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5 January 2026
Cleveland Man Charged in Postal Worker RobberyRead the Press Release
AKRON, Ohio – A Cuyahoga County man has been charged by criminal complaint with robbing a United States Postal Service (USPS) carrier while on her route.
According to the allegations in the criminal complaint and affidavit, on Dec. 29, a USPS letter carrier was robbed at gunpoint while delivering mail on West Long Street in Akron. The victim reported that several individuals wearing dark clothing and masks approached her and—under the threat of violence—demanded that she give them the postal keys. The assailants then stole several items, including her USPS satchel, multiple pieces of mail, and the postal vehicle keys before fleeing in a getaway car.
Later that afternoon, the getaway car was traced by police to a location on Kinsman Road in Cleveland, where a traffic stop was attempted. The driver, later identified as Delshawn Durval Legg, 19, of Cleveland, drove away from police at a high rate of speed and then fled on foot. Legg was subsequently apprehended following the deployment of a K9 unit. A second unidentified individual who was inside the car, remains at large. Investigators later learned that the getaway car was reported stolen from the Great Lakes Honda dealership in Akron earlier that day.
If convicted, Legg faces up to 10 years in prison for robbery of mail, money, or other property of the United States; and using or carrying a firearm during a crime of violence.
This case is being investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) Cleveland Field Office with assistance from the Akron Police Department, the Cuyahoga County Sheriff’s Office, and the Cleveland Division of Police.
The prosecution is being led by Assistant United States Attorney Kristen Rolph for the Northern District of Ohio.
The USPIS is the federal law enforcement arm of the postal service with jurisdiction for investigating crimes against postal carriers and crimes involving the U.S. Mail. Anyone having information about blue collection box thefts, or thefts or attempted thefts of mail carriers or mail, should contact USPIS at 1-877-876-2455. All information will be kept confidential.
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Charlotte Man Sentenced to Prison for Possession of Stolen MailRead the Press Release
CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Dominique Dunlap, 30, of Charlotte, was sentenced to 70 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release today for conspiracy to commit bank fraud and possession of stolen mail, announced Russ Ferguson, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina. In addition to the prison sentence, Dunlap was ordered to pay $1,650,921.70 as restitution.
Rodney Hopkins, Inspector in Charge of the Atlanta Division of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) which oversees North Carolina, Kathleen Woodson, Special Agent in Charge, United States Postal Service, Office of the Inspector General (USPS-OIG) for the Mid-Atlantic Area Field Office (MAAFO), which overseas Charlotte, and Chief Estella Patterson of the Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD), join U.S. Attorney Ferguson in making today’s announcement.
Dunlap’s wife and co-conspirator, Kiara Padgett, has pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit bank fraud and is awaiting sentencing. Dunlap’s other co-conspirator, Terrell Alexander Hager, Jr., was sentenced to three years in prison in connection to the scheme.
“I am sick and tired of checks being stolen from the mail,” said U.S. Attorney Russ Ferguson, “particularly where it is done internally by an employee. We will aggressively prosecute these cases to put an end to this crime.”
According to court documents and today’s sentencing hearing, from August 2021 to November 2022, Dunlap conspired with Padgett, Hager, and others to execute a scheme involving stolen checks. Padgett was employed by the U.S. Postal Service and used her position as a postal carrier to steal incoming and outgoing checks of businesses and individuals. Acting as an intermediary, Dunlap sold the stolen checks to Hager and other individuals. Court documents show that the total face value of checks stolen from Padgett’s postal routes was over $8.8 million.
On September 15, 2023, Dunlap pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit bank fraud and four counts of possession of stolen mail.
In making today’s announcement, U.S. Attorney Ferguson commended the USPIS, USPS-OIG, and CMPD for their investigation of the case.
Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric Frick of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte prosecuted the case.
Adam L. Mildred Sworn in as U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of IndianaRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE – Today, the Hon. Adam L. Mildred was sworn in as the United States Attorney for the Northern District of Indiana by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady. U.S. Attorney Mildred was nominated by President Donald J. Trump and then confirmed by the Senate on December 18, 2025.
U.S. Attorney (USA) Mildred is a native of Fort Wayne and a life-long Hoosier. After graduating from Concordia Lutheran High School, he earned his bachelor’s degree from Ball State University and his Juris Doctor from IU’s Maurer School of Law. Mr. Mildred then spent his entire career as a professional prosecutor. Over 28 years of service in Allen and Noble Counties, he prosecuted and tried over 200 cases, including homicides, armed robberies, drug crimes, and other serious felonies. He also served in several leadership roles, including two years of service as Chief Deputy of the Noble County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office.
Over his decades of service, USA Mildred has lent his talents to numerous other institutions in Fort Wayne and beyond. Until recently, he served as an Executive Board Member on the Indiana Association of Certified Accident Investigators. He has served as an Adjunct Criminal Law and Procedure Instructor at the Fort Wayne Police Department and Northeast Indiana Public Safety Academy. And he has long served in leadership roles in various civic groups.
“It is an honor to assume the leadership of the U.S. Attorney’s Office,” said USA Mildred. “During my time as a state prosecutor, I saw firsthand the kind of devastation that crime can cause our communities. I am humbled that President Trump and the U.S. Senate have placed their trust in me to use the powers of federal law enforcement to bring to justice anyone who would prey on our fellow Hoosiers. During my watch, this office will work closely with its state, local, and federal partners to prosecute any and all cartel members, terrorists, drug dealers, child sexual predators, immigration offenders, or violent criminals who violate federal law. I am confident that our efforts will protect the public safety, uphold the rule of law, and ensure that all citizens’ civil rights are safeguarded. My thanks go out to everyone who worked to give me this opportunity, and especially my family.”
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2 January 2026
U.S. Attorney’s Office Filed 72 Border-Related Cases This WeekRead the Press Release
SAN DIEGO – Federal prosecutors in the Southern District of California filed 72 border-related cases this week, including charges of bringing in aliens for financial gain, reentering the U.S. after deportation, and importation of controlled substances.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of California is the fourth-busiest federal district, largely due to a high volume of border-related crimes. This district, encompassing San Diego and Imperial counties, shares a 140-mile border with Mexico. It includes the San Ysidro Port of Entry, the world’s busiest land border crossing, connecting San Diego (America’s eighth largest city) and Tijuana (Mexico’s second largest city).
In addition to reactive border-related crimes, the Southern District of California also prosecutes a significant number of proactive cases related to terrorism, organized crime, drugs, white-collar fraud, violent crime, cybercrime, human trafficking and national security. Recent developments in those and other significant areas of prosecution can be found here.
A sample of border-related arrests this week:
- On December 29, Kara Elizabeth Pasco, a United States citizen, was arrested and charged with Importation of a Controlled Substance. According to a complaint, Customs and Border Protection officers found 35 packages of cocaine, methamphetamine and fentanyl concealed in the quarter panels, floors and back driver seat of her vehicle as she tried to cross into the U.S. at the San Ysidro Port of Entry.
- On December 27, Carlos Mata, a Mexican citizen, was arrested and charged with Deported Alien Found in the United States. According to a complaint, Border Patrol agents found Mata hiding in the bushes in an area north of the border near Otay Mesa. The defendant was previously deported in November 2025.
- On December 28, Francisco Javier Hernandez, a Mexican citizen, was arrested and charged with Transportation of Illegal Aliens. According to a complaint, Border Patrol agents encountered Hernandez and other undocumented immigrants hiding in thick brush near the border to evade the agents. The agents determined that Hernandez was guiding the others.
The immigration cases were referred or supported by federal law enforcement partners, including Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations (ICE ERO), Customs and Border Protection, U.S. Border Patrol, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the U.S. Marshals Service (USMS), and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), with the support and assistance of state and local law enforcement partners.
Indictments and criminal complaints are merely allegations and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Thirty-Four Illegal Aliens Convicted of Immigration, False Document OffensesRead the Press Release
GAINESVILLE, PENSACOLA, & TALLAHASSEE – United States Attorney John P. Heekin announced today that thirty-four illegal aliens were recently convicted of federal crimes, including thirty-one previously deported aliens convicted for illegal reentry into the United States. One of those previously deported illegal aliens was also convicted of false document crimes.
U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “We are a nation of laws, and my office is firmly committed to enforcing those laws by aggressively prosecuting violations. The Department of Justice’s Operation Take Back America delivers on the promise made by President Donald J. Trump and Attorney General Pam Bondi that we will not tolerate those who violate our nation’s laws, and we will deploy the full resources of the federal government to keep our borders secure and our communities safe.”
According to court records, thirty-one defendants had each been previously removed due to being unlawfully present in the country and thereafter illegally reentered without seeking the necessary permission or approval from the United States. The illegal aliens convicted since September 2025 include:
- Jose Victor Aguilar Zelaya, a Mexican national, who was previously removed in July 2010. He was encountered in Okaloosa County on March 5, 2025.
- Elin Itay Martinez-Lemus a/k/a Carlos Mauricio Arita-Lemus, a citizen of Honduras, who was previously removed in December 2011 and August 2012. He was encountered in Escambia County on March 15, 2025.
- Joel Nahum Sanchez Montoya, a citizen of Honduras, who was previously removed in October 2006. He was encountered in Santa Rosa County on May 6, 2025.
- Omar Jimenez-Salinas, a Mexican national, who was previously removed in June 2014. He was encountered in Escambia County on May 29, 2025.
- Narciso Oswaldo Moreno-Zepeda, a citizen of Honduras, who was previously removed in June 2014. He was encountered in Escambia County on June 26, 2025.
- Eusebio Lizardi-Bautista, a Mexican national, who was previously removed in February 2014. He was encountered in Escambia County on July 7, 2025.
- Ivan Reyes-Andrade, a Mexican national, who was previously removed in August 2011 and April 2015. He was encountered in Santa Rosa County on August 1, 2025.
- Orlando Raudales-Banegas, a citizen of Honduras, who was previously removed in August 2010. He was encountered in Okaloosa County in August of 2025.
- Salvador Rodriguez-Rojas, a Mexican national, who was previously removed in October 2015 and November 2016. He was encountered in Escambia County on August 23, 2025.
- Denis Arnaldo Mendoz-Martinez, a citizen of Honduras, who was previously removed in April 2012, February 2016, December 2018, and October 2019. He was encountered in Santa Rosa County on September 2, 2025.
- Marin Mendez Vasquez, a Mexican national, who was previously removed in September 2007, November 2008, and July 2010. He was encountered in Alachua County on September 5, 2025.
- Pedro Lopez Calderon, a Mexican national, who was previously removed in January 2010, March 2017, and March 2018 and November 2016. He was encountered in Okaloosa County on September 16, 2025.
- Darwin Noe Ramirez-Guillen, a citizen of Honduras, who was previously removed in October 2014. He was encountered in Santa Rosa County on September 23, 2025.
- Jonathan Callejas-Callejas, a Mexican national, who was previously removed in July 2018. He was encountered in Escambia County on September 25, 2025.
- Jose Bernardino Varillas-Morales, a Mexican national, who was previously removed in December 2019 and January 2020. He was encountered in Santa Rosa County on September 26, 2025.
- Mateo Linares-Aparicio, a Mexican national, who was previously removed in September 2014. He was encountered in Santa Rosa County on September 29, 2025.
- Selvin Ramos Vasquez, a citizen of Honduras, who was previously removed in April 2015 and July 2015. He was encountered in Santa Rosa County on October 3, 2025.
- Jose Gilberto Vasquez Martinez, a Mexican national, who was previously removed in December 2010, November 2011, and February 2024. He was encountered in Leon County on October 8, 2025.
- Agustin Bello Rodriguez, a Mexican national, who was previously removed in April 2021. He was encountered in Santa Rosa County on October 8, 2025.
- Marvin Arenas-Beltran, a Mexican national, who was previously removed in February 2017. He was encountered in Leon County on October 9, 2025.
- Bulfrano Tamayo-Rodriguez, a Mexican national, who was previously removed in August 2006 and April 2015. He was encountered in Leon County on October 9, 2025.
- German Aleman, a citizen of El Salvador, who was previously removed in September 2009, August 2011, and January 2013. He was encountered in Leon County on October 9, 2025.
- Jose Del Carmen Perez-Gomez, a Mexican national, who was previously removed in May 2022. He was encountered in Escambia County on October 14, 2025.
- Eduardo Ramirez-Francisco, a Mexican national, who was previously removed in March 2019. He was encountered in Okaloosa County on October 16, 2025.
- Edin Francisco Trinidad-Moradel, a citizen of Honduras, who was previously removed in February 2019. He was encountered in Santa Rosa County on October 16, 2025.
- Yunior Johel Vasquez-Garcia, a citizen of Honduras, who was previously removed in January 2016. He was encountered in Santa Rosa County on October 25, 2025.
- Alberto Reyes-Monroy, a Mexican national, who was previously removed in October 2016. He was encountered in Bay County on October 29, 2025.
- Jose Alvarado Lopez, a Mexican national, who was previously removed in June and August 2019. He was encountered in Bay County on October 29, 2025.
- Basilio Coxcahua-Arohua, a Mexican national, who was previously removed in January 2015 and twice in March 2018. He was encountered in Okaloosa County on October 29, 2025.
- Roberto Rios-Narvaez, a Mexican national, who was previously removed in December 2010. He was encountered in Santa Rosa County on November 6, 2025.
Four aliens were also convicted of false document crimes. They included:
- Celso Javier Melgar, a citizen of Panama.
- Luis Maldonado, a citizen of Guatemala.
- Gustavo Adolfo Ramirez-Guillen, a citizen of Honduras.
- Flavio Bernardo-Padilla, a Mexican national. Bernardo-Padilla was also convicted of illegal reentry based on his unlawful return after his prior removal in November 2018.
“The enforcement of our nation’s immigration laws is essential to maintaining the integrity of our borders and the rule of law,” said ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations acting Field Office Director Kelei Walker. “Illegal aliens can take control of their departure with the CBP Home App. The United States is offering illegal aliens $1,000 and a free flight to self-deport now. We encourage every person here illegally to take advantage of this offer and reserve the chance to come back to the U.S. the right, legal way to live the American dream. If not, you will be arrested and deported without a chance to return.”
“Bringing to justice those who not only reenter the United States illegally after they have been previously deported, but also commit document fraud, is critical to protecting the integrity of our nation’s legal and financial systems,” said Homeland Security Investigations Tallahassee Assistant Special Agent in Charge Nicholas Ingegno. “The enforcement of our nation’s immigration laws relies on thorough investigation and strong partnerships, and these convictions demonstrate our commitment to holding accountable those who take their violations to the next level by attempting to deceive authorities with false documents.”
The cases were investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations, with assistance from several state and local partners. Assistant United States Attorneys Brooke A. DiSalvo, Jessica S. Etherton, Alicia H. Forbes, Adam Hapner, Eric Mountin, Walter Narramore, Christopher C. Patterson, Joseph Ravelo, Jeffrey M. Tharp, and Former Assistant United States Attorneys Harley W. Ferguson and Jenna H. Callahan prosecuted the cases.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
Final weeks of 2025 bring another 401 individuals facing charges in border security-related mattersRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – A total of 399 cases have been filed related to border enforcement efforts in the Southern District of Texas from Dec. 19 - Jan 2, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
The cases include 19 people allegedly engaged in human smuggling. Charges were also filed against 146 individuals accused of illegal entry and 230 others who allegedly reentered the country after prior removal. Many already have felony convictions for narcotics, violent crime, immigration crimes and more. Other cases include allegations regarding firearms and other immigration crimes.
Several of those charged with felony reentry include men from the countries of Mexico, Honduras and Cuba - two that authorities had just allegedly removed from the United States less than one month before their apprehension. Charges allege Cuban national Armando David Naranjo-Alemany and Melvin Antonio Ramos-Avila, a Honduran national, had been removed Nov. 28, and Nov. 25, 2025, respectively. However, according to their criminal complaints, authorities discovered both men unlawfully in the South Texas area in the final weeks of December. Other individuals allegedly found in the country illegally were Ruben Jimenez-Garcia, Jose Raul Sotelo and German Garza-Velez, all of Mexico. Even though all had allegedly been previously removed from the United States, criminal complaints indicate they were back in the country illegally. Each man has a criminal history that includes convictions either related to controlled substances, such as methamphetamine or cocaine, burglary or illegal reentry, according to the charges.
Similarly, authorities also allegedly discovered a Mexican female in the Donna area with no permission to be there. Charges allege Eva Aidee Rodriguez-Rivera had been removed previously and was sentenced to 75 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.
If convicted of the illegal reentry charges, all face up to 20 years in federal prison.
These cases were referred or supported by federal law enforcement partners, including Immigration and Customs Enforcement - Homeland Security Investigations, ICE - Enforcement and Removal Operations, Border Patrol, Drug Enforcement Administration, FBI, U.S. Marshals Service and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with additional assistance from state and local law enforcement partners.
The cases are 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.
Under current leadership, public safety and a secure border are the top priorities for this district. Enhanced enforcement both at the border and in the interior of the district have yielded aliens engaged in unlawful activity or with serious criminal histories, including convictions for human trafficking, sexual assault and violence against children.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Texas remains one of the busiest in the nation. It represents 43 counties and more than nine million people covering 44,000 square miles. Assistant U.S. Attorneys from all seven divisions including Houston, Galveston, Victoria, Corpus Christi, Brownsville, McAllen and Laredo work directly with our law enforcement partners on the federal, state and local levels to prosecute the suspected offenders of these and other federal crimes.
An indictment or criminal complaint is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.
Federal Judge Sentences Elizabeth City Career Offender After Trial ConvictionRead the Press Release
NEW BERN, N.C. – A U.S. Federal Judge sentenced Charles Lamont Gregory, III, a 36-year-old man from Elizabeth City to 14 years in prison after a jury convicted him on all counts related to an August 2022 traffic stop. Officers found a bag of crack and a gun hidden in his car, just four months after his release from a 12-year state prison sentence for armed robbery. The federal jury found him guilty on June 10, 2025.
“Career criminals will not escape justice when federal prosecutors team up with local police departments such as the fine men and women of the Elizabeth City Police Department,” said U.S. Attorney Ellis Boyle. “Let me be clear: if you continue committing crimes, especially after being punished repeatedly by the State with no deterrent effect, we will find you, we will convict you at trial, we will lock you up, and we will keep our cities safe from unrepentant repeat offenders like Gregory.”
“We will continue to arrest individuals who insist on selling poison in our community. We want to put you on notice: if you choose to commit crimes in Elizabeth City, we will arrest you and collaborate with our federal partners to prosecute you at the federal level,” said Elizabeth City Police Chief Eddie Graham, Jr.
“There is an absolute connection between drug dealing and gun violence in our communities,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Alicia Jones. “A firearm in the hands of a drug dealer and felon is a serious danger, and ATF and our law enforcement partners will continue to do everything possible to apprehend those that pose these threats to our communities.”
According to court documents and evidence presented in court, Gregory was driving a car with expired tags in the early morning hours of August 7, 2022. An Elizabeth City Police Officer on patrol spotted the car and stopped it. Gregory delayed stopping, making several turns, the last of which was into a gas station parking lot. As Gregory finally turned into the gas station, the officer saw him throw a yellow bag out of the window. Officers retrieved the bag and discovered eight individually wrapped baggies of lab-confirmed crack cocaine. Each baggie containing about 1.5 grams and packaged for easy distribution. Officers also located a loaded gun in the vehicle's glove compartment. After a two-day trial, a federal jury convicted Gregory of possession of a firearm by a felon, possession with the intent to distribute crack, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Phil Aubart and Jermaine Sellers prosecuted the case. The Elizabeth City Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives investigated the case.
Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:23-CR-00014.
FBI Disrupts Alleged New Year’s Eve Attack, Man Charged with Attempting to Provide Material Support to ISISRead the Press Release
Today, the Justice Department and the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Western District of North Carolina announced that a Mint Hill, North Carolina man that allegedly planned to use knives and hammers to execute a deadly New Year’s Eve attack at a grocery store and a fast food restaurant in support of the Islamic State in Iraq and al-Sham (ISIS) has been arrested and charged with attempting to provide material support to a foreign terrorist organization. The criminal complaint was filed on Dec. 31, 2025, and was unsealed today after Christian Sturdivant, 18, appeared in federal court in Charlotte.
“This successful collaboration between federal and local law enforcement saved American lives from a horrific terrorist attack on New Year’s Eve,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “The Department of Justice remains vigilant in our pursuit of evil ISIS sympathizers — anyone plotting to commit such depraved attacks will face the full force of the law.”
“The accused allegedly wanted to be a soldier for ISIS and made plans to commit a violent attack on New Year’s Eve in support of that terrorist group, but the FBI and our partners put a stop to that,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “It is essential to work closely with our law enforcement partners and to quickly share information about potential threats, as demonstrated in this case. The message from the FBI is clear — anyone who supports ISIS or other terrorist groups cannot hide and will be held accountable in our justice system.”
“As alleged, Sturdivant aspired to become a ‘martyr’ for ISIS and was in the final stages of planning a mass-casualty attack on New Year’s Eve. Notes recovered from his home appear to reflect intent to harm as many people as possible and terrorize the Nation,” said Assistant Attorney General John A. Eisenberg of the Justice Department's National Security Division. “We commend the extraordinary work of our partners in neutralizing this threat.”
“Americans deserve to celebrate New Year’s Eve without worrying about their personal safety,” said U.S. Attorney Russ Ferguson for the Western District of North Carolina. “That is why we worked non-stop to thwart this alleged violent terrorist attack. I am proud of the work done here and thankful for the time spent by law enforcement away from their families during the holidays to ensure public safety.”
“The FBI’s mission is to protect the American people, and this case demonstrates our dedication to do everything we can to protect the residents of North Carolina,” said Special Agent in Charge James C. Barnacle Jr. of the FBI Charlotte Field Office. “We worked closely with the Department of Justice, NYPD, Mint Hill Police Department, and our FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force partners to investigate and disrupt this serious threat of a violent attack. We will never stop working to hold people accountable who seek to harm and terrorize our community.”
“Christian Sturdivant allegedly swore allegiance to an international terrorist organization and plotted deadly attacks in its name,” said NYPD Commissioner Jessica S. Tisch. “But the New York City Police Department has a long reach, and our undercover cybersecurity investigators once again identified threats of extremist behavior and thwarted them before they could be carried out. Public safety knows no borders, and we will continue to work with all our law enforcement partners and the U.S. Attorney’s Office to pursue and hold accountable anyone who seeks to spread fear and violence.”
“Now more than ever, partnerships between law enforcement agencies are paramount,” said Chief Joseph Hatley of the Mint Hill Police Department. “This disruption is a testament to all involved, working as one to thwart an attack and hold accountable anyone planning such a horrific act of violence against our community.”
According to allegations in the arrest affidavit, on Dec. 18, 2025, the FBI in Charlotte received information that an individual later identified as Sturdivant was making multiple social media posts in support of ISIS, a designated foreign terrorist organization. In early December 2025, Sturdivant posted an image depicting two miniature figurines of Jesus with the on-screen text that read, “May Allah curse the cross worshipers.” The post is allegedly consistent with ISIS’s rhetoric calling for the extermination of all non-believers, including Christians, Jews, and Muslims who do not agree with ISIS’s extreme ideology.
Sturdivant’s social media post in early December 2025The criminal complaint alleges that on or about Dec. 12, 2025, Sturdivant began communicating with an online covert employee, or “OC,” whom Sturdivant thought was an ISIS member. Sturdivant told the OC, “I will do jihad soon,” and proclaimed he was “a soldier of the state,” meaning ISIS. On Dec. 14, 2025, Sturdivant allegedly sent an online message to the OC with an image of two hammers and a knife. This is significant because an article in the 2016 issue of ISIS’s propaganda magazine promoted the use of knives to conduct terror attacks in western countries. The same article inspired actual attacks in other countries. Later, Sturdivant told the OC that he planned to attack a specific grocery store in North Carolina. Sturdivant also told the OC about his plans to purchase a firearm to use along with the knives during the attack, according to the arrest affidavit.
Dec. 14, 2025, Sturdivant’s online message to undercover law enforcement with image of two hammers and a knifeIn addition, on Dec. 19, 2025, Sturdivant allegedly sent the OC a voice recording of Sturdivant pledging “Bayat,” a loyalty oath to ISIS.
On Dec. 29, 2025, law enforcement conducted a search warrant at Sturdivant’s residence, where they discovered handwritten documents, one of which was titled “New Years Attack 2026.” The document listed items such as a vest, mask, tactical gloves, and two knives allegedly to be used in the attack. It also described a goal of stabbing as many civilians as possible, with the total number of victims to be as high as 20 to 21. The note also included a section labeled as “martyrdom op,” that described a plan to attack police responding to the site of the attack so Sturdivant would die a martyr.
Handwritten document titled “New Years Attack 2026”The complaint alleges that Sturdivant lived with a relative, who secured knives and hammers away so Sturdivant could not use them for harm. Yet, law enforcement seized from Sturdivant’s bedroom a blue hammer, a wooden handled hammer, and two butcher knives which appeared hidden underneath the defendant’s bed. These items appear to be the same as the ones depicted in the online message Sturdivant previously sent to the OC.
Items seized from Sturdivant’s bedroom on Dec. 29, 2025, pursuant to a federal search warrantLaw enforcement also seized from Sturdivant’s bedroom a list of targets, as well as tactical gloves and a vest, acquired as part of the defendant’s planned attack.
Additional items seized from Sturdivant’s bedroom acquired for the alleged planned attackSturdivant remains in federal custody. If convicted, Sturdivant faces a statutory maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison. A federal district court judge will determine the ultimate sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The investigation was conducted by the FBI Charlotte Joint Terrorism Task Force, which includes the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department, the Matthews Police Department, the Monroe Police Department, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the Federal Air Marshal Service, the Homeland Security Investigations, the Internal Revenue Service, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, with the assistance of the NYPD, additional FBI Field Offices, and the Mint Hill Police Department.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert Gleason for the Western District of North Carolina and DOJ Trial Attorney Elisa Poteat with the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section.
The charges against the defendant are merely allegations and the defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
FBI Disrupts Alleged New Year's Even Attack, Man Charged with Attempting to Provide Material Support to ISISRead the Press Release
CHARLOTTE, N.C. – A Mint Hill man that allegedly planned to use knives and hammers to execute a deadly New Year’s Eve attack at a grocery store and a fast food restaurant in support of the Islamic State in Iraq and al-Sham (ISIS) has been arrested and charged with attempting to provide material support to a foreign terrorist organization, announced Russ Ferguson, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina. The criminal complaint was filed on December 31, 2025, and was unsealed today after Christian Sturdivant, 18, appeared in federal court in Charlotte.
James C. Barnacle, Jr., Special Agent in Charge of the FBI, joins U.S. Attorney Ferguson in making the announcement.
“This successful collaboration between federal and local law enforcement saved American lives from a horrific terrorist attack on New Year’s Eve,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “The Department of Justice remains vigilant in our pursuit of evil ISIS sympathizers — anyone plotting to commit such depraved attacks will face the full force of the law.”
“The accused allegedly wanted to be a soldier for ISIS and made plans to commit a violent attack on New Year’s Eve in support of that terrorist group, but the FBI and our partners put a stop to that,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “It is essential to work closely with our law enforcement partners and to quickly share information about potential threats, as demonstrated in this case. The message from the FBI is clear—anyone who supports ISIS or other terrorist groups cannot hide and will be held accountable in our justice system.”
"As alleged, Sturdivant aspired to become a ‘martyr’ for ISIS and was in the final stages of planning a mass-casualty attack on New Year’s Eve. Notes recovered from his home appear to reflect intent to harm as many people as possible and terrorize the Nation,” said John A. Eisenberg, Assistant Attorney General for National Security. “We commend the extraordinary work of our partners in neutralizing this threat.”
“Americans deserve to celebrate New Year’s Eve without worrying about their personal safety,” said U.S. Attorney Ferguson. “That is why we worked non-stop to thwart this alleged violent terrorist attack. I am proud of the work done here and thankful for the time spent by law enforcement away from their families during the holidays to ensure public safety.”
“The FBI’s mission is to protect the American people, and this case demonstrates our dedication to do everything we can to protect the residents of North Carolina. We worked closely with the Department of Justice, NYPD, Mint Hill Police Department, and our FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force partners to investigate and disrupt this serious threat of a violent attack. We will never stop working to hold people accountable who seek to harm and terrorize our community,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Barnacle.
“Christian Sturdivant allegedly swore allegiance to an international terrorist organization and plotted deadly attacks in its name,” said NYPD Commissioner Jessica S. Tisch. “But the New York City Police Department has a long reach, and our undercover cybersecurity investigators once again identified threats of extremist behavior and thwarted them before they could be carried out. Public safety knows no borders, and we will continue to work with all our law enforcement partners and the U.S. Attorney’s Office to pursue and hold accountable anyone who seeks to spread fear and violence.”
“Now more than ever, partnerships between law enforcement agencies are paramount,” said Chief Joseph Hatley of the Mint Hill Police Department. “This disruption is a testament to all involved, working as one to thwart an attack and hold accountable anyone planning such a horrific act of violence against our community.”
According to allegations in the arrest affidavit, on December 18, 2025, the FBI in Charlotte received information that an individual later identified as Sturdivant was making multiple social media posts in support of ISIS, a designated foreign terrorist organization. In early December 2025, Sturdivant posted an image depicting two miniature figurines of Jesus with the on-screen text that read, “May Allah curse the cross worshipers.” The post is allegedly consistent with ISIS’s rhetoric calling for the extermination of all non-believers, including Christians, Jews, and Muslims who do not agree with ISIS’s extreme ideology.
Sturdivant’s social media post in early December 2025
The criminal complaint alleges that on or about December 12, 2025, Sturdivant began communicating with an online covert employee, or “OC,” whom Sturdivant thought was an ISIS member. Sturdivant told the OC, “I will do jihad soon,” and proclaimed he was “a soldier of the state,” meaning ISIS. On December 14, 2025, Sturdivant allegedly sent an online message to the OC with an image of two hammers and a knife. This is significant because an article in the 2016 issue of ISIS’s propaganda magazine promoted the use of knives to conduct terror attacks in western countries. The same article inspired actual attacks in other countries. Later, Sturdivant told the OC that he planned to attack a specific grocery store in North Carolina. Sturdivant also told the OC about his plans to purchase a firearm to use along with the knives during the attack, according to the arrest affidavit.
December 14, 2025, Sturdivant’s online message to undercover law enforcement with image
of two hammers and a knife
In addition, on December 19, 2025, Sturdivant allegedly sent the OC a voice recording of Sturdivant pledging “Bayat,” a loyalty oath to ISIS.
On December 29, 2025, law enforcement conducted a search warrant at Sturdivant’s residence, where they discovered handwritten documents, one of which was titled “New Years Attack 2026.” The document listed items such as a vest, mask, tactical gloves, and two knives allegedly to be used in the attack. It also described a goal of stabbing as many civilians as possible, with the total number of victims to be as high as 20 to 21. The note also included a section labeled as “martyrdom op,” that described a plan to attack police responding to the site of the attack so Sturdivant would die a martyr.
Handwritten document titled “New Years Attack 2026”
The complaints alleges that Sturdivant lived with a relative, who secured knives and hammers away so Sturdivant could not use them for harm. Yet, law enforcement seized from Sturdivant’s bedroom a blue hammer, a wooden handled hammer, and two butcher knives which appeared hidden underneath the defendant’s bed. These items appear to be the same as the ones depicted in the online message Sturdivant previously sent to the OC.
Items seized from Sturdivant’s bedroom on December 29, 2025,
pursuant to a federal search warrant
Law enforcement also seized from Sturdivant’s bedroom a list of targets, as well as tactical gloves and a vest, acquired as part of the defendant’s planned attack.
Additional items seized from Sturdivant’s bedroom acquired
for the alleged planned attack
Sturdivant remains in federal custody. If convicted, Sturdivant faces a statutory maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison. A federal district court judge will determine the ultimate sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The investigation was conducted by the FBI Charlotte Joint Terrorism Task Force, which includes the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department, the Matthews Police Department, the Monroe Police Department, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the Federal Air Marshal Service, the Homeland Security Investigations, the Internal Revenue Service, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, with the assistance of the NYPD, additional FBI Field Offices, the FBI Counterterrorism Division, and the Mint Hill Police Department.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert Gleason for the Western District of North Carolina and DOJ Trial Attorney Elisa Poteat with the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section.
The charges against the defendant are merely allegations and the defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Eleven Indictments Returned in December for Previously Deported Illegal Aliens Identified in Recent Immigration Enforcement ActionsRead the Press Release
PENSACOLA and TALLAHASSEE – Today, United States Attorney John P. Heekin announced that 11 previously deported illegal aliens have been indicted separately by a federal grand jury for illegal reentry into the United States.
Juan Ramos Salgado, 49, of Mexico, allegedly reentered the United States illegally and was located in Santa Rosa County in November 2025, after previously being deported in 2012. Trial is set for February 2, 2026, before United States District Judge M. Casey Rodgers.
Edgar Castaneda-Herrera, 45, of Mexico, allegedly reentered the United States illegally and was located in Santa Rosa County in November 2025, after previously being deported twice in 2006 and 2008. Plea and sentencing are set for January 14, 2026, before United States District Judge T. Kent Wetherell, II.
Erlin Adonay Hernandez-Navas, 37, of Honduras, allegedly reentered the United States illegally and was located in Escambia County in November 2025, after previously being deported three times in 2008, 2009 and 2014.
Carlos Sanchez-Mendez, 35, of Mexico, allegedly reentered the United States illegally and was located in Okaloosa County in November 2025, after previously being deported three times in 2010, 2014 and 2016. Plea and sentencing are set for January 14, 2026, before United States District Judge T. Kent Wetherell, II.
Allan Josue Sanchez-Lozano, 28, of Honduras, allegedly reentered the United States illegally and was located in Escambia County in November 2025, after previously being deported in 2016. Trial is set for February 17, 2026, before United States District Judge T. Kent Wetherell, II.
Leobardo Gomez-Lopez, 41, of Mexico, allegedly reentered the United States illegally and was located in Escambia County in November 2025, after previously being deported twice in 2016 and 2017. Plea and sentencing are set for January 22, 2026, before United States District Judge M. Casey Rodgers.
Jose Alberto Orozco-Sanchez, 45, of Mexico, allegedly reentered the United States illegally and was located in Okaloosa County in November 2025, after previously being deported twice in 2019. Trial is set for February 2, 2026, before United States District Judge M. Casey Rodgers.
Nicolas Jorge-Garcia, 41, of Mexico, allegedly reentered the United States illegally and was located in Okaloosa County in November 2025, after previously being deported five times, including in 2007, three times in 2012, and again in 2015. Trial is set for February 2, 2026, before United States District Judge M. Casey Rodgers.
Andres Martin Valdivia Moran, 43, of Mexico, allegedly reentered the United States illegally and was located in Escambia County in December 2025, after previously being deported twice in 2017 and 2019. Trial is set for February 17, 2026, before United States District Judge T. Kent Wetherell, II.
Carlos H. Solorsano Castellanos, 35, of Honduras, allegedly reentered the United States illegally and was located in Santa Rosa County in December 2025, after previously being deported in 2014. Plea and sentencing are set for January 22, 2026, before United States District Judge M. Casey Rodgers.
Kevin A. Perez-Portillo, 31, of El Salvador, allegedly reentered the United States illegally and was located in Santa Rosa County in December 2025, after previously being deported in 2017. Trial is set for February 17, 2026, before United States District Judge T. Kent Wetherell, II.
The penalty for illegally reentering the United States after deportation is a maximum of two years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Orozco-Sanchez and Valdivia Moran both face a maximum of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine pursuant to allegations of prior convictions qualifying for an increased maximum sentence.
The cases are being investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations and Enforcement and Removal Operations with assistance from the
Santa Rosa County Sheriff’s Office, the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office, the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office, the Pensacola Police Department, the Valparaiso Police Department, and the Florida Highway Patrol. Assistant United States Attorneys Jessica S. Etherton, Christopher C. Patterson, Walter E. Narramore, Alicia H. Forbes and Brooke DiSalvo are prosecuting the cases.
An indictment is merely an allegation by a grand jury that a defendant has committed a violation of federal criminal law and is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial, during which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
31 December 2025
Two-Time Felon Sentenced to Two Decades in Federal Prison for Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
A man who formerly operated a used appliance business in Marion, Iowa, was sentenced on December 30, 2025, to 20 years in federal prison.
Cordell Maleec Mayfield, age 28, from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, received the prison term after a July 15, 2025, jury verdict finding him guilty of one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm and one count of possession of a firearm with an obliterated serial number.
The evidence at trial showed that Mayfield had a gun with an obliterated serial number in his Marion business on September 19, 2024, when Marion police arrived late in the evening to perform a welfare check. The welfare check came after a 911 call to Marion Police to have officers check on a child who was with Mayfield at his business. Officers saw the gun in Mayfield’s hand and later found it in a search. Evidence further showed that a few months before the firearm seizure, Mayfield stated in a recording that he preferred guns with obliterated serial numbers.
At sentencing, the evidence showed Mayfield’s very lengthy criminal history started at age 10 and continued into adulthood with numerous drug-related and violent offenses. The sentencing judge noted that Mayfield’s criminal conduct occurred while he was under supervision and while incarcerated, including within the last month while awaiting sentencing by possessing weapons and fighting.
Mayfield was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Chief Judge C.J. Williams. Mayfield was sentenced to 240 months’ imprisonment, fined $2,000, and ordered to forfeit the firearm seized from him. He must also pay special assessments of $200 and serve a three-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
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.
Mayfield is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Patrick J. Reinert and Ashley Corkery and was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Marion Iowa Police Department, Cedar Rapids Police Department, and the Linn County Sheriff’s Office.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 24-CR-00094.
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Seven Unlawful Entrants Apprehended on Northern Border, Including Smuggler of Minor ChildRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that the United States Border Patrol apprehended seven unlawful entrants on the Canadian Border between December 23 and December 25, 2025.
Joneyker Rafael Ramos Guillen, 20, of Venezuela, has been charged by criminal complaint with bringing aliens to the United States who lacked official authorization to enter, including Byron Guillermo Gonzabay Giron, 47, of Ecuador, Lixia Nong, 23, of China, Zhongyue Xiang, 62, of Portugal, and a 17-year-old unaccompanied minor from Brazil. Gonzabay Giron, Nong, and Xiang were all charged by criminal complaint with illegal entry into the United States. According to court records, Border Patrol detected an unlawful entry at approximately 7:00 am on December 23, 2025. A Border Patrol agent responded to the area, and from signs in the snow, determined approximately 5 people had traveled southbound. The responding agent followed the trail and discovered a group of people in the trees walking toward the village of North Troy. When directed to stop, the group instead scattered and fled. Over the next hour, Border Patrol agents tracked and pursued the five people, apprehending Ramos Guillen, Gonzabay Giron, Nong, Xiang, and the unaccompanied minor.
Two additional unlawful crossings occurred on December 25, 2025. Shortly after midnight on December 25, 2025, Benjamin Paul Sheldon Schooner, 35, of Moncton, New Brunswick, Canada crossed the international border on foot in front of the Haskell Library in Derby Line, Vermont. At approximately 6:45 pm, Abelardo Gamboa-Penaloza, 30, of Mexico, crossed the international border on foot near Lee Street in Derby Line, Vermont. Both Schooner and Gamboa-Penaloza were charged by criminal complaint with illegal entry into the United States.
On December 29, 2025, defendants Guillen and Schooner appeared before United States Magistrate Judge Kevin J. Doyle, who ordered that both defendants be held pending detention hearings. Defendants Gonzabay Giron and Gamboa-Penaloza appeared before Judge Doyle on December 30, 2025, pleaded guilty, and were sentenced to time-served. Nong and Xiang are scheduled for initial appearances on December 31, 2025.
The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that the complaint contains allegations only and that defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. Nong, Xiang, and Schooner all face up to 6 months in prison if convicted. Ramos Guillen faces a sentence of up to 10 years in prison if convicted. The actual sentences, however, would be determined by the District Court with guidance from the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines and the statutory sentencing factors.
First Assistant United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher commended the investigatory efforts of the United States Border Patrol and Homeland Security Investigations.
The prosecutors are Assistant United States Attorneys Jonathan A. Ophardt, Katherine H. Flynn, and David H. Golubock. Ramos Guillen, Schooner, and Gamboa-Penaloza are all represented by the Office of the Federal Public Defender. Xiang is represented by Mark Oettinger, Esq. Nong is represented by Karen Shingler, Esq.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
Oklahoma Woman Charged with Sexual Abuse Crimes Against a Northeast Wisconsin MinorRead the Press Release
Brad D. Schimel, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on December 23, 2025, Randi L. Cook (age: 24) of Tahlequah, Oklahoma, was charged in a criminal complaint with interstate travel with intent to engage in a sexual act with a minor, production of child pornography, and coercing or enticing a minor for unlawful sexual activity, all in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 2251(a), 2422(b), and 2423(b).
According to the criminal complaint, between November 7, 2025, and December 16, 2025, Cook began communicating with a Northeast Wisconsin minor and convinced the child to send sexually explicit images of the minor’s genitalia via the internet. Cook also travelled to the Eastern District of Wisconsin on more than one occasion and sexually abused the minor at a hotel and a short-term rental property.
If convicted of interstate travel with intent to engage in a sexual act with a minor, Cook faces up to 30 years of imprisonment. If Cook is convicted of the production of child pornography charge, she faces a mandatory minimum of 15 years and up to 30 years of imprisonment. If convicted of coercion and enticement, Cook will face a mandatory minimum of 10 years and up to life of imprisonment. Each charge also carries up to a $250,000 fine and a minimum of 5 years and up to life of supervised release. A conviction of any of the three charges would also require Cook to register as a sexual offender.
This case was investigated by the Winnebago County Sheriff’s Office. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Daniel R. Humble.
A criminal complaint is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. The defendant is presumed innocent and is entitled to a fair trial at which the government must prove her guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006, by the U.S. Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
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For further information contact:
Public Affairs Officer Steve Caballero
(414) 297-1700
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Massachusetts Men Sentenced to 60 Months for Possession of Firearms in Furtherance of Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that on December 29, 2025, Geison Reynoso, 27, of Springfield, Massachusetts, was sentenced by Chief United States District Judge Christina Reiss to a term of 60 months’ imprisonment to be followed by a 3-year term of supervised release. His co-conspirator Davon Lee, 26, also of Springfield, was previously given the same sentence by Judge Reiss on October 16, 2025. Both men previously pleaded guilty to possessing firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking.
According to court records, from 2023 until April 25, 2024, Reynoso and Lee engaged in a conspiracy to distribute cocaine and cocaine base in Rutland County, Vermont. In February 2024, law enforcement seized two backpacks belonging to the pair containing two firearms, U.S. currency, and a large quantity of cocaine and cocaine base. On April 25, 2024, Reynoso and Lee were arrested after a traffic stop and search of their vehicle resulted in the seizure of three more firearms, U.S. currency, and a large quantity of controlled substances. Reynoso and Lee both admitted to conspiring to traffic controlled substances and possessing firearms in furtherance of that conspiracy in their plea agreements. In addition to the sentences imposed against Reynoso and Lee, Judge Reiss ordered the forfeiture of $17,147 and five handguns.
First Assistant United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher commended the collaborative investigatory efforts of the Vermont State Police, the Rutland City Police Department, the Rutland Town Police Department, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Wendy Fuller and David Golubock. Geison Reynoso was represented by Matthew Hart, Esq. Davon Lee was represented by Peter Langrock, Esq.
Lowcountry Firefighter Arraigned Following Child Sexual Exploitation IndictmentRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, S.C. — A Lowcountry firefighter accused of the sexual exploitation of a child has been arraigned in federal court. A federal grand jury returned a four-count indictment against John Lewis Cottrell III, 46, of Johns Island, for sexual exploitation of a child and possession of child sexual abuse material.
According to the unsealed complaint affidavit, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Cottrell’s residence on Oct. 3. During the execution of that warrant, law enforcement located child sexual abuse material as well as hidden cameras that had been used to create child sexual abuse material of minor victims.
Cottrell faces up to 30 years in federal prison and a fine of $250,000. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mary Gordon Baker on Dec. 30 and remains detained at this time.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the U.S. Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals, who sexually exploit children, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit http://www.justice.gov/psc.
The case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the South Carolina Attorney General Office’s Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force and the Charleston Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Katie Orville is prosecuting the case.
All charges in the indictment are merely accusations and defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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* The term “child pornography” is currently used in federal statutes and is defined as any visual depiction of sexually explicit conduct involving a person less than 18 years old. While this phrase still appears in federal law, “child sexual abuse material” is preferred, as it better reflects the abuse that is depicted in the images and videos and the resulting trauma to the child. The Associated Press Stylebook also discourages the use of the phrase “child pornography.”
Investiture Ceremony Held for U.S. Attorney Jason A. Reding Quiñones for the Southern District of FloridaRead the Press Release
MIAMI – Federal, state, and local leaders gathered on December 12, 2025, at the Wilkie D. Ferguson, Jr. U.S. Courthouse in Miami to mark the formal investiture of Jason A. Reding Quiñones as United States Attorney for the Southern District of Florida. The ceremony marked his ceremonial assumption of office as the chief federal law enforcement officer for one of the nation’s busiest, most complex, and most diverse judicial districts.
The ceremony opened with welcoming remarks by the Honorable Cecilia M. Altonaga, Chief Judge of the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida. Additional remarks were delivered by Major General David P. Garfield of the United States Air Force; the Honorable Christine Hernandez, Judge of the Eleventh Judicial Circuit of Florida; and the Honorable James Uthmeier, Attorney General of Florida. Chief Judge Altonaga then administered the oath of office to U.S. Attorney Reding Quiñones.
During the ceremony, the Honorable Ariana Fajardo Orshan, Chief Judge of the Eleventh Judicial Circuit of Florida, presented the state flag in recognition of U.S. Attorney Reding Quiñones’s service on the state bench. City of Miami Commissioner Rafael “Ralph” Rosado also presented a city proclamation honoring the occasion.
In his remarks, U.S. Attorney Reding Quiñones reflected on his Miami upbringing, his family’s journey to the United States, and more than two decades of military service in both the U.S. Army and the U.S. Air Force. He expressed gratitude to President Donald J. Trump and Attorney General Pamela Bondi for their trust and confidence, and to the United States Senate for its confirmation. He reaffirmed his commitment to public service and to the mission of the Office.
“Our mission is simple,” said U.S. Attorney Reding Quiñones. “Protect Americans. Restore impartial justice. Defend the rule of law. That mission demands leadership, discipline, and the will to act with clarity and courage. The Southern District of Florida will meet this moment, working shoulder to shoulder with our federal, state, and local partners, and pursuing justice the right way: professionally, with integrity, and without fear or favor.”
U.S. Attorney Reding Quiñones emphasized the Office’s focus on violent crime, fentanyl trafficking, human smuggling, child exploitation, public corruption, cybercrime, and threats to national security. He also highlighted recent organizational reforms designed to modernize operations, strengthen training, and ensure mission-focused prosecution aligned with the realities of South Florida.
Jason A. Reding Quiñones was sworn in as U.S. Attorney on August 13, 2025, following his nomination by President Trump and confirmation by the United States Senate. He is the first U.S. Attorney confirmed during President Trump’s second administration, and his oath of office was administered by Attorney General Bondi.
As U.S. Attorney, Reding Quiñones leads more than 500 attorneys and professional staff across offices in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach, Fort Pierce, and Key West. The Office prosecutes federal criminal offenses, represents the United States in civil litigation, and enforces federal civil laws throughout the Southern District of Florida.
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Illinois Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Illegally Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
A convicted felon who illegally possessed a firearm was sentenced December 30, 2025, to more than four years in federal prison.
Brandon Hentz, age 37, from Galena, Illinois, received the prison term after a July 25, 2025, guilty plea to one count of possession of a firearm by a felon.
On January 12, 2025, an officer with the Dubuque Police Department stopped a car that Hentz was driving for a traffic violation. During the traffic stop, officers located marijuana, pills, and a loaded gun in the car. Hentz was prohibited from possessing firearms based on two prior felony convictions.
Hentz was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Chief Judge C.J. Williams. Hentz was sentenced to 51 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a three-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
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.
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.
Hentz is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Adam J. Vander Stoep and investigated by the Dubuque Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 25-CR-1026.
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Gainesville Man Charged for Possession of a Firearm with a Removed Serial NumberRead the Press Release
GAINESVILLE, FLORIDA – Devon Oliver, 18, of Gainesville, Florida, was indicted by a federal grand jury charging him with possession of a firearm with a removed serial number. John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida, announced the charge today.
Oliver appeared for his arraignment in federal court before United States Magistrate Judge Midori A. Lowry on December 23, 2025, in Gainesville, Florida. Jury trial is scheduled for January 28, 2026, at 8:30 a.m., before Chief District Court Judge Allen C. Winsor.
If convicted, Oliver faces up to five years’ imprisonment.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Gainesville Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Adam Hapner is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation by a grand jury that a defendant has committed a violation of federal criminal law and is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial, during which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access available public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
Felon to Federal Prison for Carrying Stolen Firearm in a Rideshare CarRead the Press Release
A man who was previously sentenced in state court for obstruction of justice based on his involvement with a murder was sentenced on December 29, 2025, to more than three years in federal prison. Marshawn Ladarius Jeffries, age 22, from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, received the prison term after an August 5, 2025, guilty plea to possession of a firearm by a felon.
Information from the plea and sentencing showed that on February 28, 2025, Jeffries was a passenger in a rideshare car when the driver was pulled over for a nonworking taillight. Officers smelled marijuana coming from the car and had Jeffries step out. Officers patted Jeffries down after noticing that he seemed nervous and as if he was trying to conceal his waistband. An officer located a 9mm pistol equipped with a high-capacity magazine in Jeffries’s waistband. The firearm had been previously reported stolen. Earlier that month, on February 2, 2025, Jeffries led police officers on a high-speed chase before he crashed his car into the wall of an apartment building.
In sentencing Jeffries, Chief Judge C.J. Williams noted that this was Jeffries’s fifth criminal involvement with a gun and that he was a real and present danger to the community. Jeffries was previously convicted of obstruction of justice for his involvement in a murder that took place at a home in Cedar Rapids in June 2020. Jeffries’s associate shot and killed the victim. Jeffries was also carrying a gun on the night of the murder. After Jeffries’s associate killed the victim, Jeffries fled with the murderer, disposed of clothing, and made false denials to police officers.
Jeffries was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Chief Judge C.J. Williams. Jeffries was sentenced to 42 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a three-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
Jeffries is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
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
This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kyndra Lundquist and investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, and the Iowa State Patrol.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 25-CR-0038.
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Felon Sentenced to Prison for Possessing a GunRead the Press Release
A felon who possessed a gun was sentenced today to more than three years in federal prison. Nathan Lee Armstrong, age 42, from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, received the prison term after a May 13, 2025, guilty plea to possession of a firearm by a felon.
In October 2024, police searched Armstrong’s home in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, during a theft investigation. While searching his bedroom, officers found a gun with a loaded magazine. Armstrong admitted to using methamphetamine the day before police searched his home. Armstrong was prohibited from possessing firearms due to a prior felony conviction for intent to manufacture/deliver methamphetamine.
Armstrong was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Chief Judge C.J. Williams. Armstrong was sentenced to 37 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a three-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system. Armstrong is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Nicole L. Nagin and investigated by the Cedar Rapids Police Department. 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.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 25-CR-00021.
Federally Convicted Felon Sentenced to Additional Prison for Escaping from CustodyRead the Press Release
A previously convicted drug trafficker who escaped from a halfway house was sentenced on December 30, 2025, to a year in federal prison.
Paul Dean White, age 35, from Center Point, Iowa, received the prison term after a September 16, 2025, guilty plea to escape from custody.
Information from the plea and sentencing hearings showed that White was convicted in August 2019 for possessing methamphetamine with the intent to distribute it. Overall, White was involved in trafficking more than 18 kilograms of ice methamphetamine. White was eventually sentenced to 126 months in federal prison.
In August 2025, White was completing his prison sentence at a halfway house in Waterloo, Iowa. White left the facility with permission, but did not return at the scheduled time. Staff contacted White. White told staff that he was not coming back and would rather go back to prison than be in the halfway house. A week later, the United States Marshals Service arrested White.
White was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Chief Judge C.J. Williams. White was sentenced to 12 months and one day of imprisonment. He must also serve a three-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system. White is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony Morfitt and investigated by the United States Marshals Service. Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl. The case file number is 25-CR-2049.
Ecuadorian National Charged with Child Exploitation OffensesRead the Press Release
David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, P.J. O’Brien, Special Agent in Charge of the New Haven Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Stamford Police Chief Timothy Shaw today announced that JOSE ISRAEL TENESACA MEJIA, 21, a citizen of Ecuador residing in West Haven, has been charged with federal child exploitation offenses.
As alleged in court documents and statements made in court, on April 29, 2025, the Stamford Police Department secured an arrest warrant charging Tenesaca Mejia with felony risk of injury and interfering with an officer. Tenesaca Mejia subsequently fled Connecticut with a 14-year-old girl (the “minor victim”). On October 28, 2025, the FBI in New Haven contacted the FBI in Minneapolis and relayed information about Tenesaca Mejia’s active arrest warrant, and that his iPhone had been tracked to a specific location in Minneapolis. Investigators surveilled the vicinity of the location, identified both Tenesaca Mejia and the minor victim, and arrested Tenesaca Mejia.
It is further alleged that preliminary analysis of Tenesaca Mejia’s iPhone revealed videos and images of Tenesaca Mejia engaged in sexual conduct with the minor victim. Investigators also identified numerous images and videos of suspected child pornography that Tenesaca Mejia had downloaded using the Telegram app.
On December 5, 2025, Tenesaca Mejia was charged by federal criminal complaint with sexual exploitation of children, an offense that carries a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 15 years and a maximum term of imprisonment of 30 years, and with possession of child pornography, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.
Tenesaca Mejia has been detained since his arrest. He appeared yesterday before U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert A. Richardson in Hartford.
U.S. Attorney Sullivan stressed that a complaint is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This investigation is being conducted by FBI New Haven, FBI Minneapolis, the Stamford Police Department, and the Hennepin County (Minn.) Sheriff's Office. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel E. Cummings.
U.S. Attorney Sullivan thanked the U.S. Attorney’s Office of the District of Minnesota and the State’s Attorney’s Office for the Judicial District of Stamford/Norwalk for its cooperation in the investigation and prosecution of this case.
This prosecution is part of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Childhood Initiative, which is aimed at protecting children from sexual abuse and exploitation. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
To report cases of child exploitation, please visit www.cybertipline.com.
Convicted Felon from Mexico Sentenced to Federal Prison for Illegally Reentering the United StatesRead the Press Release
A twice convicted felon who was previously deported eight times from the United States was sentenced on December 30, 2025, to more than a year in federal prison.
Odilon Fuentes-Avila, age 43, from Mexico City, Mexico, received the prison term after a September 18, 2025, guilty plea to illegal reentry into the United States.
Information from the plea and sentencing hearings showed that Fuentes-Avila, a Mexican citizen, was removed from the United States after a 2009 conviction for illegally entering the country. At some point, he reentered the country without permission. In 2020, he was convicted of two drug-related felony offenses and two driving while impaired offenses in Minnesota. He was then removed again in January 2020. Overall, he has been ordered removed from the country eight times. At some point after January 2020, he again reentered the United States without permission. On August 1, 2025, ICE agents found Fuentes-Avila in a county jail in Iowa after he was arrested on a warrant from Minnesota.
Fuentes-Avila was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Chief Judge C.J. Williams. White was sentenced to 14 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a one-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
Fuentes-Avila is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs) and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony Morfitt and investigated by Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl. The case file number is 25-CR-1037.
Business Owner Pleads Guilty to Fraud Conspiracy for Alleged $4.8 Million in Unfinished Custom Home ProjectsRead the Press Release
A Fort Worth business owner who received nearly $5 million from local customers for unfinished custom home building and remodeling projects pled guilty to a wire fraud conspiracy charge yesterday, announced United States Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Ryan Raybould.
Court records reflect that Christopher Judge and his wife, Raquelle Judge, both of Fort Worth, Texas, were managing members of Judge DFW LLC (“Judge DFW”), a Texas limited liability company. Each defendant admitted that from approximately August 2020 to January 2023, through Judge DFW, they conspired to defraud consumers by purporting to offer custom architecture, construction, and interior design/décor services that they never completed. They also falsely represented that Christopher Judge was an architect. As part of the fraud scheme, victims received below-market bids from Judge DFW and executed design and build contracts for the work. The defendants then started construction projects and accepted multiple installment payments from victims but never completed those projects, often leaving victims without a completed residence. Plea documents reflect that the defendants defrauded over 40 victims residing in six Northern District of Texas counties, involving at least 24 different construction projects. Court records also show that the defendants commingled victims’ installment payments in the primary Judge DFW operating account, frequently using individual victim installment payments for unrelated construction projects. The alleged loss amount totaled approximately $4.8 million.
Yesterday, Christopher Judge pled guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud and faces up to twenty years in federal prison. Raquelle Judge pled guilty on December 17, 2025, to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud that subjects her to a maximum of five years in federal prison. They also face monetary penalties, restitution, and terms of supervised release. Sentencing for Raquelle Judge is scheduled for April 14, 2026. Sentencing for Christopher Judge is scheduled for May 12, 2026. Both sentencing hearings will occur before United States District Judge Terry R. Means.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Fort Worth Resident Agency and the Euless Police Department conducted the investigation, with the assistance of the U.S. Secret Service Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mark McDonald and Laura Montes prosecuted the case.
Brunswick County Man Sentenced to over 10 Years in Federal Prison for Child Sexual Abuse Material CrimesRead the Press Release
NCDPSWILMINGTON, N.C. – A Shallotte man was sentenced to 11 years' imprisonment followed by 10 years of supervised release for receipt of child sexual abuse material (CSAM).
“These child predators hurt our children, causing lifelong damage to our communities. This case highlights the critical partnership between federal, state, and local agencies in protecting children,” said U.S. Attorney Ellis Boyle. “We will continue to work together to bring child sex offenders to justice and prevent further harm.”
According to court documents and other information presented in court, the Department of Homeland Security and the Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office investigated Scott Anthony Lewis, 65. The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) received a Cyber Tip from Dropbox, reporting that one of its users had uploaded child sexual abuse material to their platform. Law enforcement traced the IP address from that DropBox account to Lewis.
Law enforcement executed a search warrant on Lewis’ residence, and seized digital devices being seized that contained child sexual abuse materials. Lewis had previously served in the U.S. Navy but had left the service in 2018. Since then, he had been working as a self-employed licensed electrician. Lewis, a previously registered sex offender, was on supervised probation for incest at the time of his arrest. At the time he downloaded some of the images located on his device he was out on bond for the incest charge to which he later entered a guilty plea.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Charity Wilson prosecuted the case, and the Department of Homeland Security and the Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case.
Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for case no. 7:24-CR-100-M-BM.
Apopka Woman Indicted for Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud by Defrauding Elderly Victim by Phone and EmailRead the Press Release
GAINESVILLE, FLORIDA – Xin Liu, 40, of Apopka, Florida, was indicted by a federal grand jury charging her with conspiracy to commit wire fraud. John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida, announced the charge today.
Liu appeared for her arraignment in federal court before United States Magistrate Judge Midori A. Lowry on December 23, 2025, in Gainesville, Florida. Jury trial is scheduled for January 28, 2026, at 8:30 a.m. before Chief District Court Judge Allen C. Winsor.
If convicted, Liu faces up to 20 years’ imprisonment.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigations and the Gainesville Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Adam Hapner is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation by a grand jury that a defendant has committed a violation of federal criminal law and is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial, during which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access available public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
2025 Year in ReviewRead the Press Release
MIAMI – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida (USAO-SDFL) closes 2025 having delivered decisive results across the full spectrum of federal enforcement — disrupting transnational drug trafficking organizations, recovering hundreds of millions of dollars through fraud prosecutions and civil resolutions, dismantling corruption schemes, and protecting the public from violent crime, exploitation, and national security threats.
Under the leadership of U.S. Attorney Jason A. Reding Quiñones, the Office pursued complex, high-impact cases that safeguarded communities, protected vulnerable victims, preserved the integrity of public institutions, and reinforced the rule of law. These outcomes were made possible through close coordination with federal, state, and local law enforcement partners throughout South Florida and across the nation.
“2025 was a year of results,” said U.S. Attorney Reding Quiñones. “Our Office focused on the cases that mattered most — those that threatened public safety, exploited the vulnerable, corrupted our systems, or undermined trust in the rule of law. Together with our law enforcement partners, we delivered accountability and made South Florida safer. That momentum will continue.”
Key Accomplishments in 2025
Disrupting Drug Trafficking and Transnational Criminal Organizations
USAO-SDFL led and supported major prosecutions targeting international narcotics trafficking networks operating throughout South Florida. These efforts included large-scale conspiracy indictments involving cocaine, fentanyl, methamphetamine, and emerging synthetic opioids; maritime drug trafficking prosecutions; and cases involving firearms trafficking tied to narcotics operations. Numerous defendants received lengthy federal prison sentences, and substantial quantities of drugs, weapons, and illicit proceeds were seized.
Combating Health Care Fraud and Pharmaceutical Crimes
The Office played a central role in nationwide and district-level health care fraud enforcement, charging dozens of defendants responsible for billions in intended losses to Medicare and other federal programs. Prosecutors secured convictions and significant civil resolutions involving fraudulent billing, kickbacks, diverted and adulterated pharmaceuticals, and schemes that endangered patient safety. Millions of dollars in criminal forfeiture and restitution were ordered to recover funds for taxpayers and victims.
Tackling Financial Crime, Corruption, and International Bribery
USAO-SDFL aggressively pursued complex financial crimes, including Ponzi schemes, investment fraud, money laundering conspiracies, and public corruption. The Office brought and litigated high-profile cases involving domestic and international defendants, including enforcement actions under the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA), resulting in substantial penalties, forfeitures, and corporate accountability. These prosecutions reinforced that financial crime — whether local or global — will be met with sustained federal enforcement.
Protecting the Public from Violence, Extremism, and Exploitation
The Office secured convictions and sentences in cases involving violent offenders, hate-motivated threats, firearms crimes, human smuggling, sex trafficking, and child exploitation. Prosecutors obtained life sentences and decades-long prison terms for defendants who preyed on children, trafficked human beings, or posed credible threats to public safety. USAO-SDFL also worked closely with law enforcement partners to locate and apprehend dangerous fugitives and escapees.
Safeguarding National Security and Immigration Integrity
USAO-SDFL pursued cases involving immigration fraud, identity theft, sanctions evasion, and illicit foreign revenue generation. These prosecutions protected the integrity of U.S. borders, national security interests, and lawful immigration processes.
Community Engagement and Interagency Leadership
Beyond the courtroom, the Office strengthened partnerships with local governments, law enforcement agencies, and community stakeholders on issues ranging from public safety and environmental protection to airport and port security. The year also marked significant leadership milestones, including the investiture of U.S. Attorney Reding Quiñones and continued collaboration with courts and partner agencies throughout the district.
Looking Ahead
As 2026 approaches, the USAO-SDFL remains committed to its mission: to protect Americans, restore impartial justice, and defend the rule of law — without fear or favor.
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16-Year-Old Arrested on First Degree Murder ChargeRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Keyonte Johnson, 16, of Washington, D.C., was arrested yesterday and charged as an adult with premeditated first-degree murder while armed for shooting and killing 20-year-old D.C. resident Roy Bennett, Jr., on the evening of December 5, 2025, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro.
Johnson made his initial court appearance in the District of Columbia before Superior Court Magistrate Judge Renee Raymond, who found probable cause that Johnson committed the offense of premeditated first-degree murder while armed and ordered that Johnson be held without bond pending trial.
“This is yet another example of the out-of-control underage crime plaguing the district” said U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro. “President Trump is right – it is time to put an end to this predictable violence and time to lower the age of accountability so that I can start prosecuting these young criminals before they commit murder.”
According to court documents, on December 5, 2025, Johnson, the victim, and several other people were present in an apartment near Union Market in Northeast D.C. that was being used as a recording studio. As the victim was standing at the microphone, Johnson, who was seated behind him on a sofa, began shooting Bennett, striking him seven times, including twice in the back of the head and twice in the chest. As Johnson fled the scene, he threatened to kill a potential witness if they said anything about the murder.
During the execution of a Maryland search warrant where Johnson was arrested, investigators recovered five magazines, one fully loaded, a box of 10mm ammunition, several iron rifle sights, rifle ammunition, an empty red dot sight box and various clothing items consistent with what was worn by Johnson during the murder.
This case is being investigated by the Metropolitan Police Department and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Rashmika Nedungadi.
Johnson will next appear on January 14, 2026, at 9:30 a.m. in courtroom 203 before Judge Michael Ryan for a preliminary hearing.
These charges are merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
30 December 2025
Wenatchee Man Sentenced to 17 Years in Prison for Trafficking Methamphetamine and Fentanyl and Illegally Possessing FirearmsRead the Press Release
Spokane, Washington – First Assistant United States Attorney Pete Serrano announced that United States District Judge Rebecca Pennell sentenced Steven E. Graham, age 40, of Wenatchee, Washington, to 17 years of prison on drug trafficking and firearm charges. Judge Pennell also ordered that, following his sentence, Graham be on supervised release for 10 years. Graham was found guilty on July 30, 2025, following a jury trial.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, in late November 2023, Graham was serving a term of community custody supervision from a prior state drug conviction. Members of the Columbia River Drug Task Force were investigating Graham not only for drug trafficking, but because Graham had an open warrant from the Washington State Department of Corrections due to one or more violations of his community custody supervision.
Investigators learned that Graham was staying in a room at the Red Lion motel in Wenatchee, Washington. After conducting surveillance and observing evidence of drug trafficking, investigators obtained a search warrant for Graham’s room and a vehicle Graham was using. The warrant was executed on November 29, 2023, after investigators observed Graham and others moving luggage from the motel room to the vehicle. Defendant was arrested and investigators seized over 7,000 fentanyl-laced pills, over 170 grams of methamphetamine, four firearms, and approximately $19,000 in cash from Graham’s luggage and person.
Graham was prohibited under federal law from possessing firearms due to previous felony convictions. Graham qualified as “career offender” under federal sentencing provisions.
First Assistant United States Attorney Pete Serrano said fighting the drug epidemic is an important part of building a safe and strong foundation for Eastern Washington: “Steven Graham posed a significant danger to the Wenatchee Valley and we appreciate the work of our law enforcement partners who work to arrest and prosecute those, like Mr. Graham, who are introducing these deadly substances into our communities.”
“Graham’s lengthy sentence exemplifies the impact of strong law enforcement partnerships in safeguarding our communities from repeat offenders who threaten public safety by trafficking dangerous drugs and deadly weapons,” said HSI Seattle Acting Special Agent in Charge April Miller. “HSI Seattle commends the exceptional collaboration demonstrated by our partners in the Columbia River Drug Task Force. Through our united efforts, we have ensured that a significant threat has been removed and public safety restored for the people we serve.”
The case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the Columbia River Drug Task Force. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Nowles Heinrich.
2:24-cr-00029-RLP
Two Hilo-Area Men Arrested for Years-Long Operation to Transport and Distribute Illegal Fireworks on Big IslandRead the Press Release
HONOLULU – United States Attorney Ken Sorenson announced that Darrel Goo, 52, of Keaau, Hawaii, and Cy Tamura, 45, of Hilo, Hawaii, were arrested and charged by criminal complaint yesterday with multiple fireworks-related criminal offenses, including transporting fireworks into Hawaii; engaging in the business of transporting, distributing, and storing explosive materials; and shipping, transporting, receiving, and possessing any explosive in and affecting interstate commerce. Goo was also charged with being a felon in possession of firearms and ammunition.
According to court documents, from in or around May 2016 through August 2025, Goo and Tamura conspired to engage in the business of transporting, storing, and distributing illegal fireworks in and around the Island of Hawaii. Goo used a fictitious name and Alaska addresses to conceal his annual fireworks purchases sourced from a fireworks company on the U.S. mainland. He also paid for the fireworks in batches of money orders and cash. Tamura arranged the shipping logistics from the U.S. mainland to Hawaii by falsely claiming that the fireworks shipments contained horticultural materials.
Earlier this year, law enforcement engaged in an undercover operation to surveil Goo and Tamura’s annual fireworks order from the U.S. mainland fireworks company and their purchase of illegal “overloads” from a dealer in the Midwest. “Overloads” refer to fireworks that appear to be consumer grade but instead are packed with more explosive material. Law enforcement covertly seized approximately two shipping containers of fireworks before they were shipped to Hawaii.
Images of One of the Shipping Containers Loaded with Fireworks
In August 2025, law enforcement also executed search warrants at Goo and Tamura’s residences in and around the Hilo, Hawaii area. Investigators seized thousands of pounds of illegal fireworks stored in various locations on the properties as well as cash. At Goo’s residence, investigators seized several firearms and thousands of rounds of ammunition. According to the criminal complaint, Goo is a convicted felon and cannot possess firearms or ammunition.
Selected Images of Fireworks Seized from Goo’s Residence
“This investigation demonstrates our solemn commitment to pursue and charge those who violate our nation’s laws related to the possession, transportation, and distribution of illegal fireworks in Hawaii,” said United States Attorney Ken Sorenson. “While we are in the early stages of this particular case, and those charged are presumed innocent, it is our intent to send the clear message that the safety of our local communities remains our number one priority, and those who compromise that safety by violating federal laws related to commercial fireworks will find themselves facing justice in federal court.”
If convicted, Goo and Tamura face imprisonment of up to ten years and fines of up to $250,000 per count, plus terms of supervised release, and Goo faces an additional fifteen years of imprisonment for illegal possession of firearms and ammunition.
The charges in the criminal complaint are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. In the case of conviction, any sentence would be imposed by a United States District Judge based on the statutory sentencing factors and the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines.
This case is being investigated by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with assistance from the Hawaii Attorney General’s Office, Special Investigation and Prosecution Division, and the Hawaii Department of Law Enforcement. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Rebecca A. Perlmutter.
Two Americans Plead Guilty to Targeting Multiple U.S. Victims Using ALPHV BlackCat RansomwareRead the Press Release
MIAMI – Yesterday a federal district court in Miami accepted the guilty pleas of two men who conspired to obstruct, delay or affect commerce through extortion in connection with ransomware attacks occurring in 2023.
“These defendants used their sophisticated cybersecurity training and experience to commit ransomware attacks — the very type of crime that they should have been working to stop,” said Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Extortion via the internet victimizes innocent citizens every bit as much as taking money directly out of their pockets. The Department of Justice is committed to using all tools available to identify and arrest perpetrators of ransomware attacks wherever we have jurisdiction.”
“Ransomware is not just a foreign threat — it can come from inside our own borders,” said U.S. Attorney Jason A. Reding Quiñones for the Southern District of Florida. “Goldberg and Martin used trusted access and technical skill to extort American victims and profit from digital coercion. Their guilty pleas make clear that cybercriminals operating from within the United States will be found, prosecuted, and held to account.”
“Malware like ALPHV (BlackCat) ransomware is used by bad actors to steal, extort, and launder proceeds from victim businesses and organizations,” said Special Agent in Charge Brett Skiles of the FBI Miami Field Office. “The FBI remains committed to working alongside its law enforcement partners to disrupt and dismantle criminal enterprises involved in ransomware attacks and to hold accountable not only the perpetrators but also anyone who knowingly enables or profits from them. We will continue to leverage our intelligence, law enforcement tools, global presence, and partnerships to counter cybercriminals who seek to harm the American public through these insidious attacks. We strongly encourage businesses to exercise due diligence when engaging third parties for ransomware incident response, report suspicious or unethical behavior, and to expeditiously report any ransomware attack to the FBI and our law enforcement partners to safeguard their security and privacy.”
According to court documents, Ryan Goldberg, 40, of Georgia, Kevin Martin, 36, of Texas, and another co-conspirator successfully deployed the ransomware known as ALPHV BlackCat between April 2023 and December 2023 against multiple victims located throughout the United States. The three men agreed to pay the ALPHV BlackCat administrators a 20% share of any ransoms received in exchange for access to the ransomware and ALPHV BlackCat’s extortion platform. All three men worked in the cybersecurity industry — meaning that they had special skills and experience in securing computer systems against harm, including the type of harm they themselves were committing against the victims in this case. After successfully extorting one victim for approximately $1.2 million in Bitcoin, the men split their 80% share of this ransom three ways and laundered the funds through various means.
According to court documents, ALPHV BlackCat targeted the computer networks of more than 1,000 victims around the world. The group used a ransomware-as-a-service model in which developers were responsible for creating and updating ransomware and for maintaining the illicit internet infrastructure. Affiliates were responsible for identifying and attacking high-value victim institutions with the ransomware. After a victim paid, developers and affiliates shared the ransom.
Today’s announcement follows the Justice Department’s prior actions in December 2023 to disrupt ALPHV BlackCat ransomware, in which the FBI developed a decryption tool that allowed FBI field offices across the country and law enforcement partners around the world to offer hundreds of victims the capability of restoring their systems, saving victims approximately $99 million in ransom payments. At that time, the FBI also seized several websites operated by ALPHV BlackCat.
Goldberg and Martin each pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to obstruct, delay or affect commerce or the movement of any article or commodity in commerce by extortion in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1951(a). The defendants are scheduled to be sentenced on March 12, 2026, and face a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The FBI Miami Field Office is leading the investigation, with assistance provided by the U.S. Secret Service.
Trial Attorneys Christen Gallagher and Jorge Gonzalez of the Justice Department’s Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section (CCIPS) and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Thomas Haggerty and Quinshawna Landon for the Southern District of Florida are prosecuting the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mitchell Hyman for the Southern District of Florida is handling asset forfeiture.
CCIPS investigates and prosecutes cybercrime in coordination with domestic and international law enforcement agencies, often with assistance from the private sector. Since 2020, CCIPS has secured the conviction of over 180 cybercriminals and court orders for the return of over $350 million in victim funds.
Significant assistance in this investigation was provided by Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul B. Morris for the Eastern District of Texas and Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel W.A. Peach for the Middle District of Georgia. Additional assistance was provided by the Policía de Investigación of the Aeropuerto Internacional de la Ciudad de México.
Private sector organizations can report any suspicious activities and threats to the FBI’s National Threat Operations Center by calling 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324), visiting www.tips.fbi.gov or contacting their local FBI field office.
If you are a victim of ransomware, contact your local FBI field office or file a report at ic3.gov.
If you have information about ALPHV BlackCat, their affiliates or activities, you may be eligible for a reward through the Department of State’s Rewards for Justice program. Information can be submitted through the following Tor-based tip line (Tor browser required):
he5dybnt7sr6cm32xt77pazmtm65flqy6irivtflruqfc5ep7eiodiad.onion.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.mdfl.uscourts.gov or at http://pacer.mdfl.uscourts.gov, under case number 25-cr-20443.
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Two Americans Plead Guilty to Targeting Multiple U.S. Victims Using ALPHV BlackCat RansomwareRead the Press Release
Yesterday, a federal district court in the Southern District of Florida accepted the guilty pleas of two men to conspiring to obstruct, delay or affect commerce through extortion in connection with ransomware attacks occurring in 2023.
“These defendants used their sophisticated cybersecurity training and experience to commit ransomware attacks — the very type of crime that they should have been working to stop,” said Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Extortion via the internet victimizes innocent citizens every bit as much as taking money directly out of their pockets. The Department of Justice is committed to using all tools available to identify and arrest perpetrators of ransomware attacks wherever we have jurisdiction.”
“Ransomware is not just a foreign threat — it can come from inside our own borders,” said U.S. Attorney Jason A. Reding Quiñones for the Southern District of Florida. “Goldberg and Martin used trusted access and technical skill to extort American victims and profit from digital coercion. Their guilty pleas make clear that cybercriminals operating from within the United States will be found, prosecuted, and held to account.”
“Malware like ALPHV (BlackCat) ransomware is used by bad actors to steal, extort, and launder proceeds from victim businesses and organizations,” said Special Agent in Charge Brett Skiles of the FBI Miami Field Office. “The FBI remains committed to working alongside its law enforcement partners to disrupt and dismantle criminal enterprises involved in ransomware attacks and to hold accountable not only the perpetrators but also anyone who knowingly enables or profits from them. We will continue to leverage our intelligence, law enforcement tools, global presence, and partnerships to counter cybercriminals who seek to harm the American public through these insidious attacks. We strongly encourage businesses to exercise due diligence when engaging third parties for ransomware incident response, report suspicious or unethical behavior, and to expeditiously report any ransomware attack to the FBI and our law enforcement partners to safeguard their security and privacy.”
According to court documents, Ryan Goldberg, 40, of Georgia, Kevin Martin, 36, of Texas, and another co-conspirator successfully deployed the ransomware known as ALPHV BlackCat between April 2023 and December 2023 against multiple victims located throughout the United States. The three men agreed to pay the ALPHV BlackCat administrators a 20% share of any ransoms received in exchange for access to the ransomware and ALPHV BlackCat’s extortion platform. All three men worked in the cybersecurity industry — meaning that they had special skills and experience in securing computer systems against harm, including the type of harm they themselves were committing against the victims in this case. After successfully extorting one victim for approximately $1.2 million in Bitcoin, the men split their 80% share of this ransom three ways and laundered the funds through various means.
According to court documents, ALPHV BlackCat targeted the computer networks of more than 1,000 victims around the world. The group used a ransomware-as-a-service model in which developers were responsible for creating and updating ransomware and for maintaining the illicit internet infrastructure. Affiliates were responsible for identifying and attacking high-value victim institutions with the ransomware. After a victim paid, developers and affiliates shared the ransom.
Today’s announcement follows the Justice Department’s prior actions in December 2023 to disrupt ALPHV BlackCat ransomware, in which the FBI developed a decryption tool that allowed FBI field offices across the country and law enforcement partners around the world to offer hundreds of victims the capability of restoring their systems, saving victims approximately $99 million in ransom payments. At that time, the FBI also seized several websites operated by ALPHV BlackCat.
Goldberg and Martin each pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to obstruct, delay or affect commerce or the movement of any article or commodity in commerce by extortion in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1951(a). The defendants are scheduled to be sentenced on March 12, 2026, and face a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The FBI Miami Field Office is leading the investigation, with assistance provided by the U.S. Secret Service.
Trial Attorneys Christen Gallagher and Jorge Gonzalez of the Justice Department’s Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section (CCIPS) and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Thomas Haggerty and Quinshawna Landon for the Southern District of Florida are prosecuting the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mitchell Hyman for the Southern District of Florida is handling asset forfeiture.
CCIPS investigates and prosecutes cybercrime in coordination with domestic and international law enforcement agencies, often with assistance from the private sector. Since 2020, CCIPS has secured the conviction of over 180 cybercriminals and court orders for the return of over $350 million in victim funds.
Significant assistance in this investigation was provided by Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul B. Morris for the Eastern District of Texas and Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel W.A. Peach for the Middle District of Georgia. Additional assistance was provided by the Policía de Investigación of the Aeropuerto Internacional de la Ciudad de México.
Private sector organizations can report any suspicious activities and threats to the FBI’s National Threat Operations Center by calling 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324), visiting www.tips.fbi.gov or contacting their local FBI field office.
If you are a victim of ransomware, contact your local FBI field office or file a report at ic3.gov.
If you have information about ALPHV BlackCat, their affiliates or activities, you may be eligible for a reward through the Department of State’s Transnational Organized Crime Rewards program or Rewards for Justice program. Information can be submitted through the following Tor-based tip line (Tor browser required):
he5dybnt7sr6cm32xt77pazmtm65flqy6irivtflruqfc5ep7eiodiad.onion.
The Justice Department Files Complaint Challenging Virginia Laws Providing In-State Tuition and Financial Assistance for Illegal AliensRead the Press Release
Today, the United States announced that it is challenging Virginia laws providing in-state tuition and financial assistance for illegal aliens. These laws unconstitutionally discriminate against U.S. citizens who are not afforded the same reduced tuition rates, scholarships, or subsidies, create incentives for illegal immigration, and reward illegal immigrants with benefits that U.S. citizens are not eligible for, all in direct conflict with federal law.
“This is a simple matter of federal law: in Virginia and nationwide, schools cannot provide benefits to illegal aliens that they do not provide to U.S. citizens,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “This Department of Justice will not tolerate American students being treated like second-class citizens in their own country.”
The Department of Justice’s complaint is filed in the Eastern District of Virginia, Richmond Division against the Commonwealth of Virginia seeking to enjoin the State from enforcing the Virginia laws and bring them into compliance with federal requirements.
In the complaint, the United States seeks to enjoin enforcement of Virginia laws that requires colleges and universities to provide in-state tuition rates for all aliens who maintain Virginia residency, regardless of whether those aliens are lawfully present in the United States. Additionally, the complaint seeks to enjoin Virginia from enforcing state laws which afford financial assistance to illegal aliens.
This lawsuit follows two executive orders signed by President Trump that seek to ensure illegal aliens are not obtaining taxpayer benefits or preferential treatment: “Ending Taxpayer Subsidization of Open Borders” and “Protecting American Communities From Criminal Aliens.” This lawsuit also follows similar tuition lawsuits in Texas, Kentucky, Illinois, Oklahoma, Minnesota, and California.
Repeat Drug Trafficker Sentenced to over 5 YearsRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Chadwick M. Elgersma, Acting United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Tyreese Taylor, 43, Machesney Park, Illinois, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge William M. Conley to 54 months in federal prison for distributing cocaine. Taylor pleaded guilty to this charge on October 1, 2025. Taylor was also sentenced to an additional 12 months and one day in federal prison for violating the terms of his federal supervised release.
In 2019, Taylor was released from prison following a federal drug trafficking conviction and began his first term of supervised release. In 2021, he was sent back to prison for violating the terms of his supervised release by selling drugs. In 2024, Taylor was again released from prison and began his second term of supervised release. On April 24, 2025, police searched a residence frequented by Taylor and found several ounces of cocaine, a digital scale, assorted other drugs, and drug packaging. Police also found Taylor’s car keys and more than $4,000 in U.S. currency containing prerecorded police money from prior drug transactions. Taylor was arrested the same day during a traffic stop in Beloit.
At sentencing, Judge Conley found that Taylor was attracted to the lifestyle of dealing drugs despite having legitimate job opportunities. Judge Conley also found that Taylor seemed likely to reoffend given his prior history.
The charge against Taylor was the result of an investigation conducted by the Beloit Police Department and Rock County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Steven Ayala prosecuted this case.
Federal criminal cases involving narcotics 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 and Project Safe Neighborhood.
Pensacola Man Pleads Guilty to Possession of MacHinegunsRead the Press Release
PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – Tre’Veonce Ezekiel Sanders, 19, of Pensacola, Florida, pleaded guilty in federal court to possession of a machinegun, possession of an unregistered firearm, and possession with intent to distribute marijuana. The plea was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “I applaud and deeply appreciate the vigilance of our federal law enforcement partners who intercepted this dangerous device in the mail and investigated its intended recipient. President Donald J. Trump and Attorney General Pam Bondi promised to Take Back America from the offenders intent on committing criminal violence within our communities, and my office will continue to deliver on that promise with successful prosecutions like this.”
Court documents reflect that in August 2025, agents with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations were notified that a parcel, which contained a machinegun conversion device, was shipped from China and destined for the defendant’s residence in Pensacola, Florida. Law enforcement executed a search warrant at the residence and located a Glock handgun that had been modified to fire as a machinegun, multiple machinegun conversion devices, marijuana, ammunition, and over $6,000 in United States currency.
Sanders faces up to ten years’ imprisonment on each of the firearm charges and up to five years on the narcotics charge.
The case involved a joint investigation by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jessica S. Etherton.
Sentencing is scheduled for March 10, 2026, at 1:00 pm at the United States Courthouse in Pensacola, Florida before United States District Judge M. Casey Rodgers.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America (https://www.justice.gov/dag/media/1393746/dl?inline ) a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
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.
Mexican National Pleads Guilty to Illegally Reentering the US After Prior RemovalsRead the Press Release
BANGOR, Maine: A Mexican national pleaded guilty today in U.S. District Court in Bangor to illegally entering the U.S. after a prior removal.
According to court records, Alfredo Gonzalez-Pelaez, 42, was encountered by a Border Patrol agent conducting a field inspection. Gonzalez-Pelaez acknowledged to the officer that he was an alien who had illegally entered the United States years earlier. Immigration records showed that he had previously been removed from the U.S. in 2012 and did not have a visa or other documentation that would allow him to re-enter the country.
Gonzalez-Pelaez faces up to two years in prison and a maximum fine of $250,000. 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.
The U.S. Border Patrol investigated the case.
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.
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Menasha Man Charged with Production of Child Pornography and Obscenity CrimesRead the Press Release
Brad D. Schimel, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on December 23, 2025, Zakaria H. Adam (age: 20) of Menasha, Wisconsin, was charged in a criminal complaint with production of child pornography and transfer of obscene matter to a minor in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 2251(a) and 1470.
According to the criminal complaint, between April 15, 2025, and April 24, 2025, Adam began communicating via a popular social media application with a 13-year-old minor in upstate New York. Zakaria sent sexually explicit images of his genitalia to the child and convinced the child to send sexually explicit images in return.
If convicted of the production of child pornography charge, Zakaria faces a mandatory minimum15 years and up to 30 years of imprisonment. The charge also carries up to a $250,000 fine and a minimum of 5 years and up to life of supervised release. The transfer of obscene matter to a minor charge carries up to 10 years of imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to 3 years of supervised release. A conviction on either charge would also require Adam to register as a sexual offender.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Green Bay Resident Agency. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Daniel R. Humble.
A criminal complaint is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. The defendant is presumed innocent and is entitled to a fair trial at which the government must prove his guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006, by the U.S. Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
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For further information contact:
Public Affairs Officer Steve Caballero
(414) 297-1700
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McLean man charged with sending threatening messages and lying to investigatorsRead the Press Release
ALEXANDRIA, Va. – A McLean man was charged by criminal complaint with transmitting threats in interstate commerce and making false statements.
According to court documents, on Dec. 23, Scott Allen Bolger, 33, allegedly used Google Voice, which allows a user to text message others using a phone number other than the user’s primary phone number, to send a message to a federal employee. In the message, Bolger allegedly threatened to kill the employee.
“Threats of violence are serious crimes with serious consequences,” said Lindsey Halligan, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia. “Those who target federal employees should know that we will investigate and prosecute these offenses to the fullest extent of the law.”
When federal task force officers arrived at Bolger’s residence to question him about the threat to kill, they identified themselves as federal law enforcement officers. Bolger allegedly falsely identified himself as Brian Black and told them he did not know a Scott Bolger.
If convicted, Bolger faces up to five years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Gavin R. Tisdale is prosecuting 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. 1:25-mj-734.
A criminal complaint is merely an accusation. The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Illegal Alien Indicted for Unlawfully Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
GAINESVILLE, FLORIDA – Robinson Abrahan Esparragoza Regalado, 26, a Venezuelan national, was indicted by a federal grand jury charging him with possession of a firearm by an alien illegally or unlawfully in the United States. John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida, announced the charge today.
Regalado appeared for his arraignment in federal court before United States Magistrate Judge Midori A. Lowry on December 23, 2025, in Gainesville, Florida. Jury trial is scheduled for January 28, 2026, at 8:30 a.m. before Chief District Court Judge Allen C. Winsor.
If convicted, Regalado faces up to 15 years’ imprisonment.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Florida Highway Patrol. Assistant United States Attorney Adam Hapner is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation by a grand jury that a defendant has committed a violation of federal criminal law and is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial, during which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access available public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
Former Correctional Officer Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison for Distributing Narcotics in the Dyer County JailRead the Press Release
Jackson, TN – A former correctional officer for the Dyer County Sheriff’s Department was sentenced on December 29, 2025. United States Attorney D. Michael Dunavant announced the sentence today.
According to the information presented in court, Tyrell Wallace, a guard at the Dyer County Jail, reported to work on October 24, 2024. Investigators stopped Wallace and announced an administrative search. Inside Wallace’s waistband, investigators recovered 53 grams of actual methamphetamine with a purity level of 100%, 165 grams of marijuana, 26 grams of fentanyl, 3 grams of crack cocaine, 8 Suboxone strips, and a Motorola cellular telephone.
Investigators then searched Wallace’s vehicle where they recovered a loaded 9mm handgun and 40 rounds of ammunition. During a post-arrest interview, Wallace confessed that he planned to introduce the narcotics to inmates. Investigators then sought a search warrant for Wallace’s cellphone which revealed it was the third time he delivered controlled substances to the jail.
U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant said: "Official misconduct by public officers in positions of trust and authority undermines the foundational integrity of our government institutions and the security of correctional facilities. We will root out, expose, and hold accountable those officials who violate their oath for personal gain by introducing illegal narcotics into jails and prisons."
On September 26, 2025, the defendant pled guilty to violating 21 U.S.C. §841(a) for knowingly possessing actual methamphetamine with the intent to distribute. United States District Judge S. Thomas Anderson sentenced the defendant to 120 months of incarceration followed by 5 years of supervised release.
The Dyer County Sheriff’s Department and Drug Enforcement Administration investigated this case.
Special Assistant United States Attorney Andrew Hays prosecuted this case on behalf of the government. SAUSA Hays is currently assigned from the 29th Judicial District Attorney General’s Office.
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For more information, please contact the Media Relations Team at [email protected]. Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office on Facebook or on X at @WDTNNews for office news and updates.
Fentanyl Hidden in Ironing Board Leads to 15-Year Federal Sentence for Raleigh ManRead the Press Release
NCDPSRALEIGH, N.C. – A federal judge sentenced a Raleigh man, Joshua McClain, 31, to spend more than 15 years in federal prison after he pleaded guilty to trafficking fentanyl, cocaine, and methamphetamine out of a Cary hotel room.
“Fentanyl traffickers take lives across our communities, and dealers like McClain – who repeatedly return to this trade – fuel that crisis,” said U.S. Attorney Ellis Boyle. “This sentence reflects the seriousness of his conduct and reinforces our commitment to working with our law enforcement partners to protect the public and hold repeat offenders accountable.”
According to court documents, investigators began surveilling McClain in January 2024 after observing suspected drug activity at a Raleigh motel. Officers saw a vehicle leaving the motel after a suspected drug deal and stopped it a short time later. The driver of the vehicle was identified as McClain, and officers confirmed he had several outstanding warrants. During the search, officers found marijuana, drug paraphernalia, and cash.
Following his release on bond, McClain returned to the Cary hotel where he had been staying. Staff inspecting the room found multiple bags of narcotics hidden inside the lining of an ironing board. The substances included fentanyl, ANPP—a chemical precursor used to make fentanyl—and other controlled substances.
In March 2024, while being processed at the Wake County Detention Center, officers again discovered even more drugs McClain had concealed on his body, including additional fentanyl, fluorofentanyl, and cocaine.
Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Aria Q. Merle prosecuted the case. The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Cary Police Department, the Holly Springs Police Department and the Raleigh Police Department investigated the case.
Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 5:24-cr-00340.
Ecuadorian National Sentenced for Illegally Reentering the US After Prior RemovalsRead the Press Release
BANGOR, Maine: An Ecuadorian national was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Bangor for entering the United States after prior removals.
U.S. District Judge John A. Woodcock, Jr. sentenced William Leonardo Dutan Gagui, 33, to time served. Dutan Gagui had been incarcerated since September 14, 2025.
According to court records, in September 2025, Dutan Gagui was a passenger in a speeding van operated by an illegal alien. Border Patrol agents stopped the vehicle. When asked, Dutan Gagui admitted he was a citizen of Ecuador and that he did not have any documentation to be in the U.S. legally. A review of immigration records confirmed Dutan Gagui had been removed from the country in November 2011 and again in August 2016, both times at New Orleans, Louisiana.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection investigated the case.
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.
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District of Arizona Charges 143 Individuals for Immigration-Related Criminal Conduct this WeekRead the Press Release
PHOENIX, Ariz. – During the week of enforcement operations from Dec. 20 through Dec. 26, 2025, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Arizona brought immigration-related criminal charges against 143 individuals. Specifically, the United States filed 105 cases in which aliens illegally re-entered the United States, and the United States also charged 32 aliens for illegally entering the United States. In its ongoing effort to deter unlawful immigration, the United States filed 6 cases against 6 individuals responsible for smuggling illegal aliens into and within the District of Arizona.
These cases were referred or supported by federal law enforcement partners, including Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations (ICE ERO), ICE Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), U.S. Border Patrol, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the U.S. Marshals Service (USMS), and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
Recent matters of interest include:
United States v. Dimer Oseas Nolasco-Mendez; United States v. Santiago Jeronimo-Jeronimo. The two defendants were charged, by complaints with Re-entry of Removed Alien on Dec. 24, 2025. According to the complaints, Arizona Department of Public Safety Troopers observed a vehicle traveling 90 mph in a 75-mph speed zone near Eloy, Arizona. The troopers initiated a traffic stop of the vehicle for invalid registration, speeding and failure to yield for an emergency vehicle. The troopers requested identification from the passengers, later identified as Nolasco-Mendez and Jeronimo-Jeronimo. Immigration checks confirmed that Nolasco-Mendez and Jeronimo-Jeronimo are citizens of Guatemala, unlawfully present in the United States. 25-8614MJ, 25-8613MJ Phoenix.
United States v. Edgar Valentin-Campos. Valentin-Campos was charged by complaint with Transportation of Illegal Aliens for Profit on Dec. 22, 2025. As charged in the complaint, agents observed Valentin's vehicle parked along the side of a rural road next to a wash near Sells, Arizona. The location is commonly used for drivers to pick up illegal aliens for further transport into the United States. After agents turned around to investigate further, the vehicle then began traveling northbound on Federal Route 19. When agents initiated a vehicle stop, the vehicle failed to yield. As agents followed, the vehicle slowed down, almost coming to a stop, and four subjects exited the vehicle and ran into the desert. The vehicle then ran a stop sign at a high rate of speed, and ultimately, crashed into a ditch outside of Sells. The driver, Valentin-Campos, and two illegal aliens from Guatemala, were arrested. 25-MJ-12339-MSA, Tucson.
A criminal complaint is a formal accusation of criminal conduct. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
RELEASE NUMBER: 2025-181_December 30 Immigration Enforcement
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For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on Twitter @USAO_AZ for the latest news.Disney Agrees to $10M Civil Penalty and Injunction for Alleged Violations of Children’s Privacy LawsRead the Press Release
The Justice Department announced today that a federal court has entered a stipulated order resolving a case against Disney Worldwide Services Inc. and Disney Entertainment Operations LLC, (collectively, Disney). The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) investigated this matter, negotiated a resolution with Disney, and referred the case to the Department. Under the order, Disney will pay $10 million in civil penalties as part of a settlement to resolve Federal Trade Commission allegations that Disney violated the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act and its implementing regulations (COPPA) in connection with Disney’s popular YouTube video content.
COPPA prohibits website operators from knowingly collecting, using, or disclosing personal information from children under the age of 13 (hereinafter, children), unless they provide notice to and obtain consent from those children’s parents. In a complaint filed in the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California, the government alleged that Disney improperly failed to designate YouTube video content as directed toward children. As a result, Disney, and others acting on Disney’s behalf, targeted advertising toward children on YouTube and unlawfully collected children’s information without parental notice and consent, in violation of COPPA. Disney’s YouTube video content is extremely popular, with billions of views in the United States alone.
“The Justice Department is firmly devoted to ensuring parents have a say in how their children’s information is collected and used,” said Assistant Attorney General Brett A. Shumate of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “The Department will take swift action to root out any unlawful infringement on parents’ rights to protect their children’s privacy.”
In addition to imposing a $10 million civil penalty on Disney, the stipulated order bars Disney from operating on YouTube in a manner that violates COPPA and requires Disney to create a program that will ensure it properly complies with COPPA on YouTube going forward.
The United States is represented in this action by Assistant Director Zachary A. Dietert, and Trial Attorneys Zachary L. Cowan and Francisco L. Unger, from the Enforcement Section of the Civil Division’s Enforcement and Affirmative Litigation Branch. Jacqueline Ford represents the FTC.
For more information about the Enforcement Section of the Civil Division’s Enforcement and Affirmative Litigation Branch visit www.justice.gov/civil/enforcement-affirmative-litigation-branch.
David C. Waterman’s Remarks Upon his Formal Swearing-In as United States Attorney for the Southern District of IowaRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, Iowa – On December 12, 2025, United States Attorney David C. Waterman delivered remarks at his formal swearing-in ceremony at the United States Courthouse in Des Moines. The December ceremony marked the ceremonial commencement of Waterman’s tenure as the United States Attorney for the Southern District of Iowa, following Chief Judge Stephanie M. Rose’s administration of the oath of office on October 15, 2025.
The following are remarks as prepared for delivery:
May it please the Court.
Judge Locher, distinguished guests, colleagues, family, and friends—thank you for being here. For those visiting Iowa for the first time, welcome to our sunny, tropical state. Joking aside, even in December, I trust you will find Iowa offers a warmth of spirit that defines this place and its people. That spirit—rooted in community, perseverance, service, and “Iowa nice”—has shaped my life and the path that brings me here today.
Standing in this courtroom, I am aware that this moment is part of a much longer story. It rests on 150 years of history and public service in the district that I now have the honor to lead. In 1873, President Ulysses S. Grant appointed James T. Lane as the United States District Attorney for Iowa. Lane served with distinction, helping to forge the Davenport law firm that would one day bear the name Lane & Waterman.
That firm later became home to Lane’s son, Congressman Joe R. Lane, and to my great-great-grandfather, Charles M. Waterman. He was admitted to the Iowa bar in 1871 and served as a district court judge and later as a justice of the Iowa Supreme Court. His career, marked by discipline, humility, and devotion to public duty, shaped generations of Iowa lawyers, including many in my own family.
Because of that lineage, I was born and raised in Davenport; became a fifth-generation Iowa attorney; and ultimately practiced at the same firm where James T. Lane; his son, Joe R. Lane; Justice Waterman; and my own relatives carried out their life’s work, including my father, Bob Waterman, a former President of the Iowa State Bar Association, and my uncle, Justice Tom Waterman of the Iowa Supreme Court.
That history is no coincidence. It reflects a truth we all share: our work as lawyers, judges, and public servants is part of a continuum of public service—grounded in the belief that justice strengthens every community it touches. As I formally assume the office once held by James T. Lane, I do so with gratitude for that history and with a firm resolve to honor it through excellence, integrity, and service.
Cicero, the Roman statesman and prosecutor, wrote the book, De Officiis, or On Duties, to guide the next generation of public servants—including his own son. Cicero emphasized that gratitude is not merely a private virtue but a civic obligation—one that strengthens the bonds of justice and public trust. As Cicero wrote, “No duty is more necessary than that of returning gratitude.” Today, I fulfill that duty.
Before thanking those who shaped my path, I want to express my gratitude to God for the strength, opportunities, and blessings that brought me to this moment.
I am grateful to Senator Chuck Grassley and Senator Joni Ernst for their steadfast support; to President Donald Trump for nominating me; to the United States Senate for confirming me; and to Attorney General Pam Bondi for her leadership.
I owe profound gratitude to the three exceptional federal judges for whom I clerked:
- Judge John Jarvey taught me the importance of fairness, civility, clarity, and efficiency. He had the rare gift for ensuring that everyone—prosecutors, defense counsel, agents, and staff—treated each other with respect. I follow his advice to embrace difficult and challenging cases, to seek growth over comfort, and to bring order to chaos.
- Judge Mark Bennett models relentless preparation, intellectual rigor, grit, and integrity. He taught me that a lawyer’s credibility—their word—is their most valuable asset. His example and scholarship have educated me about the traits that define exceptional lawyering.
- Judge Michael Melloy embodies the quiet strength of humility, steady judgment, and principled decision-making. His calm, disciplined, and thoughtful approach to the law remains a standard I strive to meet.
Their mentorship continues to guide my decisions and my character.
I thank the former U.S. Attorneys who join us today—Chief Judge Steven Colloton of the United States Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit, Marc Krickbaum, Rich Westphal, Jeff Lang, and Pete Deegan—and First Assistant U.S. Attorney Andy Kahl, as well as my colleague and friend, Leif Olson, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Iowa. Leif, I look forward to our partnership. We have important work together in the years ahead.
I also thank the many other public servants in attendance, including Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird; Federal Public Defender Brad Hansen; United States Representative Mariannette Miller-Meeks; Jennifer Heins Davis, Chief of Staff for Senator Grassley; and Iowa Solicitor General Eric Wessan; along with the federal and state judges here today.
Family is where I first learned advocacy and service.
My father, Bob Waterman—my role model and one of Iowa’s finest trial lawyers—introduced me to the courtroom. Watching him as a child felt like Scout Finch watching Atticus Finch in the book, To Kill a Mockingbird. After seeing Dad and plaintiff’s counsel, Jim Hayes, fiercely battle in court, and then Jim shared dinner with our family at the end of a week-long jury trial, I learned a valuable lesson early that has guided me ever since: civility is essential to our profession. Many years later, trying a civil jury trial as first chair beside my father, and winning a defense verdict for our clients, remains one of the proudest moments of my life.
To my mother, Kim, and my brother, Michael—thank you for supporting me through every challenge that led to this moment.
My uncle, Justice Tom Waterman, sharpened my skills as a young appellate lawyer. He influenced how I briefed cases, structured oral arguments, and approached the record with precision. My cousin, Charles Dana Waterman, a distinguished business attorney, exemplifies professional excellence and community leadership. My other cousin, Dana Waterman Hempy, is a rising star attorney at Nyemaster, and my Aunt Maria Waterman is an accomplished family law practitioner and mediator.
I am grateful as well to my mentors and colleagues at Lane & Waterman. I thank Jeff Lang—a former U.S. Attorney for the Central District of Illinois and FBI agent—who deepened my understanding of white-collar criminal defense and complex federal investigations. To my other invaluable mentors, friends, and colleagues at L&W, thank you for shaping my development as a civil practitioner in both Iowa and Illinois.
At the Department of Justice—both in the Middle District of Florida and the Central District of California—I had the privilege of learning from outstanding mentors, including AUSA Michelle Thresher Taylor, DOJ Supervisory Trial Counsel Gail Johnson, AUSA Holly Gershow, Judge Natalie Adams, AUSA David Rhodes, and former AUSA Rasha Gerges Shields. Their writing, oral advocacy, and commitment to justice created a model I still seek to emulate. I am especially proud that Gail and Rasha are fellow graduates of UCLA School of Law.
My UCLA Law ties have significantly influenced my career. To AUSA Roger Hsieh, my UCLA Law classmate who is here today from California; and to AUSA Diego Novaes, also with us today from Florida—thank you both for your friendship and the partnership we formed from our earliest days as federal prosecutors.
To our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners—including Federal Task Force Officers, Sergeant Jessica Sullivan and Detective Mike Diaz, who traveled from Florida—thank you. Your courage, professionalism, and judgment make our work possible.
Sergeant Jessica Sullivan’s determination during a months-long Title III wiretap investigation dismantled a major drug-trafficking organization distributing heroin, fentanyl, and cocaine. Eleven defendants were charged. Eleven defendants were convicted. Jessica’s tireless efforts and mastery of complex investigative techniques were essential to our success in that case.
Detective Mike Diaz worked with me on my earliest federal cases. He brings calm judgment and fearless honesty to every investigation. When Mike assessed a case, you knew you were getting the unvarnished truth: the strengths, the weaknesses, why it deserved federal prosecution, and the path forward.
To all the local, state, and federal law enforcement officers here tonight: your service safeguards every community in this district. You have my deep respect and unwavering support.
To my teammates of the Oxford Canadians Ice Hockey Club: your Campbell Coats symbolize a tradition of public service. They honor Clarence Campbell, who, like many of us, played ice hockey at Oxford University and later pursued a career in the law. After World War II, Campbell prosecuted Nazi officials for crimes against humanity. His example reminds us that justice requires moral courage.
To my lifelong friends—from childhood; high school; college and graduate school, including my ice hockey teammates from the George Washington University, Oxford University, and Cambridge University; and law school—your presence here overwhelms me with gratitude. Thank you for your enduring friendship, support, loyalty, humor, and inspiration.
I have spoken of those who shaped my past and lifted me up. Now I want to address those who will help build our future and pursue justice as one team united by one mission. My understanding of this mission began long before today. I remember my first day as an AUSA—June 13, 2016—the morning after the Pulse nightclub shooting in Orlando. That tragedy revealed a truth every prosecutor learns: justice is not abstract. It is lived by real people, in real communities, and in real moments of fear, grief, and pain.
To the men and women of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa: please stand.
It is the greatest honor of my professional life to stand with you, to serve alongside you, and to join this extraordinary team. I believe in our mission, in this office, and in each of you. I will support you fully. You can expect transparency, clear priorities, and a workplace defined by professionalism, accountability, and courage. In return, I ask for your best—every day—on behalf of the people we serve.
We will operate as one team. We will challenge one another, learn from mistakes, and grow together. That is how excellence is built. Thank you. Please be seated.
Our district covers 47 counties and 1.8 million people, and yet our impact reaches far beyond. We lead nationally in drug-trafficking prosecutions, overdose-related cases, and human-trafficking enforcement. We will continue to act—swiftly, fairly, and relentlessly—against those who distribute lethal fentanyl, traffic children, prey on the elderly, exploit our borders, undermine national security, or engage in violent or organized crime.
We will protect the vulnerable. We will hold the line. And we will do so with resolve.
As a team, we will set the gold standard.
Judges, juries, law enforcement, defense counsel, and the public must see us as models of professionalism: always prepared, always punctual, always principled, and always polished. Our credibility is our greatest asset.
That tradition of excellence stretches back to Attorney General Robert H. Jackson, who would later serve on the United States Supreme Court. In 1940, Jackson expressed to a group of assembled United States Attorneys that “the citizen’s safety lies in the prosecutor who tempers zeal with human kindness, who seeks truth and not victims, who serves the law and not factional purposes, and who approaches his task with humility.” Justice Jackson’s words must guide us today.
Our work matters. We are the voice for the vulnerable, the guardians of public safety, and the stewards of the public trust.
This work is demanding—sometimes isolating, often exhausting. But we will still find time for camaraderie, laughter, and storytelling. I’ve promised group runs—or, to be more accurate, slow jogs. If you cannot tell whether I am running or walking, rest assured: neither can I.
As we look ahead, let us recommit ourselves to the principles that brought us to public service:
- To do the right thing;
- In the right way; and
- For the right reasons.
Let us remember—as Cicero taught—the duty of gratitude: for this mission, for one another, and for the privilege of representing the United States.
I am even grateful for the obstacles in my own confirmation process over the past three-plus years. They made me a better lawyer, a stronger leader, and, I hope, a more grounded person. They reminded me that God’s timing may not align with our timing—but it is always right.
Surrounded by family, friends, mentors, and colleagues, I am grateful for the opportunity to serve this district and for the trust placed in this office. Together, let us pursue justice with courage and conviction.
God bless you, and God bless the United States of America. Thank you for your time.
Columbia Man Arraigned Following Hate Crime IndictmentRead the Press Release
COLUMBIA, S.C. — A Columbia man accused of a hate crime was arraigned in federal court this morning. The Government moved for the defendant to be detained pending trial. The defendant waived his right to a detention hearing and will remain in custody.
Jonathan Andrew Felkel, 34, was indicted by a federal grand jury with violating the housing rights of his Black neighbor, J.M., and for using a firearm in the commission of a crime of violence.
According to court documents, on July 17, Felkel, while driving into the gated community where both he and J.M. lived, fired a gun and shouted at J.M., “You better keep running, boy!” while J.M. was standing at the gate to the community.
If convicted, Felkel faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison on the housing charge, and an additional 10 years in prison on the firearms charge.
The FBI Columbia Field Office and the Richland County Sheriff’s Department investigated the case.Assistant U.S. Attorneys Elle Klein and Lamar Fyall of the District of South Carolina and Trial Attorney Sarah Armstrong and Special Legal Counsel Mark Blumberg of the Civil Rights Division’s Criminal Section are prosecuting the case.
All charges in the indictment are merely accusations and defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.###
Charles “Chas” Calenda Appointed Interim United States Attorney for the District of Rhode IslandRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE – United States Attorney General Pamela Bondi has appointed Charles “Chas” Calenda as Interim United States Attorney for the District of Rhode Island.
As Interim United States Attorney, Mr. Calenda will serve as the chief federal law enforcement officer for the District of Rhode Island, overseeing the prosecution of federal criminal cases and the representation of the United States in civil matters.
“It is an honor and privilege to be appointed Interim United States Attorney for the District of Rhode Island. I thank Attorney General Bondi and the Department of Justice for placing their trust in me to oversee this very important office,” said Interim United States Attorney Charles Calenda.
Mr. Calenda has nearly two decades of experience as a trial attorney and former prosecutor. He previously served as a Special Assistant Attorney General at the Rhode Island Department of the Attorney General, where he prosecuted criminal cases at all levels of the court system. During his tenure, he was assigned to the Narcotics and Organized Crime Unit and tried more than 60 cases to conclusion between the district, family, and superior courts in Rhode Island.
Mr. Calenda was cross designated as a Special Assistant United States Attorney in the District of Rhode Island, assisting with federal criminal investigations and litigation. He has extensive knowledge in strategic-litigation planning, case analysis and trial preparation, and both jury and non-jury trials.
“I would like to offer a special thank you to the First Assistant United States Attorney for doing a remarkable job keeping this office stable and running for the last ten plus months. I am grateful to the dedicated attorneys and staff of the District of Rhode Island, and our district is fortunate to have exceptionally well-seasoned leadership and staff who selflessly serve the people of Rhode Island day in and day out. I am proud to be part of this team so we can keep Rhode Islanders safe from those seeking to do us harm. I am confident that the attorneys and staff will continue their hard work during my tenure in this office. I am committed to working collaboratively with all federal, state, and local law enforcement to ensure the betterment of all Rhode Islanders. I look forward to the important work ahead and will always remember that I served the people of Rhode Island above all else.”
In addition to his public service, Mr. Calenda has practiced as a litigation attorney focusing on criminal defense and civil litigation. He has also served as a Justice of the Peace and Bail Commissioner for District Court, as well as a Town Councilor for the Town of West Greenwich.
Mr. Calenda earned his Juris Doctor from the University of Miami School of Law and a Bachelor of Science in Communication from the University of Miami.
Mr. Calenda was sworn in today, December 30, 2025, before United States District Court Chief Judge John J. McConnell, Jr.
29 December 2025
Texas Man Charged with Providing Bomb Components and Funding to Individuals He Believed Were Involved with Foreign Terrorist OrganizationRead the Press Release
An alleged ISIS sympathizer has been federally charged with an international terrorism offense after providing bomb components and money to individuals he believed were acting on behalf of a designated foreign terrorist organization.
“This case is a testament to the incredible work of our federal agents, who work tirelessly to save American lives,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “ISIS’s poisonous ideology must be ripped out root and stem — anyone who tries to commit violence on ISIS’s behalf will be found, arrested, and prosecuted. You cannot hide from us.”
“Today’s announcement underscores the FBI’s commitment to combatting terrorism and demonstrates our continuous work to disrupt and thwart terrorist plots against the American public,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “Let this serve as a warning to those who plan to conduct attacks against the United States on behalf of terrorist organizations – you will be brought to justice.”
“The increasing threats of harm and destruction in our country made by those aligned with violent ideologies must be stopped,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan Raybould for the Northern District of Texas. “An alleged ISIS sympathizer has been federally charged with an international terrorism. This operation is but one example highlighting the necessity of vigilant observation and swift action to halt what could have been a devastating outcome. Together with our law enforcement partners, we will continue to take prompt action against those attempting to carry out alleged terrorist missions.”
“The FBI worked alongside our law enforcement partners to quickly arrest an individual who intended to provide bomb making materials to a foreign terrorist organization,” said Special Agent in Charge R. Joseph Rothrock of FBI Dallas. “Protecting the Homeland is a top priority for the FBI. This arrest demonstrates our commitment to safeguarding our communities from terrorism.”
“Today’s charges illustrate that the threats of terrorism and extremist violence against our nation are still very real,” said Commissioner Jessica S. Tisch of the New York Police Department (NYPD). “The NYPD remains committed to identifying, disrupting, and dismantling these networks at their source – before they can reach their murderous ends. And any person who puts American lives at risk will face justice and be held accountable to the fullest extent of the law. I want to thank our undercover investigators in the NYPD, as well as our law enforcement partners in the FBI and the U.S. Attorney’s Office, for their exceptional work on this case.”
John Michael Garza, Jr., 21, of Midlothian, Texas, was charged last week by federal complaint with the offense of attempting to provide material support or resources to a designated foreign terrorist organization after he brought various bomb-making materials to a meeting on Monday evening, Dec. 22, and gave them to an individual he allegedly believed was an ISIS “brother.” In reality, Garza met with an undercover agent. During the meeting, Garza described how to mix the components and offered to send an instructional video explaining how to build the bomb. Law enforcement agents arrested Garza shortly after he left the meeting.
According to the complaint, in mid-October 2025, an undercover New York City Police Department employee noticed a particular social media account — later determined to be Garza’s — that followed several other pro-ISIS accounts and wrote a comment on a pro-ISIS post. When the NYPD undercover engaged with Garza on social media, Garza described himself as a 21-year-old Mexican-American living in Texas. In their continuing conversations throughout November and December, Garza shared that he ascribed to the ISIS ideology and sent the undercover multiple official ISIS media releases. Garza paid the undercover small sums of cryptocurrency in November and December 2025, believing that he was supporting ISIS causes, including buying firearms and other materials. Examples of ISIS media releases that Garza provided included:
Photo of masked individual and another man standing in a gated area Photo of explosion in part of a buildingGarza also allegedly shared a video depicting a suicide vehicle bombing. A screenshot of one bomb-making instructional video shared by Garza is below:
Still photo taken from video depicting masked and gloved individual prepared to assemble materialsAs alleged, Garza began telling the undercover agent of his plans to buy materials to make explosives. Garza told him that he would buy the ingredients and agreed to meet with a second individual who Garza believed to support ISIS activities on Monday, Dec 22. At the meeting, Garza handed the FBI undercover several explosive components. As alleged, Garza explained how to mix the ingredients and surround them with nails, and he offered to send the undercover an instructional bomb-building video.
Garza appeared before a United States magistrate judge for his initial appearance on Dec. 23. A probable cause and detention hearing is scheduled for Dec. 30. If convicted, Garza faces a statutory maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison.
The investigation was conducted by the FBI’s Dallas Field Office and the NYPD, with assistance by FBI’s New York Field Office, Dallas Police Department, Midlothian Police Department, and Euless Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Madeleine Case for the Northern District of Texas and DOJ Trial Attorney David Courchaine with the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section.
A complaint is merely an allegation of criminal conduct, not evidence. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Two Havana Brothers Sentenced to Federal Prison for Possession of Firearms and Ammunition by Convicted FelonsRead the Press Release
TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – Nicholas Wayne Finley, 37, and Jason Dean Atkinson, 43, both of Havana, Florida, were sentenced to prison for possession of firearms and ammunition by a convicted felon. Finley was sentenced to 54 months in prison, while Atkinson was sentenced to 37 months. Both brothers will be on supervised release for three years following their release from prison. The sentences were announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “The family that does crime together does time together. Thanks to the tremendous work of our local and federal law enforcement partners, this pair of dangerous felons have been incapacitated and now find themselves in federal prison. My office remains committed to keeping our community safe by aggressively prosecuting the perpetrators of violent crime who threaten our streets.”
Court documents reflect that federal law enforcement executed a search warrant at the two brothers’ residence on July 10, 2025. Officers found nine firearms in Finley’s bedroom along with numerous types of ammunition. Atkinson was found with a round of .45 caliber ammunition in his pocket, and a .45 caliber 1911-style firearm with obliterated manufacturer’s markings and additional ammunition was found in Atkinson’s trailer.
Finley had multiple prior felony convictions from Iowa, while Atkinson had a prior federal conviction for conspiracy to manufacture and distribute methamphetamine and possession of firearms in furtherance of drug-trafficking, along with two Florida convictions for possession of methamphetamine.
The case involved a joint investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the Drug Enforcement Administration, with assistance from the Havana Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney James A. McCain.
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.
As part of its PSN strategy, the United States Attorney’s Office is encouraging everyone to lock their car doors, particularly at night. Burglaries from unlocked automobiles are a significant source of guns for criminals in the Northern District of Florida. Please do your part and protect yourself by locking your car doors.
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
Repeatedly Convicted Felon Sentenced to Forty Years in Prison and Fined $500,000 Following New Cocaine ConvictionRead the Press Release
MOBILE, AL – Following a trial in September 2025, a federal jury convicted an Arkansas man of conspiracy to distribute cocaine. According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Nicholas Ferlando Haynie, 45, of Camden, Arkansas, was a member of a drug trafficking organization based in Mobile, Alabama.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) initiated an investigation into the drug distribution network of John David Clarke of Mobile, leading to a court-authorized wiretap on Clarke’s phone. During the monitoring of Clarke’s calls, agents identified Clarke’s drug supplier, who was charged as a co-defendant in the indictment. Substantial incriminating evidence was obtained from Clarke’s phone communications with his drug supplier who also lived in Mobile. Incriminating evidence was also obtained from several phones belonging to Clarke’s cocaine supplier, which identified several of his other drug distributers, including Haynie. The drug supplier routinely discussed drug amounts, prices and locations where the drugs were delivered for further distribution with his co-conspirator distributers. During the conspiracy, hundreds of kilograms of cocaine sourced from Mexico and through Texas were distributed in Alabama, Arkansas, and elsewhere.
During the conspiracy, hundreds of thousands of dollars in drug proceeds were delivered from Mobile to drug suppliers up the chain of distribution in Texas. Evidence obtained from Haynie’s cell phones included pictures of him possessing firearms and posing with bulk cash drug proceeds. Eight guns were also seized from locations where co-conspirators lived in Mobile and Katy, Texas, along with hundreds of rounds of ammunition.
Haynie had been previously convicted of multiple felonies, including the manufacture, delivery, and possession of a controlled substance and sexual abuse first degree in violation of Arkansas state law in 2000. Haynie had also been convicted in federal court in Arkansas for the distribution of crack cocaine in 2014. While in federal prison, Haynie was twice convicted of possessing a prohibited object (cell phone). Haynie was released from federal prison in 2021.
United States District Court Judge Terry F. Moorer imposed the sentence. On December 18, 2025, Haynie was sentenced to 40 years in prison, followed by an eight-year term of supervised release upon release from prison. Haynie was also ordered to pay a $500,000 fine and a $100 special assessment.
As conditions of his supervision, Haynie will undergo testing and treatment for drug and/or alcohol abuse, will be subject to a search of his person and premises upon reasonable suspicion, and required to register as a sex offender.
United States Attorney Sean P. Costello made the announcement.
The case was investigated by the Mobile Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Mobile County Sheriff’s Office, and multiple federal and local partners.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Justin Kopf and Gloria Bedwell 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.