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Friday 19 December 2025
Second of pair of men operating massive stolen goods trafficking scheme pleads guiltyRead the Press Release
Seattle – A 58-year-old Bellevue, Washington and Las Vegas, man pleaded guilty today in U.S. District Court in Seattle for his role in a scheme to sell stolen goods on Amazon and eBay, announced U.S. Attorney Charles Neil Floyd. Andrey A. Balun pleaded guilty to conspiracy to transport stolen property in interstate commerce. Balun and his co-defendant, Vitaliy F. Bobak, 53, of Federal Way, Washington, jointly owned MBA Trading LLC which did business at a Burien, Washington storefront operating as “We Buy Gold, Silver, and Electronics.” An extensive law enforcement investigation revealed that the storefront knowingly purchased goods that had been stolen from area retailers. The pair then sold the goods on Amazon or eBay for millions of dollars in profit.
According to the plea agreement and other records filed in the case, Balun co-owned the business since 2018. In 2019 Bobak bought a 50 percent share of the business that once belonged to Balun’s original business partner. Balun trained Bobak on how to operate the business. Balun admits that the business purchased stolen goods from individual sellers knowing that the goods were stolen. The business bought primarily over the counter medications and health/beauty products. In many instances the goods still had anti-theft devices attached, and/or stickers saying for sale only at a particular retailer. The men bought the goods far below the retail price and then posted them for sale on two websites they operated on Amazon and eBay. The Amazon store was called “Medikus” and the eBay store was called “abcstore555.” Money from the online stores was traced to the men’s bank accounts. The funds were then used by the men to operate the scheme by paying cash to the “boosters” (people who stole the goods) and payroll to employees who were involved in posting and shipping the goods for sale. The remainder of the proceeds were funneled to the men who then withdrew money to pay themselves and for various personal expenses. Between 2021 and June of 2023, the operation brought in more than $4.5 million. Balun obtained proceeds of at least $1 million. Investigators traced some of that money to his purchase of a home in Las Vegas.
The plea agreement details three items brought to the We Buy store as stolen goods that were then sold on Amazon and eBay: a Braun electric shaver, sold and shipped to Rhode Island, a Keurig coffee maker sold and shipped to Oregon and Sonicare and Rogaine products purchased from a “booster.” Bobak used a torch lighter and drill to remove the security devices on the products.
The scale of the sales was huge and both national and international. An analysis of the sales of the two online stores reveals that between January 1, 2022, and November 28, 2023, there were over 150,000 sale transactions through the abcstore555 eBay and Medikus Amazon stores. When search warrants were served and merchandise seized on December 19, 2023, the conspirators possessed more than 74,000 items of stolen merchandise valued at approximately $2.4 million. After the seizure, the business shut down.
In his plea agreement Balun agrees to forfeit $1,000,000 to the government as part of the resolution of his case.
Conspiracy to transport stolen property is punishable by up to five years in prison.
Bobak is scheduled for sentencing by U.S. District Judge Tana Lin on January 14, 2026. Balun is scheduled for sentencing on March 11, 2026. Prosecutors have agreed to recommend that Balun serve no more than 57 months in prison. Judge Lin is not limited by the recommendation and can impose any sentence allowed by law.
The case is being investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), with significant assistance from the Renton Police Department, Seattle Police Department, and the IRS, and aided by investigators from numerous retailers. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sean H. Waite and Asset Forfeiture Assistant United States Attorney Krista Bush.
Roslindale Man Arrested for Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Roslindale man has been arrested and charged in connection with an alleged fentanyl distribution conspiracy, following a series of controlled purchases in Brookline and Boston.
Shaquylle Burden, 31, was charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute fentanyl. Burden was arrested on Dec. 11, 2025 and remains in federal custody. A co-defendant, Kerry Charlotin, a/k/a “KG,” 36, of Rockland, was also arrested in South Carolina and remains in federal custody. He will appear in federal court in Boston at a later date. Charlotin is currently on federal supervised release for a 2020 conviction for being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition.
According to the charging documents, the defendants trafficked fentanyl in and around the greater Boston area since at least June 2025. It is alleged that, on separate dates in October and December of 2025, Burden and Charlotin sold or arranged the sale of fentanyl during repeated controlled purchases. One firearm was also allegedly located at Burden’s residence at the time of his arrest.
The charges of conspiracy to distribute controlled substances and possession of controlled substances with intent to distribute provide for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, at least three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $1 million. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Ted E. Docks, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Boston; and Boston Police Commissioner Michael Cox made the announcement. Valuable assistance was provided by the FBI’s Columbia Field Office in South Carolina. Assistant U.S. Attorney John T. Dawley of the Organized Crime & Gang Unit 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 and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces and Project Safe Neighborhood.
The details contained in the charging document are allegations. The defendants are presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in the court of law.
Romanian National Sentenced to Nine Months in Federal Prison for Installing Skimmers throughout Southern District of MississippiRead the Press Release
Jackson, MS – Antonio Rafaila, 19, was sentenced today to nine months in federal prison for illegal possession, production, or trafficking in device-making equipment, also known as skimmers. His codefendant, Giovanni Iortoman, 19, was sentenced last week to serve one year in prison for the same crime. Both defendants entered the United States illegally.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on the morning of March 31, 2025, employees of a grocery store in Laurel, Mississippi discovered a skimmer attached to a point-of-sale terminal in one of the store’s check-out lanes. A skimmer is capable of reading and recording account information including customer names, account numbers, and personal identification numbers from credit and debit cards. Store employees checked CCTV footage from the store and reported the matter to law enforcement immediately. CCTV footage revealed that two men, later identified as Antonio Rafaila and Giovanni Iortoman, had placed a skimmer device on the point-of-sale machine.
Rafaila and Iortoman used the same tactics at multiple grocery stores in Jones, Rankin, and Madison counties with the intent to steal the personal information of customers for profit. One of the men would purchase items at the grocery store and distract the checkout clerk while the other surreptitiously installed the skimmer. The Mississippi Attorney General’s Office Cyber Fraud Task Force alerted local stores about the two men and their descriptions. The sedan the subjects were seen driving in Laurel was later stopped by Madison County law enforcement almost immediately after the subjects emplaced another skimmer in Madison.
Iortoman presented a Romanian identification card to officers and Rafaila falsely identified himself as Aaron Lipani with a fraudulent Italian passport when questioned. A check of government databases determined that Iortoman and Rafaila were foreign nationals in the country without legal authority. As the defendants entered the United States illegally, they may be subject to deportation upon their release from prison.
A criminal complaint was filed against Rafaila and Iortoman on April 2, 2025. A federal grand jury returned an indictment against them on April 8, 2025.
U.S. Attorney Baxter Kruger of the Southern District of Mississippi, U.S. Secret Service Special Agent in Charge Patrick Davis, and Mississippi Attorney General Lynn Fitch made the announcement.
The United States Secret Service and the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office investigated the case through their partnership in the Cyber Fraud Task Force with assistance from the United States Department of Agriculture Office of Inspector General.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kimberly T. Purdie and C. Brett Grantham are prosecuting the case.
The Cyber Fraud Task Force offered the following tips to keep your bank card data safe:
- Use terminals that offer tap to pay or chip read capabilities. Avoid swiping cards, if possible.
- Look at the terminal prior to inserting or using your card in relation to other terminals in the store. Do they look the same? Overlay skimmers will add to the overall dimensions of a terminal.
Romanian Admits $211,000 Nationwide Sleight-of-Hand FraudRead the Press Release
ST. LOUIS – An illegal immigrant from Romania on Friday admitted targeting stores across the country with a sleight-of-hand fraud that netted about $211,000.
Ica Munteanu, 34, pleaded guilty to one count of illegal reentry and one count of wire fraud.
Munteanu admitted unlawfully entering the U.S. around September of 2016. She was deported back to Romania on Sept. 11, 2017, and re-entered unlawfully around March of 2019. Munteanu was found in Florida on June 24, 2025, and originally charged in the Middle District of Florida with that crime.
Munteanu also admitted stealing a total of $211,000 from two national retailers in at least 20 states during at least 70 different transactions. Munteanu would bring merchandise or gift cards to cashiers and then count money into piles that added up to at least the full amount of the transaction. She would then take the cash back, gather it into a pile and slip some bills from the bottom of the stack into her pocket before handing the cash back to the cashier. Munteanu would then go to a different store and return the merchandise. In one example described in her plea agreement, Munteanu shortchanged a store in Rolla out of $2,800, and then returned the merchandise at three different stores in Illinois for a refund.
Munteanu is scheduled to be sentenced on April 23, 2026. The wire fraud charge is punishable by up to 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, or both prison and a fine. The illegal reentry charge is punishable by up to two years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Justin Ladendorf prosecuted the case.
Repeat Offender Sentenced to 150 Months in Prison for Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
Yakima, Washington – Chief United States District Judge Stanley A. Bastian sentenced David Allen Vickers, age 53, of Yakima, Washington, to 150 months in federal prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm. Vickers will also be on federal supervised release for three years after serving his custodial sentence.
The following information was made public during the legal proceedings. Between 1991 and 2020, Vickers was convicted of multiple criminal offenses, including Driving under the Influence, Residential Burglary, Third Degree Assault, Fourth Degree Assault, Conspiracy to Deliver Marijuana, Delivery of a Controlled Substance, Obstruction, Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Deliver, Felon in Possession of a Firearm, and Forgery.
In 2020, Vickers was charged in State court with Residential Burglary, Theft of a Motor Vehicle, Attempting to Elude a Police Vehicle, and Third Degree Assault. On May 17, 2023, he was permitted to resolve the charges by entering into a Drug Offender Sentencing Alternative (SOSA) program.
On June 21, 2023, while serving a term of State community custody supervision for the above, Vickers was found sleeping behind the wheel of a vehicle on the roadway. Officers with the Yakima Police Department approached the vehicle and woke him. One of the officers believed he was intoxicated. An officer asked Vickers to step out of the vehicle for a field sobriety test. As he exited the vehicle, an officer saw what he believed to be Vickers tossing a gun into the backseat. Officers obtained a search warrant for the vehicle and found a loaded firearm in the rear of the vehicle. Officers also found several pills in Vickers’ pocket. Officers ran a check and learned that he had a lengthy criminal history and was the subject of an arrest warrant for violating conditions of his SOSA program.
On September 12, 2023, a federal Grand Jury returned an indictment that charged Vickers with being a Felon in Possession of a Firearm. On July 29, 2025, he pled guilty to the Indictment. On the same day, he was released over the government’s objection. Within three weeks, he cut off his GPS monitoring device and fled. In early August 2025, the United States Marshals Service arrested him in the Western District of Washington.
First Assistant United States Attorney Pete Serrano drew a stark difference between the rights of law-abiding citizens and convicted felons to possess firearms: “It is well established that law-abiding American citizens have a Constitutional right to keep and bear arms. Law-abiding citizens who own firearms are often fierce advocates for gun safety and routinely support restricting dangerous felons from possessing firearms. Mr. Vickers is not such a person. He possessed illegal drugs and has more than 30 prior misdemeanor and/or felony convictions. His conduct makes him a danger to the community and has justifiably resulted in him being prohibited from lawfully possessing firearms. The United States Attorney’s Office is dedicated to defending all citizens’ rights under our Constitution, and to seeking appropriate accountability for individuals who pose a danger to the community.”
“Mr. Vickers’ criminal history is staggering, and his habitual disregard for the law shows he has not learned from his prior sentences. By holding offenders like Mr. Vickers accountable, ATF, our law enforcement partners, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office are helping protect our communities and reinforcing that those who illegally possess firearms and endanger public safety will be held accountable.”
This case is being investigated by the United States Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (“ATF”), the Yakima Police Department (“YPD”), the Washington State Department of Corrections (“DOC”), and the United States Marshals Service. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Tom Hanlon.
Registered Sex Offender from Honduras Sentenced for Illegal Reentry into the United StatesRead the Press Release
Kevin Noel Ochoa Venegas (a/k/a Kevin Noel Ochoa-Venegas, a/k/a Kevin Noel Banegas Banegas, a/k/a Kevin Noel Banegas, a/k/a Kevin Banegas, a/k/a Kevin Noel Banega), 32, of Honduras, was sentenced to federal prison after previously pleading guilty to illegal reentry of a removed alien. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “This criminal illegal alien thought he could continue to violate our nation’s immigration laws with impunity, but Operation Take Back America was launched upon the promise by President Donald J. Trump and Attorney General Pam Bondi that we would devote our legal resources to fully enforcing federal law against such criminals. This successful prosecution delivers on that promise, and we will ensure this criminal illegal alien is deported yet again, and with our border secure he will not be able to return.”
According to court documents, on April 11, 2025, the defendant was arrested in Bay County, Florida, for driving without a valid license. Law enforcement determined that the defendant was a citizen of Honduras who was illegally present in the United States. An investigation revealed that the defendant was previously removed from the United States in 2016, and again in 2021 after he was convicted in Bay County, Florida, for a sex crime that resulted in him being designated a sex offender. The defendant did not apply for or receive permission to reenter the United States since his last removal from the United States in 2021.
An ICE detainer has been lodged against the defendant, and he will begin deportation proceedings.
The case involved a joint investigation by the Bay County Sheriff’s Office and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations. The case was being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Justin M. Keen.
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 http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
Puerto Rico Department of Labor Employee and Seven Others Indicted in Public Corruption Unemployment Insurance Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
SAN JUAN, P.R. – On December 17, 2025, a Federal Grand Jury in the District of Puerto Rico returned an indictment charging eight women with engaging in fraud scheme to obtain unemployment compensation from the Puerto Rico Department of Labor (PRDOL) totaling $619,923 and to make kickback payments to a public official, announced W. Stephen Muldrow, United States Attorney for the District of Puerto Rico. The United States Department of Labor Office of Inspector General (USDOL-OIG) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) are in charge of the investigation with the assistance of the Puerto Rico Police, the United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), the Department of Homeland Security Office of Inspector General (DHS-OIG), and the Puerto Rico Department of Treasury (Hacienda). The Puerto Rico Department of Labor initiated the referral to federal authorities.
According to the indictment, the defendants conspired to submit false information in order to fraudulently obtain unemployment compensation from the PRDOL. This was done by using false personal identifying information, using identifying information of other individuals, and providing false information related to past employment history. Defendant Luz Garay-Osorio, using her position as an employee of PRDOL, made changes in the PRDOL system to make family members eligible to receive unemployment benefits, Pandemic Unemployment Assistance, and Disaster Unemployment Assistance. Garay-Osorio also used her position as a PRDOL interviewer to file fraudulent claims, create false work history, change historical changes, and make monetary and non-monetary determinations. In addition, Garay-Osorio submitted fraudulent claims using other individuals’ identities and caused benefits to be paid to co-conspirators, including family members.
The defendants fraudulently obtained approximately $619,923 in benefits and Garay-Osorio received approximately $142,507 in kickback payments as follows.
[1] Luz Garay-Osorio directly received approximately $13,308 in fraudulent benefits.
[2] Glenda Garay-Osorio received approximately $107,291 in fraudulent benefits and transferred approximately $17,857.00 to the bank account of Luz Garay-Osorio.
[3] Tatiana Skerrett-Garay received approximately $46,834 in fraudulent benefits and transferred approximately $20,597.98 to the bank account of Luz Garay-Osorio.
[4] Ariana Skerrett-Garay received approximately $45,946 in fraudulent benefits and transferred the entire amount to the bank account of Luz Garay-Osorio.
[5] Dayanara Aquino-Garay received approximately $73,950 in fraudulent benefits and transferred approximately $10,575.00 to the bank account of Luz Garay-Osorio.
[6] Nashaly Vega-Garay received approximately $102,670 in fraudulent benefits and transferred approximately $21,423.00 to the bank account of Luz Garay-Osorio.
[7] Almarys De Jesús-Garay received approximately $13,803 in fraudulent benefits and transferred approximately $1,000.00 to the bank account of Luz Garay-Osorio.
[8] Mariela Cabrera-Vistel received approximately $58,015 in fraudulent benefits and caused the purchase of 18 money orders totaling $17,500 that were deposited in the bank account of Luz Garay-Osorio and an additional approximately $7,609 was transferred to the bank account of Luz Garay-Osorio.
In addition to being charged with conspiracy to steal federal funds and honest services mail fraud, Garay-Osorio is also charged with money laundering and aggravated identity theft. Garay-Osorio was subsequently terminated by the Puerto Rico Department of Labor.
“These defendants engaged in a scheme to defraud the Puerto Rico Department of Labor by using an employee’s position of trust to file numerous fraudulent unemployment insurance claims when they were not entitled to such benefits,” said U.S. Attorney Muldrow. “The United States Department of Justice, along with our state and federal counterparts will continue to hold accountable those who seek to exploit federal benefits for personal gain, to protect vulnerable populations, and to safeguard the integrity of taxpayer-funded programs. We commend the outstanding work and collaboration of our law enforcement partners in the investigation of this case.”
“An important part of the mission of the Office of Inspector General is to investigate allegations of fraud involving the U.S. Department of Labor’s unemployment insurance program. We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to investigate these types of allegations,” stated Jonathan Mellone, Special Agent-in-Charge, Northeast Region, U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General.
“This investigation underscores our commitment to protecting public funds and holding accountable those who abuse positions of trust for personal gain,” said Joe Rodríguez, Acting Special Agent in Charge for the FBI’s San Juan Field Office. “The FBI will continue working closely with our law enforcement partners to identify, investigate, and prosecute fraudulent schemes that undermine critical assistance programs and hurt our communities.”
“The U.S. Postal Inspection Service is committed to working with our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners to investigative and bring to justice those who defraud the American taxpayer and fraudulently use the nation’s mail system,” said Bladismir Rojo, Postal Inspector in Charge, Miami Division.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Scott Anderson is in charge of the prosecution of the case. If convicted, the defendants are facing up to 5 years of imprisonment for theft of government money and conspiracy. Luz Garay-Osorio is also facing up to 20 years of imprisonment for honest services mail fraud and a mandatory two-year sentence in prison for aggravated identity theft. In addition, Luz Garay Osorio and Mariela Cabrera Vistel are facing up to 20 years in prison for money laundering conspiracy. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Luz Garay-Osorio is the ninth Commonwealth of Puerto Rico employee to be charged or plead guilty to a federal corruption offense since 2024. See United States v. Antonio Silva-Rodriguez (Hacienda employee – CR 23-452(CVR)); United States v. Hector Vazquez-Barroso (Hacienda employee – CR 23-452(CVR)); United States v. Doris Bonilla-Valle (Hacienda employee – CR 23-452(CVR)); United States v. Nancy Baez-Flores (CESCO employee – CR 24-238(PAD)); United States v. Joselyn Figueroa-Rosario (CESCO employee – CR 24-238(PAD)); United States v. Javier Relta-Lebron (Hacienda employee – CR 25-434(PAD)); United States v. Harry Muriel-Falero (Hacienda employee – CR 25-434(PAD)); United States v. Elsa Santiago-Colon (Hacienda employee – CR 25-492(SCC)).
To report a COVID-19-related fraud scheme or suspicious activity, contact the National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) by calling the NCDF Hotline at 1-866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form
To report a bribery/kickback scheme or suspicious public corruption activity, contact the FBI by calling the San Juan Field Office at (787)987-6500 or online via www.tips.fbi.gov
Indictments contain only charges and are not evidence of guilt. The defendants are presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty.
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Previously Deported Jamaican Drug Trafficker Pleads Guilty in D.C. to Firearms Counts, Illegal Re-entryRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Damion Alexander Peddie, a Jamaican citizen who previously was convicted of multiple drug trafficking offenses and has been removed from the United States on at least four prior occasions, pleaded guilty this morning in U.S. District Court in connection with possessing a cache of weapons and narcotics and for illegally re-entering the country, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro.
Peddie, 54, pleaded guilty before Judge Timothy J. Kelly to a three-count information charging him with unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon, to alien in possession of a firearm, and to unlawful re-entry of a previously removed alien. Judge Kelly scheduled sentencing for March 20, 2026.
Peddie faces a statutory maximum of 15 years imprisonment for each of his firearms offenses, and a statutory maximum of 20 years imprisonment for his unlawful re-entry offense.
“This guy is the worst of the worst,” said U.S. Attorney Pirro. “He’s a repeat offender, a convicted cocaine trafficker, an illegal alien after being deported four times, who had an arsenal of firearms and possessed fentanyl and crack cocaine in distribution quantities at his house in Northwest Washington. I’m going to make certain that this time he’s going to be sent away for a long, long time.”
Joining U.S. Attorney Pirro in the announcement was FBI Assistant Director in Charge Darren B. Cox of the Washington Field Office and DEA Special Agent in Charge Christopher C. Goumenis of the Drug Enforcement Administration Washington Division.
According to court documents, in the Summer of 2024, FBI agents initiated a long-term investigation of a drug trafficking conspiracy centered around the 2900 block of Knox Place, SE. Law enforcement had identified an alleged fentanyl and PCP trafficker with a stash house in the 2900 block of Knox Place. Over the course of their investigation into the trafficker’s narcotics suppliers, investigating agents determined that Peddie was conspiring with members of the drug trafficking operation (DTO) in the redistribution of fentanyl, amongst other narcotics.
On August 26, 2025, FBI agents executed a search warrant at a home on the 400 block of Taylor Street NW as part of a coordinated arrest and search warrant operation in connection with the Knox Place DTO investigation. After entering the building, the agents encountered Peddie walking down the stairs from the second floor.
In Peddie’s bedroom, agents found a “ghost gun,” that is, a privately manufactured black 9mm Polymer 80 pistol (PMF) with no serial number, and a .22 caliber handgun. Agents also recovered approximately seven pounds of marijuana, along with distribution quantities of fentanyl and crack cocaine, all of which Peddie possessed with the intent to distribute.
In the first floor of the home, agents found an H&R 32 S&W revolver, an AR-style ghost-gun, six ammunition magazines, various rounds of ammunition, and a High Point 9mm carbine rifle.
This criminal case is Peddie’s fifth conviction in United States District Court for unlawful re-entry of a previously removed alien. Peddie has been convicted of the same offense on four prior occasions: in the District of Maryland in January 1996, as well as the District of Columbia in May 2004, October 2010, and October 2013.
This case was investigated by the FBI Washington Field Office, with assistance from the DEA Washington and Greenbelt Divisions and the Metropolitan Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Matthew W. Kinskey, John Parron, and John Crabb of the Violence Reduction and Narcotics Trafficking Section of the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
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Pelican man indicted for advertising, distributing child pornographyRead the Press Release
JUNEAU, Alaska – A federal grand jury in Alaska returned an indictment this week charging a Pelican man with advertising and distributing child sexual abuse material (CSAM). This case is one of three cases charged in Alaska through Operation Relentless Justice, a coordinated enforcement effort to identify, track and arrest child sex predators.
According to court documents, between July 5 and 20, 2024, Adam Pool, 39, knowingly made a notice and advertisement seeking and offering to exchange CSAM and knowingly distributed CSAM via the internet.
Pool is charged with one count of advertising child pornography and one count of distribution of child pornography. The defendant is scheduled to make his initial court appearance on a later date before a U.S. Magistrate Judge of the U.S. District Court for the District of Alaska. If convicted of both counts, he faces between 15 and 50 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
U.S. Attorney Michael J. Heyman for the District of Alaska and Acting Special Agent in Charge Brandon Waddle of the FBI Anchorage Field Office made the announcement as part of Operation Relentless Justice. The nationwide crackdown resulted in over 205 child victims being located and the arrests of over 293 child sexual abuse offenders. The coordinated effort was executed over the course of two weeks by all 56 FBI field offices, the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS) in the Department’s Criminal Division, and U.S. Attorneys’ offices around the country.
The FBI Anchorage Field Office, Juneau Resident Agency is investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Bill Reed and Trial Attorney Rachel L. Rothberg of the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS) are prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
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Pensacola Man Indicted on Charges of Drug Adulteration, Mail Fraud and Wire FraudRead the Press Release
PENSACOLA FLORIDA – Scott Robinson, 51, of Pensacola, Florida, was indicted by a federal grand jury and charged with two counts of drug adulteration, two counts of mail fraud, and two counts of wire fraud. John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida, announced the charges today.
Robinson appeared before United States Magistrate Judge Hope T. Cannon for his arraignment in federal court in Pensacola, Florida. Trial is set for January 20, 2026, before United States District Judge T. Kent Wetherell, II.
If convicted, Robinson faces up to twenty years’ imprisonment on each count.
The case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration Office of Criminal Investigations. Assistant United States Attorney Christopher C. Patterson is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation by a grand jury that a defendant has committed a violation of federal criminal law and is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial, during which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access available public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
Oshkosh Sex Offender Indicted on Federal Child Sex OffensesRead the Press Release
Brad D. Schimel, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on December 16, 2025, a federal grand jury issued a four-count indictment alleging that on two different dates in September of 2025, Dustin K. Gildemeister (Age: 39) of Oshkosh, Wisconsin, distributed obscene visual depictions of the sexual abuse of children in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1466A. The indictment also alleges that he did so as an individual required to register as a sexual offender in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2260A.
If convicted of one of the distribution of obscene depictions charges, the defendant faces a mandatory minimum 15-year and a maximum of 40 years’ imprisonment. Should the jury find he committed one of those charges while required to register as a sexual offender, the defendant faces an additional mandatory 10 year-sentence that must be imposed consecutive to any other sentence. The defendant may also be required to pay a fine of up to $250,000 and faces a mandatory term of 5 years on supervised release and a maximum term of life on supervised release.
The defendant is alleged to be on the Wisconsin Sex Offender Registry based upon his convictions in 2015 in the Winnebago County Circuit Court for child exploitation and possession of child pornography.
This case was investigated by the Winnebago County Sheriff’s Office with the assistance of the Wisconsin Department of Corrections, Division of Community Corrections. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Daniel R. Humble.
An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. The defendant is presumed innocent and is entitled to a fair trial at which the government must prove his guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
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 U.S. Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
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For further information contact:Public Affairs Officer Steve Caballero
(414) 297-1700
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Orleans Parish Man Sentenced for Wire FraudRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – JASON PICK (“PICK), age 44, a resident of New Orleans, was sentenced on December 17, 2025 by United States District Judge Jane Triche Milazzo to 37 months in prison to be followed by 5 years of supervised release. The defendant was also ordered to pay $64,137 to his victim.
According to court documents, from June 2020 through October 25, 2021, PICK worked as an accounting clerk for a company that manages residential and commercial real estate in the New Orleans area. During his employment, PICK stole approximately $64,137 from the company by altering the face of money orders intended to be rent payments from tenants and deposited the altered money orders into his own bank account. While awaiting sentencing for a scheme to defraud his previous employer, PICK submitted a fraudulent letter from the company to a federal judge, requesting that his prison report date be delayed because it was a busy period for the company. In truth and in fact, the letter was forged by PICK, and the owner of the company was unaware of the letter, or PICK’s crimes. The Court granted the defendant’s request, and PICK used this delay to further conceal his crimes. Before reporting to serve his prison sentence, PICK lied to the company about his upcoming absence by stating that he needed to undergo immediate emergency kidney surgery. He advised the company he would be able to complete his duties on a remote basis during this time. On his way to prison, PICK remotely accessed the company’s computer system and fraudulently edited the accounting books to conceal the money he had stolen.
Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson praised the work of the United States Secret Service in investigating the matter. Assistant United States Attorney G. Dall Kammer, Chief of the General Crimes Unit, was in charge of the prosecution.
Ohio Resident Sentenced to 15 Years in Prison for Drug Trafficking and Unlawfully Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Cleveland, Ohio, was sentenced in federal court to 180 months in prison, to be followed by eight years of supervised release, on his convictions of conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, cocaine, and crack, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, First Assistant United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
United States District Judge Marilyn J. Horan imposed the sentence on Kareem Middlebrook, 43, on December 18, 2025.
According to information presented to the Court, from in and around December 2021 to in and around March 2023, in the Western District of Pennsylvania, Middlebrook conspired with others to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture of cocaine, a quantity of a mixture of fentanyl, and a quantity of a mixture of crack. Additionally, in and around May 2022, Middlebrook possessed with the intent to distribute a quantity of fentanyl. Middlebrook was intercepted on a federal wiretap obtaining quantities of the drugs that he distributed to others. Further, in and around May 2022, Middlebrook—who had been previously convicted of a felony—unlawfully possessed a firearm. Federal law prohibits possession of a firearm or ammunition by a convicted felon.
Assistant United States Attorney Arnold P. Bernard Jr. prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
First Assistant United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Laurel Highlands Resident Agency and Homeland Security Investigations for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Middlebrook. Additional agencies participating in the investigation included the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, United States Postal Inspection Service, Indiana Borough Police Department, and other local law enforcement agencies.
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. The HSTF for the Western District of Pennsylvania comprises agents and officers from the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Homeland Security Investigations, with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Pennsylvania.
Ocala Man Indicted for Producing Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces the return of an indictment charging Justin Charles Brown (45, Ocala) with producing child sex abuse material (CSAM) and possessing CSAM. If convicted on all counts, Brown faces a mandatory minimum penalty of 15 years, up to 60 years, in federal prison. In addition, he would be required to serve a minimum term of 5 years’ supervised release and register as a sex offender. The indictment also notifies Brown that the United States intends to forfeit a cellular phone, which was used in the offense.
According to a previously issued criminal complaint, Brown came into contact with a child in California on social media around February 2024. Brown sent files of CSAM to the child and asked the child to produce child sex material for Brown. The child disclosed to the FBI that on one occasion she had broadcast herself being sexually abused by a friend of the family to Brown, at his request, via Facetime.
On October 2025, the FBI executed a federal search warrant at Brown’s residence and seized his cellular phone. A review of the phone revealed that it contained CSAM, including a video of the child in California being sexually abused by the family friend in February 2024.
An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Laura Cofer Taylor.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
North Carolina Man Sentenced to 20 Years in Prison for Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Joseph Ashley Dickenson, age 47, of Charlotte, North Carolina, was sentenced on December 18, 2025, to 240 months’ imprisonment by United States District Judge Malachy E. Mannion for drug trafficking and money laundering.
According to United States Attorney Brian D. Miller, between January 2023 and May 5, 2023, Dickenson conspired with multiple individuals to distribute cocaine, methamphetamine and fentanyl. On May 4, 2023, law enforcement seized one kilogram of cocaine sent by Dickenson to a coconspirator in Dickson City, Lackawanna County using a parcel service. On May 5, 2023, investigators seized 4.4 kilograms of methamphetamine sent by Dickenson to the same coconspirator. A search of Dickenson’s business and home, located in Charlotte, North Carolina, resulted in the seizure of 542 grams of fentanyl, and amounts of marijuana and MDMA. Dickenson also illegally possessed seven firearms, two of which were stolen. A review of banking records showed that Dickenson had received at least $49,909 in proceeds from drug distribution.
The case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jenny P. Roberts prosecuted the case.
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Nigerian National Pleads Guilty to Making False Statements to Firearms DealerRead the Press Release
Jackson, MS – A Nigerian national unlawfully present in the United States pleaded guilty on Monday, December 15th in federal court to making false statements while attempting to purchase a firearm.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Laurel Echezonam, 25, entered the country unlawfully via the United States Southern Border in 2022. Immigration officials determined that Echezonam was a Nigerian national in the country without approval.
On June 7, 2024, and June 8, 2024, Echezonam traveled from his residence in Vicksburg, Mississippi to purchase a firearm at different firearms dealers. When Echezonam completed the required firearms purchase form, he made false statements regarding his immigration status to deceive the firearms dealer into selling him the firearms. Echezonam was denied the firearms based on his immigration status and was subsequently apprehended by immigration officials.
Laurel Echezonam is scheduled to be sentenced on March 17, 2026, and faces a maximum penalty of up to ten years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
United States Attorney Baxter Kruger of the Southern District of Mississippi and ATF Special Agent in Charge Joshua Jackson if the United States Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives made the announcement.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives is investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lynn Murray and C. Brett Grantham are prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America (https://www.justice.gov/dag/media/1393746/dl?inline) a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
Nicaraguan National Sentenced for Misuse of Social Security NumberRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LA – Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that, LEONARDO PARAMO-BARBAS (“PARAMO-BARBAS”), age 29, was sentenced on December 4, 2025, by United States District Judge Sarah S. Vance, after previously pleading guilty to misuse of a social security number in order to obtain employment, in violation of Title 42, United States Code, Section 408(a)(7)(B).
PARAMO-BARBAS was sentenced to time served and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.
According to the indictment, PARAMO-BARBAS falsely represented that a Social Security Number was assigned to him for the purpose of obtaining and maintaining employment, knowingly, willfully, and with intent to deceive, on July 20, 2022.
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.
Acting United States Attorney Simpson praised the work of the ICE Enforcement Removal Office, Homeland Security Investigations. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mary Katherine Kaufman of the General Crimes Unit.
New Jersey Business Owner Sentenced to 87 Months for $172 Million Fraud and Money Laundering SchemeRead the Press Release
NEWARK, NJ. – A New Jersey business owner was sentenced to 87 months in prison for conspiring to defraud Medicare of $172 million, commit money laundering, and pay kickbacks and bribes in violation of the Anti-Kickback Statute, Senior Counsel Philip Lamparello announced.
U.S. District Judge Michael E. Farbiarz imposed the sentence on Aaron Neil Williamsky, 65, of Marlboro, New Jersey, in Newark federal court on November 17, 2025. Williamsky was also ordered to pay more than $172 million in restitution.
Williamsky previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit health care fraud, conspiracy to commit wire fraud, conspiracy to commit money laundering, and conspiracy to violate the federal Anti-Kickback Statute.
“As the Defendant admitted in open court, he conspired to steal more than $172 million from the American public by submitting fraudulent doctors’ orders for reimbursement through a web of more than twenty durable medical equipment companies located in New Jersey. The sentence Williamsky received reflects the seriousness of his crimes. Together with our law enforcement partners, this Office will continue to investigate and prosecute people who engage in fraud at the expense of American taxpayers.”
- Senior Counsel Philip Lamparello
“Williamsky’s sentence of more than 7 years reflects the severity of his crime and reemphasizes the FBI’s commitment to holding fraudsters accountable,” said Special Agent in Charge of FBI Newark, Stefanie Roddy.
“This defendant committed an egregious amount of durable medical equipment fraud. Rampant schemes like his jeopardize the availability of federal health care program funds intended to support millions of beneficiaries,” said Special Agent in Charge Naomi D. Gruchacz of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “HHS-OIG is committed to working with our law enforcement partners to bring those to justice that prioritize greed over patient care.”
“This sentencing demonstrates that fraudsters who target VA programs and services will be found and held accountable,” said Special Agent in Charge Christopher F. Algieri with the Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General’s Northeast Field Office. “The VA OIG will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to halt schemes that divert funds from our nation’s deserving veterans.”
According to documents in this case and statements made in court:
From 2015 to 2019, Williamsky led and organized a fraud scheme in which he opened or purchased durable medical equipment (“DME”) supply companies, submitted fraudulent claims to Medicare on behalf of those companies, closed the companies one-by-one to avoid Medicare audits and recoupment, and then opened or purchased new DME companies. He concealed his ownership interest in this web of more than twenty DME companies by employing others to serve as “nominee,” or straw owners.
To generate fraudulent orders, Williamsky and his co-conspirators hired marketing companies to make unsolicited calls offering elderly patients free orthotic braces. In exchange for each patient who agreed to accept DME, Williamsky paid a kickback to the marketing companies in violation of the federal Anti-Kickback Statute. To conduct the scheme, Williamsky used sham contracts and invoices that falsely characterized kickbacks he paid as “business process outsourcing” and “marketing expenses.” To evade detection and avoid taxes, Williamsky transferred a portion of the fraud proceeds to overseas bank accounts, where the funds were laundered through shell corporations and foreign real estate holdings.
Senior Counsel Lamparello credited special agents and specialists of the FBI, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Stefanie Roddy in Newark; the Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Naomi Gruchacz; and the Department of Defense, Defense Criminal Investigative Service, under the direction of Christopher Silvestro; and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Christopher F. Algieri with the investigation leading to the charge.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Garrett J. Schuman of the Health Care Fraud and Opioid Enforcement Unit.
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Defense Counsel for Aaron Williamsky: Jeffrey M. Kolansky, Philadelphia, PA
New Hampshire Man Pleads Guilty to Unlawful Delivery of a FirearmRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A New Hampshire man pleaded guilty yesterday in federal court in Boston to unlawfully purchasing a semi-automatic pistol for an unlicensed individual. The unlicensed individual was later seen in online videos firing the pistol near a public school and was arrested in connection with a large-scale car theft enterprise.
Isaiah Johnson, 24, of Merrimack, N.H., pleaded guilty to one count of firearm trafficking by unlawful delivery. U.S. District Court Judge Allison D. Burroughs scheduled sentencing for March 11, 2026. Johnson was arrested and charged in June 2025.
In February 2024, Johnson purchased a tan-colored 9-millimeter Glock 19X semi-automatic pistol from a gun store in New Hampshire, for a co-conspirator who was ineligible for a gun license. Johnson ultimately delivered the firearm to the co-conspirator approximately one week later.
In December 2024, the co-conspirator was arrested at his Brockton residence on state charges in connection with an investigation into a high-end car theft enterprise responsible for approximately 63 stolen vehicles worth more than $2.6 million. The firearm Johnson had purchased, as well as two large-capacity magazines, were located during a search of the Brockton residence. Videos posted online show the co-conspirator firing the same firearm while it was equipped with a “selector switch,” rendering it a fully automatic weapon. The video was filmed nearby a public school in Brockton where approximately 43 9-millimeter shell casings and 10 .40 caliber shell casings were later located.
The co-conspirator was later charged in Brockton Superior Court with firearm and other charges in connection with the car theft investigation.
The charge of firearm trafficking by unlawful delivery provides for a sentence of up to five years in prison, up to three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Thomas Greco, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives, Boston Field Division made the announcement. Valuable assistance was provided by the Massachusetts Attorney General’s Office; Homeland Security Investigations; U.S. Postal Inspection Service; and the Brockton (Mass.), Merrimack (N.H.) and Manchester (N.H.) Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorney David Cutshall of the Organized Crime & Gang Unit is prosecuting the case.
Milwaukee Man Sentenced to 13 Years in Prison for Trafficking Drugs in OshkoshRead the Press Release
Brad D. Schimel, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on December 15, 2025, United States District Judge Byron B. Conway sentenced Aquanis M. Williams (a/k/a “Pirate”) to 156 months’ imprisonment for distributing controlled substances in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, and possessing firearms as a convicted felon.
According to court records, from January through May of 2025, Williams distributed methamphetamine, fentanyl, and cocaine in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. On May 29, 2025, agents searched Williams’ residence and seized three firearms, hundreds of rounds of ammunition, approximately $4,500 cash, over 700 grams of methamphetamine, over 100 grams of cocaine, and 27 grams of fentanyl. Williams admitted to possessing the firearms and controlled substances and stated that he planned to purchase one kilogram of fentanyl later that day.
Williams has a significant prior criminal record, including three prior convictions for possessing a firearm as a convicted felon and a prior conviction for pointing a firearm at a law enforcement officer.
This case was investigated by the Oshkosh Police Department – Vice and Narcotics Unit, with assistance from the Lake Winnebago Area Metropolitan Enforcement Group – Drug Unit (LWAM), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Milwaukee Police Department, and North Central High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA). It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Alex Duros.
# # #For further information contact:
Public Affairs Officer Steve Caballero
(414) 297-1700
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Middleton Police Officer Indicted on Federal Child Sex OffenseRead the Press Release
Brad D. Schimel, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on December 16, 2025, a federal grand jury issued an indictment alleging that between approximately November 5, 2025, and November 9, 2025, Myles S. Schumaker (Age: 26) of Sun Prairie, Wisconsin, coerced or enticed a minor for unlawful sexual activity in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2422(b).
At the time of his arrest, the defendant was employed as a patrol officer with the Middleton Police Department. If convicted of the charge alleged, the defendant faces a mandatory minimum 10-year sentence and up to a lifetime in federal prison. Additionally, he may be required to pay a fine of up to $250,000 and will face a mandatory 5-year term of supervised release and up to a lifetime term of supervised release.
This case was investigated by the Winnebago County Sheriff’s Office. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Daniel R. Humble.An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. The defendant is presumed innocent and is entitled to a fair trial at which the government must prove his guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
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 U.S. Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
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For further information contact:Public Affairs Officer Steve Caballero
(414) 297-1700
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Mexican national extradited from Mexico to the United States sentenced for drug and money laundering conspiracyRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Gilberto Alarcon-Holguin a/k/a Beto, 57, a Mexican national, who was convicted of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, five kilograms or more of cocaine, and conspiracy to commit money laundering, was sentenced to serve 168 months in prison by U.S. District Judge John L. Sinatra, Jr.
According to court documents, on October 14, 2017, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) seized 10 kilograms of cocaine from an identified co-conspirator. HSI obtained a phone number as a point of contact for the delivery of the cocaine, which was linked to co-conspirators of Alarcon-Holguin. On October 19, 2017, HSI conducted a controlled delivery of 10 bricks of “sham” cocaine, which had been wrapped in the same manner as the seized kilograms of cocaine, to a motel parking lot in Corfu, NY. The bag was given to co-conspirator Eduardo Valdez, who was on the phone with Alarcon-Holguin during the delivery. Following the controlled delivery, the New York State Police conducted a traffic stop of the vehicle Valdez was riding in. HSI seized $259,960 in cash as a result of the controlled delivery.
Subsequent investigation determined that Alarcon-Holguin had multiple communications with another co-conspirator, Edgar Pavia. Alarcon-Holguin provided instructions to Pavia about shipments of cocaine, packaging of money, and more, all of which was passed along to drug distributors supplied by Alarcon-Holguin in cities including Buffalo, and Louisville, KY. Alarcon-Holguin also passed information to Pavia that was separately conveyed to other co-conspirators, including those involved in the transportation of drugs. For example, on June 21, 2018, co-conspirator Adrian Goudelock received 40 kilograms of cocaine in Buffalo. Over the course of the conspiracy, Goudelock received multiple shipments of 10 kilograms of cocaine or more brokered by Pavia and supplied by Alarcon-Holguin. Alarcon-Holguin also provided instructions to Pavia on how Goudelock should wrap and mark money being sent back to Mexico. Specifically, Alarcon-Holguin told Pavia that Goudelock should wrap the money into 52 packages of $10,000 each.
Other deliveries organized by Alarcon-Holguin during the investigation included: 17 kilograms of cocaine seized from a co-conspirator in West Seneca, NY, and shipments of 10, 15, 20, and 40 kilograms of cocaine to a co-conspirator in Kentucky. In addition, approximately $1,144,735 in cash was seized from a commercial truck driver in Chicago, Illinois. During the course of the investigation, investigators seized approximately $2,600,000.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Erin Keegan; the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Philip Tejera; the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Amie Feroleto; the Erie County Sheriff’s Department, under the direction of Sheriff John Garcia; and Customs and Border Protection Air and Marine Operations, under the direction of Director Christopher Romosz. Additional assistance was provided by the New York National Guard and Homeland Security Investigations, El Paso, Texas. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs worked with law enforcement partners in Mexico to secure the arrest and extradition of Alarcon-Holguin.
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Mexican National from New Jersey Charged with Transporting Illegal Aliens from Canadian BorderRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont announced that on December 18, 2025, a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Carlos Nonoal-Cano, 26, a Mexican national from Lakewood, New Jersey, with transportation of illegal aliens on December 16, 2025. In related cases, the U.S. Attorney’s Office charged two of Nonoal-Cano’s passengers, Christopher Gonzales-Castillo (48, Mexico) and Aracely Ramos-Quina (27, Spain), with illegal entry into the United States.
On December 18, 2025, Nonoal-Cano pled not guilty to the charge during an arraignment before United States Magistrate Judge Kevin J. Doyle. Judge Doyle detained Nonoal-Cano in a hearing on December 19, 2025. Also on December 18, 2025, Gonzales-Castillo appeared before Judge Doyle and was detained. Ramos-Quina appeared in court on December 18, 2025, pled guilty and was detained as a material witness.
According to court records, on December 16, 2025, agents from U.S. Border Patrol received a notification of border crossing on the Vermont-Canada border and received an image of individuals crossing the snow-covered border on foot taken that evening. When Border Patrol agents conducted a search of the remote area near the Canadian border, they observed a black Honda Pilot with New Jersey license plates as it stopped in a wooded, unpopulated area and turned around. When they stopped the vehicle, Border Patrol agents found that Nonoal-Cano – the driver – was transporting two unrelated adults and two unaccompanied, and unrelated, juveniles with snow on their boots.
Border patrol agents determined that Nonoal-Cano’s passengers did not have lawful status in the United States and were likely being smuggled for profit. In an interview with U.S. Border Patrol, Ramos-Quina, a Spanish national with dual citizenship in Ecuador, admitted to being present in the United States without lawful status. Ramos-Quina admitted to having agreed to pay $3,500 to a smuggler she found through social media.
The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that an indictment and complaint contain allegations only and that Nonoal-Cano and Gonzales-Castillo are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. Nonoal-Cano faces up to 10 years in prison if convicted. Gonzales-Castillo faces up to 6 months in prison if convicted. The actual sentence, however, would be determined by the District Court with guidance from the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines and the statutory sentencing factors.
First Assistant United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher commended the investigatory efforts of U.S. Border Patrol.
The prosecutor is Assistant United States Attorney Dana E. Hill. Nonoal-Cano is represented by the Office of the Federal Public Defender. Gonzales-Castillo is represented by Michael J. Straub, Esq.
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.
Mexican National Sentenced for Illegally Reentering the United States After Being Convicted of Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Mexican National illegally residing in Lee’s Summit, Mo., was sentenced in federal court yesterday for Illegal Re-entry by an Alien Previously Convicted of an Aggravated Felony.
Severo De La Torre-Sanchez, 61, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Brian Wimes to three years and six months in federal prison without parole followed by three years of supervised release.
On Aug. 7, 2024, De La Torre-Sanchez was found at a Lee’s Summit restaurant when officers were attempting to serve him with an ex-parte order of protection. Department of Homeland Security Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents identified De La Torre-Sanchez was illegally in the United States after having been removed on two prior occasions in 2020 and 2022. He was removed in 2020 after serving a 17 year federal sentence for drug trafficking in the Southern District of Georgia.
De La Torre-Sanchez was also previously convicted for Attempted Re-entry of a Removed Alien in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of California in 2022.
This case is being prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Amanda K. Hanson. It was investigated by Department of Homeland Security Customs and Immigration Enforcement.
Operation Take Back America
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
Members of Dangerous Human Smuggling Organization Extradited from ColombiaRead the Press Release
Two Colombian nationals made their initial appearance in court in El Paso, Texas yesterday after being extradited from Colombia to face charges relating to their roles in a dangerous human smuggling conspiracy that left 40 aliens and two boat captains missing.
In October 2024, a federal grand jury in the Western District of Texas returned an indictment against Hernando Manuel De La Cruz Rivera Orjuela, also known as Hernan, also known as Manuel, also known as El Patron, 53, and Luis Enrique Linero Pinto, aka El Calvo, 41, of Colombia for conspiring to encourage and induce aliens to come to, enter, and reside in the United States placing lives in jeopardy and in violation of immigration laws of the United States.
“These defendants are alleged to have operated a sophisticated human smuggling operation that resulted in the disappearance of 42 people at sea,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Human smuggling is a dangerous, predatory enterprise that exploits vulnerable migrants for profit. The Criminal Division will continue to aggressively dismantle these criminal networks that profit from human suffering and threaten the security of our border.”
“There is no limit as to the lengths we will go to bring to justice those who would smuggle humans into the United States,” said U.S. Attorney Justin R. Simmons for the Western District of Texas. “Taking down human smuggling operations, like this one, deals a direct blow to the transnational criminal organizations that receive millions of dollars from these operations. Therefore, prosecuting these kinds of cases is key to accomplishing of our mission to eradicate Mexican drug cartels and other transnational criminal organizations that use this country as a direct and indirect means to enrich themselves. Thank you to all of our law enforcement partners and members of Joint Task Force Alpha who stand shoulder to shoulder with us in this worthwhile effort.”
Rivera Orjuela and Linero Pinto were arrested in Colombia in December 2024 at the request of the United States. Their extraditions followed extensive coordination and cooperation between U.S. and Colombian law enforcement authorities.
According to the indictment, the defendants participated in a conspiracy where they were directly and personally responsible for unlawfully smuggling aliens, transporting them from other locations to San Andres Island, Colombia, and from there to Nicaragua via boats, north through Central America and Mexico, before reaching their final destination in the United States. Allegedly, Rivera Orjuela and Linero Pinto advised the migrants how to get to San Andres Island, personally received them once they arrived on the island, arranged for their accommodation, and brought them to the boats that transported them to Nicaragua so they could enter the United States illegally. Linero Pinto is alleged to have bribed uniformed service members of the Colombian Navy to acquire real-time intelligence about the position of Navy patrol vessels located between San Andres Island and Nicaragua, enabling the boats carrying migrants to avoid detection. On Oct. 21, 2023, a boat carrying approximately 40 aliens and two boat captains disappeared on its way to Nicaragua after leaving San Andreas Island. The defendants were allegedly responsible for smuggling the aliens on that boat who were en route to the United States.
HSI led the investigation, with assistance from their McAllen, El Paso, and Cartagena Field Offices. HSI’s Human Smuggling Unit in Washington, D.C., U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)’s National Targeting Center International Interdiction Task Force, and the Justice Department’s Office of Overseas Prosecutorial Development, Assistance and Training (OPDAT); Office of International Affairs; and the Justice Department’s Judicial Attaché Office in Bogotá provided valuable assistance. The Justice Department thanks Colombian law enforcement officials, who were instrumental in furthering this investigation.
The investigation and indictment were coordinated and prosecuted by Joint Task Force Alpha (JTFA), the Department’s lead effort in combating high-impact human smuggling and trafficking committed by cartels and Transnational Criminal Organizations (TCOs). A highly successful partnership between the Department of Justice and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), JTFA investigates and prosecutes human smuggling and trafficking and related immigration crimes that impact public safety and border security. JTFA’s mission is to target the leaders and organizers of Cartels and TCOs involved in human smuggling and trafficking throughout the Americas. The Attorney General has elevated and expanded JTFA to target the most prolific and dangerous human smuggling and trafficking groups operating not only in Mexico and the Northern Triangle countries of Guatemala, El Salvador, and Honduras, but also in Canada, the Caribbean and the maritime border, and elsewhere.
Led by the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section and supported by the Money Laundering, Narcotics and Forfeiture Section, the Office of International Affairs, and the Office of Enforcement Operations, among others, JTFA has dedicated Assistant U.S. Attorney-detailees from the Southern District of California; District of Arizona; District of New Mexico; Western and Southern Districts of Texas; Southern District of Florida; Northern District of New York; and District of Vermont. JTFA also partners with other USAOs throughout the country and supports high-priority cases in any district. All JTFA cases rely on substantial law enforcement resources from DHS, including ICE/ HSI and CBP/BP and OFO, as well as FBI and other law enforcement agencies. To date, JTFA’s work has resulted in more than 425 domestic and international arrests of leaders, organizers, and significant facilitators of alien smuggling and/or trafficking; more than 375 U.S. convictions; more than 325 significant jail sentences imposed, and forfeitures of substantial assets. The extraditions of Rivera Orjuela and Linero Pinto are the first extraditions from Colombia resulting from JTFA’s work since the taskforce’s mission expanded to target human smuggling and trafficking groups operating in Colombia.
Trial Attorneys Danielle Hickman of the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section and Daria Andryushchenko of the Money Laundering, Narcotics and Forfeiture Section, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Jose Luis Acosta for the Western District of Texas are prosecuting the case. The Criminal Division’s Office of International Affairs Acting Associate Director Jesse Ormsby and the Justice Department’s Judicial Attaché in Bogotá, Kristopher Jarvis, provided significant assistance with the extradition.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Member of the Lynn Chapter of the Trinitarios Pleads Guilty to Racketeering ConspiracyRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A member of the Lynn Chapter of the Trinitarios has pleaded guilty to racketeering charges, including his participation in two murders and two other attempted murders.
Michael Miliano, a/k/a “Trucho,” 23, pleaded guilty on Dec. 15, 2025 to conspiracy to conduct enterprise affairs through a pattern of racketeering activity, more commonly referred to as RICO conspiracy. U.S. Senior District Court Judge Nathaniel M. Gorton scheduled sentencing for March 19, 2026. Miliano was arrested and charged in February 2025, and was alleged to have participated in the murder of Jandriel Heredia and Abraham Diaz in September 2023.
The Trinitarios is a violent criminal enterprise comprised of thousands of members across the United States. The Trinitarios adhere to a Magna Carta, employ an internal hierarchy to or organize and execute violence, and undertaken extensive efforts to maintain the secrecy of the organization and its members.
In February 2025, federal racketeering charges were unsealed against 22 leaders and members of the Trinitarios. The charges were the result of a multijurisdictional investigation, dubbed Operation Paper Machetes, which began in the aftermath of four murders as well as a series of attempted murders and shootings that took place in Lynn in 2023, allegedly committed by the Trinitarios criminal enterprise and its members. In March 2025, a Lynn member of the Trinitarios was sentenced to ten years in prison. In June 2025, two members of the Trinitarios were charged with kidnapping a drug supplier. In July 2025, the leader of the Lynn Chapter was sentenced to fourteen years in prison. Miliano is the seventh Defendant to plead guilty.
During court proceedings, Miliano admitted to his membership in the gang and participation in three shootings where the Trinitarios intended to kill rival gang members. The first incident took place in May 2023, where Miliano and other members of the Trinitarios proceeded to rival gang territory in Lynn and discharged numerous rounds at rival gang members. Miliano fired during this shooting.
The second incident took in August 2023, following the death of a Trinitario member, who was believed to have been killed by a rival gang member. For this incident, Miliano and five other Trinitarios set out to ambush and kill rival gang members who were at a music studio in Lynn. Miliano also fired during this incident.
Miliano also admitted to his participation in the Sept. 2, 2023 murder of Jandriel Heredia and Abraham Diaz. Miliano met with other Trinitario members prior to the shooting and learning about the plan to kill a rival gang member who the Trinitarios believed was present at a party in Lynn. The rival gang member was not, in fact, present at the party. Miliano admitted to driving by the party a number of times, and relaying information about what he observed as he drove by to the other Trinitarios knowing that it would be used by the other members to further their plan to murder rival gang members. Later that night, members of the Trinitarios drove by the party and discharged numerous rounds at the people gathered outside celebrating a recent graduation. Seven people were shot during this incident, and Abraham Diaz and Jandriel Heredia later died from the gunshot wounds they sustained. None of the victims at the party were members of a gang.
The charge of conspiracy to conduct enterprise affairs through a pattern of racketeering activity (also known as “racketeering conspiracy” or “RICO conspiracy”) provides for a sentence of up to life in prison, five years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Michael J. Krol, Special Agent in Charge, Homeland Security Investigations in New England; Ted Docks, Special Agent in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division; Essex County District Attorney Paul F. Tucker; Massachusetts State Police Colonel Geoffrey D. Noble; and Lynn Police Chief Christopher P. Reddy made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Philip A. Mallard of the Organized Crime & Gang Unit 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 and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces and Project Safe Neighborhood.
Member of Anti-Capitalist and Anti-Government Group Arrested and Charged with Threatening ICE OfficersRead the Press Release
LAFAYETTE– On December 13, 2025, Micah James Legnon, 28, of New Iberia, Louisiana, was arrested on a criminal complaint filed in the Western District of Louisiana charging him with threatening Immigrations and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers.
According to court documents, Legnon also known as Dark Witch and Kateri the Witch, is associated with the Turtle Island Liberation Front (TILF), a far-left, pro-Palestine, anti-government, and anti-capitalist group. Legnon’s association with TILF included participating in a chat called “Order of the Black Lotus,” in which Legnon discussed teaching other TILF members urban warfare while writing threatening messages about ICE officers there and on social media.
“This arrest reflects the Justice Department’s priority of disrupting and dismantling terrorist networks across the Nation,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “We will continue to aggressively target violent extremist groups like the Turtle Island Liberation Front, hold their proxies accountable, and ensure the American people—and the officers who protect them—can live without fear. Thank you to the US Attorney, Zachary Keller, in the Western District of Louisiana for his incredible work.”
“The FBI will not tolerate anyone who threatens law enforcement officers and will work with our partners to bring them to justice,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “This defendant allegedly threatened ICE officers and had an assault rifle, body armor, and other items in his vehicle when he was arrested by local law enforcement. He is associated with the Turtle Island Liberation Front which espouses anti-government views. The FBI is steadfast in our commitment to protect the American people and those who wear the badge to protect our communities.”
“Groups like TILF are a menace to society and a threat to the values that make America the greatest nation on Earth,” said United States Attorney Zachary A. Keller. “As we approach the one-year anniversary of the New Orleans New Year’s Day terror attack, the Louisiana U.S. Attorney’s Offices stand vigilant alongside the FBI and our other federal, state, and local partners to uncover and stop potential terrorist plots dead in their tracks. The swift and decisive action taken by the FBI’s California and Louisiana components and the Terrebonne Parish Sheriff’s Office here exemplifies that commitment we all have to keeping Louisiana and our country safe.”
Legnon, who has a military background, was under surveillance by the FBI on December 12, 2025, due to his affiliation with TILF members plotting to bomb Los Angeles who were arrested that day. On December 12, FBI saw Legnon leaving his New Iberia residence with what appeared to be an assault rifle and body armor in his vehicle in an apparent effort to execute an attack. Legnon was stopped and arrested by the Terrebonne Parish Sheriff’s Office, and one assault rifle, one pistol, one gas canister, and body armor were recovered from his vehicle. A federal search warrant executed on Legnon’s residence revealed sniper training manuals, SWAT training manuals, assault rifles, and multiple rounds of ammunition. This investigation is ongoing.
The FBI is investigating the case with valuable assistance from the Terrebonne Parish Sheriff’s Office.
Assistant U.S. Attorney John W. Nickel for the Western District of Louisiana is prosecuting the case, with valuable assistance provided by the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section.
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer, under Case Number 6:25-mj-00229.
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Member of Anti-Capitalist and Anti-Government Group Arrested and Charged with Threatening ICE OfficersRead the Press Release
On Dec. 13, Micah James Legnon, 28, of New Iberia, Louisiana, was arrested on a criminal complaint filed in the Western District of Louisiana charging him with threatening Immigrations and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers.
According to court documents, Legnon also known as Dark Witch and Kateri the Witch, is associated with the Turtle Island Liberation Front (TILF), a far-left, pro-Palestine, anti-government, and anti-capitalist group. Legnon’s association with TILF included participating in a chat called “Order of the Black Lotus,” in which Legnon discussed teaching other TILF members urban warfare while writing threatening messages about ICE officers there and on social media.
“This arrest reflects the Justice Department’s priority of disrupting and dismantling terrorist networks across the Nation,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “We will continue to aggressively target violent extremist groups like the Turtle Island Liberation Front, hold their proxies accountable, and ensure the American people—and the officers who protect them—can live without fear. Thank you to the US Attorney, Zachary Keller, in the Western District of Louisiana for his incredible work.”
“The FBI will not tolerate anyone who threatens law enforcement officers and will work with our partners to bring them to justice,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “This defendant allegedly threatened ICE officers and had an assault rifle, body armor, and other items in his vehicle when he was arrested by local law enforcement. He is associated with the Turtle Island Liberation Front which espouses anti-government views. The FBI is steadfast in our commitment to protect the American people and those who wear the badge to protect our communities.”
“Groups like TILF are a menace to society and a threat to the values that make America the greatest nation on Earth,” said U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana. “As we approach the one-year anniversary of the New Orleans New Year’s Day terror attack, the Louisiana U.S. Attorney’s Offices stand vigilant alongside the FBI and our other federal, state, and local partners to uncover and stop potential terrorist plots dead in their tracks. The swift and decisive action taken by the FBI’s California and Louisiana components and the Terrebonne Parish Sheriff’s Office here exemplifies that commitment we all have to keeping Louisiana and our country safe.”
Legnon, who has a military background, was under surveillance by the FBI on Dec. 12, due to his affiliation with TILF members plotting to bomb Los Angeles who were arrested that day. On Dec. 12, FBI saw Legnon leaving his New Iberia residence with what appeared to be an assault rifle and body armor in his vehicle in an apparent effort to execute an attack. Legnon was stopped and arrested by the Terrebonne Parish Sheriff’s Office, and one assault rifle, one pistol, one gas canister, and body armor were recovered from his vehicle. A federal search warrant executed on Legnon’s residence revealed sniper training manuals, SWAT training manuals, assault rifles, and multiple rounds of ammunition. This investigation is ongoing.
The FBI is investigating the case with valuable assistance from the Terrebonne Parish Sheriff’s Office.
Assistant U.S. Attorney John W. Nickel for the Western District of Louisiana is prosecuting the case, with valuable assistance provided by the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section.
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Maryland Man Indicted on Child Sexual Abuse Material Charges in Connection with Justice Department’s Operation Relentless JusticeRead the Press Release
Greenbelt, Maryland – The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland announced today, an indictment in connection with the Department of Justice’s Operation Relentless Justice, a coordinated enforcement effort to identify, track, and arrest child sex predators. This nationwide crackdown resulted in law enforcement locating more than 205 child victims and arresting more than 293 child sexual abuse offenders. During a two-week span, all 56 FBI field offices, the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS) in the Department’s Criminal Division, and U.S. Attorney offices partnered to execute this coordinated effort around the country.
In Maryland, a federal grand jury indicted Christopher Alexander Watts, 27, of Mount Rainier, Maryland, charging him with four counts of producing child sexual abuse material (CSAM).
Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the indictment with Attorney General Pamela Bondi; FBI Director Kash Patel; and Special Agent in Charge Jimmy Paul, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) – Baltimore Field Office.
“We will not allow evil criminals who prey on children to evade justice,” Bondi said. “Our federal agents have worked tirelessly alongside our state and local partners to track down these vile predators, and now our prosecutors will ensure they receive severe punishments to match their horrific crimes."
“Operation Relentless Justice shows no child will be forgotten and that all predators targeting the most vulnerable amongst us will be held accountable,” Patel said. “This year, the FBI has led multiple nationwide surges across the U.S. to find and arrest hundreds of child predators. We will not stop until every child can live a life free of exploitation. We will utilize the strength of all our field offices and our federal, state, and local partners to protect communities across the nation from such horrific crimes.”
“The results of this coordinated effort underscore the power of teamwork and collaboration. Through Operation Relentless Justice, the United States Attorney’s Office in Maryland helped advance the Department’s mandate to track down those who exploit or abuse our children and prosecute them to the fullest extent of the law,” Hayes said. “We’re committed to continuing to work closely with our community and law-enforcement partners to ensure that predators are held accountable as we relentlessly pursue justice for every victim.”
“The investigative efforts and collaboration by FBI Baltimore’s Violent Crimes Against Children Task Force truly are relentless,” Paul said. “In addition to Watts’ indictment in Maryland, the task force secured another 14 federal, state, and local arrests of subjects tied to child exploitation during Operation Relentless Justice. This operation is yet another example of the FBI’s commitment to hold those abusing children fully accountable by working with our law enforcement partners at all levels of government.”
Those arrested allegedly committed various crimes, including producing, distributing, and possessing child sexual abuse material; online enticement and transportation of minors; and child sex trafficking. Some of the alleged offenders include an airman out of Dallas, TX, who was arrested with his wife for producing CSAM, as well as police officer from Raleigh, NC, who distributed CSAM to an undercover officer while discussing his interest in engaging in sexual contact with children. In another case involving the enticement of a minor, the Miami Field Office arrested a Guatemalan National who was previously deported in 2011, and was previously arrested for battery, disorderly conduct, resisting arrest, and carrying a concealed weapon.
As sextortion cases continue to rise, this operation highlights arrests of individuals who target vulnerable children online to include the five leaders of Greggy’s Cult, as well as a Virginia man who persuaded a 14-year-old to produce CSAM. The victim attempted suicide after he allegedly told her to kill herself.
This effort follows two other successful operations, including Operation Restore Justice in May which resulted in the rescue of 115 children and the arrests of 205 child sex abuse offenders, including two from the District of Maryland, and Operation Enduring Justice in August which resulted in the rescue of 133 children and the arrests of 234 offenders, including one from the District of Maryland.
The FBI's Victim Services Division (VSD) assisted victims during this operation and provided services, to include forensic interviews, referrals for medical and mental health resources, and coordination with partners. VSD's mission is to inform, support, and assist victims in navigating the aftermath of crime and the criminal justice process with dignity and resilience.
These operations underscore the Department’s unwavering commitment to protecting children and combating child sexual exploitation. These cases were brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. attorneys’ offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, visit justice.gov/psc.
The Department partners with and oversees funding grants for the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), which receives and shares tips about possible child sexual exploitation received through its 24/7 hotline at 1-800-THE-LOST and on missingkids.org.
The Department urges the public to remain vigilant and report suspected exploitation of a child through the FBI's tipline at 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324), tips.fbi.gov, or by calling your local FBI field office.
An indictment is merely an allegation. The defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, visit justice.gov/usao-md and justice.gov/usao-md/community-outreach.
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Married Owners of Downtown L.A. Precious Metals Businesses Plead Guilty to Hiding from IRS Millions of Dollars in Cash TransactionsRead the Press Release
LOS ANGELES – The husband-and-wife owners of precious metals businesses in the downtown Los Angeles Jewelry District and one of their companies pleaded guilty today to federal criminal charges for concealing millions of dollars’ worth of cash transactions from the United States government, failing to maintain an anti-money laundering program, and using the unreported cash at other family businesses, at a casino, and for other personal expenses.
The following defendants pleaded guilty today to one count of conspiracy:
- Alex Nguyen, 50, of Irvine, who also pleaded guilty to one count of filing a false tax return;
- Sam Nguyen, 52, also of Irvine, who is Alex Nguyen’s wife; and
- Newport Gold Post Inc., one of the companies they own.
According to their plea agreements, from May 2013 to March 2022, Alex and Sam Nguyen owned several family businesses that bought and sold precious metals, including Newport Gold Post, Goldtech Assay Laboratory LLC (which did business as Infinity), Sam Bullion and Coin, and AAPS Bullion.
These family businesses received millions of dollars in cash from their customers, requiring the Nguyens to file paperwork with the IRS. Alex and Sam Nguyen knowingly and repeatedly failed to file a Form 8300 with the IRS – as required by the Bank Secrecy Act – where they were supposed to report cash transactions over $10,000.
For example, during a February 2020 transaction, a buyer asked for a receipt after buying 643 ounces (40.2 pounds or 18.2 kilograms) of silver for approximately $11,766, Alex Nguyen replied, “Not for cash” and did not ask the buyer to show any identification.
As that year progressed, the buyer made multiple purchases of silver from Alex Nguyen, culminating in December 2020, when the buyer brought a suitcase containing $140,000 in cash – with half of the cash wrapped in heat-sealed packages. Alex Nguyen took the cash and provided 5,118 ounces (320 pounds or 145.1 kilograms) of silver. During all these transactions – four in total – Alex Nguyen knowingly and intentionally failed to file a Form 8300 with the IRS.
While operating the family businesses, Alex Nguyen received $200,000 to $1 million in cash daily from customers. He used this cash to purchase other precious metals from other Jewelry District businesses, agreeing with other business operators to not file completed Form 8300s.
In total, Alex Nguyen and his co-conspirators intentionally failed to file inaccurate or incomplete Form 8300s on more than 350 occasions for at least $127,446,066 in cash that was delivered to Nguyen family businesses.
In her plea agreement, Sam Nguyen admitted to intentionally failing to file a Form 8300 for multiple precious metals transactions, including in July 2021, when a buyer purchased 50 one-ounce gold bars at Newport Gold for $100,000. The cash for that transaction was wrapped in heat-sealed, shrink wrapping. Sam Nguyen told the buyer that she preferred shrink-wrapped cash because sometimes she received cash that had been buried underground.
Despite the suspicious packaging and her obligations to obtain customer information for the Form 8300, she did not ask for identification, did not inquire about the source of the cash, and intentionally did not file a Form 8300 for the transaction.
The defendants further admitted to failing to develop, implement, and maintain an anti-money laundering program as required by federal law. IRS auditors advised Alex and Sam Nguyen multiple times to set up such a program for their businesses, but the defendants failed to do so.
Further, Alex and Sam Nguyen admitted to lying to federal officials, including IRS auditors and the FBI. Alex Nguyen falsely said he did not accept cash payments and had not done so since the 1980s. Sam Nguyen lied to auditors and federal agents when she said she did not accept cash payments.
Finally, from 2016 through 2020, Alex Nguyen knowingly and willfully filed under penalty of perjury false joint tax returns where he failed to report income from the Nguyen family businesses, failing to report $1,535,330 in 2019 alone. The Nguyens also took cash from their businesses to a casino then received checks totaling $1,048,450 from the casino, which they deposited into their bank accounts for personal use.
The total tax due and owing for all five years in question is between $1,767,112 to $1,870,273, according to court documents.
United States District Judge Michelle Williams Court scheduled June 5, 2026, sentencing hearings for the defendants. At the time of sentencing, Alex Nguyen will face up to eight years in federal prison, Sam Nguyen will face up to five years in federal prison, and Newport Gold Post will face a statutory maximum sentence of five years of probation and a $500,000 fine.
IRS Criminal Investigation and the FBI are investigating this matter.
Assistant United States Attorney Chelsea Norell of the Major Crimes Section is prosecuting this case.
Man and Woman Indicted for Child Abuse and Child Neglect on Menominee Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
Brad D. Schimel, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on December 9, 2025, a federal grand jury returned a two-count indictment against a man and woman allegedly involved in child abuse and child neglect on the Menominee Indian Reservation. The indictment named Louis A. Tucker (age: 23) and Nyomi L.M. Acosta (age: 21) of Neopit.
Count One of the indictment charges both defendants with Child Abuse in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 1153(a) and 2(a), and Wis. Stat. § 948.03(3)(a). If convicted, the defendants face a maximum of 10 years in prison. Count Two charges the defendants with Child Neglect in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 1153(a) and 2(a), and Wis. Stat. §§ 948.21(2) and 948.21(3)(b)(1). If convicted of this offense, the defendants face up to 7 ½ years in prison. The defendants would also face potential fines, a special assessment, and terms of supervised release at the end of any sentence imposed.
According to the indictment, between about September 29, 2025, and October 20, 2025, the defendants, who are Native American Indians, recklessly caused great bodily harm to a Native American Indian child by striking the child about the head and body. This caused bruising and other marks. The defendants are also charged with fracturing the child’s left radius and ulna and burning the child’s back and torso. Count Two alleges that during this time the defendants, for reasons other than poverty, negligently failed to provide necessary care and necessary medical care for the child, and seriously endangered the child’s physical, mental, and emotional health. The indictment further alleges that the child suffered great bodily harm as a result of this failure.
The Menominee Tribal Police Department and FBI investigated the case with assistance from Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin. Assistant United States Attorney Andrew J. Maier will prosecute the case in United States District Court in Green Bay.
An indictment is only a charge and not evidence of guilt. The defendants are presumed innocent and are entitled to a fair trial at which the government must prove their guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
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For further information contact:Public Affairs Officer Steve Caballero
(414) 297-1700
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MS-13 Members Sentenced to Mandatory Life for Racketeering, Two Murders, and Stabbing Five Victims, Including a 16-Year-Old GirlRead the Press Release
Baltimore, Maryland – Three men received life sentences, today, for federal conspiracy to participate in a racketeering enterprise involving murders, attempted murders, and drug trafficking, as well as murder in aid of racketeering charges. Wilson Arturo “Humilde” “Marco Saravia” Constanza-Galdomez, 26, of El Salvador; Edis Omar “Little Felon” Valenzuela-Rodriguez, 24, of Honduras; and Jonathan “Truney” Pesquera-Puerto, 24, all received the mandatory sentence.
Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the sentences with Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti, Justice Department, Criminal Division; Acting Assistant Director Rebecca Day, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) – Criminal Investigative Division; and Special Agent in Charge Jimmy Paul, FBI – Baltimore Field Office.
This case targeted the violent activities of MS-13, a transnational criminal organization composed primarily of immigrants or descendants of immigrants from Central America, with members operating in Maryland and throughout the United States. MS-13 members are organized in “cliques,” smaller groups that operate in a specific city or region. The defendants, all MS-13 members and associates, were required to commit acts of violence to increase their status and rank within the gang. One of the principal rules of MS-13 is that its members must attack and kill rivals, known as “chavalas,” whenever possible. In Baltimore City and Baltimore County, MS-13 maintained a rivalry with the 18th Street Gang, among others.
“These ruthless individuals displayed a total lack of humanity and regard for life, including murdering a 16-year-old girl, all to advance their standing within a transnational criminal organization. Now they’ll spend the rest of their lives behind bars where they belong,” Hayes said. “We, along with our law-enforcement partners, are committed to dismantling the MS-13 gang, and other lawless organizations, and holding criminals accountable who thrive on committing murders and terrorizing our communities.”
“These defendants committed brutal violence — including murdering and stabbing young women and girls — to fuel their respective climbs up the MS-13 organization,” Galeotti said. “These acts, often carried out with machetes, spread fear and terror throughout the community. As today’s life sentences reflect, the Criminal Division will be relentless in its pursuit of MS-13 leaders, members and associates, to restore a sense of safety and security to neighborhoods throughout the United States.”
"The horrific acts of violence carried out by these MS-13 members are indefensible and demonstrates a complete disregard for human life," Day said. “The FBI remains steadfast in our commitment to relentlessly pursue members and associates of MS-13 and obtain justice for the victims of their crimes."
“No measure of justice will equal the weight of their crimes, but their life sentences mean these ruthless killers will never be free again,” Paul said. “I am thankful for the hard work and collaboration between the local police, federal investigators and prosecutors which ultimately brought about all three arrests and convictions for these brutal crimes.”
Constanza-Galdomez and Pesquera-Puerto were members or associates of the Carlington Locos Salvatrucha (CALS) clique, and Valenzuela-Rodriguez was a member of the Huntington Criminales Locos Salvatrucha (HCLS) clique. From June 2019 through at least October 2021, the defendants participated in the racketeering activities of MS-13, including two murders, four attempted murders, and witness tampering.
On April 25, 2020, Constanza-Galdomez, Valenzuela-Rodriguez, and other members and associates of MS-13 conspired to assault a man whom they suspected was a rival gang member. That same day, they assaulted the victim in Baltimore by striking him with machetes multiple times, causing injuries to the victim’s face and arm. Afterward, those involved reported the incident to MS-13 leadership in El Salvador to gain credit and increase their status.
Then on May 29, 2020, Constanza-Galdomez, Valenzuela-Rodriguez, Pesquera-Puerto, and other members and associates of MS-13 lured a 16-year-old girl whom they suspected of associating with rival gang members, to an area near Loch Raven Reservoir in Cockeysville, Maryland. There they struck her with a machete and stabbed her multiple times, murdering her. After the murder, members and associates of MS-13 reported the murder to MS-13 leadership to get credit for participating in the murder and to increase their status within MS-13.
On June 5, 2020, Constanza-Galdomez, Valenzuela-Rodriguez, and other MS-13 members and associates lured another female, whom they suspected was a rival gang member that cooperated with law enforcement, to an area near the CSX Bayview Train Yard in Baltimore, Maryland. There, the gang stabbed her 143 times, killing her and leaving her body near the train tracks. They again reported the murder to MS-13 leadership.
Then on June 6, 2020, Constanza-Galdomez, Pesquera-Puerto, and other MS-13 members and associates confronted a man, who had prior confrontations with the gang, and his girlfriend, the sister of one of the prior murder victims. Constanza-Galdomez and other members and associates ordered younger members to bring the female victim to the same train tracks where her sister was murdered. The younger members stabbed her over 70 times. All three defendants stabbed the male victim multiple times. Both victims survived the attacks.
U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the FBI, Homeland Security Investigations, Baltimore County Police Department, Baltimore City Police Department, and United States Marshal’s Service for their work in the investigation, along with the offices of Ivan J. Bates, Baltimore City State’s Attorney, and Scott Shellenberger, Baltimore County State’s Attorney, for their valuable assistance with this case. Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney James Wallner, U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland, and Trial Attorneys Grace Bowen and Chrisopher Taylor, Justice Department – Violent Crime and Racketeering Section, who are 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. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) and Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN).
Anyone with information about MS-13 is encouraged to provide their tips to law enforcement. The FBI and HSI both have nationwide tiplines that you can call to report what you know. You can reach the FBI at 1-866-STP-MS13 (1-866-787-6713), or call HSI at 1-866-DHS-2-ICE.
For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, please visit justice.gov/usao-md and justice.gov/usao-md/community-outreach.
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MS-13 Members Sentenced for Racketeering and Murder for Killing and Stabbing Five Victims, Including a 16-Year Old GirlRead the Press Release
Wilson Arturo Constanza-Galdomez, also known as Humilde, also known as Marco Saravia, 26, of El Salvador, Edis Omar Valenzuela-Rodriguez, also known as Little Felon, 24, of Honduras, and Jonathan Pesquera-Puerto, also known as Truney, 24, of Honduras were each sentenced today to life in prison for their convictions at trial of Racketeering (RICO) Conspiracy involving murder and Racketeering Murder, all related to their association with La Mara Salvatrucha, commonly known as MS-13, a designated Foreign Terrorist Organization.
“These defendants committed brutal violence — including murdering and stabbing young women and girls — to fuel their respective climbs up the MS-13 organization,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “These acts, often carried out with machetes, spread fear and terror throughout the community. As today’s life sentences reflect, the Criminal Division will be relentless in its pursuit of MS-13 leaders, members and associates, to restore a sense of safety and security to neighborhoods throughout the United States.”
“These ruthless individuals displayed a total lack of humanity and regard for life, including murdering a 16-year-old girl, all to advance their standing within a transnational criminal organization,” said U.S. Attorney Kelly O Hayes for the District of Maryland. “Now they’ll spend the rest of their lives behind bars where they belong. We, along with our law-enforcement partners, are committed to dismantling the MS-13 gang, and other lawless organizations, and holding criminals accountable who thrive on committing murders and terrorizing our communities.”
"The horrific acts of violence carried out by these MS-13 members are indefensible and demonstrates a complete disregard for human life," said Acting Assistant Director Rebecca Day of the FBI’s Criminal Investigative Division. “The FBI remains steadfast in our commitment to relentlessly pursue members and associates of MS-13 and obtain justice for the victims of their crimes."
This case targeted the violent activities of MS-13, a transnational criminal organization that operates throughout Central America and the United States. MS-13 members are organized into “cliques,” smaller groups that operate in a specific city or region, including Maryland. The defendants, all MS-13 members and associates, were required to commit acts of violence to increase their status and rank within the gang. One of the principal rules of MS-13 is that its members must attack and kill rivals, known as “chavalas,” whenever possible. In Baltimore City and Baltimore County, MS-13 maintained a rivalry with the 18th Street Gang, among others.
The investigation led to the conviction of six MS-13 members, including the three trial defendants. According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, on April 25, 2020, Constanza-Galdomez, Valenzuela-Rodriguez, and other members and associates of MS-13 assaulted a man whom they suspected of being a rival gang member by repeatedly striking him with machetes, resulting in significant injuries to the victim’s face and arm. Afterward, those involved reported the incident to MS-13 leadership in El Salvador to gain credit and increase their status.
On May 29, 2020, Constanza-Galdomez, Valenzuela-Rodriguez, Pesquera-Puerto, and other members and associates of MS-13 lured a 16-year-old girl, whom they suspected of associating with rival gang members, to an area near Loch Raven Reservoir in Cockeysville, Maryland. There, they struck her with a machete and stabbed her multiple times, murdering her. They then reported it to MS-13 leadership.
On June 5, 2020, Constanza-Galdomez, Valenzuela-Rodriguez and other MS-13 members and associates lured another female, whom they suspected was a rival gang member that cooperated with law enforcement, to an area near the CSX Bayview Train Yard in Baltimore, Maryland. There, the gang stabbed her 143 times, killing her and leaving her body near the train tracks. They again reported the murder to MS-13 leadership.
On June 6, 2020, Constanza-Galdomez, Pesquera-Puerto, and other MS-13 members and associates confronted a man, who had had prior disputes with the gang, and his girlfriend, who was the sister of one of the prior murder victims. Constanza-Galdomez and other members and associates ordered younger MS-13 members to bring the female victim to the same train tracks where her sister had been murdered. There, the younger members stabbed her over 70 times. All three defendants stabbed the male victim multiple times. Both victims survived the attacks.
The FBI, Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the Baltimore County Police Department, the Baltimore City Police Department, and the U.S. Marshal’s Service investigated the case.
Trial Attorneys Grace Bowen and Christopher Taylor of the Justice Department’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney James Wallner for the District of Maryland are 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. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN).
Anyone with information about MS-13 is encouraged to provide their tips to law enforcement. The FBI and HSI both have nationwide tiplines that you can call to report what you know. You can reach the FBI at 1-866-STP-MS13 (1-866-787-6713), or call HSI at 1-866-DHS-2-ICE.
Lexington Business Owner and Business Agree to Pay $860,000 to Resolve Improper Paycheck Protection Program LoanRead the Press Release
LEXINGTON Ky. – A Lexington-based shared workspace management and consulting firm, Workspace Strategies, and one of its owners, Karen Condi, agreed to pay the United States $860,779.50 to resolve allegations that it improperly obtained, and received forgiveness for, Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) for which it was not eligible.
Congress created the PPP in March 2020 to provide emergency financial assistance to small American businesses struggling to pay employees and other expenses during the COVID-19 pandemic. Under the PPP, eligible small businesses could receive forgivable loans guaranteed by the SBA through two rounds of funding, referred to as First Draw and Second Draw PPP loans. When applying for PPP loans, borrowers were required to certify that they were eligible for the requested loans and that the information they provided was true and accurate. Regulations provided various requirements for use of PPP funds, including limitations on the manner in which the loans could be utilized. Borrowers who applied for Second Draw loans also were required to certify that they experienced at least a 25% reduction in quarterly gross receipts as a result of the pandemic.
Workspace Strategies applied for, received, and obtained forgiveness for First and Second Draw PPP loans collectively valued at nearly $600,000. The settlement resolves allegations that Workspace Strategies and Condi falsely certified that loan proceeds would be and were utilized for payroll expenses and other permissible purposes. In fact, Workspace Strategies and Condi allegedly used a portion of the proceeds for impermissible purposes, including for Condi’s personal benefit. Further, the settlement resolves allegations that Workspace Strategies and Condi falsely certified that Workspace Strategies’ gross receipts fell at least 25% as a result of the pandemic in its Second Draw PPP loan application. Based on these false certifications, Workspace Strategies received loans for which it was ineligible and received forgiveness of loan funds to which it was not entitled.
“Our office is committed to holding accountable businesses and individuals who improperly obtained or used COVID-19 relief funds,” said First Assistant United States Attorney Paul McCaffrey. “The loans were intended to help eligible small businesses survive the pandemic. When business owners misspend those funds, or businesses falsely certify their eligibility for pandemic relief, it is critically important that we recover taxpayer dollars.”
“This settlement demonstrates the excellent results achieved through the combined efforts of SBA and the Department of Justice to forcefully respond to PPP misconduct,” said SBA's General Counsel Wendell Davis. "Misallocation and misuse of federal funds undermines SBA and the entire federal government's pandemic relief efforts, and SBA continues to devote a major effort alongside our partners at DOJ to investigate abuse and recover funds on behalf of the American people.”
The Government’s work in this investigation illustrates its commitment to combatting COVID-19 fraud. The United States encourages anyone with information about potential fraud involving COVID-19 to report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form. PPP recipients also may voluntarily disclose self-discovered evidence of fraud involving the PPP to U.S. Attorney’s Offices.
The settlement resolves a lawsuit brought by a private citizen under the qui tam provisions of the False Claims Act. Under those provisions, a private party can file a civil action on behalf of the United States, thereby bringing allegations of fraud to the Government’s attention, and share in any financial recovery. As part of this resolution, the individual who filed the qui tam complaint will receive a portion of the settlement proceeds. This case is captioned United States ex rel. Emily Parker v. Condi Management Group, LLC, d/b/a Workspace Strategies and Karen Condi, Case No. 5:23-CV-00030-KKC.
This matter was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Long, with assistance from the SBA’s Office of General Counsel. The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability.
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Leader of Area Drug Trafficking Operation Sentenced to 19½ Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney David Metcalf announced that Alberto Cintron, aka “Bert” and “Nephew,” 37, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 234 months in prison and 10 years of supervised release by United States District Judge John M. Younge for drug trafficking and firearms offenses.
The defendant was charged by indictment in May of 2024 and pleaded guilty this July to more than a dozen charges, including conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl; distribution of methamphetamine and fentanyl; possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl within 1,000 feet of a school; possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime; and possession of a firearm by a felon.
As detailed in court filings and statements, in July 2023, law enforcement learned that Cintron was the leader of a drug trafficking group (“DTG”) distributing methamphetamine and fentanyl in the Montgomery County, Chester County, and Philadelphia areas. The investigation revealed a common pattern or method of conducting business, namely, the defendant would either direct his associate to deliver drugs to customers, or Cintron would deliver the controlled substances himself.
From approximately July 2023 through October 2023, the Cintron DTG distributed, or possessed with the intent to distribute, more than five kilograms of methamphetamine, more than 1,000 grams of fentanyl, and other controlled substances. Recovered during search warrants at both his residence in Philadelphia and drug stash houses that he maintained were over 5,500 individually packaged bags of fentanyl, several pounds of methamphetamine and multiple firearms that the defendant was legally prohibited from having.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN).
The case was investigated by the Montgomery County District Attorney’s Office, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Upper Merion Police Department, and the Pennsylvania State Police, and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lindsey Mills and Special Assistant United States Attorney and Montgomery County Assistant District Attorney Kathleen McLaughlin.
Lawrence Man Indicted for Distributing Counterfeit Pills Containing Methamphetamine and FentanylRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Lawrence man has been charged in a seven-count indictment for allegedly distributing thousands of counterfeit pills containing methamphetamine and fentanyl.
Randy Recinos, 31, was indicted by a federal grand jury on four counts of distribution of methamphetamine, including three counts alleging 50 grams or more; two counts of distribution of 40 grams or more of fentanyl; and one count of possession with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl. Recinos was previously arrested and charged by criminal complaint in August 2025.
According to charging documents, between July 2024 and August 2025, Recinos repeatedly sold thousands of counterfeit pills containing methamphetamine and fentanyl to a cooperating source working with law enforcement. On Aug. 27, 2025, Recinos allegedly delivered 5,000 fentanyl pills to the cooperating source in the parking lot of a fast-food restaurant in Lawrence and was arrested.
The charge of possession with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl provides for a sentence of at least 10 years and up to life in prison, at least five years and up to a lifetime of supervised release and a fine of up to $10 million. The charges of distribution of 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and distribution of 40 grams or more of fentanyl provide for a sentence of at least five years and up to 40 years in prison, at least four years and up to a lifetime of supervised release and a fine of up to $5 million. The charge of distribution of methamphetamine provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, at least three years and up to a lifetime of supervised release and a fine of $1 million. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Jared A. Forget, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Division made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Samuel R. Feldman of the Narcotics & Money Laundering Unit is prosecuting the case.
The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Las Vegas Man Sentenced for Racketeering Related Violence and Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – Robert Padilla was sentenced to life in prison for orchestrating a retaliatory killing tied to a violent prison gang and for using violence and intimidation to protect an ongoing drug trafficking operation.
There is no parole in the federal system. As a result, a sentence of lifetime incarceration is served without parole.
According to court records and evidence presented at trial, Padilla, 48, was an associate of the Syndicato de Nuevo Mexico (SNM), a prison-based gang whose members and associates engaged in murder, drug trafficking, intimidation, and retaliation against perceived informants to preserve the gang’s power, territory, and profits. SNM functioned as an ongoing criminal enterprise that affected interstate commerce and enforced loyalty through violence, including assaults and killings.
The evidence showed that Padilla led a drug trafficking organization supplying cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, and other controlled substances in and around Las Vegas, New Mexico. In July 2019, Padilla facilitated and participated in the killing of L.L., a former SNM leader who was cooperating with federal authorities and served as a witness in a racketeering prosecution. The murder was carried out to retaliate against L.L. for providing information to law enforcement and to maintain Padilla’s position and standing related to the SNM enterprise. The killing occurred while Padilla was actively engaged in large scale drug trafficking.
After the murder, Padilla continued efforts to obstruct justice and protect the enterprise. While incarcerated, Padilla disclosed details of the killing to another inmate and discussed plans to harm additional individuals he believed were cooperating with law enforcement. When that inmate attempted to cooperate with federal authorities, Padilla directed other inmates to assault him at a New Mexico correctional facility. Surveillance footage corroborated the coordinated attack.
Padilla was charged in a third superseding indictment with multiple federal offenses, including Violent Crimes in Aid of Racketeering murder, retaliating against a witness or informant, killing while engaged in drug trafficking, firearm offenses resulting in death, witness tampering, drug trafficking conspiracy, possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance, and possession of contraband in prison. The case proceeded to a jury trial in December 2023. After hearing the evidence, the jury convicted Padilla on all counts charged.
Acting 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 FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office Violent Gang Task Force (VGTF) investigated this case with assistance from the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Albuquerque District Office, New Mexico State Police, New Mexico Corrections Department, Las Vegas Police Department and Department of Public Safety’s State Laboratory. The Las Cruces Branch Office of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico prosecuted the case.
Lakeland Tax Preparer Sentenced to More Than Seven Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Tampa, FL – U.S. District Judge Virginia Covington has sentenced George Tucker, Jr. to seven years and six months in federal prison for conspiracy to commit wire fraud and aiding and assisting in the filing of false and fraudulent tax returns. As part of his sentence, the court also entered an order of forfeiture in the amount of $1,354,757.64, the proceeds of the criminal conduct, and restitution in the amount of $15,028,309.89 to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Tucker entered a guilty plea on December 2, 2024.
According to court documents, beginning in March 2021, and continuing through February 2024, Tucker engaged in a scheme to defraud the IRS. Tucker prepared or assisted in the preparation of 316 false and fraudulent tax returns for 196 taxpayers, including himself, for tax years 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2023. The tax returns contained falsified Schedules A, B, 1, and 3, as well as fraudulent Forms W-2G, which contained fabricated figures for gambling winnings and losses, and federal tax withholding amounts (based on the fake gambling winnings). The false tax returns requested substantial refunds from the IRS that the taxpayers were not legally entitled to receive.
The total intended tax loss from the tax returns Tucker prepared was $59,941,751. The actual loss totaled $15,028,309.89, which the IRS paid out to taxpayers, including Tucker, either as tax refunds or credits applied to prior debts. Tucker personally profited $1,354,757.64 in the form of payments from his taxpayer-clients or refunds he received directly from the IRS. Tucker used the fraud proceeds to enrich himself, including buying expensive jewelry.
"These defendants spent their days looking for ways to cheat. Those who deliberately exploit our tax system for personal gain will face serious consequences," said Special Agent in Charge Ron Loecker of the IRS Criminal Investigation Florida Field Office. "These prosecutions reflect the dedication of our agents to protecting honest taxpayers and upholding justice for all Americans."
This case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Jennifer Peresie and Ross Roberts.
Kipnuk man indicted for child pornography offensesRead the Press Release
FAIRBANKS, Alaska – A federal grand jury in Alaska returned an indictment this week charging a Kipnuk man with multiple child pornography offenses. This case is one of three cases charged in Alaska through Operation Relentless Justice, a coordinated enforcement effort to identify, track and arrest child sex predators.
According to court documents, between Aug. 11 to 13, 2025, Petngalria Paul, aka “Garrett,” 28, distributed, received and possessed child sexual abuse materials within Alaska.
Paul is charged with one count of distribution of child pornography, one count of receipt of child pornography and one count of possession of child pornography. The defendant is scheduled to make his initial court appearance on a later date before a U.S. Magistrate Judge of the U.S. District Court for the District of Alaska. If convicted, he faces up to 20 years in prison. A federal district judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
U.S. Attorney Michael J. Heyman of the District of Alaska and Acting Special Agent in Charge Brandon Waddle of the FBI Anchorage Field Office made the announcement as part of Operation Relentless Justice. The nationwide crackdown resulted in over 205 child victims being located and the arrests of over 293 child sexual abuse offenders. The coordinated effort was executed over the course of two weeks by all 56 FBI field offices, the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS) in the Department’s Criminal Division, and U.S. Attorneys’ offices around the country.
The FBI Anchorage Field Office is investigating the case, as part of the FBI’s Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force, with assistance from the Alaska State Troopers. If anyone has information concerning Paul’s alleged actions or may have encountered someone using the name “Petngalria Paul” or “Garrett Paul” in person or online, please contact the FBI Anchorage Field Office at (907) 276-4441 or anonymously at tips.fbi.gov.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Carly Vosacek and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Ibad Jafri are prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
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Kingwood woman sentenced to federal prison for trafficking methamphetamine and firearms violationRead the Press Release
BEAUMONT, Texas –A Kingwood convicted felon has been sentenced to federal prison for drug trafficking and firearms violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.
Ashley Nicole Ponce, 36, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance and being a felon in possession of a firearm and was sentenced to 144 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Marcia A. Crone on December 19, 2025.
According to information presented in court, on October 30, 2024, law enforcement responded to a domestic disturbance call involving a man and a woman at a Corrigan convenience store. As a result, a traffic stop was conducted on a vehicle linked to the disturbance, and a search of the vehicle revealed drugs, including methamphetamine, drug trafficking paraphernalia, and a firearm. Ponce admitted to owning the drugs and firearm. Further investigation revealed Ponce was a convicted felon and prohibited by federal law from owning or possessing firearms.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration; and Corrigan Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren Gaston.
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Kansas businessman & employee indicted for PPP fraudRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, KAN. – A federal grand jury in Kansas City, Kansas, returned an indictment charging two Kansas men for allegedly defrauding the Small Business Administration (SBA) by submitting false information on applications for the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program.
According to court documents, Joseph Campbell, 61, of Olathe and John Duncan, 65, of Topeka are both charged with one count of wire fraud conspiracy.
Campbell was also indicted on six counts of money laundering, six counts of making a false statement in a loan application, and two counts of making a false statement.
Campbell, as owner of multiple businesses, and Duncan, as Campbell’s employee, are accused of submitting false information to receive approximately $273,000 in PPP loan proceeds and approximately $1,761,100 in EIDL loan proceeds then allegedly utilizing the funds in an unauthorized manner including for personal benefit.
IRS - Criminal Investigation is investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Chris Oakley is prosecuting the case.
OTHER INDICTMENTS
Jorge Armando Chavez-Sanchez, 38, a Mexican national residing illegally in the United States was indicted on one count of reentry of a previously removed alien convicted of a felony. Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) is investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney David Zabel is prosecuting the case.
Manuel De Jesus Chavez-Suarez, 48, a Mexican national residing illegally in the United States was indicted on one count of unlawful reentry after deportation. Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) is investigating the case.
Jordan C. Davis, 44, of Kansas City, Missouri, was indicted on one count of escape from custody. The U.S. Marshal Service is investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney David Zabel is prosecuting the case.
Manuel Humberto Marquez-Bencomo, 52, a Mexican national residing illegally in the United States was indicted on one count of unlawful reentry after deportation. Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) is investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ola Odeyemi is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
###Justice Department announces results of Operation Relentless JusticeRead the Press Release
ALEXANDRIA, Va. – The Department of Justice announced the results of Operation Relentless Justice, a coordinated enforcement effort to identify, track, and arrest child sex predators. The nationwide crackdown resulted in over 205 child victims being located and the arrests of over 293 child sexual abuse offenders. The coordinated effort was executed over the course of two weeks by all 56 FBI field offices, the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS) in the Department’s Criminal Division, and U.S. Attorney offices around the country.
“We will not allow evil criminals who prey on children to evade justice,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “Our federal agents have worked tirelessly alongside our state and local partners to track down these vile predators, and now our prosecutors will ensure they receive severe punishments to match their horrific crimes."
“Operation Relentless Justice shows no child will be forgotten and that all predators targeting the most vulnerable amongst us will be held accountable,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “This year, the FBI has led multiple nationwide surges across the U.S. to find and arrest hundreds of child predators. We will not stop until every child can live a life free of exploitation. We will utilize the strength of all our field offices and our federal, state, and local partners to protect communities across the nation from such horrific crimes.”
“Child sex predators inflict profound and irreparable harm on their victims,” said Lindsey Halligan, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia. “This office is unwavering in its commitment to bringing child predators to justice. We will always prioritize cases involving the abuse of minors and pursue offenders with the full force of federal law.”
"Sexual exploitation of children involves devastating crimes that exploit vulnerable members of communities nationwide, including those in Washington, D.C., and Northern Virginia,” said FBI Washington Field Office Assistant Director in Charge Darren B. Cox. “Operation Relentless Justice is an example of the work our Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force does every day. We will continue to focus on rescuing and supporting victims and investigating and prosecuting offenders.”
“Operation Relentless Justice makes one thing clear: if you target children, we will find you, and we will put you in prison," said Dominique Evans, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Norfolk Field Office. "Protecting children is a top priority for FBI Norfolk, and alongside our Richmond and Washington Field Offices and our state and local partners, we will aggressively pursue and hold predators accountable.”
Four defendants were arrested and charged in the Eastern District of Virginia. John Joseph Chanel, 36, of Sterling, is charged with receipt and distribution of CSAM. Michael David Seeds, 27, of Chantilly, is charged with sexual exploitation of a child and attempted sexual exploitation of a child. William Dana Holcomb, 69, of Hampton, is charged with receipt and distribution of CSAM. Malachi Morgan Thomas, 23, of Woodbridge, is charged with sexual exploitation of children, coercion and enticement of a minor, and possession of CSAM.
Those arrested are alleged to have committed various crimes, including the production, distribution, and possession of child sexual abuse material; online enticement and transportation of minors; and child sex trafficking. Some of the alleged offenders include an airman out of Dallas, Texas, who was arrested with his wife for producing child sexual abuse material (CSAM), as well as a police officer from Raleigh, North Carolina, who distributed CSAM to an undercover officer while discussing his interest in engaging in sexual contact with children. In another case involving enticement of a minor, the Miami Field Office arrested a Guatemalan national who was previously deported in 2011, and has previous arrests for battery, disorderly conduct, resisting arrest, and carrying a concealed weapon.
As sextortion cases continue to rise, this operation highlights arrests of individuals who target vulnerable children online to include the five leaders of Greggy’s Cult, as well as a Virginia man who persuaded a 14-year-old to produce CSAM. The victim attempted suicide after he allegedly told her to kill herself.
This effort follows two other successful operations, including Operation Restore Justice in May, which resulted in the rescue of 115 children and the arrests of 205 child sex abuse offenders, and Operation Enduring Justice in August, which resulted in the rescue of 133 children and the arrests of 234 offenders.
The FBI's Victim Services Division (VSD) assisted victims during this operation and provided services, to include forensic interviews, referrals for medical and mental health resources, and coordination with partners. VSD's mission is to inform, support, and assist victims in navigating the aftermath of crime and the criminal justice process with dignity and resilience.
These operations underscore the Department’s unwavering commitment to protecting children and combating child sexual exploitation. These cases were brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, visit justice.gov/psc.
The Department partners with and oversees funding grants for the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), which receives and shares tips about possible child sexual exploitation received through its 24/7 hotline at 1-800-THE-LOST and on missingkids.org.
The Department urges the public to remain vigilant and report suspected exploitation of a child through the FBI's tipline at 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324), tips.fbi.gov, or by calling your local FBI field office.
An indictment is merely an allegation. The defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Justice Department Files Denaturalization Complaint against Bosnian War Persecutor Who Fraudulently Obtained U.S. CitizenshipRead the Press Release
Today, the Department of Justice filed a civil complaint to revoke the citizenship of Kemal Mrndzic, who failed to disclose during his immigration proceedings that he served as a guard at the notorious Čelebići prison camp during the Bosnian War. At Čelebići, prison guards subjected Bosnian-Serbs to beatings, torture, sexual assault, starvation, and murder.
“The allegations in this complaint demonstrate the value this Administration places upon both the integrity of its naturalization process and, more importantly, ensuring that those who persecute others based on protected bases, especially in war time, do not reap the benefits of refuge in the United States by gaming America’s immigration process,” said Assistant Attorney General Brett A. Shumate of the Justice Department’s Civil Division.
In October 2024, a federal jury found Mrndzic guilty of several criminal fraud and misrepresentation counts relating to his successful efforts to obtain a naturalization certificate and a U.S. passport. The jury’s guilty verdict established that Mrndzic falsified and misrepresented information material to his naturalization eligibility.
Among other facts, Mrndzic failed to disclose to immigration authorities the nature and timing of his military service during the Bosnian War. Specifically, he failed to disclose that he persecuted Bosnian-Serb inmates as a prison guard at Čelebići. Mrndzic’s 2024 conviction established his ineligibility to naturalize, as the Justice Department alleges in the naturalization revocation complaint.
This case is being civilly prosecuted by the Justice Department’s Office of Immigration Litigation, Affirmative Litigation Unit, after extensive investigation by ICE’s Homeland Security Investigations and criminal prosecution by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Massachusetts.
Justice Department Announces Results of Operation Relentless Justice 205 Child Victims Located and 293 Child Sex Abuse Offenders Arrested in Nationwide Crackdown, Including 4 in the Eastern District of MichiganRead the Press Release
DETROIT – The Department of Justice announced the results of Operation Relentless Justice, a coordinated enforcement effort to identify, track, and arrest child sex predators. The nationwide crackdown resulted in over 205 child victims being located and the arrests of over 293 child sexual abuse offenders. The coordinated effort was executed over the course of two weeks by all 56 FBI field offices, the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS) in the Department’s Criminal Division, and U.S. Attorneys’ offices around the country.
“We will not allow evil criminals who prey on children to evade justice,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “Our federal agents have worked tirelessly alongside our state and local partners to track down these vile predators, and now our prosecutors will ensure they receive severe punishments to match their horrific crimes."
“Operation Relentless Justice shows no child will be forgotten and that all predators targeting the most vulnerable amongst us will be held accountable,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “This year, the FBI has led multiple nationwide surges across the U.S. to find and arrest hundreds of child predators. We will not stop until every child can live a life free of exploitation. We will utilize the strength of all our field offices and our federal, state, and local partners to protect communities across the nation from such horrific crimes.”
“There is a special place in Hell waiting for the predators who hurt our children,” said U.S. Attorney Jerome Gorgon. “In the meantime, we will work with our compatriots to stop these evil criminals.”
“FBI Detroit will relentlessly pursue anyone who seeks to exploit our children, regardless of their profession or status in society,” said Jennifer Runyan, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Detroit Field Office. “As part of the FBI’s national initiative, Operation Relentless Justice, FBI Detroit’s Southeast Michigan Trafficking and Exploitation Crimes (SEMTEC) Task Force investigated and arrested individuals who allegedly produced, distributed or were in possession of child pornography. FBI Detroit will not tolerate the exploitation of children in any form, and I want to thank the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Michigan for its strong partnership. We will never stop protecting our children and will do everything we can under federal law to hold offenders accountable.”
The following cases were charged in the Eastern District of Michigan:
FBI executed search warrants at the Detroit home of Jeremy Tacon, a psychologist, and Joshua Ronnebaum, an attorney. The FBI seized numerous media storage devices from the residence containing child pornography and which contained discussions between the men expressing their sexual interest in children. The arrest of Tacon and Ronnebaum led the FBI to Lincoln Erickson, a doctor, who also had child pornography on his phone. On December 16, Tacon and Ronnebaum were charged in a nine-count indictment with receipt, distribution, and possession of child pornography. On December 17, Erickson was charged with receipt of child pornography. The three men have been detained pending trial.
On December 16, 2025, FBI agents arrested Kevin Howard, 28 of Westland, after receiving information that he was using the Kik application to distribute child sexually abusive material of infant and toddler aged children to other users. Howard has been charged with distribution of child pornography and is currently in custody awaiting a detention hearing.
Those arrested are alleged to have committed various crimes, including the production, distribution, and possession of child sexual abuse material; online enticement and transportation of minors; and child sex trafficking. Some of the alleged offenders include an airman out of Dallas, TX, who was arrested with his wife for producing child sex abuse material (CSAM), as well as a Police Officer from Raleigh, NC, who distributed CSAM to an undercover officer while discussing his interest in engaging in sexual contact with children. In another case involving enticement of a minor, the Miami Field Office arrested a Guatemalan national who was previously deported in 2011, and had previous arrests for battery, disorderly conduct, resisting arrest, and carrying a concealed weapon.
As sextortion cases continue to rise, this operation highlights arrests of individuals who target vulnerable children online including the five leaders of Greggy’s Cult, as well as a Virginia man who persuaded a 14-year-old to produce CSAM. The victim attempted suicide after he allegedly told her to kill herself.
This effort follows two other successful operations, including Operation Restore Justice in May, which resulted in the rescue of 115 children and the arrests of 205 child sex abuse offenders, including 5 from the Eastern District of Michigan, and Operation Enduring Justice in August, which resulted in the rescue of 133 children and the arrests of 234 offenders, including 5 from the Eastern District of Michigan.
The FBI's Victim Services Division (VSD) assisted victims during this operation and provided services, to include forensic interviews, referrals for medical and mental health resources, and coordination with partners. VSD's mission is to inform, support, and assist victims in navigating the aftermath of crime and the criminal justice process with dignity and resilience.
These operations underscore the Department’s unwavering commitment to protecting children and combating child sexual exploitation. These cases were brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. attorneys’ offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, visit justice.gov/psc.
The Department partners with and oversees funding grants for the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), which receives and shares tips about possible child sexual exploitation received through its 24/7 hotline at 1-800-THE-LOST and on missingkids.org.
The Department urges the public to remain vigilant and report suspected exploitation of a child through the FBI's tipline at 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324), tips.fbi.gov, or by calling your local FBI field office.
An indictment is merely an allegation. The defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Justice Department Announces Results of Operation Relentless JusticeRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – The Department of Justice announced the results of Operation Relentless Justice, a coordinated enforcement effort to identify, track, and arrest child sex predators. The nationwide crackdown resulted in over 205 child victims being located and the arrests of over 293 child sexual abuse offenders. The coordinated effort was executed over the course of two weeks by all 56 FBI field offices, the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS) in the Department’s Criminal Division, and U.S. Attorneys' offices around the country.
“We will not allow evil criminals who prey on children to evade justice,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “Our federal agents have worked tirelessly alongside our state and local partners to track down these vile predators, and now our prosecutors will ensure they receive severe punishments to match their horrific crimes."
“Operation Relentless Justice shows no child will be forgotten and that all predators targeting the most vulnerable amongst us will be held accountable,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “This year, the FBI has led multiple nationwide surges across the U.S. to find and arrest hundreds of child predators. We will not stop until every child can live a life free of exploitation. We will utilize the strength of all our field offices and our federal, state, and local partners to protect communities across the nation from such horrific crimes.”
Those arrested are alleged to have committed various crimes, including the production, distribution, and possession of child sexual abuse material; online enticement and transportation of minors; and child sex trafficking. Some of the alleged offenders include an airman out of Dallas, TX, who was arrested with his wife for producing child sex abuse material (CSAM), as well as a Police Officer from Raleigh, NC, who distributed CSAM to an undercover officer while discussing his interest in engaging in sexual contact with children. In another case involving enticement of a minor, the Miami Field Office arrested a Guatemalan national who was previously deported in 2011, and had previous arrests for battery, disorderly conduct, resisting arrest, and carrying a concealed weapon.
As sextortion cases continue to rise, this operation highlights arrests of individuals who target vulnerable children online including the five leaders of Greggy’s Cult, as well as a Virginia man who persuaded a 14-year-old to produce CSAM. The victim attempted suicide after he allegedly told her to kill herself.
This effort follows two other successful operations, including Operation Restore Justice in May, which resulted in the rescue of 115 children and the arrests of 205 child sex abuse offenders, and Operation Enduring Justice in August, which resulted in the rescue of 133 children and the arrests of 234 offenders.
The FBI's Victim Services Division (VSD) assisted victims during this operation and provided services, to include forensic interviews, referrals for medical and mental health resources, and coordination with partners. VSD's mission is to inform, support, and assist victims in navigating the aftermath of crime and the criminal justice process with dignity and resilience.
These operations underscore the Department’s unwavering commitment to protecting children and combating child sexual exploitation. These cases were brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. attorneys’ offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, visit justice.gov/psc.
The Department partners with and oversees funding grants for the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), which receives and shares tips about possible child sexual exploitation received through its 24/7 hotline at 1-800-THE-LOST and on missingkids.org.
The Department urges the public to remain vigilant and report suspected exploitation of a child through the FBI's tipline at 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324), tips.fbi.gov, or by calling your local FBI field office.
An indictment is merely an allegation. The defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Justice Department Announces Results of Operation Relentless JusticeRead the Press Release
205 Child Victims Located and 293 Child Sex Abuse Offenders Arrested in Nationwide Crackdown, Including Nine in the Southern District of Alabama
December 19, 2025 – The Department of Justice announced the results of Operation Relentless Justice, a coordinated enforcement effort to identify, track, and arrest child sex predators. The nationwide crackdown resulted in over 205 child victims being located and the arrests of over 293 child sexual abuse offenders. The coordinated effort was executed over the course of two weeks by all 56 FBI field offices, the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS) in the Department’s Criminal Division, and U.S. Attorneys’ offices around the country.
“We will not allow evil criminals who prey on children to evade justice,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “Our federal agents have worked tirelessly alongside our state and local partners to track down these vile predators, and now our prosecutors will ensure they receive severe punishments to match their horrific crimes."
“Operation Relentless Justice shows no child will be forgotten and that all predators targeting the most vulnerable amongst us will be held accountable,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “This year, the FBI has led multiple nationwide surges across the U.S. to find and arrest hundreds of child predators. We will not stop until every child can live a life free of exploitation. We will utilize the strength of all our field offices and our federal, state, and local partners to protect communities across the nation from such horrific crimes.”
“Together with our law enforcement partners, the United States Attorney’s Office will continue to pursue justice on behalf of victims relentlessly,” said U.S. Attorney Sean P. Costello. “Safeguarding children and preventing future harm remain top priorities. Offenders who have violated the law will be held accountable.”
"Operation Relentless Justice is a testament to the seamless collaboration between our federal, state, and local partners who worked tirelessly to bring these individuals to justice,” said FBI Mobile Special Agent in Charge Sara Jones. “By combining our resources and expertise, we are sending a clear message that there is no corner of the world where predators can hide. We will continue to use every tool at our disposal to keep our community’s children safe."
Nine offenders were arrested in the Southern District of Alabama, and three have been federally indicted by the Grand Jury.
Those arrested are alleged to have committed various crimes, including the production, distribution, and possession of child sexual abuse material; online enticement and transportation of minors; and child sex trafficking. Some of the alleged offenders include an airman out of Dallas, TX, who was arrested with his wife for producing child sex abuse material (CSAM), as well as a Police Officer from Raleigh, NC, who distributed CSAM to an undercover officer while discussing his interest in engaging in sexual contact with children. In another case involving enticement of a minor, the Miami Field Office arrested a Guatemalan national who was previously deported in 2011, and had previous arrests for battery, disorderly conduct, resisting arrest, and carrying a concealed weapon.
As sextortion cases continue to rise, this operation highlights arrests of individuals who target vulnerable children online including the five leaders of Greggy’s Cult, as well as a Virginia man who persuaded a 14-year-old to produce CSAM. The victim attempted suicide after he allegedly told her to kill herself.
This effort follows two other successful operations, including Operation Restore Justice in May, which resulted in the rescue of 115 children and the arrests of 205 child sex abuse offenders, including three from the Southern District of Alabama, and Operation Enduring Justice in August, which resulted in the rescue of 133 children and the arrests of 234 offenders.
The FBI's Victim Services Division (VSD) assisted victims during this operation and provided services, to include forensic interviews, referrals for medical and mental health resources, and coordination with partners. VSD's mission is to inform, support, and assist victims in navigating the aftermath of crime and the criminal justice process with dignity and resilience.
These operations underscore the Department’s unwavering commitment to protecting children and combating child sexual exploitation. These cases were brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. attorneys’ offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, visit justice.gov/psc.
The Department partners with and oversees funding grants for the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), which receives and shares tips about possible child sexual exploitation received through its 24/7 hotline at 1-800-THE-LOST and on missingkids.org.
The Department urges the public to remain vigilant and report suspected exploitation of a child through the FBI's tipline at 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324), tips.fbi.gov, or by calling your local FBI field office.
An indictment is merely an allegation. The defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Justice Department Announces Results of Operation Relentless JusticeRead the Press Release
Tampa, FL – Earlier today, the Department of Justice announced the results of Operation Relentless Justice, a coordinated enforcement effort to identify, track, and arrest child sex predators. The nationwide crackdown resulted in more than 205 child victims being located and the arrests of over 293 child sexual abuse offenders. The coordinated effort was executed over the course of two weeks by all 56 FBI field offices, the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS) in the Department’s Criminal Division, and U.S. Attorneys’ offices around the country.
“We will not allow evil criminals who prey on children to evade justice,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “Our federal agents have worked tirelessly alongside our state and local partners to track down these vile predators, and now our prosecutors will ensure they receive severe punishments to match their horrific crimes.”
“Operation Relentless Justice shows no child will be forgotten and that all predators targeting the most vulnerable amongst us will be held accountable,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “This year, the FBI has led multiple nationwide surges across the U.S. to find and arrest hundreds of child predators. We will not stop until every child can live a life free of exploitation. We will utilize the strength of all our field offices and our federal, state, and local partners to protect communities across the nation from such horrific crimes.”
“Protecting our children is a top priority of the U.S. Attorney’s Office,” said U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Florida Gregory W. Kehoe. “We will work with our law enforcement partners to vigorously investigate and prosecute those who target, exploit, and violate our children. In addition to our enforcement efforts, our office will continue to engage and educate communities on specific strategies to prevent these heinous crimes.”
“Protecting children and preventing exploitation are central to the FBI mission,” said FBI Jacksonville Special Agent in Charge Jason Carley. “The FBI is committed to working closely with our law enforcement partners every day to safeguard our communities and stop predators.”
“Investigative operations like this are a testament to the work our special agents and analysts do day in and day out to protect the innocent from predators,” said FBI Tampa Division Special Agent in Charge Matthew Fodor. “Crimes against children are among the FBI’s highest priorities, and we will continue working relentlessly to identify the predators and rescue the victims.”
Middle District of Florida Cases
Fort Myers
U.S. v. James Gregory Ford - Enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity and transfer of obscene matter to a minor.
U.S. v. Jeremiah Victor Jacobs - Distribution and possession of child sexual abuse material.
Jacksonville
U.S. v. Alec Lyle Higginbotham - Attempted enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity.
U.S. v. Justin Charles Brown - Production and possession of child sexual abuse material.
Orlando
U.S. v. Chase Dean Suriano – Receipt and possession of child sex abuse material.
Tampa
U.S. v. Richard Plummer - Distribution and possession of child sexual abuse material and escape.
U.S. v. Christopher Michael Barnes - Possession of child sexual abuse material.
U.S. v. Justin Travis Garner - Possession of child sexual abuse material.
U.S. v. Joel Reynolds – Production, distribution, and possession of child sex abuse material.
U.S. v. Jeremiah Kelsene Smith – Attempted production of child sex abuse material and transfer of obscene material to a minor.
Those arrested are alleged to have committed various crimes, including the production, distribution, and possession of child sexual abuse material and online enticement of minors.
This effort follows two other successful operations, including Operation Restore Justice in May, which resulted in the rescue of 115 children and the arrests of 205 child sex abuse offenders and Operation Enduring Justice in August, which resulted in the rescue of 133 children and the arrests of 234 offenders.
The FBI's Victim Services Division (VSD) assisted victims during this operation and provided services, to include forensic interviews, referrals for medical and mental health resources, and coordination with partners. VSD's mission is to inform, support, and assist victims in navigating the aftermath of crime and the criminal justice process with dignity and resilience.
These operations underscore the Department’s unwavering commitment to protecting children and combating child sexual exploitation. These cases were brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. attorneys’ offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, visit justice.gov/psc.
The Department partners with and oversees funding grants for the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), which receives and shares tips about possible child sexual exploitation received through its 24/7 hotline at 1-800-THE-LOST and on missingkids.org.
The Department urges the public to remain vigilant and report suspected exploitation of a child through the FBI's tipline at 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324), tips.fbi.gov, or by calling your local FBI field office.
An indictment is merely an allegation. The defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Justice Department Announces Results of Operation Relentless JusticeRead the Press Release
HONOLULU – The Department of Justice announced the results of Operation Relentless Justice, a coordinated enforcement effort to identify, track, and arrest child sex predators. The nationwide crackdown resulted in over 205 child victims being located and the arrests of over 293 child sexual abuse offenders. The coordinated effort was executed over the course of two weeks by all 56 FBI field offices, the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS) in the Department’s Criminal Division, and U.S. Attorneys’ offices around the country.
“We will not allow evil criminals who prey on children to evade justice,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “Our federal agents have worked tirelessly alongside our state and local partners to track down these vile predators, and now our prosecutors will ensure they receive severe punishments to match their horrific crimes.”
“Operation Relentless Justice shows no child will be forgotten and that all predators targeting the most vulnerable amongst us will be held accountable,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “This year, the FBI has led multiple nationwide surges across the U.S. to find and arrest hundreds of child predators. We will not stop until every child can live a life free of exploitation. We will utilize the strength of all our field offices and our federal, state, and local partners to protect communities across the nation from such horrific crimes.”
“The U.S. Attorney’s Office remains dogged and unyielding in our efforts to protect Hawaii’s keiki and seek justice against those who have harmed them,” said U.S. Attorney Ken Sorenson. “Together with our partners at the FBI, we will continue to hunt down child predators and eradicate the scourge of child exploitation in our community.”
“The FBI, united with our partners, continues in the fight to protect our children – and that fight is not over,” said FBI Honolulu Special Agent in Charge David Porter. “Our ongoing collaboration across the whole of government underscores our collective commitment to aggressively pursue child predators and take them off the board.”
In the District of Hawaii, three individuals were arrested and charged with federal crimes, including:
- Rumaldo Valdez, who was charged by an information with possession of child pornography following an investigation into his participation in “Greggy’s Cult,” an online group that produced and distributed child sex abuse material and engaged in other forms of exploitation and harassment of minor an adult victims. The defendant pled guilty on October 24 and is awaiting sentencing.
- Elias David, who was charged by criminal complaint with production of child pornography, based on videos investigators uncovered of the defendant engaged in sexual conduct with a minor victim whom he coached in volleyball.
- German Zboron, who was charged by indictment with possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and cocaine following what began as an investigation into a string of sex crimes.
Those arrested are alleged to have committed various crimes, including the production, distribution, and possession of child sexual abuse material; online enticement and transportation of minors; and child sex trafficking. Some of the alleged offenders include an airman out of Dallas, TX, who was arrested with his wife for producing child sex abuse material (CSAM), as well as a Police Officer from Raleigh, NC, who distributed CSAM to an undercover officer while discussing his interest in engaging in sexual contact with children. In another case involving enticement of a minor, the Miami Field Office arrested a Guatemalan national who was previously deported in 2011, and had previous arrests for battery, disorderly conduct, resisting arrest, and carrying a concealed weapon.
As sextortion cases continue to rise, this operation highlights arrests of individuals who target vulnerable children online including the five leaders of Greggy’s Cult, as well as a Virginia man who persuaded a 14-year-old to produce CSAM. The victim attempted suicide after he allegedly told her to kill herself.
This effort follows two other successful operations, including Operation Restore Justice in May, which resulted in the rescue of 115 children and the arrests of 205 child sex abuse offenders, including 2 from the District of Hawaii, and Operation Enduring Justice in August, which resulted in the rescue of 133 children and the arrests of 234 offenders, including 1 from the District of Hawaii.
The FBI's Victim Services Division (VSD) assisted victims during this operation and provided services, to include forensic interviews, referrals for medical and mental health resources, and coordination with partners. VSD's mission is to inform, support, and assist victims in navigating the aftermath of crime and the criminal justice process with dignity and resilience.
These operations underscore the Department’s unwavering commitment to protecting children and combating child sexual exploitation. These cases were brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. attorneys’ offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, visit justice.gov/psc.
The Department partners with and oversees funding grants for the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), which receives and shares tips about possible child sexual exploitation received through its 24/7 hotline at 1-800-THE-LOST and on missingkids.org.
The Department urges the public to remain vigilant and report suspected exploitation of a child through the FBI's tipline at 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324), tips.fbi.gov, or by calling your local FBI field office.
An indictment, information, or complaint is merely an allegation. The defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Justice Department Announces Results of Operation Relentless JusticeRead the Press Release
SPRINGFIELD, Illinois – The Department of Justice announced the results of Operation Relentless Justice, a coordinated enforcement effort to identify, track, and arrest child sex predators. The nationwide crackdown resulted in over 205 child victims being located and the arrests of over 293 child sexual abuse offenders. The coordinated effort was executed over the course of two weeks by all 56 FBI field offices, the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS) in the Department’s Criminal Division, and U.S. Attorneys’ offices around the country.
“We will not allow evil criminals who prey on children to evade justice,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “Our federal agents have worked tirelessly alongside our state and local partners to track down these vile predators, and now our prosecutors will ensure they receive severe punishments to match their horrific crimes.”
“Operation Relentless Justice shows no child will be forgotten and that all predators targeting the most vulnerable amongst us will be held accountable,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “This year, the FBI has led multiple nationwide surges across the U.S. to find and arrest hundreds of child predators. We will not stop until every child can live a life free of exploitation. We will utilize the strength of all our field offices and our federal, state, and local partners to protect communities across the nation from such horrific crimes.”
“Our office is unwavering in its commitment to prosecuting crimes against children,” said Acting U.S. Attorney for the Central District of Illinois Gregory M. Gilmore. “The prevention and prosecution of the sexual abuse and exploitation of children is a critical part of our mission to keep our community safe. We are grateful for our partnership with the FBI in pursuing these important cases.”
“During this operational time frame, FBI Springfield made multiple arrests in the Southern and Central District of Illinois,” said FBI Springfield Special Agent in Charge, Christopher J.S. Johnson. “These operations are successful due to a combination of local and state partnerships, the relentless work of our investigative bodies, and the commitment we have to keeping our local neighborhoods safe.”
In the Central District of Illinois, a federal grand jury this month returned an indictment against Daniel Brannan, 47, of Jacksonville, Illinois, charging him with trafficking in and possessing child pornography.
Those arrested are alleged to have committed various crimes, including the production, distribution, and possession of child sexual abuse material; online enticement and transportation of minors; and child sex trafficking. Some of the alleged offenders include an airman out of Dallas, TX, who was arrested with his wife for producing child sex abuse material (CSAM), as well as a Police Officer from Raleigh, NC, who distributed CSAM to an undercover officer while discussing his interest in engaging in sexual contact with children. In another case involving enticement of a minor, the Miami Field Office arrested a Guatemalan national who was previously deported in 2011, and had previous arrests for battery, disorderly conduct, resisting arrest, and carrying a concealed weapon.
As sextortion cases continue to rise, this operation highlights arrests of individuals who target vulnerable children online including the five leaders of Greggy’s Cult, as well as a Virginia man who persuaded a 14-year-old to produce CSAM. The victim attempted suicide after he allegedly told her to kill herself.
This effort follows two other successful operations, including Operation Restore Justice in May, which resulted in the rescue of 115 children and the arrests of 205 child sex abuse offenders and Operation Enduring Justice in August, which resulted in the rescue of 133 children and the arrests of 234 offenders.
The FBI’s Victim Services Division (VSD) assisted victims during this operation and provided services, to include forensic interviews, referrals for medical and mental health resources, and coordination with partners. VSD’s mission is to inform, support, and assist victims in navigating the aftermath of crime and the criminal justice process with dignity and resilience.
These operations underscore the Department’s unwavering commitment to protecting children and combating child sexual exploitation. These cases were brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. attorneys’ offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, visit justice.gov/psc.
The Department partners with and oversees funding grants for the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), which receives and shares tips about possible child sexual exploitation received through its 24/7 hotline at 1-800-THE-LOST and on missingkids.org.
The Department urges the public to remain vigilant and report suspected exploitation of a child through the FBI's tipline at 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324), tips.fbi.gov, or by calling your local FBI field office.
An indictment is merely an allegation. The defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Justice Department Announces Results of Operation Relentless JusticeRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, KAN. – The Department of Justice announced the results of Operation Relentless Justice, a coordinated enforcement effort to identify, track, and arrest child sex predators. The nationwide crackdown resulted in over 205 child victims being located and the arrests of over 293 child sexual abuse offenders. The coordinated effort was executed over the course of two weeks by all 56 FBI field offices, the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS) in the Department’s Criminal Division, and U.S. Attorneys’ offices around the country.
“We will not allow evil criminals who prey on children to evade justice,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “Our federal agents have worked tirelessly alongside our state and local partners to track down these vile predators, and now our prosecutors will ensure they receive severe punishments to match their horrific crimes."
“Operation Relentless Justice shows no child will be forgotten and that all predators targeting the most vulnerable amongst us will be held accountable,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “This year, the FBI has led multiple nationwide surges across the U.S. to find and arrest hundreds of child predators. We will not stop until every child can live a life free of exploitation. We will utilize the strength of all our field offices and our federal, state, and local partners to protect communities across the nation from such horrific crimes.”
In the District of Kansas, two individuals were arrested and charged with federal crimes, including:
• Diana V. Brown, 46, of Topeka was indicted on four counts of sexual exploitation of a minor – production of child pornography and one count of sexual exploitation of a minor – possession of child pornography.
• Reese Connor Pack, 25, of Ohio and formerly of Ottawa, Kansas, was arrested on a fugitive warrant after being previously indicted on two counts of attempted sexual exploitation of a child – production of child pornography, one count of coercion and enticement of a minor, one count of sexual exploitation of a child – receipt of child pornography, and one count of sexual exploitation of a minor – possession of child pornography.
“We have to protect the most vulnerable in our society,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan A. Kriegshauser. “We will not stop pursuing justice for our children and fighting to end the scourge of child exploitation. This work will continue to be a major priority of my office.”
Those arrested are alleged to have committed various crimes, including the production, distribution, and possession of child sexual abuse material; online enticement and transportation of minors; and child sex trafficking. Some of the alleged offenders include an airman out of Dallas, TX, who was arrested with his wife for producing child sex abuse material (CSAM), as well as a Police Officer from Raleigh, NC, who distributed CSAM to an undercover officer while discussing his interest in engaging in sexual contact with children. In another case involving enticement of a minor, the Miami Field Office arrested a Guatemalan national who was previously deported in 2011, and had previous arrests for battery, disorderly conduct, resisting arrest, and carrying a concealed weapon.
As sextortion cases continue to rise, this operation highlights arrests of individuals who target vulnerable children online including the five leaders of Greggy’s Cult, as well as a Virginia man who persuaded a 14-year-old to produce CSAM. The victim attempted suicide after he allegedly told her to kill herself.
This effort follows two other successful operations, including Operation Restore Justice in May, which resulted in the rescue of 115 children and the arrests of 205 child sex abuse offenders, including two from the District of Kansas and Operation Enduring Justice in August, which resulted in the rescue of 133 children and the arrests of 234 offenders, including two from the District of Kansas.
The FBI's Victim Services Division (VSD) assisted victims during this operation and provided services, to include forensic interviews, referrals for medical and mental health resources, and coordination with partners. VSD's mission is to inform, support, and assist victims in navigating the aftermath of crime and the criminal justice process with dignity and resilience.
These operations underscore the Department’s unwavering commitment to protecting children and combating child sexual exploitation. These cases were brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. attorneys’ offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, visit justice.gov/psc.
The Department partners with and oversees funding grants for the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), which receives and shares tips about possible child sexual exploitation received through its 24/7 hotline at 1-800-THE-LOST and on missingkids.org.
The Department urges the public to remain vigilant and report suspected exploitation of a child through the FBI's tipline at 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324), tips.fbi.gov, or by calling your local FBI field office.
An indictment is merely an allegation. The defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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