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Wednesday 10 December 2025
Smith County man sentenced to federal prison in human trafficking conspiracyRead the Press Release
TYLER, Texas – A Tyler man has been sentenced to federal prison for his role in a human trafficking conspiracy in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.
Michael Anthony Martinez, 28, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to transport illegal aliens and was sentenced to 33 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Jeremy D. Kernodle on December 10, 2025.
According to information presented in court, Martinez used a social media account to promise lucrative payment to people who were willing to drive illegal aliens to their destination. Bank records and text messages between Martinez and those he had recruited verified the criminal conduct.
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 FBI – Tyler Resident Office and the Tyler Police Department and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Dustin Farahnak.
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Sisseton Man Sentenced to Nearly 3 Years in Federal Prison for Assaulting Another Person with a KnifeRead the Press Release
ABERDEEN - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann has sentenced a Sisseton, South Dakota, man convicted of Assault with a Dangerous Weapon. The sentencing took place on December 4, 2025.
Garrett Joseph Ojeda, Sr., age 33, was sentenced to two years and eleven month in federal prison, three years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Ojeda was indicted by a federal grand jury in July 2025. He filed a Petition to Plead Guilty on September 15, 2025.
The conviction stemmed from an incident February 9, 2025, on the Lake Traverse Reservation when Ojeda became angry about a missing TV remote device. Ojeda took out his anger on the victim and stabbed the victim several times before the victim could escape. The victim sustained serious bodily injuries which required medical treatment and reparative surgery.
This case was investigated by the FBI and the Sisseton-Wahpeton Law Enforcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth A. Ebert-Webb prosecuted the case.
This matter is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office because the Major Crimes Act, a federal statute, mandates that certain violent crimes alleged to have occurred in Indian Country be prosecuted in federal court as opposed to State court.
Ojeda was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Sioux Falls Man Sentenced to over 13 Years in Federal Prison for Conspiring to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that U.S. District Judge Schreier has sentenced a Sioux Falls, South Dakota man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance. The sentencing took place on December 1, 2025.
Alex Lang, 31, was sentenced to 160 months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, fine, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Lang was indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury in April 2025. He pleaded guilty on September 9, 2025.
Lang worked with others to distribute multiple pounds of methamphetamine in Sioux Falls. He obtained methamphetamine from a co-conspirator who investigators identified as sourcing the methamphetamine from Arizona through the mail. Lang then sold methamphetamine to others. In total, investigators believe that Lang was responsible for selling approximately seven pounds of methamphetamine in the community.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
This case was investigated by United States Postal Investigation Service and the Minnehaha County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Hodges prosecuted the case.
Lang was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Shelton Man Sentenced to Prison for Fraudulently Obtaining COVID-19 Relief FundsRead the Press Release
David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that VINCENZO MINUTOLO, 39, of Shelton, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Kari A. Dooley in Bridgeport to 21 months of imprisonment and three years of supervised release for fraudulently obtaining COVID-19 relief funds.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in March 2020, Congress passed the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, which provided emergency financial assistance to Americans suffering the economic effects caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. One source of relief provided by the CARES Act was the authorization of forgivable loans to small businesses for job retention and certain other expenses through the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). In April 2020, Congress approved more than $300 billion in additional PPP funding. The PPP allowed qualifying small businesses and other organizations to receive unsecured loans at an interest rate of 1%. PPP loan proceeds were to be used by businesses on payroll costs, interest on mortgages, rent and utilities. The PPP allowed the interest and principal to be forgiven if businesses spent the proceeds on these expenses within a certain period of time of receipt and used at least a certain percentage of the amount to be forgiven for payroll.
The PPP was overseen by the Small Business Administration, which has authority over all PPP loans. Individual PPP loans, however, were issued by private approved lenders, which received and processed PPP applications and supporting documentation, and then made loans using the lenders’ own funds, which were guaranteed by the SBA.
Minutolo claimed an ownership interest or representative relationship with City Sounds Productions LLC (“City Sounds”). Between March and September 2021, Minutolo defrauded the PPP loan program of more than $145,000 by providing false information on loan applications for City Sounds, including overstating the yearly gross income for City Sounds; misrepresenting that similar PPP loans had not been or would not be sought when he had, in fact, sought and obtained, and intended to seek and obtain, such loans; and providing fraudulent IRS tax filings and tax payment vouchers for City Sounds that had, in fact, never been filed with the IRS. Similarly, on the forgiveness applications he submitted, Minutolo materially misrepresented having complied with all the requirements of the PPP rules.
In addition, the CARES Act created a new temporary federal unemployment insurance program for pandemic unemployment assistance (“Pandemic Unemployment Assistance”). Pandemic Unemployment Assistance provided unemployment insurance (“UI”) benefits for employed individuals who are not eligible for other types of UI due to their employment status. The CARES Act also created a new temporary federal program called Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (“FPUC”) that provided additional weekly benefits to those eligible for Pandemic Unemployment Assistance or regular UI. The Connecticut Department of Labor (CT-DOL) administers UI benefits for residents of Connecticut.
Between March 2020 and April 2021, Minutolo defrauded the CT-DOL of more than $140,000 by providing the CT-DOL with fraudulent Pandemic Unemployment Assistance applications seeking unemployment insurance payments in others’ names, including individuals who had died, and individuals who did not know that their name and sometimes other personal information was being used. One fraudulent application was for Minutolo’s grandfather, who died in 2014, and included a telephone number associated with Minutolo. Minutolo continued to make online weekly certifications to the CT-DOL attesting that the information contained in his grandfather’s application, and other applications, were true in order to receive continued unemployment insurance benefits.
Judge Dooley ordered Minutolo to pay $244,612 in restitution.
On February 28, 2025, Minutolo pleaded guilty to two counts of wire fraud. Released on a $50,000 bond, he is required to report to prison on January 22.
This matter was investigated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security – Office of Inspector General and the U.S. Department of Labor – Office of the Inspector General. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher W. Schmeisser.
Individuals with information about allegations of fraud involving COVID-19 are encouraged to report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721, or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
Senior Manager for Government Contractor Charged in Cybersecurity Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
A federal grand jury in the District of Columbia returned an indictment yesterday charging a former senior manager at a Virginia-based government contractor with major government fraud, wire fraud, and obstructing federal audits for allegedly carrying out a multi-year scheme to mislead federal agencies about the security of a cloud-based platform used by the U.S. Army and other government customers.
According to court documents, from approximately March 2020 through at least November 2021, Danielle Hillmer, 53, of Chantilly, Virginia, allegedly carried out a scheme to defraud the United States by obstructing federal auditors and falsely representing that the contractor’s cloud platform had implemented required security controls. The indictment alleges that, although the platform was marketed as a secure environment for federal agencies, Hillmer concealed the platform’s noncompliance with security controls under the Federal Risk and Authorization Management Program (FedRAMP) and the Department of Defense’s Risk Management Framework. Specifically, the indictment alleges that Hillmer falsely represented that security controls were implemented at the FedRAMP High baseline and at Department of Defense Impact Levels 4 and 5, despite repeated warnings that the system lacked required access controls, logging, monitoring, and other security capabilities.
As part of the scheme, Hillmer allegedly sought to influence and obstruct third-party assessors during required audits in 2020 and 2021 by concealing deficiencies and instructing others to hide the true state of the system during testing and demonstrations. She also allegedly made false and misleading representations to the U.S. Army to induce it to sponsor the platform for a Department of Defense provisional authorization. According to the indictment, Hillmer submitted, and caused others to submit, authorization materials to assessors, authorizing officials and government customers that she knew contained materially false information in order to obtain and maintain government contracts and authorizations to operate.
Hillmer is charged with two counts of wire fraud, one count of major government fraud and two counts of obstruction of a federal audit. If convicted, Hillmer faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison for wire fraud, a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison for major government fraud and a maximum penalty of five years in prison for each count of obstruction of a federal audit. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division and Deputy Inspector General Robert C. Erickson of the U.S. General Services Administration Office of Inspector General (GSA-OIG) made the announcement.
The GSA-OIG, Defense Criminal Investigative Service, Naval Criminal Investigative Service and The Department of the Army Criminal Investigation Division are investigating the case.
Trial Attorneys Lauren Archer and Paul Hayden of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section are prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Rockford Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Prison for Illegally Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
ROCKFORD — A Rockford man was sentenced on Tuesday to 15 years in federal prison for illegally possessing a firearm as a previously convicted felon.
U.S. District Judge Iain D. Johnston imposed the sentence on TIMOTHY GENTRY, 47, during a hearing in federal court in Rockford.
Gentry admitted in a plea agreement that on July 6, 2023, he sold a loaded handgun to a man in Rockford. Unbeknownst to Gentry, the buyer was cooperating with law enforcement. Gentry was previously convicted of multiple violent felonies in state courts and is considered an Armed Career Criminal under federal law.
The sentence was announced by Andrew S. Boutros, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, and Christopher Amon, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago Field Division of the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosive. The Winnebago County, Ill. Sheriff’s Office provided valuable assistance. The government was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan S. Kim.
Holding illegal firearm possessors accountable through federal prosecution is a centerpiece of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). In the Northern District of Illinois, the U.S. Attorney’s Office and law enforcement partners have deployed the PSN program to attack a broad range of violent crime issues facing the district, particularly firearm offenses.
Ringleader of fentanyl trafficking conspiracy sentenced to prisonRead the Press Release
WICHITA, KAN. – An Arizona man was sentenced to 272 months in prison for his part in a drug trafficking ring that transported large amounts of fentanyl into Kansas.
According to court documents, Rafael Turner, 35, of Phoenix, Arizona, and formerly of Wichita, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance.
Beginning on a date unknown and continuing through March 2023, Turner conspired with other people to distribute fentanyl.
“Turner was part of a criminal organization that injected both fentanyl and illegal drug proceeds into our communities,” said IRS-Criminal Investigation’s Special Agent in Charge William Steenson, St. Louis Field Office. “We’re more committed than ever to using our financial expertise to help disrupt these drug trafficking organizations and bring the criminals who run them to justice.”
Forty-five other individuals were prosecuted as part of this overall investigation, which included individuals in Kansas. Across the country, individuals have been sentenced or are awaiting sentencing. Included among them are Clifton Ray Weatherspoon, 33, and Antonio Dawayne Knight, 27, both of Wichita, who were each convicted of one count of possession of fentanyl with intent to distribute. Weatherspoon was sentenced to 300 months in prison. Knight was sentenced to 150 months in prison.
In February 2023, Weatherspoon and Knight traveled by plane from Wichita to Phoenix, Arizona, to purchase 300,000 fentanyl pills. They packed the pills into two suitcases, checked the luggage under their names, and flew back to Wichita. Pursuant to a federal search warrant, law enforcement officers seized one of the bags before it reached the baggage claim area. They x-rayed and searched the luggage and discovered 15 bags stuffed inside containing 150,000 fentanyl pills. Agents arrested Weatherspoon and Knight, who had by then retrieved the second suitcase from baggage claim. A search of that bag showed it also contained approximately 150,000 fentanyl pills.
“Over the past few years, the federal government has partnered with state and local governments as well as community groups to curtail the fentanyl crisis. The prosecution of this large drug conspiracy was part of that work. However, we are not done in these efforts. While we try to save lives by raising awareness about the dangers of fentanyl, criminals seek to undermine that hard work” said U.S. Attorney Ryan A. Kriegshauser. “Fentanyl dealers have little to no regard for human life and are willing to let children get ahold of this poison in efforts to turn a profit. We are grateful to law enforcement agents whose investigations keep this toxic substance off our streets.”
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Wichita Police Department, Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office, IRS-Criminal Investigation, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Debra Barnett and Ola Odeyemi prosecuted the case.
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. HSTF Wichita comprises agents and officers from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Agency (ATF), U.S. Marshals Service, and Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigative Division (IRS-CID) with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Kansas.
###Registered Sex Offender Convicted of Sex Trafficking Minors Sentenced to 17 years’ ImprisonmentRead the Press Release
DETROIT – A convicted sex offender, Kevin Lavon Giles, was sentenced to 17 years’ imprisonment for sex trafficking two minors and one adult by the Honorable Terrence G. Berg. Giles was convicted after a seven-day trial in July 2025, United States Attorney Jerome F. Gorgon, Jr. announced.
Gorgon was joined in the announcement by Jennifer Runyan, Special Agent in Charge of the Detroit Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Giles, 59, of Detroit, was convicted of two counts of sex trafficking children and through force, fraud, or coercion, and one count of sex trafficking an adult through force, fraud, or coercion.
The testimony at trial proved Giles exploited his female victims by requiring them to perform commercial sex acts in return for shelter for them and their children. Two of Giles’s victims were under 18 at the time he trafficked them. Giles posted advertisements for commercial sex for all of his victims, arranged their commercial sex dates, and collected the proceeds of the sex acts. Witnesses testified that Giles used hidden cameras to monitor the sex acts of all of his victims and to direct the sex acts of the adult victim.
“The defendant is wicked and loathsome. He forced women and girls to sell their bodies while he watched,” U.S. Attorney Gorgon said. “The court sentenced him. But the full measure of justice is waiting for him.”
“Coercing and trafficking women and children is an evil crime that must be stopped,” said Jennifer Runyan, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Detroit Field Office. “FBI Detroit remains committed to protecting vulnerable people in our society and stopping anyone who seeks to exploit them. I want to recognize the dedicated members from the Southeast Michigan Trafficking and Exploitation Crimes (SEMTEC) Task Force for their outstanding investigative work throughout this case, as well as the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Michigan for their successful prosecution in securing this lengthy sentence.”
The FBI’s Southeast Michigan Trafficking and Exploitation Crimes Task Force investigated this. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Diane Princ and Ranya Elzein prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States.
Recovery Centers of America Agrees to Pay $2 Million to Resolve Allegations That It Violated the Controlled Substances Act and the False Claims Act by Mishandling Controlled Substances and Providing Inadequate Treatment ServicesRead the Press Release
PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney David Metcalf announced today that Recovery Centers of America (RCA) has agreed to pay $1,000,000 to resolve allegations that it failed to comply with provisions of the Controlled Substances Act (CSA) that are designed to prevent the diversion of controlled substances for illegal uses, and an additional $1,000,000 to resolve allegations that it violated the False Claims Act (FCA) by billing the government for drug and alcohol treatment services that it failed to adequately provide.
The United States’ allegations under the CSA arise from audits and investigations the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) conducted at RCA facilities in Pennsylvania and Maryland between 2019 and 2024. Based on those audits and investigations, the United States contends that RCA dispensed controlled substances in an unlawful manner, that certain controlled substances were missing from the company’s records, and that the company failed to comply with additional recordkeeping requirements of the CSA.
In addition, the United States alleges that, at certain facilities during a period from 2017 through 2019, RCA violated the FCA by billing the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program and Medicaid for the care of beneficiaries to whom it failed to provide and document the requisite treatment services.
“Drug and alcohol treatment facilities must prescribe and store controlled substances in a manner that comports with rules designed to ensure that dangerous drugs do not fall into the wrong hands. They also must provide treatment services that comply with all governing laws and regulations,” said U.S. Attorney Metcalf. “When they fail in either of those critical duties they will face significant consequences.”
“When rehabilitation and treatment centers do not live up to their obligations, our office will vigorously pursue the violations,” said Thomas Hodnett, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Philadelphia Division. “Careless behavior and failure to adhere to the provisions of the CSA allows for substances to be diverted and sold without accountability.”
“This settlement underscores our agency’s steadfast commitment to investigating alleged False Claims Act violations targeting federal health care programs,” said Maureen Dixon, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “Unlawful dispensing of controlled substances and billing for unprovided care endanger patients and defraud taxpayers. HHS-OIG will continue working with our partners to hold providers accountable and protect patient safety.”
“Patients seeking to recover from addiction should be able to trust that treatment facilities will provide safe, legitimate care in support of their health,” said Derek M. Holt, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Office of Personnel Management Office of Inspector General (OPM-OIG). “We thank our dedicated staff and federal law enforcement partners for holding accountable those facilities that instead seek to exploit vulnerable federal employees and their family members.”
The settlement resolves a lawsuit filed under the whistleblower provisions of the False Claims Act, which permit private parties to sue on behalf of the government when they believe that a defendant has submitted false claims for government funds and receive a share of any recovery. The settlement in this case provides for the whistleblower, a former Outcomes Supervisor at RCA’s corporate headquarters in King of Prussia, Pa., to receive a $230,000 share of the settlement amount. The qui tam case is captioned U.S. ex rel. McLoyd v. TRC-OC, Trading as Recovery Centers of America Holdings, LLC, No. 17-cv-5164 (E.D. Pa.).
The resolution obtained in this matter was the result of a coordinated effort among the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, the DEA, the Office of Personnel Management Office of Inspector General, and the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General.
The matter was handled in the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Peter Carr and Charlene Keller Fullmer and former auditor Dawn Wiggins.
The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only; there has been no determination of liability.
Pickaway County man faces federal drug, gun chargesRead the Press Release
COLUMBUS, Ohio – A federal grand jury has indicted an Ashville, Ohio, man, charging him with trafficking in bulk amounts of fentanyl, cocaine and methamphetamine, and with illegally possessing firearms.
Samuel A. Griffith, 35, is charged in a six-count indictment.
According to charging documents, in October 2025, Griffith allegedly sold narcotics from a room at the Red Roof Inn on Renner Road in Columbus. When law enforcement agents executed a search warrant at the location, they discovered 18 firearms and kilogram quantities of fentanyl, cocaine and methamphetamine.
As a convicted felon, Griffith is prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition. Griffith has at least three prior felony convictions in Franklin and Pickaway counties for robbery, aggravated possession of drugs and illegally having weapons.
Griffith is charged with federal drug distribution and possession charges that carry potential punishments of at least 10 years and up to life in prison and five to 40 years in prison. Griffith faces up to 15 years in prison for illegally possessing a firearm as a convicted felon.
Dominick S. Gerace II, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio; Jorge Rosendo, Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF); Columbus Police Chief Elaine Bryant; Ohio State Highway Patrol Superintendent Col. Charles A. Jones; Pickaway County Sheriff Matthew O. Hafey; Fairfield County Sheriff Alex Lape; and Franklin County Sheriff Dallas Baldwin announced the indictment filed on Dec. 4. The South-Central Ohio Major Crimes Unit, Columbus Division of Police Gang Enforcement Unit, Franklin County Sheriff’s Office Special Investigations Unit and the Ohio State Highway Patrol Special Response Team participated in the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Kevin W. Kelley is representing the United States in this case.
An indictment merely contains allegations, and defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.
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Pennsylvania Man Found Guilty After 2-Day Jury TrialRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – On December 10, 2025, Keisand Santiago-Maldonado, 33 years old, of Milton, Pennsylvania, was convicted of one felony drug count after a two-day jury trial before United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty, announced Acting United States Attorney M. Scott Proctor.
Santiago-Maldonado was found guilty of possession with intent to distribute over 500 grams of a mixture and substance containing cocaine.
Sentencing is scheduled for March 25, 2026.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration with assistance from the LaPorte County Sheriff’s Department and the Indiana State Police Laboratory Division. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Lydia T. Lucius, Hannah T Jones, and Acting Criminal Division Chief Joseph P. Falvey.
North Carolina man sentenced to 10 years in prison for trafficking 10 kilos of cocaineRead the Press Release
NORFOLK, Va. – A North Carolina man was sentenced this week to 10 years in prison for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 10 kilograms of cocaine.
According to court documents, Kareem Akeem McMurrin, 41, and another person conspired to ship a package containing 10 kilograms of cocaine from San Diego, California, to Portsmouth.
“McMurrin’s conduct was inherently dangerous and damaging on a transnational scale,” said Lindsey Halligan, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia. “He attempted to contribute to the success of a dangerous and larger enterprise. This administration has prioritized the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations and to protect our communities from their crimes. My office will persist in prosecuting drug traffickers to achieve these goals.”
“This is a result of local, state, and federal assets working together to achieve a common goal. DEA alongside the Norfolk Police Department accept this mission every day to protect our citizens,” said Christopher Goumenis, Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Washington Division. “By intercepting this shipment of drugs and apprehending those involved, we are taking significant steps toward dismantling dangerous transnational drug networks and ensuring public safety.”
“Postal Inspectors work aggressively to eliminate illegal narcotics from the U.S. Mail,” said Damon E. Wood, Inspector in Charge, U.S. Postal Inspection Service – Washington Division. "Our dedication to these efforts helps us to protect both our employees and the public from this criminal activity. By working closely with our law enforcement partners, we were able to bring this case to a successful resolution.”
On Feb. 5, law enforcement investigators intercepted a package containing 10 kilograms of cocaine. The cocaine was removed from the package and the parcel was delivered to the intended address where it was retrieved by McMurrin. When investigators attempted to arrest McMurrin, he fled at a high rate of speed with his adolescent child in the vehicle. McMurrin attempted to discard the package and continued to flee. Investigators located McMurrin in March and took him into custody on an outstanding warrant.
The Drug Enforcement Administration and the U.S. Postal Inspection Services investigated this case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kevin Comstock and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Marc W. West, an Assistant Attorney General with the Virginia Attorney General’s Office, prosecuted the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:25-cr-84.
New York Man Pleads Guilty to Mortgage Fraud and Maintaining an Illegal Marijuana Grow HouseRead the Press Release
BANGOR, Maine: A New York man pleaded guilty today in U.S. District Court in Bangor to submitting a false mortgage loan application and maintaining a marijuana-involved premises.
According to court records, Ken Yiu, 49, of New York City, purchased a house in Saint Albans using an $80,000 residential mortgage loan he obtained from a Maine bank. To receive the funding, Yiu submitted a loan application in which he answered “Yes” to the question, “Do you intend to occupy the property as your primary residence?” Yiu never intended to occupy the property in Saint Albans as a residence. From September 2020 through January 2024, he instead used the property to grow and distribute marijuana.
In December 2024, federal law enforcement agents interviewed Yiu. During the interview, Yiu admitted selling marijuana he grew at his property in Saint Albans to buyers in Massachusetts. A federal search warrant for the property was executed in January 2025. The search confirmed that the property had been used and maintained by Yiu to grow and distribute marijuana.
Yiu faces up to 30 years in prison and a maximum fine of $1 million for the mortgage fraud count and 20 years in prison and a maximum fine of $500,000 for the drug count. He will be sentenced after the completion of a presentence investigative report by the U.S. Probation Office. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Neither Yiu nor his property was licensed through the Maine Office of Cannabis Policy.
The FBI, U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, and IRS Criminal Investigation investigated the case.
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New Orleans Man Guilty of Violations of Federal Controlled Substances and Federal Gun Control ActsRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that AUSTIN MONTGOMERY (“MONTGOMERY”), age 37, a resident of New Orleans, pleaded guilty on November 20, 2025 to Counts 1 and 3, of an indictment charging him with violations of the Federal Controlled Substances Act and the Federal Gun Control Act.
In Count 1 of the indictment, MONTGOMERY is charged with possession with the intent to distribute forty (40) grams or more of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and (b)(1)(B)(vi). For this count, MONTGOMERY faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of five (5) years up to a maximum of forty (40) years imprisonment. A fine up to $5,000,000.00 may be imposed, as well as a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00. A period of supervised release of at least 4 years may also be imposed.
In Count 3 of the indictment, MONTGOMERY is charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8). For this count, MONTGOMERY faces a maximum term of imprisonment of fifteen (15) years, a fine up to $250,000.00, a period of supervised release up to 3 years, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00.
According to court documents, on September 14, 2023, the New Orleans Police Department (“NOPD”) was conducting surveillance in the 2400 block of Clio Street and observed MONTGOMERY operating a white Dodge Charger approached by an unknown individual
operating a Ford Maverick. The unknown individual gave MONTGOMERY U.S. currency and in return, MONTGOMERY sold the individual a controlled substance. After the transaction, another individual entered the passenger side of MONTGOMERY’s vehicle MONTGOMERY and they drove together to a Shell gas station in the 2700 block of South Claiborne Avenue. MONTGOMERY then exited the vehicle with a firearm concealed in his waistband. NOPD officers in marked units entered the gas station parking lot and positioned their vehicles in front of and behind the Charger. MONTGOMERY attempted to exit the parking lot but was unable to do so due to the positioning of the vehicles. Thereafter, NOPD officers lawfully detained MONTGOMERY and recovered a Glock Model 27 Gen 4, .40 caliber pistol, from his waistband.
Officers also saw a large quantity of fentanyl, a loaded Keltec, multicaliber .223/5x56 rifle, and a Glock model 19X, nine-millimeter caliber pistol on the front seat of the vehicle. Officers, after getting a vehicle search warrant, also found a box of Glad sandwich bags, a digital scale, and, various white and blue pills.
A search warrant was also executed at MONTGOMERY’s residence and officers located various items of contraband used to facilitate drug trafficking and marijuana.
MONTGOMERY is a convicted felon and is federally prohibited from possessing firearms.
United States District Judge Carl J. Barbier will sentence MONTGOMERY on February 26, 2026.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the New Orleans Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Brittany Reed of the Violent Crime Unit.
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Mount Airy Man Facing Federal Indictment for Sexually Exploiting Minors to Produce Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
Baltimore, Maryland – A federal grand jury returned an indictment today, charging Mark Travis Brigham, 36, of Mount Airy, Maryland, with seven counts of sexual exploitation of a child and one count of possession of child sexual abuse material.
Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the indictment with Acting Special Agent in Charge Evan Campanella, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) – Maryland; Sheriff Charles A. Jenkins, Frederick County Sheriff’s Office; and J. Charles Smith III, State’s Attorney for Frederick County.
According to the indictment, between September 2023 and December 2024, Brigham persuaded, induced, enticed, and coerced two minor females to engage in sexually explicit conduct. Brigham exploited the minors for the purpose of producing visual depictions of the sexually explicit conduct. Further, the indictment alleges that Brigham possessed child sexual abuse material on four digital devices.
If convicted, Brigham faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years and a maximum sentence of 30 years in federal prison for each of the seven counts of sexual exploitation of a minor. Additionally, Brigham faces a maximum of 10 years in federal prison for one count of possessing child sexual abuse material.
Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge determines sentencing after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
An indictment is not a finding of guilt. Individuals charged by indictment are presumed innocent until proven guilty at a later criminal proceeding.
This case is part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, visit justice.gov/psc. For more information about Internet safety education, visit justice.gov/psc and click on the “Resources” tab on the left of the page.
U.S. Attorney Hayes commended HSI, Frederick County Sheriff’s Office, and State’s Attorney’s Office for Frederick County, for their work in the investigation. Ms. Hayes also thanked Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexandria A. Bell and Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul E. Budlow who are prosecuting the federal case.
For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, visit justice.gov/usao-md and justice.gov/usao-md/community-outreach.
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Mexican man sentenced for illegal reentryRead the Press Release
MISSOULA – A man from Mexico who was in the United States illegally was sentenced today to time served – 200 days in custody – to be followed by one year of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Eduardo Heriberto Mendoza-Almanza, 41, pleaded guilty to one count of illegal reentry of a removed alien.
U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided.
The government alleged in court documents that Mendoza-Almanza was arrested on April 6, 2025, in Belgrade, Montana, after an officer stopped him for driving with no license plate light after dark. He was identified with his Mexico driver’s license. His driving privileges were suspended in Montana and revoked in New Mexico. He also had numerous active warrants. He was arrested for driving without a license.
Mendoza-Almanza has been removed from the U.S. on eight prior occasions:
- March 6, 2006
- February 2, 2007
- February 22, 2007
- February 25, 2007
- May 11, 2007
- January 11, 2008
- June 18, 2011
- September 5, 2023
He was convicted previously of felony illegal reentry in Montana on March 15, 2023. He was sentenced to time served and removed. There is no record he applied for or was granted permission by the Attorney General or the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security to return to the United States.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case. Immigration and Customs Enforcement conducted the investigation.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
Mexican National Sentenced to Life Imprisonment in the Hostage Taking and Murdering U.S. Citizen in TijuanaRead the Press Release
SAN DIEGO – Brian Alexis Patron Lopez, a Mexican National, was sentenced in federal court today to life imprisonment. The sentence comes after a federal jury found Patron guilty for his role in the kidnapping, hostage taking, torture, and murder of 18-year-old M.A.R., a U.S. citizen whose death was punishment for a drug dispute.
The jury deliberated for less than a full day at the end of a seven-day trial. The jury found Patron guilty on all counts, including Intentional Killing While Engaged in Drug Trafficking, Hostage Taking Resulting in Death, and Conspiracy to Commit Hostage Taking Resulting in Death.
“Here’s a wakeup call to drug traffickers and cartel members in Tijuana: You harm an American, you will face American justice,” said U.S. Attorney Adam Gordon, “This sentence appropriately reflects the grim reality of drug trafficking in Tijuana. But, the FBI and U.S. Attorney’s Office will continue to secure justice for crimes against American citizens even if they occur south of the border.”
“Patron’s callous and blatant disregard for human life is unconscionable,” said Mark Dargis, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI San Diego Field Office. “Today’s life sentence is the price Patron must pay for such a gruesome attack on a U.S. citizen and the pain inflicted on his family. The FBI will always work relentlessly with our law enforcement partners devoting every available resource, tool, and technique at our disposable to hold violent criminals accountable and seek justice for our citizens.”
The victim was abducted from a hotel in Tijuana, Mexico on May 29, 2020. He was then beaten, tortured, and finally shot to death, all while his attackers sought a ransom from his family. His body was recovered on a hillside in Tijuana six days later.
According to evidence presented at trial, on May 29, 2020, at approximately 11:57 p.m., Patron and others forcibly removed the victim from his hotel room. Patron and others punched, kicked, and pistol-whipped M.A.R. Once subdued, the attackers put M.A.R. in a waiting car and drove away.
Patron and his co-conspirators then drove M.A.R. to Patron’s neighborhood, where they continued to beat and torture M.A.R. At around the same time, Patron and his co-conspirators began to make ransom demands on M.A.R.’s family over texts and calls, with the demand ranging from $2,000 to $3,000 to methamphetamine in exchange for M.A.R.’s release.
In the afternoon of May 30, 2020, Patron and his co-conspirators brought M.A.R. to a different motel and then to an apartment before bringing him to a deserted hillside on the night of May 30, 2020. There, Patron fatally shot M.A.R., even as his family attempted to pay his ransom.
During the trial, the government presented evidence connecting Patron to the crimes, including Facebook messages between Patron and co-conspirators about the crimes, plus surveillance video that captured the kidnapping outside a Tijuana hotel. In that video, Patron wore a jacket that matched the one he wore earlier in the night. Patron’s bracelet was left behind at the kidnapping and was later recovered by law enforcement. Patron was wearing the same bracelet in Facebook photos posted before the murder. Jurors were also presented with the call logs and WhatsApp messages with the ransom demands and proof-of-life evidence.
At sentencing, a member of the victim’s family informed the Court that the Defendant “didn’t just take [the victim’s] life, he took a part of mine.” She continued, explaining that “every day, I wake up with pain that will never go away.” And closed by telling the Court, “I want [the Defendant] to carry the weight of what he did for the rest of his life.”
Judge Hayes addressed the Defendant and told him, “You literally walked the victim to his death.” Judge Hayes explained that the victim must have known at some point that he would be killed and, as the Defendant walked the victim down a deserted Tijuana hillside, the victim “knew that he was going to die alone, left with the trash on the hill.” But the Defendant did not care. “You executed him, turned around, walked up that hill and you left.” Judge Hayes added that the victim’s parents “will live with that until they die.”
Judge Hayes closed by sentencing the Defendant to life, as required by statute, on the hostage-taking resulting in death counts, and 420 months (35 years), followed by five years’ Supervised Release for intentional killing while engaged in drug trafficking. All counts to run concurrent.
Assistant U. S. Attorneys Mario Peia and Alexandra F. Foster prosecuted this case.
DEFENDANT Case Number 21CR1683-WQH
Brian Alexis Patron Lopez Age: 24 Tijuana, Mexico
AKA Leobardo Garcia
SUMMARY OF CHARGE
Intentional Killing While Engaged in Drug Trafficking, in violation of 21 U.S.C. § 848(e)(1)(A)
Maximum Penalty: Life in Prison
Minimum Penalty: Twenty years in Prison
Hostage Taking Resulting in Death, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1203
Maximum Penalty: Life in Prison
Minimum Penalty: Life in Prison
Conspiracy to Take Hostages Resulting in Death, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1203.
Maximum Penalty: Life in Prison
Minimum Penalty: Life in Prison
INVESTIGATING AGENCY
Federal Bureau of Investigation
This case is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF San Diego comprises agents and officers from FBI, Homeland Security Investigations, DEA, ATF, U.S. Marshals, Department of Defense, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Naval Criminal Investigative Service, IRS Criminal Investigation, U.S. Coast Guard, U.S. Customs and Border Protection and Interpol, with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of California.
Mexican National Pleads Guilty to Illegally Reentering the United States and Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – A Mexican National pleaded guilty in federal court yesterday to illegal reentry and alien in possession of a firearm.
Israel Ramirez-Jaramillo, 33, pleaded guilty before Chief Magistrate Judge Willie J. Epps, Jr. to a federal indictment charging him with one count of illegal reentry and one count of alien in possession of a firearm.
According to the plea agreement filed in the case, on April 20, 2025, Osage Beach Police Department officers were called to an apartment building regarding a report of shots fired and a domestic disturbance. Upon their arrival, officers contacted the subjects reportedly engaged in the domestic disturbance. The investigation revealed that Ramirez-Jaramillo and his girlfriend had been at a party earlier in the evening and upon coming back to her apartment, got into an argument. Witness statements indicated that after a neighbor who had overheard the argument went outside to check on the girlfriend, Ramirez-Jaramillo retrieved a firearm from his vehicle, walked towards the neighbor’s apartment while making a threatening statement, and then discharged the firearm into the air.
Officers eventually located the firearm and loaded magazine in the toilet upon which Ramirez-Jaramillo was seated.
In his plea agreement, Ramirez-Jaramillo admitted that he was first removed from the United States on April 5, 2011, at San Ysidro, California. His initial order of removal was reinstated after he was apprehended by U.S. Border Patrol on April 13, 2011, near Cowlic, Arizona. Ramirez-Jaramillo was again removed from the United States to Mexico on July 13, 2011, at Brownsville, Texas.
Under federal statutes, Ramirez-Jaramillo is subject to a sentence of up to 15 years in federal prison without parole for the firearms offense, and up to two years on the illegal reentry offense. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Cecily L. Hicks. It was investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement – Homeland Security Investigations and Enforcement and Removal Operations, and Osage Beach Police Department.
Operation Take Back America
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
Mexican Felon Returns to Prison for Meth TraffickingRead the Press Release
SAN ANTONIO – A Mexican national was sentenced in a federal court in San Antonio to 155 months in prison for trafficking methamphetamine.
According to court documents, Cesar Sepulveda Esquivel aka Cesar Sepulveda Jimenez, 47, of Piedras Negras, was identified as a supplier for methamphetamine and cocaine in December 2022. A joint investigation resulted in multiple narcotics transactions between Jan. 11 and April 5, 2023.
Esquivel was arrested at his home on May 24, 2023, and was found to be in possession of a 45-caliber handgun, two ounces of marijuana, several grams of methamphetamine, and 10 grams of cocaine. He pleaded guilty on Aug. 13, 2025, and was sentenced Dec. 8 by U.S. District Judge David Ezra.
In 2008, Esquivel was convicted of possession with intent to distribute cocaine. He served 48 months in prison before being removed to Mexico. Esquivel illegally returned to the U.S. in 2022, continuing to distribute narcotics.
U.S. Attorney Justin R. Simmons for the Western District of Texas made the announcement.
The DEA and Texas Department of Public Safety Criminal Investigations Division investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Spears prosecuted the case.
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Mescalero Man Sentenced for AssaultRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Mescalero man was sentenced to 57 months in prison for assaulting a woman and causing severe injuries.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court records, on June 27, 2024, Myron Edward Blake, Jr., 40, an enrolled member of the Mescalero Apache Tribe, assaulted Jane Doe with a cinder block and a 2x6 board, causing substantial bodily injury.
Blake pleaded guilty to one count of assault resulting in substantial bodily injury. Upon his release from prison, Blake will be subject to three years of supervised release.
Acting U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison made the announcement today.
The Bureau of Indian Affairs investigated this case. The Assistant U.S. Attorney Silvia Delgado is prosecuting the case.
Management Company for Major Metro Detroit Auto Dealer to Pay $1.5 Million to Settle Fraud Allegations Regarding Paycheck Protection Program LoanRead the Press Release
DETROIT – United States Attorney Jerome F. Gorgon, Jr. announced today that LaFontaine Management, Inc., which is affiliated with the network of auto dealerships and other related entities in Michigan known as the LaFontaine Automotive Group, has agreed to pay $1,500,000 to settle allegations that it violated the False Claims Act by making false statements to the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) to obtain a Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan for which LaFontaine Management was ineligible.
Congress created the PPP in March 2020 to provide emergency financial assistance to American businesses suffering from the economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Under the PPP, eligible small businesses could receive forgivable loans guaranteed by the SBA. Regulations imposed various eligibility requirements for the PPP, including limitations on the number of employees and restrictions for certain types of businesses operating as franchises, such as auto dealerships. When applying for PPP loans, borrowers were required to certify the truthfulness and accuracy of all information provided in their loan applications.
In April 2020, LaFontaine Management obtained a first draw PPP loan for $1,000,000. The United States alleged that LaFontaine Management falsely certified it was eligible for its first draw loan and loan forgiveness, even though, together with its affiliates, it had more than 500 employees and was not operating as a franchise with a franchise identifier code from SBA, in violation of the PPP rules.
“Even though the PPP Program has ended, our mandate to investigate and redress the harm from fraudulent and improper PPP loans continues,” said U.S. Attorney Jerome F. Gorgon, Jr. for the Eastern District of Michigan. “We will continue to vigorously pursue allegations against companies and individuals who obtained COVID-19 relief funds that they didn’t deserve.”
“Investigations like this one reflect collaboration of the Small Business Administration, including SBA’s Office of General Counsel, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office, as well as the work of private individuals who uncover fraudulent conduct to recover funds obtained through fraud,” said SBA General Counsel Wendell Davis.
This civil settlement resolved a sealed lawsuit originally filed under the qui tam or whistleblower provisions of the False Claims Act, which permit private parties to file suit on behalf of the United States for false claims and share in a portion of the government’s recovery. The qui tam lawsuit has been unsealed and is captioned U.S. ex rel. Patricia Lesko and Bram Lesko v. Lafontaine Management, Inc., Case No. 2:23-cv-13130. The whistleblowers will receive a combined 15% of the settlement amount.
This matter was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Anthony Gentner from the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Michigan, with assistance from the SBA’s Office of General Counsel.
Individuals with information about allegations of fraud involving COVID-19 are encouraged 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
The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only; there has been no determination of liability.
Madison Man Sentenced for Possession with Intent to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – Willie Frank Hicks, 42, of Madison, Florida, has been sentenced to a 10-year term of imprisonment for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “Thanks to the excellent work of our state and federal law enforcement partners, my office has been able to deliver another successful prosecution that will keep this drug dealer off our streets. Meth has a devastating impact on the communities where it proliferates, but drug traffickers’ days are numbered in the Northern District of Florida as my office aggressively pursues prosecutions like these to keep our residents safe and our streets drug-free.”
Court documents reflect that on May 29, 2025, Madison County Sheriff’s Office deputies on patrol conducted a traffic stop of a vehicle occupied by the defendant. During the traffic stop, the defendant attempted to flee the scene on foot and was subsequently apprehended by deputies. After being detained, the defendant was found in possession of approximately one kilogram of methamphetamine.
“Methamphetamine is the second most common substance found in people who die from a drug poisoning,” said Drug Enforcement Administration Miami Field Division Special Agent in Charge Deanne L. Reuter. “With meth, addiction is all but guaranteed. Our agents will not stop until distributors of this poison have been brought to justice.”
The case involved a joint investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Madison County Sheriff’s Office, and Florida Highway Patrol. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Eric K Mountin and James McCain.
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.
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.
Lynn Man Pleads Guilty to Sex Trafficking Two WomenRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Lynn man pleaded guilty yesterday to benefitting financially from trafficking two women for sex and knowingly persuading and coercing both women to travel to another state to engage in prostitution.
Anthony Coleman, 36, pleaded guilty to two counts of benefitting financially from trafficking and one count of knowingly persuading and coercing a person to travel to engage in prostitution. U.S. District Court Judge Richard G. Stearns scheduled sentencing for March 11, 2026. Coleman was indicted by a federal grand jury in April 2024. He remains in federal custody.
Coleman targeted victims who had lost their jobs or homes during the COVID-19 pandemic shutdowns in March through August of 2020. Coleman had his victims move with him into a house in Lawrence, posted or controlled online commercial sex advertisements for them, provided them scripts to negotiate payment and terms with commercial sex buyers and transported his victims to hotels and other places to engage in commercial sex – requiring them to give him all the money they made. Coleman also regularly coerced and forced his victims to have sex with him.
Specifically, in March 2020, Coleman recruited one victim who had lost her job due to the pandemic. The victim would sometimes serve up to 10-16 clients per day, with Coleman taking all the profits. Coleman also took the victim to Florida on multiple occasions and had her engage in commercial sex in Florida. Coleman also physically abused the victim – one time holding the victim underwater and threatening to drown her.
Around March and April 2020, Coleman recruited a second victim, convincing her to come live with him after she was kicked out of her home by a relative following their disagreements around COVID-19 safety practices. The victim was unable to get a job because many businesses were closed due to COVID-19. The victim began engaging in commercial sex for Coleman and in May 2020, Coleman persuaded the victim to travel to California to engage in commercial sex. When she wanted to leave Coleman threatened the victim – telling her that if she left, he would hurt her mother and her sibling.
The charges of benefitting financially from trafficking provides for a sentence of up to life in prison, up to five years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. The charge of knowingly persuading and coercing a person to travel to engage in prostitution provides for a sentence of up to 20 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 Michael J. Krol, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in New England made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Massachusetts State Police and the Revere and Cambridge Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorney Torey B. Cummings of the Human Trafficking & Civil Rights Unit is prosecuting the case.
Local cell phone stores employee charged federally with child pornography, video voyeurism crimesRead the Press Release
COLUMBUS, Ohio – Federal agents arrested a Grove City man today who has been charged federally with child pornography and video voyeurism crimes.
Neil Brown, 41, worked at multiple cell phone stores in Columbus and allegedly captured nude photos and videos from customers’ phones.
A cyber tipline received in January 2025 led investigators to search Brown’s digital accounts and devices.
According to charging documents, Brown was employed by Cellular Sales and would take the phones of female customers and search through them for illicit content. Brown then allegedly created videos of the content on his own phone. To date, investigators have identified three victimized customers.
Investigators also discovered more than 75 images and videos of child pornography on Brown’s cell phone. Brown allegedly paid virtual currency on an app to receive videos of child sexual abuse material.
Brown was initially arrested locally and charged with pandering obscenity involving a minor. The federal charges have superseded the local ones, and the local charges have now been dismissed.
The defendant appeared in federal court today at 2:30pm and his case was unsealed at that time.
Dominick S. Gerace II, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio; Jason Cromartie, Special Agent in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Cincinnati Division; Franklin County Sheriff Dallas Baldwin and other members of the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force announced the charges. Assistant United States Attorney Emily Czerniejewski is representing the United States in this case.
A criminal complaint merely contains allegations, and defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.
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Law Enforcement Announces Drones Restricted Near Saturday's Army-Navy Game at M&T Bank StadiumRead the Press Release
Baltimore, Maryland – The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) – Baltimore Field Office announced today, there is a Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) in place for the Army-Navy Game taking place this Saturday, December 13, at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland. This area is considered a No-Drone Zone from 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Game time is set for 3 p.m.
Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the TFR with Special Agent in Charge Jimmy Paul, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) – Baltimore Field Office.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is implementing the TFR which extends for a two-nautical mile radius around the stadium and up to 2,000 feet above ground level. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland and FBI Baltimore Field Office are reminding the public to heed these restrictions, along with local and federal partners including the FAA, Federal Air Marshals Service, Naval Criminal Investigation Service, Department of the Army Criminal Investigation Division, United States Secret Service, Baltimore Police Department, and Maryland State Police. Law enforcement will enforce local and federal laws regarding Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), commonly known as drones.
“Operating a drone in restricted airspace is dangerous and against the law. An Unmanned Aircraft System operator could lose control of the drone, threatening the safety and lives of those below, or interfere with air operations around the stadium,” Hayes said. “As we have demonstrated in the past by bringing charges where appropriate, the office remains committed to investigating and prosecuting anyone who violates the no-drone zone in effect during the Army-Navy Game at M&T Bank Stadium this weekend.”“Illegally flying a drone is a safety and security risk to a large crowd,” said Paul. “The FBI is committed to working with our local, state and federal partners to ensure the Army-Navy game remains a special experience for all and to keep everyone safe as they enjoy America’s game.”
Members of the public are encouraged to report all suspicious activity. Law enforcement will actively monitor the airways for illegal UAS/drones and is committed to identifying, investigating, disrupting, and prosecuting the careless or criminal use of drones in the area.
There is a zero-tolerance policy regarding any UAS/drone use anywhere within the No Drone Zone established by the FAA. Anyone who attempts to fly a UAS/drone in any prohibited manner may be subject to arrest, prosecution, fines, and/or imprisonment.
Learn more about all federal UAS/drone regulations on the FAA website.
Las Cruces Man Pleads Guilty to Two Bank RobberiesRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Las Cruces man pleaded guilty in federal court to robbing two banks in February 2025.
According to court documents, on February 12, 2025, Daniel Guereca, 29, robbed the U.S. Bank in Los Lunas, New Mexico. Wearing a black hoodie and a white mask, Guereca passed a handwritten demand note to two tellers before fleeing the bank with at least $6,000 in cash. Guereca then escaped the scene with the assistance of Breanne Gallegos, 29, who was waiting in the getaway vehicle and who had written the demand note that Guereca used.
Eight days later, on February 20, 2025, Guereca robbed the PNC Bank in Las Cruces, New Mexico. Wearing a green hat, white mask, black hoodie, Adidas jacket, and sunglasses, Guereca again passed a handwritten note, claiming he was armed and demanding $20,000. The teller turned over $3,313 before Guereca fled the bank, leaving the demand note behind. Guereca then escaped the scene with the assistance of, Aarika Cuevas, 35, who was waiting in the getaway vehicle, who had written the demand note that Guereca used for this second bank robbery, and who had entered PNC bank a few minutes before the robbery to assess the feasibility of robbing the bank.
Fingerprint analysis of the demand note recovered from the PNC Bank positively identified Guereca as the robber, and surveillance footage from both incidents showed a suspect matching his height and build.
Photos from US Bank Robbery on Feb. 12, 2025 Photos from PNC Bank Robbery on Feb. 20, 2025Guereca pleaded guilty to bank robbery and faces up to 20 years in federal prison. Upon his release from prison, Guereca will be subject to three years of supervised release.
Gallegos pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit bank robbery and faces up to five years in federal prison. Upon her release from prison, Gallegos will be subject to three years of supervised release. Cuevas is currently charged with one count of conspiracy to commit bank robbery and likewise faces up to five years in federal prison if convicted.
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 Las Cruces Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with the assistance of the Las Cruces Police Department, the Los Lunas Police Department, and the Valencia County Sheriff's Office. Criminal Chief Richard Williams and Assistant U.S. Attorney Grant B. Gardner are prosecuting the cases.
Kyle Man Found Guilty of Assault Following Federal Jury TrialRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a jury has convicted Oliver Brown Bull, age 37, of Kyle, South Dakota, of Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury following a 3-day jury trial in federal district court in Rapid City. The verdict was returned on December 4, 2025.
The charges carry a maximum penalty of ten years in custody and/or a $250,000 fine, three years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
Brown Bull was indicted by a federal grand jury in March 2025, for two counts of Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury and one count of Assault with a Dangerous Weapon. At the conclusion of a federal jury trial, he was found guilty of assaulting one victim and not guilty of assaulting another victim.
On January 31, 2025, in the Pine Ridge Reservation, Brown Bull assaulted another man by pushing him to the ground and punching him multiple times in the face. Brown Bull then kicked the victim in the face. As a result, the victim suffered several injuries, including a broken eye socket, a laceration around his eye, two broken bones in his nose, and severe bruising. At the time of trial, the victim was still suffering from the assault, including continued pain and disfigurement.
This matter was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office because the Major Crimes Act, a federal statute, mandates that certain violent crimes alleged to have occurred in Indian country be prosecuted in Federal court as opposed to State court.
This case was investigated by the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety Criminal Investigations Division. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Schroeder prosecuted the case.
A presentence investigation was ordered, and a sentencing date will be set. In the interim, Brown Bull was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Justice Department Sues Minneapolis Public Schools for Racial Discrimination Against TeachersRead the Press Release
Yesterday, the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division filed a lawsuit against Minneapolis Public Schools (MPS) over MPS’ collective bargaining agreement (CBA) with a teachers’ union which preferences teachers who are members of an “underrepresented population” in employment decisions and prioritizes “Black Men Teach Fellows” for certain employment benefits, terms, and conditions.
“Discrimination is unacceptable in all forms, especially when it comes to hiring decisions,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “Our public education system in Minnesota and across the country must be a bastion of merit and equal opportunity — not DEI.”
“Employers may not provide more favorable terms and conditions of employment based on an employee’s race and sex,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “The Department of Justice will vigorously pursue employers who deny their employees equal opportunities and benefits by classifying and limiting them based on their race, color, national origin, or sex.”
The lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Minnesota, notes that MPS seeks to increase their “BIPOC staffing . . . to at least 40% by 2026,” and that by 2026–2027, at least “54.3 %” of new teacher hires “identify as Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC).” MPS’ CBA classifies teachers for involuntary reassignment, layoff, and reinstatement depending on whether the teacher is a member of an “underrepresented population.” The United States’ complaint further alleges that MPS awards members of a third-party group organization called “Black Men Teach Fellows” multiple benefits, terms, and conditions of employment not available to female or non-black teachers, in violation of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended.
The complaint asks the court to declare that MPS discriminates against teachers based on their race, color, national origin, and sex, in violation of Title VII, and to enter a permanent injunction against MPS stopping them from implementing similar discriminatory provisions in a future CBA.
This case stems from an investigation launched by the Employment Litigation Section of the Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division.
You can view the complaint here.
Jury finds Billings man guilty of child sexual abuse on the Crow Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
BILLINGS – A Billings man who sexually assaulted a child on the Crow Indian Reservation was found guilty by a federal jury today, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Following a 1.5-day trial, Matthew Paul Stopsatprettyplaces, 49, was found guilty of abusive sexual contact of a child. Stopsatprettyplaces faces up to life in prison, a $250,000 fine, and 5 years to a lifetime of supervised release.
U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided and will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing was set for April 8, 2026.
The government alleged in court documents and at trial that in 2019, Stopsatprettyplaces gave 9-year-old Jane Doe a ride to a family member’s residence in Hardin. While on the way, he took advantage of Jane Doe while she was asleep. He first put his hands on Jane Doe’s thighs which woke Jane Doe up. But Stopsatprettyplaces continued the assault by putting his hand on her inner thighs and then under Jane Doe’s shirt and fondling her bare breasts. On a subsequent occasion at Jane Doe’s house in Hardin, Stopsatprettyplaces assaulted 10-year-old Jane Doe again by kissing her all over and fondling her over her clothes.
Jane Doe disclosed the sexual abuse a few years later to a therapist, who mandatorily reported to the child abuse hotline, which triggered an immediate investigation by the FBI.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kelsey Hendricks and Paul Vestal prosecuted the case. The investigation was conducted by the FBI.
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Jury Finds Convicted Sex Offender Guilty of Assaulting a Federal OfficerRead the Press Release
ST. PAUL – Roberto Carlos Munoz-Guatemala, age 40, was found guilty today in U.S. District Court of Assault on a Federal Officer with a Dangerous and Deadly Weapon and Causing Bodily Injury, announced U.S. Attorney Daniel N. Rosen.
On June 17, 2025, law enforcement officers attempted to arrest Munoz-Guatemala, a convicted sex offender, on an immigration order. Agents made a traffic stop of Munoz-Guatemala. The defendant was uncooperative and refused to follow directions. After warning Munoz-Guatemala several times, an agent broke the back window so that he could open the vehicle from the inside. Munoz-Guatemala then accelerated his car. As he sped away, the agent’s arm became trapped between the seat and the car frame. Munoz-Guatemala dragged the federal agent for more than 100 yards, while weaving back and forth in an attempt to shake the agent from the car. The agent was eventually jarred free from the car but suffered significant injuries to his arms and hand.
Munoz-Guatemala is illegally present in the United States. In December 2022, Munoz-Guatemala was convicted in Hennepin County of repeatedly sexually abusing a minor.
The jury found Munoz-Guatemala guilty on December 10, 2025, following a three-day trial before U.S. District Judge Jeffrey M. Bryan. The jury found that Munoz-Guatemala assaulted the agent with a deadly or dangerous weapon, and that in doing so Munoz-Guatemala caused the agent bodily injury.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Enforcement and Removal Operations, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Bloomington Police Department.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Raphael B. Coburn and Thomas Calhoun-Lopez.
Indian national sentenced to federal prison for scamming elderly residentsRead the Press Release
EAST ST. LOUIS, Ill. – A district judge sentenced an Indian national to 90 months in federal prison for his involvement in an imposter scheme to defraud 11 identified victims, including elderly residents from Edwardsville and Effingham, Illinois, and St. Louis, Missouri.
Ligneshkumar H. Patel, 38, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and financial institution fraud and two counts of wire fraud. The judge ordered him to pay more than $2 million in restitution.
“Imposter scams are international conspiracies often using U.S.-based money mules to meet victims in person to take their money,” said U.S. Attorney Steven D. Weinhoeft. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecutes these fraudsters aggressively, and anyone who targets elderly victims will face certain justice.”
An imposter scam occurs when a scammer lies to victims and impersonates law enforcement or a federal official to defraud people into giving them money, access to financial accounts or other personal information. In this case, Patel’s conspirators convinced the victims they needed to hand over their assets for protection.
According to court documents, Patel drove to the residences of at least 11 elderly victims in five states to steal their assets totaling $2,231,216.99. Patel worked within a major conspiracy that included at least 85 additional victims with an intended loss of more than $6.9 million.
“This case highlights the serious consequences for individuals who prey on the elderly through sophisticated fraud schemes,” said Matthew J. Scarpino, special agent in charge of HSI Chicago. “HSI remains dedicated to protecting our communities from financial crimes and ensuring that those responsible are prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”
Patel acted as a courier or “money mule,” and admitted to picking up money and gold from victims in Illinois, Missouri, Iowa, Michigan and Wisconsin to fuel the conspiracy.
Homeland Security Investigations and the Edwardsville Police Department contributed to the investigation, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Peter Reed prosecuted the case.
Illegal Immigrant Sentenced to Time Served in PrisonRead the Press Release
MOBILE, AL – A Honduran national was sentenced today to time served in prison for illegally reentering the United States after previously having been deported.
According to court documents, Jhostin Nunez-Murcia, 36, was the driver of a vehicle stopped by the Mobile County Sheriff’s Office on September 12, 2025, for a traffic violation. Mobile County deputies suspected that Nunez-Murcia was not a United States citizen, so they contacted law enforcement personnel with U.S. Border Patrol. A Border Patrol agent was able to determine that Nunez-Murcia had previously been removed from the United States in 2012.
At sentencing, U.S. District Judge Terry F. Moorer imposed a time-served sentence of incarceration and a one-year term of supervised release upon his release. Upon his release from prison, Nunez-Murcia is to be referred to immigration officials for deportation proceedings. Nunez-Murcia was ordered to pay $100 in special assessments.
U.S. Attorney Sean P. Costello of the Southern District of Alabama made the announcement.
The Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, Immigrations and Customs Enforcement, and the Mobile County Sheriff’s Department investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica S. Terrill prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States.
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.
Illegal Alien Sentenced to Prison for Illegal Re-entry after DeportationRead the Press Release
ANNISTON, Ala. – A native of Mexico has been sentenced for illegally re-entering the U.S. after deportation, announced U.S. Attorney Prim F. Escalona.
United States District Judge Corey L. Maze sentenced Maximiliano Pablo-Cinto, 41, a citizen of Guatemala, to 18 months in prison. Pablo-Cinto pleaded guilty to illegal re-entry after deportation.
According to the plea agreement, Pablo-Cinto was previously convicted on November 27, 2017, in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Alabama for being a felon in possession of a firearm and sentenced to 45 months in prison. On February 7, 2019, Pablo-Cinto was removed from the United States. He was then arrested on February 7, 2025, by the Albertville Police Department after he failed to appear in court on charges for fraud and identity theft in Albertville, Alabama. The Immigration and Customs Enforcement Deportation Removal Office (ICE/ERO) was notified of the arrest and Pablo-Cinto was later transferred into federal custody.
Homeland Security Investigations investigated the case along with the Albertville Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney R. Leann White prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
Historic Homeland Security Task Force New York Targets Foreign Terrorists, Cartel Members, and Criminal Organizations with Ties to Big AppleRead the Press Release
United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Jay Clayton, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, Joseph Nocella, Jr., Assistant Director in Charge of the New York Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”), Christopher G. Raia, Special Agent in Charge of the New York Field Office of Homeland Security Investigations (“HSI”), Ricky J. Patel, Special Agent in Charge of the New York Field Office of Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation (“IRS-CI”), Harry T. Chavis, Jr., and Commissioner of the New York City Police Department (“NYPD”), Jessica S. Tisch, joined federal partners on Dec. 10 to announce the establishment of the Homeland Security Task Force (“HSTF”) New York.
Co-led by HSI and the FBI, the HSTF New York will serve as a first-of-its-kind task force that utilizes a whole-of-government approach to identify, disrupt and dismantle criminal cartels, foreign gangs, and transnational criminal organizations (“TCOs”) in New York and throughout the United States.
“We hear what New Yorkers want: they want our parks, schools, housing developments, subways, and streets to be safe and feel safe,” said U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton. “Together with our federal partners and the NYPD, the Southern District is committed to delivering safe streets and a better quality of life for all New Yorkers. In the last year, we have collectively investigated and charged: members of Tren de Aragua and many other brutally violent gangs with murders, sex trafficking, and narcotics distribution; over a dozen narco-terrorists and members of state-sponsored drug cartels with narcotics distribution; foreign nationals with fentanyl distribution; and most recently, 18 defendants in a wide narcotics sweep aimed at cleaning up Washington Square Park. The women and men of the SDNY are actively engaged in similar matters and are committed to making New York safer each and every day.”
“The historic collaboration of this Task Force strengthens the mission to protect our citizens by standing between our Districts and the transnational criminal organizations, human smugglers, and cybercriminals who target us with drug trafficking, violence, and economic harm,” said U.S. Attorney Joseph Nocella, Jr.
“FBI New York proudly stands alongside our federal, state, and local partners to co-lead with HSI New York the New York Homeland Security Task Force,” said FBI Assistant Director in Charge Christopher G. Raia. “By bringing the full force of the federal government, this task force will dismantle designated terrorist enterprises who are responsible for trafficking lethal drugs and weapons into our communities. Through unified partnership, we will continue to defend the homeland from evolving threats, safeguard critical infrastructure, and strengthen national resilience.”
“The people of this city deserve to know that special agents and investigators at every level of law enforcement are standing side-by-side and collaborating under one roof, so that New Yorkers may go about their lives safely and comfortably,” said HSI Special Agent in Charge Ricky J. Patel. “The HSTF New York and HSI, as its co-leader, are driving coordinated investigations that strike at the heart of criminal networks and schemes both here and abroad. With unity as our strength and coordination as our advantage, we will outpace, outsmart, and outmaneuver transnational criminal organizations at every turn.”
“We are proud to have entered into this agreement with the New York Homeland Security Task Force as a partner and as the third agency on the Executive Committee,” said IRS-CI Special Agent in Charge Harry T. Chavis, Jr. “Whether it is money laundering, Bank Secrecy Act violations, a complex financial fraud, or leveraging our tax authority, we will continue working in tandem with all the agencies under the HSTF umbrella to take criminals off the street and dismantle transnational criminal organizations. Special Agents with IRS Criminal Investigation have long been known for lending their financial and tax expertise to complex investigations. With this agreement, our special agents will continue to proactively leverage our knowledge and unique skills for the betterment of this new team.”
The mission of the HSTF is to identify and target for prosecution transnational criminal organizations engaged in diverse criminal schemes involving a myriad of federal violations both within the United States and throughout the world. Violations include, but are not limited to drug trafficking, money laundering, weapons trafficking, human trafficking, alien smuggling, homicide, extortion, kidnapping, weapons trafficking, and other TCO- related violations where there is or may be a federal investigative interest.
HSTF New York will primarily focus on investigating TCO Foreign Terrorist Organizations (“FTOs”), and is working towards the disruption and full dismantlement of these criminal organizations, combining the full strength of the investigative and intelligence forces of the U.S. government. One key component of the HSTF is the ability to combine information from our intelligence community partners with our law enforcement investigations to increase our effectiveness in combatting and dismantling the threat.
This task force model allows state, local, and federal law enforcement to extend our reach, share intelligence in real time, and target these threats at every level.
HSTF New York is comprised of law enforcement personnel from state and local law enforcement, including the NYPD, and federal entities from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, the Department of Justice, the Department of Treasury, the Department of State, the Department of War, the Office of the Director of National Intelligence, and the Department of Labor. Participating agencies include the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; Diplomatic Security Service; the Drug Enforcement Administration; the New York City Police Department (NYPD); U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services; U.S. Coast Guard; U.S. Customs and Border Protection; U.S. Marshals Service – Eastern District of New York; U.S. Marshals Service – Southern District of New York; U.S. Postal Inspection Service; and the U.S. Secret Service.
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More About the Homeland Security Task Force (“HSTF”)
Homeland Security Task Forces (“HSTFs”) nationwide arrested more than 3,200 foreign terrorists, narcotraffickers, and gangbangers, and seized more than 91 metric tons of narcotics off American streets between August 25 and October 7 alone.
Prior to the creation of HSTF, the federal government had 1,000 competing task forces focused on transnational criminal organizations. Since January, HSTF has established a new system and force in all 50 states and U.S. territories while coordinating and implementing operations with federal, state, local, tribal, and territorial law enforcement partners. Department of War and Intelligence Community partners are also providing HSTF with logistics, intelligence, and operational support.
On August 25, HSTF officially launched its effort to protect the Homeland with a September Surge encompassing 400 operations nationwide. In just 43 days, HSTF’s nationwide operations resulted in 3,266 arrests and seizures including:
- 1,041 Sinaloa members,
- 856 Cartel Jalisco Nuevo Genaracion (“CJNG”) members,
- 641 MS-13 members,
- 456 Tren de Aragua members,
- 1,067 weapons
- More than $3,250,000 in currency
- Approximately 91 metric tons of narcotics
The HSTF will absorb several key components of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (“OCDETF”), which has now been retired, to serve as the foundation of the HSTFs, to include critical databases previously utilized by OCDETF, OCDETF Strike Force infrastructure, partnerships, and funding.
HSTFs differ from Safe Street Task Forces (“SSTF”) by focusing on combating multijurisdictional TCOs operating across national borders, while the SSTF will continue to focus on targeting domestic gangs and violence reduction efforts in partnership with state and local law enforcement. When feasible, SSTF investigations could be enhanced by HSTF resources for maximum impact.
HSTFs differ from Joint Terrorism Task Forces (“JTTF”) by focusing on combating multijurisdictional cartel and international gang TCOs operating across national borders with the ultimate goal to disrupt and dismantle these organizations through prosecution while JTTF will continue to focus on protecting the homeland from foreign and domestic, ideological-based terrorism.
High-Level Colombian Cocaine Trafficker Sentenced to 14 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
A Colombian national was sentenced yesterday to 14 years in prison for conspiring to send more than 450 kilograms of cocaine into the United States.
According to court documents, Alejandro Parra Bustamante, 45, was a high-level member of the Shottas and Clan de Bustamante, the leading drug trafficking organizations operating out of Buenaventura, Colombia, one the country’s main seaports and a primary hub for cocaine being transported out of Colombia to Central America, Mexico, and the United States. Between around March 2019 and March 2021, Parra Bustamante led a conspiracy to sell 500 to 1,000 kilograms of cocaine to U.S. buyers during which approximately 15 kilograms of cocaine samples were sent to Tucson, Arizona.
Parra Bustamante was indicted in May 2021 and extradited to the United States in August 2023. Parra Bustamante pleaded guilty to one count of cocaine trafficking conspiracy on Feb. 6 before a federal judge in the District of Columbia. Jorge Eliecer Florez Alvarez, Parra Bustamante’s co-conspirator, was sentenced to 102 months’ imprisonment on Oct. 16.
Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division and Acting Special Agent in Charge Ray Rede for Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations (ICE-HSI) in Arizona made the announcement.
HSI investigated the case.
Trial Attorneys Colleen King and Roger Polack of the Criminal Division’s Money Laundering, Narcotics and Forfeiture Section prosecuted the case. The Criminal Division’s Office of International Affairs worked with law enforcement partners in Colombia to secure the arrest and extradition of Parra Bustamante.
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 Homeland Security Task Force and Project Safe Neighborhoods.
Henrico felon sentenced to over three years in prison for unlawfully possessing a firearmRead the Press Release
RICHMOND, Va. – A Henrico man was sentenced today to three years and six months in prison for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
According to court documents, On Oct. 16, 2024, in Whitcomb Court, a Richmond Police officer observed Barion Quinto Wright, 25, who upon seeing the officer turned in the other direction and fled. As the officer pursued him, Wright removed a firearm from the pocket of his hoodie and tossed it. After the officer detained Wright, he returned to and recovered the firearm, which was loaded with a round in the chamber and equipped with an extended, 24-round magazine. The firearm had been reported lost or missing on Feb. 23, 2024.
At the time of his arrest, Wright had been convicted previously of possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance (twice), possessing a firearm while possessing a controlled substance, and carrying a concealed weapon. As a previously convicted felon, Wright cannot legally possess firearms or ammunition.
“Rather than embrace the opportunities afforded him to peacefully return to society, Barion Wright chose once again to acquire and carry a firearm, further endangering our communities,” said U.S. Attorney Lindsey Halligan. “We will not allow convicted criminals to arm themselves and continue to menace our families and neighborhoods.”
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Richmond Police Department investigated this case.
Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric Gilliland, an Assistant Attorney General with the Virginia Attorney General’s Office, prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:25-cr-33.
Hampton Roads heroin trafficker sentenced to over 23 years in prisonRead the Press Release
NORFOLK, Va. – Two Hampton Roads drug traffickers were sentenced to prison for convictions relating to their trafficking of heroin and other narcotics.
“This case demonstrates the effective partnerships between our federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies,” said Lindsey Halligan, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia. “We will continue to collaborate in these multi-agency investigations to attain successful prosecutions to remove dangerous drugs and the criminals who distribute them from our communities.”
“The DEA's foremost mission is to safeguard American lives by addressing the ongoing fentanyl crisis and the drug-related violence undermining our communities and families,” stated DEA Washington Division Special Agent in Charge Christopher Goumenis. “Individuals like Green and Freeman have engaged in violent drug trafficking, spreading poisons such as fentanyl and heroin in the Hampton Roads area. Their sentencing sends a strong signal that we are committed to the relentless pursuit of eliminating gang violence and the illegal drug trade in our communities.”
“Virginia State Police is grateful for the combined efforts in securing this important conviction. We are always proud to work with our federal and local partners and will continue to do so,” said Col. Matthew D. Hanley, Superintendent of Virginia State Police. “The safety of the public is our top priority and that includes doing all we can to ensure these dangerous drugs and drug traffickers are off of Virginia’s streets."
According to court documents, during controlled transactions conducted by law enforcement in Hampton on March 28 and April 12, 2024, Sean Maurice Green, aka Nitty, 41, of Newport News, distributed a total of over 51 grams of a mixture of heroin and fentanyl.
On July 24, 2023, Quincy Lawrence Freeman, aka Diddy or Q, 49, of Brooklyn, New York, delivered $130,780 in illegal drug proceeds to a confidential source at a gas station in Norfolk.
On Oct. 16, 2024, Green travelled to Freeman’s apartment in Virginia Beach and obtained 149.64 grams of a mixture of heroin and fentanyl from Freeman. Green then transported the drugs to Newport News where he intended to distribute them. When law enforcement conducted a stop of Green’s vehicle for an expired registration, a narcotics canine alerted to the odor of narcotics and the vehicle was searched. An investigator located the heroin and fentanyl under the driver's seat. During a search incident to his arrest, police recovered approximately $800 in cash from Green.
On Oct. 17, 2024, investigators searched Freeman’s apartment. As they entered the apartment, Freeman attempted to flush narcotics down a toilet. Officers recovered from the toilet 180.10 grams of a substance containing heroin, methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA, or “ecstasy"), and fentanyl. During the search of the apartment, investigators recovered 1,810.5 grams of cocaine, 989 grams of heroin, Xylazine, marijuana, two firearms, a hydraulic kilogram press, an electronic money counting machine, and approximately $13,330 in cash.
Green pled guilty on June 11 to possession with intent to distribute heroin. On Nov. 24 he was sentenced to three years in prison.
Freeman pled guilty on July 22 to possession with intent to distribute heroin and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. He was sentenced today to 23 years and four months in prison.
The Drug Enforcement Administration, Virginia State Police, U.S. Marshals Service, Homeland Security Investigations, Hampton Police Department, and Virginia Beach Police investigated this case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Darryl J. Mitchell prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:25-cr-38.
Hinds County Man Sentenced for Two Counts of Attempted Production of Child Sex Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
Jackson, MS –Joe Lewis, a resident of Hinds County, Mississippi was sentenced to 292 months in federal prison for two counts of Attempted Production of Child Pornography. After release from prison, Lewis will be on supervised release for 10 years and must register as a sex offender.
According to court documents, Joe Lewis, 55, under the pretense of mentoring middle school aged boys, would send money to his victims via Cash App and demand that victims expose their pubic areas to him during FaceTime sessions that Lewis recorded.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation Jackson ‘s Office (“FBI”) was contacted by the Jackson Police Department (“JPD”) for assistance in investigating Joe Lewis and identifying other victims. JPD’s investigation began when the mother of one of the minors reported to JPD that an older man had being sending her son money via Cash App. The FBI forensically examined Lewis’ electronic devices and found that Lewis had also been sending obscene sexually explicit abuse materials to young boys in and around Jackson. During the course of the investigation the FBI Jackson was able to locate other minor victims.
“Those who hurt and endanger our children by committing these despicable crimes will not be tolerated and will be held accountable”, said Baxter Kruger, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Mississippi. “This lengthy sentence ensures this defendant can never again hurt and abuse children. My office is committed to working with the FBI, Jackson Police Department, and other state and local law enforcement agencies to help protect children.”
FBI Special Agent in Charge Rob Eikhoff said, “Those who prey on minors shatter their innocence. Protecting children and holding vile predators, like Joe Lewis, accountable is one of the FBI’s highest priorities. FBI Jackson, the United States Attorney’s Office and the Jackson Police Department stand together to protect our children and ensure justice is served for all who seek to harm them.”
This case was brought as part of a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Glenda R. Haynes prosecuted the case.
Griffin man charged with dogfighting and CARES Act fraudRead the Press Release
NEWNAN, Ga. - Norman Dixson has been arraigned on federal charges of sponsoring and exhibiting a dog in an animal fighting venture, promoting an animal fighting venture, animal crushing, and wire fraud.
“The indictment alleges that Dixson viciously abused dogs and repeatedly lied to obtain COVID relief funds,” said U.S. Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg. “This depraved and deceitful conduct cannot be tolerated and commands aggressive prosecution.”
“An important part of the mission of the Office of Inspector General is to investigate allegations of fraud involving the unemployment insurance program. This collaborative investigative effort with our federal partners reaffirms our commitment to investigate these types of allegations,” said Mathew Broadhurst, Special Agent-in-Charge, Southeast Region, U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General.
According to U.S. Attorney Hertzberg, the charges, and other information presented in court: Dixson is accused of sponsoring and exhibiting dogs in animal fighting ventures on seven occasions. He is also accused of promoting an animal fighting venture and purposefully suffocating a dog.
In addition to the dogfighting- and animal abuse-related offenses, Dixson was charged with defrauding the Small Business Administration and a commercial lender by corruptly obtaining Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans. The indictment alleges, among other untruths, that Dixson submitted a false tax form when obtaining the PPP loans and then lied again when seeking forgiveness for the PPP loans he received.
Finally, Dixson was charged with conducting Unemployment Insurance (UI) fraud by submitting fraudulent claims to the Indiana Department of Workforce Development. The indictment alleges that, to steal UI benefits, Dixson filed false and fraudulent applications for UI benefits on behalf of himself and others.
Norman Dixson, 34, of Griffin, Ga., was arraigned on December 4, 2025, before U.S. Magistrate Judge Russell G. Vineyard. He was indicted by a federal grand jury on October 28, 2025.
Members of the public are reminded that the indictment only contains charges. The defendant is presumed innocent of the charges, and it will be the government’s burden to prove the defendant’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.
This case is being investigated by the U.S. Department of Agriculture - Office of Inspector General and the U.S. Department of Labor - Office of Inspector General.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Alex Sistla and Samir Kaushal are prosecuting the case.
On May 17, 2021, the Attorney General established the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force to marshal the resources of the Department of Justice in partnership with agencies across government to enhance efforts to combat and prevent pandemic-related fraud. The Task Force bolsters efforts to investigate and prosecute the most culpable domestic and international criminal actors and assists agencies tasked with administering relief programs to prevent fraud by, among other methods, augmenting and incorporating existing coordination mechanisms, identifying resources and techniques to uncover fraudulent actors and their schemes, and sharing and harnessing information and insights gained from prior enforcement efforts. For more information on the Department’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus
Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can 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.
For further information please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office at [email protected] or (404) 581-6016. The Internet address for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia is http://www.justice.gov/usao-ndga.
Grand Jury Returns IndictmentsRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. - A federal grand jury in the Western District of Wisconsin, sitting in Madison, returned the following indictments today. You are advised that a charge is merely an accusation, and a person named as defendant in an indictment is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Wausau Man Charged with Possessing Child Pornography
Brett Hart, 23, Wausau, Wisconsin, is charged with possessing child pornography. The indictment alleges that on December 2, 2025, Hart possessed a hard drive containing child pornography.
If convicted, Hart faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison.
The charge against him is the result of an investigation conducted by the FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Louis Glinzak and Elizabeth Altman are handling the case.
Lac Du Flambeau Man Charged with Straw Purchasing Firearm
Alizay Doss, 27, Lac du Flambeau, Wisconsin, is charged with making a false statement during the purchase of a firearm. The indictment alleges that on March 4, 2025, Doss made a false statement to a licensed firearm dealer while purchasing a firearm. Specifically, he represented that he was the actual buyer of the firearm when in fact he purchased the firearm for another individual.
If convicted, Doss faces a maximum penalty of 5 years in prison.
The charges against Doss are the result of an investigation conducted by the Vilas County Sheriff’s Office, Lac du Flambeau Police Department, and the ATF Madison Crime Gun Task Force. The ATF Madison Crime Gun Task Force is comprised of federal agents from ATF as well as state and local agents throughout the Western District of Wisconsin. Assistant U.S. Attorney Taylor L. Kraus is handling the case.
Madison Man Charged with Illegally Possessing Firearm
Billy D. Shell, Jr., 28, Madison, Wisconsin, is charged with possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. The indictment alleges that on April 12, 2025, Shell possessed a 9mm handgun.
If convicted, Shell faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison.
The charge against him is the result of an investigation conducted by the Madison Police Department and the ATF Madison Crime Gun Task Force.
Madison Man Charged with Illegally Possessing Ammunition and Unregistered Silencers as a Convicted Felon
Christopher Perrote, 39, Madison, Wisconsin, is charged with being a felon in possession of ammunition and possessing unregistered silencers. The indictment alleges that on August 27, 2024, Perrote possessed ammunition and two unregistered silencers after having been previously convicted of a felony offense.
If convicted, Perrote faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison on the ammunition charges, and 10 years in prison on the silencer charges.
The charges against him are the result of an investigation conducted by the Madison Police Department, the FBI, and the ATF Madison Crime Gun Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Corey Stephan is handling the case.
Fitchburg Man Charged with Illegally Possessing Firearms and Ammunition
Owen Roberson, 20, Fitchburg, Wisconsin, is charged with possessing firearms and ammunition as a felon. The indictment alleges that on September 29, 2025, Roberson possessed a Glock 21 firearm loaded with .45 caliber ammunition. The indictment further alleges that on September 28, 2025, Roberson possessed an Anderson Manufacturing AM 15 rifle.
If convicted, Roberson faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison.
The charges against him are the result of an investigation conducted by the Fitchburg Police Department and the ATF Madison Crime Gun Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Taylor L. Kraus is handling the case.
The firearms cases in the press release are part of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the U.S. Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
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Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Investment Company Charged in Multi-Million Dollar Fraud SchemesRead the Press Release
Earlier today in federal court in Brooklyn, a 21-count indictment was unsealed charging Nathan Gauvin, also known as “defigray” and “gray,” a citizen of Canada with conspiracy to commit securities fraud and wire fraud, securities fraud, wire fraud, investment advisor fraud, bank fraud, money laundering, obstruction of justice and aggravated identity theft. The charges arise from Gauvin’s roles in defrauding hundreds of investors in a web-based investment company called Gray Digital Capital Management Inc. (Gray Digital) and in a subsequent scheme to defraud a New York-based financial technology company to obtain credit from two banks insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (“FDIC”). In total, Gauvin fraudulently raised more than $42 million from Gray Digital investors and obtained more than $800,000 in credit from lenders. Gauvin was arrested today in England on a provisional arrest warrant issued from the Eastern District of New York.
Joseph Nocella, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, Christopher G. Raia, Assistant Director in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, New York Field Office (FBI), and Harry T. Chavis, Jr., Special Agent in Charge, Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation, New York (IRS-CI) announced the indictment.
“As alleged, the defendant’s investment company was a house of cards constructed with investor funds and held together with lies. When his house of cards collapsed, Gauvin doubled down by obstructing the regulator’s investigation and trying to defraud a lender. Gauvin’s run of lies ends today,” stated United States Attorney Nocella. “This Office remains deeply committed to protecting the investing public and the integrity of financial markets. We will continue to relentlessly pursue justice for victims of financial fraud.”
Mr. Nocella expressed his appreciation to the Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs and the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission’s (SEC) Fort Worth Regional Office for their valuable assistance on the case.
“Nathan Gauvin allegedly lied about his background, qualifications and purported investment returns to raise at least $42 million from interested investors of his fund. Later, after being notified of a federal investigation into his activities,” stated FBI Assistant Director in Charge Raia. “Gauvin allegedly engaged in a separate scheme, using falsified records, to induce a company to lend him an addition $1.5 million. The FBI remains dedicated to dismantling any smoke and mirrors act targeting unsuspecting victims for financial enrichment.”
“Today’s indictment reflects IRS Criminal Investigation Special Agents continued resolve to investigate and prosecute those who engage in financial crimes,” stated IRS-CI New York Special Agent in Charge Chavis. “IRS-CI Special Agents are committed to working with our law enforcement partners to aggressively uncover and disrupt criminals who conspire to exploit our financial markets.”
As alleged in the indictment, between approximately May 2022 and October 2024, Gauvin and others defrauded investors in Gray Digital and Gray Digital’s flagship fund, the Gray Fund. The Gray Fund purported to offer investors and prospective investors an investment strategy “that blends TradFi (traditional finance) and DeFi (decentralized finance).” Gauvin, who, according to the company’s website and public statements, was Gray Digital’s founder and Chief Executive Officer, lied to investors about his background and experience, as well as Gray Digital’s assets and returns, including by providing investors with fraudulent documents intended to verify Gray Digital’s assets under management and performance. For example, Gauvin and Gray Digital made false claims that the Gray Fund had a cumulative return since inception of 4,384%, and that Gray Digital’s holdings had been verified by an audit firm when, in reality, the asset attestations were based on doctored bank and brokerage statements provided by Gauvin and others to the audit firm and not independently verified. Gauvin raised at least $42 million from investors based on these false claims, including investors in the Eastern District of New York. Rather than invest the funds he raised as represented, Gauvin used most investor deposits to pay investor withdrawals and misappropriated millions of dollars in investor funds, which he spent on luxury goods, jewelry and his personal credit card bills. Gauvin estimated losses from the Gray Digital fraud to be approximately $20 million.
After Gray Digital collapsed in 2024, Gauvin obstructed and attempted to obstruct a SEC investigation into the fraud by providing the SEC with fraudulent documents.
The indictment further alleges that after defrauding Gray Digital’s investors and obstructing the SEC’s investigation, Gauvin undertook yet another fraudulent scheme. Between approximately May 2025 and June 2025, Gauvin and others provided fraudulent bank statements and other false information to a New York-based financial technology company (“FinTech Company-1”) to obtain approximately $800,000 in credit from two FDIC-insured banks. Gauvin used the proceeds to pay personal expenses, including to a private members-only social club in London, England.
The charges in the indictment are allegations and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
If you believe that you or someone you know was victimized by Gauvin, please contact the FBI at http://fbi.gov/graydigitalfraud
The government’s case is being handled by Office’s Business and Securities Fraud Section. Assistant United States Attorneys Nick M. Axelrod and Jessica K. Weigel are in charge of the prosecution with assistance from Paralegal Specialist Liam McNett.
The Defendant:
NATHAN GAUVIN
Age: 26
CanadaE.D.N.Y. Docket No. 25-CR-357 (LDH)
gauvin_unsealed_indictment.pdfFormer Youth Pastor Pleads Guilty to Attempted Sexual Exploitation of a ChildRead the Press Release
ROANOKE, Va. – A Catawba, Virginia youth pastor, who has been in federal custody since his arrest in August for attempted coercion and enticement of a minor, pled guilty this week to related federal charges.
Jacob Ryan Barnett, 34, pled guilty to one count of attempted sexual exploitation of a 15-year-old child.
“Cases involving adults who use the internet to exploit young people are all too common,” Acting United States Attorney Robert N. Tracci said today. “I urge parents to supervise their children’s internet use; vet their social media apps and caution them against answering unsolicited messages and friend requests. It’s disturbingly easy for predators to pose as children online. Barnett might have continued his online hunt for victims if the victim’s mother had not found the conversation between Barnett and the victim and reported it to the FBI.”
“Our children deserve to grow up in a world where adults protect them, not victimize them. Sadly, Jacob Barnett chose to do the latter, and now he will face justice for his crimes,” said Ian Kauffmann, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Richmond Division. “The men and women of FBI Richmond will never stop pursuing these harmful predators and removing them from our communities.”
According to court documents, on May 18, 2025, Barnett used TikTok to message the Minor Victim (M.V.) and they began chatting. That same day, Barnett gave M.V. his phone number and the two began texting.
Early on, M.V. told Barnett she was 15. Barnett, however, claimed he was 17 and later sent M.V. images of a young man, which he falsely claimed was him. As their chat progressed, Barnett sent increasingly graphic sexual messages to M.V.
Barnett continued to engage in sexual conversations with M.V. and repeatedly asked her for photos. On May 20, 2025, Barnett told M.V. that he was starting to develop feelings for her. He also said he wanted to “use” M.V. and asked her to tell him about the last time she masturbated or to send him something that he could use to masturbate. In response, M.V. sent Barnett a video of herself masturbating in which her genitals were uncovered.
Evidence at Barnett’s detention hearing earlier this year showed that he continually prowled TikTok, Discord, Snapchat, and other social media apps to solicit minor girls for sexual chats and images. Barnett also solicited young men for selfies and images of their genitals, which he used to pose as a teenaged boy when soliciting girls.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation is investigating the case.
Assistant United States Attorney Drew O. Inman is prosecuting the case for the United States.
The case is brought as part of Project Safe Childhood. In 2006, the Department of Justice created Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identity and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov/.
Former Clayton County jailer pleads guilty to using excessive force against detaineeRead the Press Release
ATLANTA – A former correctional officer, Jabin Bethea, has pleaded guilty to depriving a pretrial detainee at the Clayton County Jail of his civil rights by tasing him multiple times without justification.
“Corrections officers work long hours in challenging circumstances to maintain order in our district’s jails and prisons, but wanton abuse cannot be tolerated,” said U.S. Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg. “This former officer must be held accountable for using excessive force against a detainee who was complying with his orders and was not acting violently.”
“Correctional officers are entrusted with authority, and with that authority comes the responsibility to treat every detainee with basic dignity and respect. This officer chose to abuse that trust and violate the civil rights of someone in his custody,” said Paul Brown, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta. “The FBI will continue to investigate and hold accountable anyone who uses unlawful force inside our jails and prisons.”
According to U.S. Attorney Hertzberg, the charges, and information presented in court: On May 16, 2024, while employed as a correctional officer at the Clayton County Jail in Jonesboro, Georgia, Jabin Bethea was transferring two detainees between housing units. One of the detainees asked Bethea, “Where am I going?” In response, Bethea handcuffed that detainee and told him to shut up. The two argued on the way to the second housing unit before Bethea removed the detainee’s handcuffs and dared the detainee “to buck.”
After the detainee cursed and insulted Bethea, Bethea slammed the detainee’s head into a wall, threw him on the floor, and ordered him to put his hands behind his back. Video evidence from surveillance and body worn cameras confirms that, even though the detainee remained on the floor and obeyed Bethea’s orders, Bethea tased the detainee at least six times. The detainee suffered bodily injury during the assault.
Sentencing for Jabin Bethea, 29, of Chamblee, Georgia, is scheduled for March 10, 2026 at 11:00, before U.S. District Judge Tiffany R. Johnson. In determining the actual sentence, the Court will consider the United States Sentencing Guidelines, which are not binding but provide appropriate sentencing ranges for most offenders.
The case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Bret R. Hobson and Brent Alan Gray are prosecuting the case.
For further information please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office at [email protected] or (404) 581-6016. The Internet address for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia is http://www.justice.gov/usao-ndga.
Federal Jury Convicts Former Suburban Chicago Police Chief of Bribery and Obstruction of JusticeRead the Press Release
CHICAGO — A federal jury in Chicago today convicted the former Chief of Police in the village of Summit, Ill., of bribery offenses for corruptly accepting money from a local businessman to help facilitate the transfer of a liquor license.
After a seven-day trial in U.S. District Court in Chicago, the jury found JOHN KOSMOWSKI, 57, of Lockport, Ill., guilty of bribery conspiracy, bribery, and obstruction of justice. U.S. District Judge Steven C. Seeger set sentencing for March 27, 2026.
The conviction was announced by Andrew S. Boutros, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, Douglas S. DePodesta, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago Field Office of the FBI, and Adam Jobes, Special Agent-in-Charge of IRS Criminal Investigation in Chicago. The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Tiffany Ardam and Jared Hasten.
Evidence at trial revealed that Kosmowski conspired with a Summit building inspector—WILLIAM MUNDY—to accept $10,000 from a businessman in 2017. Kosmowski and Mundy accepted the money intending to be influenced and rewarded in connection with the transfer of a liquor license to another person. Kosmowski received a cash payment from the businessman in 2017 and then gave Mundy a portion of it.
Mundy, of Summit, Ill., pleaded guilty prior to trial to bribery and tax offenses. He is awaiting sentencing.
The obstruction conviction against Kosmowski stemmed from a meeting he had with Mundy in which Kosmowski informed Mundy of the federal investigation into the bribe. During the meeting, Kosmowski sought to corruptly persuade Mundy to mischaracterize the purpose of the payment by falsely suggesting that it was a loan.
Federal Inmate Sentenced to Serve 30 Additional Years in Prison for Sexual Assault in Federal Transfer CenterRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – JOSEPH FRANCIS BUTLER, 35, of Illinois, has been sentenced to serve an additional 360 months in federal prison for committing aggravated sexual abuse at the Federal Transfer Center (FTC) in Oklahoma City, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
“Incarceration in a federal prison does not negate the protection of inmates from sexual or violent assaults by other inmates,” said U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester. “This sentence for Mr. Butler to serve an additional three decades in prison sends a clear message that serious consequences await those who prey on fellow inmates.”
According to public record and evidence presented at trial, on June 4, 2023, Butler, an inmate at the FTC, entered the cell of another inmate and sexually assaulted him. During the sexual assault, Butler held a shank to the victim’s neck and side. At the time, Butler was in federal custody as part of a 125-month prison sentence for being a felon in possession of a firearm following his conviction in the District of Minnesota in case number 22-CR-304.
On July 17, 2024, a federal Grand Jury charged Butler with aggravated sexual abuse. On March 14, 2025, after a four-day trial, a jury found Butler guilty.
At the sentencing hearing yesterday, U.S. District Judge Patrick R. Wyrick sentenced Butler to serve 360 months in federal prison, to run consecutively to his existing prison term, followed by ten years of supervised release. In announcing the sentence, Judge Wyrick noted the nature and seriousness of the offense and Butler’s criminal history.
This case is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Prisons’ Special Investigative Service. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Tiffany Edgmon and Brandon Hale prosecuted the case.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Federal Court Permanently Prohibits Tampa-area Pharmacist from Filling Opioids Prescriptions and Pharmacy DissolvedRead the Press Release
Tampa, FL — Monday, a federal court prohibited a Tampa-area pharmacist from filling prescriptions for opioids and other controlled substances and entered a civil penalty against him in a case alleging violations of the Controlled Substances Act (CSA).
In a complaint filed in August 2022, the United States alleges that Nathaniel Esalomi unlawfully distributed powerful opioids by filling prescriptions he knew were not valid at Apexx Pharmacy in Hudson, Florida, where he was the owner and sole pharmacist. The complaint alleges that Esalomi charged dramatically inflated prices to fill opioid prescriptions and accepted thousands of dollars in cash for the drugs. The complaint further alleges that Esalomi instructed individuals to forge signatures on certain forms and to falsify addresses. The complaint also alleges that Esalomi filled numerous controlled substance prescriptions for persons who were deceased.
“Medical professionals who knowingly facilitate the abuse of opioids violate their legal obligations,” said Assistant Attorney General Brett A. Shumate of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “The Department will pursue justice against anyone who seeks to profit from unlawfully distributing opioids.”
“The opioid epidemic has devastated not only our communities here in Florida but the entire nation,” said U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe for the Middle District of Florida. “Our office will continue to investigate and hold accountable those who contributed to this crisis.”
“Approximately 70 percent of all drug overdose deaths in America involve opioids,” said Special Agent in Charge Deanne L. Reuter of the Drug Enforcement Administration Miami Field Division. “This epidemic began in the mid-1990s, and it’s still something we’re fighting. We will remain steadfast in our effort to remove these poisons from our communities.”
Esalomi agreed to a consent judgment to settle the allegations in the complaint. The order entered by the court permanently prohibits Esalomi from distributing opioids or other controlled substances, permanently prohibits him from managing, owning, or controlling any entity that dispenses controlled substances, and requires Esalomi to pay $10,000 of a $500,000 suspended civil penalty. Apexx Pharmacy was dissolved following the United States’ August 2022 complaint and the federal court’s associated temporary restraining order, and remains dissolved under the terms of the consent order. Esalomi also pleaded no contest to charges brought by the State of Florida in a related criminal case.
U.S. District Judge Thomas Barber entered the judgment and permanent injunction in U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Florida. The case was investigated by DEA’s Tactical Diversion Squad in the Tampa District Office.
This case was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Carolyn B. Tapie and Alexandra N. Karahalios for the Middle District of Florida, and Trial Attorney Scott B. Dahlquist of the Justice Department’s Enforcement & Affirmative Litigation Branch.
The claims made in the complaint are allegations that the United States would need to prove by a preponderance of the evidence if the case proceeded to trial.
Federal Court Permanently Prohibits Tampa-area Pharmacist from Filling Opioids Prescriptions and Pharmacy DissolvedRead the Press Release
Monday, a federal court prohibited a Tampa-area pharmacist from filling prescriptions for opioids and other controlled substances and entered a civil penalty against him in a case alleging violations of the Controlled Substances Act (CSA).
In a complaint filed in August 2022, the United States alleges that Nathaniel Esalomi unlawfully distributed powerful opioids by filling prescriptions he knew were not valid at Apexx Pharmacy in Hudson, Florida, where he was the owner and sole pharmacist. The complaint alleges that Esalomi charged dramatically inflated prices to fill opioid prescriptions and accepted thousands of dollars in cash for the drugs. The complaint further alleges that Esalomi instructed individuals to forge signatures on certain forms and to falsify addresses. The complaint also alleges that Esalomi filled numerous controlled substance prescriptions for persons who were deceased.
“Medical professionals who knowingly facilitate the abuse of opioids violate their legal obligations,” said Assistant Attorney General Brett A. Shumate of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “The Department will pursue justice against anyone who seeks to profit from unlawfully distributing opioids.”
“The opioid epidemic has devastated not only our communities here in Florida but the entire nation,” said U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe for the Middle District of Florida. “Our office will continue to investigate and hold accountable those who contributed to this crisis.”
“Approximately 70 percent of all drug overdose deaths in America involve opioids,” said Special Agent in Charge Deanne L. Reuter of the Drug Enforcement Administration Miami Field Division. “This epidemic began in the mid-1990s, and it’s still something we’re fighting. We will remain steadfast in our effort to remove these poisons from our communities.”
Esalomi agreed to a consent judgment to settle the allegations in the complaint. The order entered by the court permanently prohibits Esalomi from distributing opioids or other controlled substances, permanently prohibits him from managing, owning, or controlling any entity that dispenses controlled substances, and requires Esalomi to pay $10,000 of a $500,000 suspended civil penalty. Apexx Pharmacy was dissolved following the United States’ August 2022 complaint and the federal court’s associated temporary restraining order, and remains dissolved under the terms of the consent order. Esalomi also pleaded no contest to charges brought by the State of Florida in a related criminal case.
U.S. District Judge Thomas Barber entered the judgment and permanent injunction in U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Florida. The case was investigated by DEA’s Tactical Diversion Squad in the Tampa District Office.
This case was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Carolyn B. Tapie and Alexandra N. Karahalios for the Middle District of Florida, and Trial Attorney Scott B. Dahlquist of the Justice Department’s Enforcement & Affirmative Litigation Branch.
The claims made in the complaint are allegations that the United States would need to prove by a preponderance of the evidence if the case proceeded to trial.
Epping Man Sentenced to 27 Years in Prison for Purchasing Live-Streamed Child Sex Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
Epping Man Sentenced to 27 Years in Prison for Purchasing Live-Streamed Child Sex Abuse Material
CONCORD – David Mendum, 46, of Harrisville, was sentenced to 27 years in prison for his conduct involving the sexual exploitation of minors, U.S. Attorney Erin Creegan announces.
On December 10, 2025, U.S. District Judge Paul J. Barbadoro sentenced Mendum on one count of coercion and enticement of a minor to engage in criminal sexual activity, to 324 months’ imprisonment. The Court also sentenced Mendum to 5 years of federal supervision following his release from prison.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Mendum was paying a child sex trafficker in the Philippines to create live-stream child sexual abuse material and transmit it to him over the internet.
“Today’s sentence reflects the profound seriousness of this crime,” said United States Attorney Creegan. “By paying to watch the live-streamed sexual abuse of children, the defendant fueled the exploitation of the most vulnerable victims. Our office, together with our law enforcement partners, will seek to hold those accountable those who finance and direct the sexual abuse of children.”
“Over the course of years, Mendum paid child traffickers in the Philippines so he could watch and direct the sexual abuse of children. He did this hundreds of times, paying over $39,000. The depravity and scope of this crime are beyond comprehension. Yet our investigators and partners pursued a global investigation to identify and bring Mendum to justice for his irreparable abuse of children,” said Special Agent in Charge Michael J. Krol of Homeland Security Investigations in New England. “Today’s sentence shows just how seriously we take these crimes. We can’t give back the years stolen from the children he victimized, but with every predator we bring to justice, we gain critical intelligence and move one step closer to stopping other offenders like him.”
The Department of Homeland Security led the investigation. The New Hampshire Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, Epping Police Department provided valuable assistance. Assistant U.S Attorney Anna Z. Krasinski is prosecuting the case.
The case is brought as part of Project Safe Childhood. In 2006, the Department of Justice created Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov/.
Eight Individuals Charged with Cocaine and Fentanyl TraffickingRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - Eight individuals from Pennsylvania, Florida, Ohio, California, and Massachusetts have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal narcotics and firearm laws, First Assistant United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
The 12-count Superseding Indictment names the following individuals as defendants:
Name
Age
Residence
Derrick Lyman59
McKeesport, PADaniel Jackson48
Penn Hills, PADevlin Clifford46
Monroeville, PARobert East69
Delaware, OHJose Sanchez-Polanco43
Lawrence, MAErnesto Castillo29
Lynwood, CARicardo Escalona41
Winter Park, FLDionisio Gonzalez-Diaz57
Homestead, FLAccording to the Superseding Indictment, on or about May 28, 2024, Castillo is alleged to have unlawfully possessed with the intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine, while, on or about June 6, 2024, Escalona also unlawfully possessed with the intent to distribute five kilograms of cocaine. The Superseding Indictment also charges that, on June 27, 2024, the defendants all conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine and 400 grams or more of fentanyl, and that, on the same date, Lyman possessed with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine and 400 grams or more of fentanyl, with Lyman, Jackson, and Clifford all also possessing a firearm as previously convicted felons and in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Federal law prohibits possession of a firearm or ammunition by a convicted felon. Additionally, on that date, Jackson possessed with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine and Clifford possessed with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine.
For Lyman and Clifford, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 15 years and up to life in prison, a fine of up to $20 million, or both. For Jackson, East, Sanchez-Polanco, Castillo, Escalona, and Gonzalez-Diaz, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 10 years and up to life in prison, a fine of up to $10 million, or both. In relation to the firearms charges for Lyman, Jackson, and Clifford, the law provides for a maximum sentence of not less than five years and up to life in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense(s) and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Katherine C. Jordan is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
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 Drug Enforcement Administration and Internal Revenue Service, with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Pennsylvania.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
East Texas men sentenced to federal prison for trafficking methamphetamine in Rusk CountyRead the Press Release
TYLER, Texas –Two East Texas men have been sentenced to federal prison for a drug trafficking violation in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.
James Robert Porter, 47, of Henderson, and Richard Lynn Sledge, 67, of Athens, each pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and were sentenced by U.S. District Judge Jeremy D. Kernodle on December 10, 2025. Porter was sentenced to 100 months in federal prison and Sledge received a sentence of 30 months in federal prison.
According to information presented in court, on April 12, 2023, Porter and Sledge sold 25.49 grams of methamphetamine to another person in Henderson for $350. In addition, on June 7, 2023, Porter sold 51.2 grams of methamphetamine to another person in Henderson for $625. When Porter was arrested on July 10, 2024, agents recovered another 24.04 grams of methamphetamine from his vehicle and inside his business.
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 U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, the Texas Department of Public Safety, Henderson Police Department, and Rusk County Sheriff’s Office. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lucas Machicek.
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