Court, Brown was part of a drug trafficking conspiracy based in Detroit and in New Castle, Pennsylvania. Specifically, Brown participated by assisting with cocaine trafficking in Detroit.
Assistant United States Attorney Craig W. Haller prosecuted this case on behalf of the United States.
United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Drug Enforcement Administration, Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, Lawrence County Drug Task Force, New Castle Police Department, Michigan State Police, Pennsylvania State Police, Mercer County Drug Task Force, United States Postal Inspection Service, Department of Homeland Security, and Douglas County (Nebraska) Sheriff’s Office for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Brown.
This prosecution was 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 toward identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations that 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.