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Thursday 13 November 2025
Federal Correctional Officer Indicted for Receipt of A Bribe by A Public OfficialRead the Press Release
Ocala, Florida – United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces the return of an indictment charging Karen Torres (50, St. Cloud) with one count of receipt of a bribe by a public official. If convicted, Torres faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in federal prison. The indictment also specifies that the United States will seek an order of forfeiture for $43,550—an amount representing the proceeds of the criminal offense.
According to the indictment, Torres was a public official employed by the United States Department of Justice, Federal Bureau of Prisons, as a correctional officer. She worked at the Coleman Federal Correctional Complex (FCC Coleman) in Sumter County. Between May 2022 and March 3, 2025, Torres received monetary payments in return for being influenced to smuggle contraband into the prison.
An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
This case is being investigated by the United States Department of Justice – Office of the Inspector General and the Drug Enforcement Administration. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Hannah Nowalk Watson.
NOTE: This matter occurred on a previous date but not published at that time due to government shutdown. Press release posted and made available following the return to normal operations.
Farmington Man Sentenced for Sexual Abuse of MinorRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Farmington man was sentenced to 15 years in prison for engaging in sexual acts with a 14-year-old child.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court records, in February 2019, Daniel Washburn, 31, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, engaged in sexual act with a 14-year-old minor when he was 24 years old.
Washburn pled guilty to sexual abuse of a minor. Upon his release from prison, Washburn will be subject to ten years of supervised release and must register as a sex offender.
Acting U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Farmington Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Police Department and Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant United States Attorneys Jesse Pecoraro and Mia Ulibarri-Rubin are prosecuting the case.
This press release was posted November 13, after the end of the federal government shutdown.
Farmington Couple Sentenced for Violent AssaultRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Farmington man was sentenced to 46 months in prison, while his wife received probation for aiding and abetting in connection with a violent assault in 2023.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court records, on July 28, 2023, during an argument, Renauldo Sandoval, 40, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, slammed Jane Doe into a wall and strangled her, causing her to fall to the ground and lose consciousness. Lisa Sandoval, 39, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, then pinned Jane Doe to the ground.
Upon his release from prison, Renauldo Sandoval will be subject to three years of supervised release. Lisa Sandoval received a sentence of five years of probation at sentencing.
Acting U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Farmington Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Nation Police Department and the Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant United States Attorney Meg Tomlinson is prosecuting the case.
This press release was posted November 13, after the end of the federal government shutdown.
Federal Jury Convicts Pensacola Man for Shooting at DEA Special AgentRead the Press Release
PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – Austin James McCastler II, 36, was convicted by a federal jury on two counts of distribution of methamphetamine, possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and marijuana, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense, possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon, attempted prevention of the government’s authority to take property during an authorized search and seizure, assault with a deadly weapon of a Special Agent of the Drug Enforcement Administration, and discharging a firearm during a violent crime. John Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida, announced the verdict today.
US Attorney Heekin said: “This case exemplified the extreme dangers faced by the brave men and women of law enforcement who put their lives on the line every day to keep our communities safe from violent criminals. I am incredibly proud of the outstanding trial work by the talented prosecutors in my office that resulted in this successful verdict.”
Trial testimony and evidence revealed that, after undercover law enforcement purchased methamphetamine from McCastler’s Pensacola residence on two occasions, a search warrant was obtained to search for and seize illicit narcotics from his home. On March 7, 2025, law enforcement attempted to execute the lawful warrant. McCastler would not comply with orders to surrender to law enforcement, and he armed himself with his American Tactical Imports assault rifle. As law enforcement surrounded the residence, McCastler opened fire, including one shot intended for the DEA Special Agent. McCastler then fled from the residence, jumped in his vehicle, and a high-speed chase ensued. The Escambia County Sheriff’s Office was immediately on the tail of McCastler and eventually immobilized his vehicle in traffic. McCastler then tried to flee on foot, but law enforcement captured him. A search of his residence ultimately revealed the loaded assault rifle, a second firearm, dozens of rounds of ammunition, fentanyl, and marijuana, amongst other things.
McCastler is scheduled for sentencing on February 10, 2026, before United States District Judge M. Casey Rodgers. McCastler, who has more than five prior state felony convictions, faces up to life imprisonment.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office, the Pensacola Police Department, and the Santa Rosa County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorneys David L. Goldberg and Jessica S. Etherton prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America (https://www.justice.gov/dag/media/1393746/dl?inline ) a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. 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 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.
Federal Jury Convicts Panama City Beach Man of Possessing Methamphetamine with Intent to DistributeRead the Press Release
PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – Jerry Thomas McCarigie, 49, of Panama City Beach, Florida, was found guilty by a federal jury on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, of possession with intent to distribute five grams or more of methamphetamine. The verdict was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “I am incredibly proud of this successful prosecution, which was made possible by the excellent investigative work of the Bay County Sheriff’s Office with the support of our federal law enforcement partners. Methamphetamine has been a scourge on our communities for far too long, but my office remains committed to aggressively prosecuting these crimes to deliver on the promise made by President Donald J. Trump and Attorney General Pam Bondi to Take Back America from the criminals who have flooded our streets with drugs and violence.”
Evidence and testimony admitted at trial established that on November 15, 2023, the Bay County Sheriff's Office’s Special Investigations Division conducted a drug trafficking investigation at a motel located in Panama City Beach. Law enforcement obtained a search warrant for the defendant’s motel room. During the execution of the warrant, the defendant was detained and searched. Law enforcement located fentanyl, multiple baggies containing more than 48 grams of methamphetamine, and a digital scale in the defendant’s pockets.
Sentencing is scheduled for January 13, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. in Pensacola, Florida before United States District Judge M. Casey Rodgers. The defendant faces a minimum mandatory term of five years’ imprisonment and a maximum sentence of 40 years’ imprisonment.
The verdict was the result of a joint investigation by the Bay County Sheriff’s Office and the Drug Enforcement Administration. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Justin M. Keen.
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.
Española Man Pleads Guilty to String of Armed Robberies that Led to Shooting DeathRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – An Española man pleaded guilty to federal charges stemming from a 2022 crime spree that left one person dead.
According to court documents, on August 9, 2022, Ricky Eddie Martinez, Jr., 34, robbed the Dandy Burger restaurant, taking over $100. The next day, Martinez robbed a Shell gas station and took $352. On August 11, 2022, Martinez robbed a Walgreens, firing his weapon toward liquor cabinets when the cashier could not open the register, then forcibly took the register and its contents.
On August 16, 2022, Martinez attempted to rob a Blake's Lotaburger, jumped over the counter, struggled with cashier John Doe 2, and shot and killed him. Martinez also struck John Doe 3, another employee and brother of John Doe 2, with his firearm and shot at him but missed. As a previously convicted felon, Martinez is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition.
Martinez pleaded guilty to three counts of interference with commerce by robbery, one count of attempted interference with commerce by robbery, using, carrying, and discharging a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, and being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition, and, as part of a global plea agreement with the First Judicial District Attorney’s Office, also agreed to plead guilty in state court to offenses related to the murder of John Doe 2 and other crimes against John Doe 3.
Additional robberies committed during the crime spree, including incidents at a Chevron Gas Station, 420 Emporia Smoke Shop, Chalupp's Pizza, Family Dollar, and Dollar General, were not charged federally but are being considered for restitution.
At sentencing, Martinez faces not less than 10 years and up to life in prison on the federal charges.
Acting U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Santa Fe Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Española Police Department, Taos Police Department and New Mexico State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Timothy Trembley and Brittany DuChaussee are prosecuting the case.
This press release was posted November 13, after the end of the federal government shutdown.
El Salvadoran National Sentenced for Illegal ReentryRead the Press Release
BOSTON – An El Salvadoran national, unlawfully residing in Chelsea, was sentenced on Oct. 3, 2025 in federal court in Boston for unlawfully reentering the United States after deportation.
Juan Carlos Gil-Ochoa, 36, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Angel Kelley to a time served sentence (approximately five months). The defendant is now subject to deportation proceedings. In August 2025, Gil-Ochoa pleaded guilty to one count of unlawful reentry of a deported alien. In June 2025, Gil-Ochoa was indicted by a federal grand jury. He was arrested by immigration authorities on May 12, 2025.
Gil-Ochoa was deported from the United States to El Salvador on April 29, 2013. Sometime after his April 2013 removal, Gil-Ochoa illegally reentered the United States without permission. On May 12, 2025, he was arrested by immigration authorities in Chelsea.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Patricia H. Hyde, Acting Field Office Director of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations in Boston; and Chelsea Police Chief Keith E. Houghton made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Suzanne Sullivan Jacobus of the Major Crimes Unit prosecuted the case.
Education for Just Peace in the Middle East d/b/a US Campaign for Palestinian Rights Settles PPP Loan Case for $353,000Read the Press Release
FARGO: United States Attorney Nicholas W. Chase announced the United States entered into a settlement agreement with Education for Just Peace in the Middle East doing business as US Campaign for Palestinian Rights (“EfJP”), a Washington, DC non-profit participating in the U.S. Small Business Administration’s (“SBA”) Paycheck Protection Program (“PPP”) of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”). EfJP paid the United States $353,000 to settle the case.
In March 2020, Congress created the CARES Act to provide emergency financial support to Americans suffering economic hardship due to the circumstances surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic. The CARES Act authorized billions of dollars in forgivable PPP loans—known as First Draw and Second Draw loans—to small businesses, including certain non-profit organizations, struggling to pay employees and other business expenses. EfJP applied for, received, and obtained forgiveness for First Draw and Second Draw loans with a value of $308,905.28.
To receive a First Draw loan, an applicant had to certify eligibility for a loan under the rules in effect at the time. Among the rules in effect at the time of EfJP’s First Draw application was 13 CFR § 120.110(r) which provides that, “Businesses primarily engaged in political or lobbying activities” are ineligible for SBA loans. To apply for a Second Draw loan, an applicant had to certify eligibility, including that it was not “primarily engaged in political or lobbying activities, including any entity that is organized for research or for engaging in advocacy in areas such as public policy or political strategy or otherwise describes itself as a think tank in any public documents.” 15 U.S.C. § 636(a)(37)(A)(iv)(III)(bb).
Under the settlement agreement, EfJP paid $353,000 to the United States to resolve a whistleblower lawsuit brought against EfJP by TZAC, Inc., a New York non-profit, pursuant to the qui tam provisions of the False Claims Act. TZAC’s allegations included the claim that EfJP was ineligible to participate in the Second Draw loan. As a result of the investigation conducted by the United States, the parties reached a settlement whereby EfJP paid the United States an amount sufficient to (1) fully reimburse SBA for the principal, interest, and lender processing fees associated with the First Draw and Second Draw loans; (2) pay TZAC, Inc. its share of the recovery consistent with the False Claims Act; and, (3) cover certain expenses associated with the resolution of the case. The claims resolved by the civil settlement are allegations only. There has been no determination of liability in the civil case and EfJP denies any wrongdoing.
The case is United States of America ex rel. TZAC, Inc. v. Education for Just Peace in [the] Middle East a/k/a United States Campaign for Palestinian Rights, U.S. District Court, District of North Dakota Case No. 1:22-cv-00137-DLH-CRH. The United States is represented by Assistant United States Attorneys James Patrick Thomas and Michael D. Schoepf of the District of North Dakota. US Attorney Chase commended SBA Office of Inspector General Special Agent Sandra E. Mazzoni and SBA Office of General Counsel Trial Attorney Kandace Zelaya for their assistance in the investigation and settlement of the matter. “Investigations like this one reflect collaboration of the Small Business Administration, including SBA’s Office of General Counsel and Office of Inspector General, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office. When whistleblowers uncover potentially fraudulent conduct, we work to recover SBA funds improperly obtained,” said SBA General Counsel Wendell Davis.
For more information about the Department of Justice’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus. Anyone with information about allegations of fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (“NCDF”) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
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Ecuadorian woman pleads guilty to, sentenced for illegal re-entryRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. –U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Ana Castro Castro, 38, a citizen and national of Ecuador, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Richard J. Arcara to re-entry of a removed alien. She was then sentenced to time served and turned over to Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Smith, who handled the case, stated that in July 2021, Castro was physically removed from the United States. On August 1, 2025, she was found in in Erie County, NY, by Border Patrol Agents and did not have any documents allowing her to be legally present in the United States.
The 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 plea and sentencing are the result of an investigation by U.S. Border Patrol, under the direction of Patrol Agent-in-Charge David Banks.
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East Granby Woman Who Stole in $1.1 Million Pandemic Relief Program Scheme is SentencedRead the Press Release
David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that KAREN GASTON, 45, of East Granby, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Sarah F. Russell in New Haven to three years of probation for defrauding COVID-19 pandemic relief programs of more than $1.1 million. During her probation, Gaston was ordered to serve four weekends of incarceration, 10 months in home detention, and 500 hours of community service.
In March 2020, the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (“CARES”) Act provided emergency financial assistance to Americans suffering the economic effects caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. One source of relief provided by the CARES Act was the authorization of forgivable loans to small businesses for job retention and certain other expenses through the Paycheck Protection Program (“PPP”). The PPP was overseen by the U.S. Small Business Administration (“SBA”), and individual PPP loans were issued by private lenders, which received and processed PPP applications and supporting documentation, and then made loans using the lenders’ own funds, which were guaranteed by the SBA. The CARES Act also authorized SBA to distribute Economic Injury Disaster Loans (“EIDLs”), which provided working capital to eligible small businesses, including sole proprietors, to meet operating expenses.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in 2020, Gaston controlled certain entities including LNK, Elegant Clinical, Ruby Red LLC, and Diamond Shine LLC. LNK and Diamond Shine LLC were operational, but shared resources and employees. Ruby Red LLC had only one client and Gaston was its sole employee. Elegant Clinical was no longer operational. Beginning in approximately April 2020, Gaston submitted loan applications to the PPP and EIDL programs that falsely represented the status of the operations, resources, and employees of these entities. She also filed loan applications at separate financial institutions in order to disguise the true nature of her criminal activity.
Specifically, Gaston’s loan applications falsely represented that her businesses were all active and operating concerns; falsely represented the number of employees and the amount of wages purportedly paid by the businesses; included copies of fraudulent tax returns and tax related documents; and falsely represented that a family member, used as an applicant on an application, was a part owner of one of her entities. As least one loan application was submitted after Gaston was arrested for state offenses related to a Medicaid fraud scheme.
Gaston received $1,163,910 in PPP and EIDL loan funds through this scheme. Instead of using the funds for payroll or other operating expenses, she spent the money on personal expenditures, including, cares, travel, food, luxury home goods, expensive jewelry, and paying off her home mortgage.
Judge Russell ordered Gaston to pay full restitution. She also forfeited a ring she purchased in July 2020 from the jeweler Harry Winston for $39,521.63.
On June 12, 2025, Gaston pleaded guilty to wire fraud and making illegal monetary transactions.
This investigation was conducted by the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael S. McGarry.
Individuals with information about allegations of fraud involving COVID-19 are encouraged to report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721, or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
Dorchester Man Charged with Robbery of Local BankRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Dorchester man has been arrested and charged in connection with the robbery of a local bank. The defendant has a prior federal conviction for bank robbery and state convictions for armed and unarmed robberies.
Joseph Wilcox, 58, was indicted by a federal grand jury on Oct. 23, 2025 on one count of bank robbery in relation to the robbery of Santander Bank in East Boston. Wilcox was initially arrested on a criminal complaint on Oct. 1, 2025. He remains detained in federal custody.
According to the charging documents, at approximately 11:40 a.m. on Sept. 6, 2025, a male, allegedly later identified as Wilcox, approached the bank teller, showed a note stating “give me all 20’s and stated “don’t **** with me.” It is alleged that after the teller stated that he did not have many $20 bills, the suspect told the teller to take the money out of the box and give it to him. The teller ultimately gave Wilcox cash totaling $4,150.
A subsequent investigation allegedly identified Wilcox depositing nine $100 bills into his own Santander account at another branch, with his face visible on surveillance. A query of Wilcox through the Registry of Motor Vehicles (“RMV”) revealed a photograph of an individual that resembled the suspect caught on surveillance and matched the description of the suspect provided by the victim teller.
According to court records, Wilcox has a prior federal conviction from 2015 for three counts of bank robbery; a 2010 state conviction for unarmed robbery; and 2004 state conviction for armed robbery.
The charge of bank robbery provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, up to three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $ 250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Ted E. Docks, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexandra W. Amrhein of the Major Crimes Unit is prosecuting the case.
The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Dominican National Sentenced to More Than Two Years in Prison for Conspiracy to Distribute FentanylRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Dominican national, who unlawfully resided in Lawrence under a false name, was sentenced on Oct. 8, 2025 in federal court in Boston for conspiring to possess and distribute controlled substances.
Eduardo Morales-Perez, a/k/a “Yenni Rafael Guerrero Aybar,” 51, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Nathaniel M. Gorton to 27 months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release. The defendant is subject to deportation upon completion of the imposed sentence. In September 2025, Morales-Perez pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute controlled substances.
In March 2018, law enforcement arranged an undercover cash pickup as part of a money laundering investigation. An individual arrived at the pre-arranged meeting location for the controlled purchase and provided $275,090 in cash to undercover law enforcement. That individual was driving a white Volvo registered to Morales-Perez’s girlfriend.
Following the transaction, the white Volvo was observed at a property in Peabody. Morales-Perez was observed exiting a truck with a can of acetone – a chemical commonly used in the illicit manufacturing process of fentanyl analogues – and carrying it into the Peabody residence. A subsequent search of the Peabody property in May 2018 resulted in the recovery of one kilo pill press; drug distribution paraphernalia; over 2.8 kilograms of fentanyl and fentanyl analogues; over five kilograms of ANPP (a controlled substance that is frequently used in the manufacturing process of fentanyl); and $130,000. The drugs and cash were located in a hidden compartment above a light fixture.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Jarod A. Forget, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Field Division made the announcement. Valuable assistance was provided by the Massachusetts State Police and the Medford, Peabody and Ipswich Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lauren A. Graber and Brian J. Sullivan of the Narcotics & Money Laundering Unit prosecuted the case.Dominican National Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Fentanyl Trafficking and Unlawful Reentry into the United StatesRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Dominican national, unlawfully residing in Chelsea Mass., was sentenced on Sept. 30, 2025 in federal court in Boston for selling five kilograms of fentanyl to an undercover agent after unlawfully reentering the United States after deportation.
Luis Alberto German-Peguero, a/k/a “Alberto Chirry,” 35, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Richard G. Stearns to 10 years in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release. The defendant is subject to deportation upon completion of the imposed sentence. In June 2025, German-Peguero pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl, one count of distribution of and possession with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl,and one count of illegal reentry of a deported alien.
German-Peguero is a citizen of the Dominican Republic and, in November 2020, was removed from the United States following a state drug trafficking conviction in Plymouth Superior Court, for which he served more than one year in prison.Sometime after his removal, German-Peguero unlawfully reentered the United States. On March 22, 2023, German-Peguero sold five kilograms of fentanyl to an undercover agent in Peabody. German-Peguero was subsequently arrested in Newton on April 14, 2023 and determined to be unlawfully present in the United States.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Ted E. Docks, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen W. Hassink of the Narcotics & Money Laundering Unit prosecuted the case.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
Dominican National Pleads Guilty to Fentanyl TraffickingRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Dominican national unlawfully residing in Dorchester pleaded guilty on Oct. 17, 2025 to trafficking thousands of fentanyl pills.
Waner Bernabel Presinal, 38, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl and distribution of 40 grams or more of fentanyl. U.S. District Court Judge Indira Talwani scheduled sentencing for Jan. 13, 2026. In September 2024, Bernabel Presinal was charged with three co-conspirators.
On April 12, 2024, an undercover agent allegedly ordered 2,000 pressed fentanyl pills and a sample of methamphetamine from Andujar Echavarria for $4,000. It is alleged that Bernabel Presinal delivered the fentanyl pills and methamphetamine to Andujar Echavarria at his home in Dorchester. Andujar Echavarria then proceeded to Medford where he delivered the fentanyl pills and sample of methamphetamine to the undercover agent. It was later confirmed that the bags Andujar Echavarria handed the undercover allegedly contained 222 grams of fentanyl and 1.8 grams of methamphetamine.
In May 2025, Guerro Soto was sentenced to 30 months in prison and six years of supervised release. Andujar Echavarria has pleaded not guilty and is awaiting trial.
The charge of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl and distribution of 40 grams or more of fentanyl carry a sentence of at least five years and up to 40 years in prison; at least four years of supervised release; and a fine of up to $5 million. The defendant is subject to deportation proceedings upon completion of an imposed sentence. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Jarod A. Forget, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Field Division made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Pohl of the Criminal Division is prosecuting the case.
The remaining defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
District Man Sentenced to Nearly 29 Years for Two Murders Committed One Month Apart in 2020Read the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Michael Mason, 21, was sentenced October 31, 2025, to 28 years and eight months in prison in connection with the shooting death of Brea Moon in April 2020 in Southeast Washington and the shooting death of Antwuan Roach in May 2020 in Northeast Washington, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro.
Mason pleaded guilty to two counts of second-degree murder while armed on October 31, 2025.
With respect to the April 2020 homicide, according to the government’s evidence, Mason was riding in a stolen white vehicle that pulled into the BP gas station located at 4101 Alabama Avenue SE shortly before 10:30 p.m. on April 7, 2020. Minutes later, a gray sedan pulled into that same gas station with the victim, Brea Moon, in the front passenger seat. When the gray sedan left the gas station, the white vehicle followed. Shortly thereafter, the white vehicle pulled up beside the gray sedan and the defendant fired multiple gunshots at the gray sedan, including one that struck the victim and killed her.
With respect to the May 2020 homicide, according to the government’s evidence, on May 22, 2020, defendant Mason learned of Mr. Roach’s location and tracked him to the unit block of Anacostia Road NE shortly before 5:00 p.m. After locating Mr. Roach, the defendant’s vehicle pulled into an alley behind the 3800 block of East Capitol Street NE. As Mr. Roach stepped into the alley, the defendant fired at him and killed him.
Joining in the announcement was Chief Pamela Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department.
In announcing the sentences, U.S. Attorney Pirro and Chief Smith commended the work of those who investigated the case from the Metropolitan Police Department. They also expressed appreciation for the assistance provided by the U.S. Secret Service, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the U.S. Marshals Service, and the Capital Area Regional Fugitive Task Force.
Finally, they commended the work of Assistant U.S. Attorneys Gauri Gopal, Julia Cosans, Sarah Folse, Yasmin Emrani, and Daniel Bromwich, who investigated and prosecuted the case, along with former Assistant U.S. Attorneys Gregory Kimak and Alec Levy.
Editor's Note:
This matter occurred on date indicated but not published at that time due to government shutdown. Press release posted and made available following the return to normal operations.District Man Sentenced to 28 Years of Incarceration for Killing Innocent Bystander and Torching Getaway Vehicle ThereafterRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Kylee Palmer, 26, of Washington, D.C., was sentenced on November 7, 2025, to 336 months in prison for the 2020 murder of Barron Goodwin in Washington, D.C., announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro.
Palmer was found guilty by a jury on September 11, 2024, following a two-week trial in the Superior Court of the District of Columbia, of second-degree murder while armed, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, felony destruction of property, and tampering with evidence.
According to the government’s evidence, on February 11, 2020, Palmer got into an argument with an ex-girlfriend and stole her cell phone. After exchanging calls with the ex-girlfriend’s brother in the early hours of February 12, 2020, at approximately 11:01 a.m., Palmer drove a stolen black Nissan Altima, with another individual inside, past 843 51st Street Southeast, where they fired six bullets into the ex-girlfriend’s family home. One of those shots broke through a living room window and struck Barron Goodwin, a 60-year-old innocent bystander, in the head as he slept on a couch in the living room. About an hour later, after Palmer fled the scene, he burned the vehicle used in the shooting in an alley near the 800 block of Chesapeake Street Southeast.
Joining in the announcement was Chief Pamela Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department.
In announcing the sentence, U.S. Attorney Pirro and Chief Smith commended the work of those who investigated the case from the Metropolitan Police Department. They also expressed appreciation for the assistance provided by the U.S. Marshals Service and FBI CAST team. They acknowledged the efforts of those who worked on the case from the U.S. Attorney’s Office, including Investigative Analyst Zach McMenamin, Paralegal Specialist Meridith McGarrity, Litigation Technology Specialists Leif Hickling and Charlie Bruce, Victim/Witness Advocate Latrice Washington-Williams, and Victim/Witness Coordinators Maenylie Watson and Katina Adams-Washington.
Finally, they commended the work of Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ryan Sellinger, Christopher Carson, Lisa Lindhorst, and Julia Cosans, who investigated, indicted, and prosecuted the case.
Editor's Note:
This matter occurred on date indicated but not published at that time due to government shutdown. Press release posted and made available following the return to normal operations.District Man Sentenced to 25 Years for Producing Child Pornography and Sexually Abusing a Young GirlRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Charles Hilton, 40, of the District of Columbia, was sentenced October 24, 2025, in U.S. District Court to 25 years in federal prison in connection with producing child pornography and sexually abusing a young girl, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro.
Hilton pleaded guilty March 27, 2025, before Judge Ana C. Reyes to a criminal Information charging him with one count of coercion and enticement of a child and one count of first degree sexual abuse of a child with aggravating cirmcumstances.
In addition to the prison term, Judge Reyes ordered Hilton to serve 15 years of supervised release and to register as a sex offender.
Joining in the announcement of the sentencing was FBI Assistant Director in Charge Darren B. Cox of the Washington Field Office, and Chief Pamela A. Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department.
On November 21, 2024, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) received three separate tips regarding possession of child sex abuse material (CSAM). The reports referenced more than 1,000 files of child pornography stored on a server connected with accounts linked to Hilton. About 20 of the CSAM files appeared to have been homemade. The tipster provided Hilton’s name, phone number, email address and mailing address to the NCMEC.
On Nov. 26, 2024, law enforcement obtained an arrest warrant for Hilton, as well as a warrant to search his residence in Northeast. Officers recovered numerous digital devices from the residence.
In an interview with investigators, Hilton initially claimed his accounts had been hacked. Investigators confronted Hilton with a specific video showing the sexual abuse of a minor victim. Hilton then admitted to having made it.
Investigators recovered text messages from Hilton’s devices. The texts indicated that Hilton blackmailed the minor victim. In them, Hilton coerced the victim to engage in sexual activity by threatening to share embarrassing information about her. Hilton eventually produced photos and videos of himself sexual abusing the minor victim.
This case was investigated by FBI’s Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Richard S. Kelley and Jocelyn Bond.
This case was brought as part of the Department of Justice's Project Safe Childhood initiative. In February 2006, the Attorney General created Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorney's Offices, 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 identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
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Editor's Note:
This matter occurred on date indicated but not published at that time due to government shutdown. Press release posted and made available following the return to normal operations.District Man Sentenced to 25 Years for Producing Child Pornography and Sexually Abusing a Young GirlRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Charles Hilton, 40, of the District of Columbia, was sentenced October 7, 2025, in U.S. District Court to 25 years in federal prison in connection with producing child pornography and sexually abusing a young girl, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro.
Hilton pleaded guilty March 27, 2025, before Judge Ana C. Reyes to a criminal Information charging him with one count of coercion and enticement of a child and one count of first degree sexual abuse of a child with aggravating cirmcumstances.
In addition to the prison term, Judge Reyes ordered Hilton to serve 15 years of supervised release and to register as a sex offender.
Joining in the announcement of the sentencing was FBI Assistant Director in Charge Darren B. Cox of the Washington Field Office, and Chief Pamela A. Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department.
On November 21, 2024, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) received three separate tips regarding possession of child sex abuse material (CSAM). The reports referenced more than 1,000 files of child pornography stored on a server connected with accounts linked to Hilton. About 20 of the CSAM files appeared to have been homemade. The tipster provided Hilton’s name, phone number, email address and mailing address to the NCMEC.
On Nov. 26, 2024, law enforcement obtained an arrest warrant for Hilton, as well as a warrant to search his residence in Northeast. Officers recovered numerous digital devices from the residence.
In an interview with investigators, Hilton initially claimed his accounts had been hacked. Investigators confronted Hilton with a specific video showing the sexual abuse of a minor victim. Hilton then admitted to having made it.
Investigators recovered text messages from Hilton’s devices. The texts indicated that Hilton blackmailed the minor victim. In them, Hilton coerced the victim to engage in sexual activity by threatening to share embarrassing information about her. Hilton eventually produced photos and videos of himself sexual abusing the minor victim.
This case was investigated by FBI’s Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Richard S. Kelley and Jocelyn Bond.
This case was brought as part of the Department of Justice's Project Safe Childhood initiative. In February 2006, the Attorney General created Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorney's Offices, 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 identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
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Editor's Note:
This matter occurred on date indicated but not published at that time due to government shutdown. Press release posted and made available following the return to normal operations.District Man Sentenced to 24 Years for Killing a Disabled Elderly Man in Southwest WashingtonRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Terry Thompson, 33, of Washington, D.C., was sentenced to 24 years of incarceration on October 31, 2025, for shooting a disabled elderly man in a 7-Eleven parking lot in Southwest Washington D.C. The sentence was announced by U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro.
Thompson pleaded guilty to second degree murder while armed on April 4, 2025, in the Superior Court of the District of Columbia. On October 31, the Honorable Rainey Brandt sentenced Thompson to 24 years for murdering the victim, Christopher Callahan, 64.
According to court documents, at 4:15 p.m., on May 15, 2023, the defendant emerged from a group of a men hanging out in the 7-Eleven parking lot, located at 3900 Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd, Southwest. Thompson approached Mr. Callahan, who was sitting on his walker next to his car. The defendant had a rifle concealed in a duffle bag, and he began pointing it in Mr. Callahan’s face. Mr. Callahan feebly rose from his walker and attempted to swat the rifle away. The defendant then stepped back and fired a single round into Mr. Callahan’s neck, killing him instantly. Thompson then slowly walked off as onlookers stood by in shock. As people started to disperse from the area, the defendant walked back over to Mr. Callahan’s lifeless body, pointed the rifle at him, but then slowly walked off again without pulling the trigger a second time.
The next day, the defendant was arrested in the same location wearing the same shoes that still had the victim’s blood on them.
Joining in the announcement was Chief Pamela Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department.
This case was investigated by the Metropolitan Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua Hall, supported by Paralegal Specialist Lisa Speight, and Victim Assistant Latrice Washington-Williams.
Editor's Note:
This matter occurred on date indicated but not published at that time due to government shutdown. Press release posted and made available following the return to normal operations.District Man Sentenced to 17 Years in Prison for Sexually Abusing a RelativeRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – A 23-year-old man, of Washington, D.C., was sentenced October 24, 2025, to a 17-year prison term for sexually abusing his grandmother, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro.
The man, who is not identified here to protect the privacy of the victim, pleaded guilty on August 21, 2025, in the Superior Court of the District of Columbia, to a charge of first-degree sexual abuse while armed. The plea, which was contingent upon the Court’s approval, called for an agreed-upon 17-year prison term. The Honorable Danya A. Dayson accepted the plea and sentenced the defendant accordingly. The Court ordered a lifetime period of supervised release to follow his prison term, and the man will be required to register as a sex offender for the rest of his life.
According to the government’s evidence, on November 28, 2023, the defendant entered the victim’s bedroom, carrying a knife. The defendant dragged the victim to his bedroom, where he held her against her will for several hours. During that time, he subjected her to numerous acts of physical and sexual abuse.
Joining in the announcement was Chief Pamela Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department.
In announcing the sentence, U.S. Attorney Pirro and Chief Smith commended the work of those who investigated the case from the Metropolitan Police Department and the U.S. Attorney’s Office. They acknowledged the efforts of those who worked on the case from the U.S. Attorney’s Office, including former Assistant U.S. Attorney Marco Crocetti and Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathleen Houck, who investigated and prosecuted the case.
Editor's Note:
This matter occurred on date indicated but not published at that time due to government shutdown. Press release posted and made available following the return to normal operations.Diagnostic Laboratory Agrees to Pay More Than $9 Million to Settle Alleged False Claims Act ViolationsRead the Press Release
Baltimore, Maryland – Patients Choice Laboratories (PCL), a diagnostic laboratory headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana, agreed to pay the United States $9,620,000 to resolve allegations that it violated the False Claims Act and the Anti-Kickback Statute (AKS).
Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, and Tom Wheeler, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana, announced the settlement with Special Agent in Charge Maureen Dixon, Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG), and Mario M. Pinto, Special Agent in Charge, HHS-OIG – Chicago Regional Office.
The government alleges that PCL knowingly submitted claims to Medicare for respiratory pathogen panels (RPPs) that were either medically unnecessary or obtained through kickbacks. PCL also paid commissions to independent sales representatives and marketing firms (1099 representatives) based on the volume or value of referrals.
Specifically, the United States alleges that on November 20, 2020, PCL entered into a Marketing Services Agreement (MSA) with a purported infection prevention company (the Company). Through the MSA, PCL agreed to pay $5,000 per month in exchange for “marketing and management services” in long-term care facilities. In reality, according to the United States, the MSA served as a pretext for paying the company for laboratory test referrals, which PCL then billed to Medicare.
Additionally, the United States alleges that PCL paid the Company to perform services in long-term care facilities, including specimen collection for infectious disease testing. The Company swabbed residents for COVID-19, and PCL used the same specimens to conduct and bill Medicare for medically unnecessary RPPs. In some cases, PCL billed for RPPs without performing any COVID-19 tests at all.
Between December 1, 2020, and May 11, 2022, PCL paid the company approximately $1.86 million in exchange for RPP referrals. During this time, PCL billed Medicare for thousands of RPPs conducted at 43 long-term care facilities nationwide, receiving more than $6 million in reimbursement.
Additionally, from January 1 to March 31, 2021, PCL contracted with 1099 representatives to promote its laboratory tests to health care providers. The United States alleges that these individuals were not bona fide employees. PCL paid them a percentage of the revenue generated from testing they facilitated. The representatives helped arrange referrals and orders for tests billed to Medicare in violation of the AKS. PCL’s commission payments to these representatives totaled at least $372,000.
“Providing impermissible compensation to induce patient referrals that then lead to medically unnecessary diagnostic tests is simply unacceptable,” Hayes said. “We’re committed to taking the necessary actions to protect patients and taxpayer-funded government health programs.”
“Kickback arrangements that drive unnecessary testing waste taxpayer dollars and undermine the integrity of our healthcare system,” Wheeler said. “This settlement reflects our commitment to holding accountable those who seek to profit at the expense of federal healthcare programs and the patients they serve.”
“Entities who submit false Medicare claims destroy public trust in federal health care programs and divert taxpayer-funded resources away from vulnerable citizens who truly need them,” Dixon said. “We are unwavering in our dedication to safeguarding the integrity of the Medicare trust fund and the services provided to enrollees.”
“Wasteful spending fueled by kickback arrangements undermines the public’s confidence in our health care system and depletes valuable resources that should be used to improve patient care,” Pinto said. “Working together with our law enforcement partners, HHS-OIG will continue to identify and investigate alleged violations of federal law.”
U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the HHS-OIG for its work in the investigation. Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Tarra DeShields, District of Maryland, and Adriana Figueroa, Southern District of Indiana; and Trial Attorneys Kelly McAuliffe and Asha Natarajan, DOJ Civil Division – Fraud Section, who jointly handled this case.
The United States’ settlement in this matter illustrates the government’s emphasis on combating healthcare fraud. One of the most powerful tools in this effort is the False Claims Act. Tips and complaints from all sources about potential fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement, can be reported to the Department of Health and Human Services, at 800-HHS-TIPS (800-447-8477).
The claims resolved by this settlement are allegations only and there has been no determination of liability.
For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to report fraud, visit justice.gov/usao-md and justice.gov/usao-md/community-outreach.
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Detroit Man Sentenced After Meticulously Plotting and Secretly Sending Cryptocurrency to Help ISISRead the Press Release
DETROIT – Jibreel Pratt, 26, of Detroit, Michigan, was sentenced today to 9 years in federal prison after having pleaded guilty to two counts of concealing cryptocurrency donations he intended to make to the Islamic State of Iraq and Al-Sham (ISIS), a designated foreign terrorist organization, announced United States Attorney Jerome F. Gorgon, Jr.
Gorgon was joined in the announcement by Jennifer Runyan, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Michigan.
According to court records, in February 2023, Pratt initiated a conversation with a Confidential Human Source (CHS) who Pratt believed was an ISIS member who could facilitate overseas travel to join ISIS. Over the next several months, Pratt communicated his desire to travel overseas to join ISIS and recorded a video pledging allegiance to ISIS’s leader. Pratt also provided ideas, information, documents and handwritten notes on a variety of subjects, including how ISIS could use drones and remote-controlled cars to deliver explosives, how ISIS could organize intelligence operations, and how ISIS could improve its air defense systems. And, in March and May 2023, Pratt sent cryptocurrency (Bitcoin) to the CHS, intending that the money would be used to help pay for the travel of other individuals who were purportedly traveling to join ISIS and/or to help fund an individual who Pratt believed would commit an act of violence in support of ISIS. Pratt concealed the nature and source of his Bitcoin transfers by using a privacy focused VPN and an app that encrypted private keys and transaction data.
“Over these last years, our office has worked shoulder-to-shoulder with the FBI to protect Americans from hardened ISIS supporters in our midst. Mr. Pratt is the latest traitor who—in his own words—operated ‘in the shadows.’ And we will continue to stand guard because he may not be the last,” said U.S. Attorney Gorgon.
“Today’s sentencing of Jibreel Pratt is a testament to the hard work of FBI Detroit’s Joint Terrorism Task Force in keeping Michigan safe from homegrown violent extremists,” said Jennifer Runyan, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Detroit Field Office. “It should send a strong message to anyone seeking to support foreign terrorist organizations, via financial means or otherwise, that the FBI will not stand idly by and allow this activity to occur within the United States. FBI Detroit remains committed to protecting the American people and will work relentlessly to disrupt any plot that threatens the security of our nation.”
The Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney Douglas Salzenstein and Jennifer Burke, Trial Attorney, National Security Division, U.S. Department of Justice are prosecuting the case on behalf of the United States.
DC Man Found Guilty in Armed Robberies of Three Businesses in Washington, D.C.Read the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Mark Thomas Moore 34, of the District of Columbia, was found guilty on November 6 following a bench trial in U.S. District Court in connection with the three armed robberies, including a U.S. Post Office, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro.
Judge Amit P. Mehta found Moore guilty of two counts of interference with commerce by robbery (Hobbs Act Robbery) and one count of armed postal robbery. Each count of Hobbs Act robbery carries a maximum sentence of 20 years. Armed postal robbery carries a maximum sentence of 25 years.
Judge Mehta scheduled sentencing for April 8, 2026.
According to the government’s evidence, Moore committed three armed robberies over a 30 day period in October and November 2022. Specifically, Moore entered a McDonalds, a 7-Eleven, and a U.S. Post Office while masked and armed with an imitation firearm. Each time, Moore held store employees at gunpoint and demanded money from the cash register. Store employees testified at trial that they feared for their lives—each believing that Moore possessed an actual firearm and was prepared to shoot them.
Moore was arrested on Nov. 28, 2022, following a robbery of a CVS store in Arlington, Virginia. When Moore was arrested, he possessed clothing and items that tied him to earlier robberies. A subsequent residential search recovered additional distinct clothing worn by Moore during the robberies. The U.S. Postal Inspection Service also determined that Moore left a fingerprint inside the cash register drawer during the postal robbery.
This case was investigated by the FBI’s Washington Field Office’s Violent Crime Task Force, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service’s Washington Division, and the Metropolitan Police Department’s Carjacking Task Force. Valuable assistance was provided by the Arlington County Police Department.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Caelainn Carney, Jared English, and Jason B.A. McCullough of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia. Valuable assistance was provided by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Martin. The case was investigated and indicted by former Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul Courtney.
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Crownpoint Man Pleads Guilty to Fatal DUI CrashRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Crownpoint man pleaded guilty to federal charges after a fatal crash involving alcohol and prescription opioids.
According to court documents, on July 3, 2024, Joey Martin, 55, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, was driving on State Highway 371 in Crownpoint, New Mexico, when he swerved to avoid a semitruck and lost control. His passenger was killed in the crash. After the crash, Martin admitted to taking opioid pain medication an hour or two prior.
Martin pleaded guilty to involuntary manslaughter. At sentencing, Martin is subject to a sentence of up to eight years in prison. Upon his release from prison, Martin will be subject to up to three years to life of supervised release.
Acting U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison made the announcement today.
The Navajo Nation Police Department and Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations investigated this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Pahl is prosecuting the case.
This press release was posted November 13, after the end of the federal government shutdown.
Court Sentences Man to 22 Year Prison Term for Broad Daylight Killing of a Man Outside a Northeast DC Gas StationRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Damon McQuarters, 45, of Washington, D.C., was sentenced October 24, 2025, to 22 years in prison for the August 2024 shooting murder of Michael Simpson, on the sidewalk in front of a gas station, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro.
On May 30, 2025, the defendant pleaded guilty to one count of second-degree murder in Superior Court of the District of Columbia. In sentencing McQuarters, the Honorable Danya Dayson accepted the agreed-to sentencing range of 21 to 25 years and sentenced the defendant to 22 years of in prison, followed by five years of supervised release.
According to the government’s evidence, at approximately 5:35 p.m., on August 24, 2024, McQuarters approached Mr. Simpson, who was sitting in a tree box in front of the Citgo gas station, located at 3820 Minnesota Ave. NE, Washington, socializing with friends. McQuarters retrieved a handgun from his shorts pocket and shot Mr. Simpson a single time in the head. The defendant placed the handgun back into his front right shorts pocket and walked away. Mr. Simpson was transported from the scene of the shooting to an area hospital where he died the following day.
Joining in the announcement was Chief Pamela Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department.
In announcing the sentence, U.S. Attorney Pirro and Chief Smith commended the work of those who investigated the case from the Metropolitan Police Department. They acknowledged the efforts of those who worked on the case from the U.S. Attorney’s Office, including Paralegal Specialist Kelly Blakeney, and Victim/Witness Advocate Latrice Washington-Williams.
Finally, they commended the work of Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrea Coronado, who investigated and prosecuted the case.
Editor's Note:
This matter occurred on date indicated but not published at that time due to government shutdown. Press release posted and made available following the return to normal operations.Court Sentences Ecuadorian Drug Smuggler Caught on the High Seas with Approximately 1,092 Kilograms of CocaineRead the Press Release
On October 22, 2025, United States District Court Judge Terry F. Moorer sentenced Walter Alejandro Hedrera, an Ecuadorian national, to 108 months’ imprisonment for smuggling 1,092 kilograms of cocaine in the Pacific Ocean following his prior guilty plea on the charges.
Court documents show that on September 24, 2024, while on routine patrol in the Eastern Pacific Ocean, a U.S. Coast Guard helicopter from the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter MUNRO located a drug smuggling vessel operating in international waters, approximately 160 nautical miles south of Manzanillo, Mexico. The vessel displayed no indicia of nationality, was operating northbound at a high rate of speed in a known drug trafficking area with visible suspect packages on deck. The U.S.C.G. helicopter fired warning shots which were ineffective in stopping the vessel. The helicopter then used disabling fire and shot out the engines to stop the smuggling boat. The MUNRO helicopter then observed and recorded video of the drugs smugglers jettisoning packages in the ocean while the boat was disabled.
During a later boarding of the vessel, U.S.C.G. personnel recovered 24 bales from the water surrounding the vessel which yielded an at-sea weight of approximately 1,092 kilograms of cocaine.
Herera and four other smugglers were taken into custody and brought to the United States for prosecution under the Maritime Drug Law Enforcement Act. The vessel was deemed a danger to navigation due to no suitable tow points and its distance from land. Consequently, the vessel was sunk upon completion of law enforcement activities.
U.S. Attorney Sean P. Costello of the Southern District of Alabama made the announcement.
The case was investigated by the United States Coast Guard and the Department of Homeland Security-Homeland Security Investigations.
Assistant United States Attorney George F. May 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. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
Convicted felon gets 15-year maximum sentence after pointing gun at law enforcement officerRead the Press Release
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A 45-year-old Robstown resident has been sentenced to federal prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Guadalupe Calderon III pleaded guilty July 31.
U.S. District Judge Davis S. Morales has now ordered Calderon to serve 180 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by three years of supervised release. At the sentencing hearing, the court saw footage of Calderon pointing and attempting to fire a handgun at a local sheriff’s deputy during a traffic stop. In handing down the sentence, the court noted he would have sentenced Calderon to a higher sentence, but the statutory maximum penalty was 180 months.
On July 26, 2024, law enforcement had conducted a traffic stop on Calderon’s truck. When asked for his license and insurance, he pointed a Ruger pistol at the officer’s face and pulled the trigger. When the gun did not fire, Calderon fled the scene in his truck.
Authorities located him approximately six hours later riding in another vehicle. A search resulted in the discovery of the firearm in the back seat where he had been sitting along with over 30 rounds of ammunition and a high-capacity drum magazine.
Calderon admitted the gun was his and that he had pointed it at the officer earlier that day.
He has multiple prior felony convictions. As such, he is prohibited from possessing firearms per federal law.
Calderon has been and will remain in custody.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation with the assistance of the Nueces County Sheriff’s Department and Corpus Christi Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ashley Martin prosecuted the case.
Convicted Sex Offender Sentenced for Possession of a Firearm and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Vankese Russell, 26, a previously convicted felon residing in the District of Columbia, was sentenced today in U.S. District Court to 15 months in federal prison for his illegal possession of a pistol, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro.
Russell pleaded guilty on July 21 before Judge Carl J. Nichols to unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon. In addition to the 15-month prison sentence, Judge Nichols ordered Russell to serve three years of supervised release.
The prosecution was part of the "Make D.C. Safe Again" initiative created to address gun violence in the District, prioritize federal firearms violations, pursue tougher penalties for offenders, and seek detention for federal firearms violators.
Joining in the annoucement were Special Agent in Charge Anthony Spotswood of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and Chief Pamela A. Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD).
According to court documents, on Jan. 28, 2025, about 6:37 p.m., MPD officers were patrolling Chinatown on foot when they observed a cloud of smoke coming from behind a bus stop on the 600 block of H Street NW. They smelled burning marijuana and walked toward the bus stop, where numerous pedestrians were present.
The officers observed Russell holding a hand-rolled cigarette. As the officers approached, Russell attempted to extinguish the cigarette and dropped it to the ground. Officers cuffed Russell and told him he was under arrest. The officers searched Russell and recovered a loaded Smith & Wesson SW40VE from his waistband.
Russell previously pleaded guilty in 2017 to first degree attempted child sex abuse in D.C. Superior Court, was sentenced to four years in prison, and was therefore prohibited from possessing a firearm.
This case was investigated by the MPD and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Tobacco, Washington Field Division. The matter was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kondi Kleinman.
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Editor's Note:
This matter occurred on date indicated but not published at that time due to government shutdown. Press release posted and made available following the return to normal operations.Convicted Felon with a Glock Sentenced to 46 MonthsRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Daron Keith Brown, 30, a previously convicted felon who resides in the District of Columbia, was sentenced today in U.S. District Court to 46 months in federal prison in connection with his possession of a loaded semiautomatic pistol that had been modified to fire as a machine gun, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro.
Brown pleaded guilty on March 25 before Judge Dabney L. Friedrich.to being a felon in unlawful possession of a firearm. In addition to the 46-month prison term, Judge Friedrich ordered Brown to serve three years of supervised release.
Joining in the announcement of the sentencing was ATF Special Agent in Charge Anthony Spotswood of the Washington Field Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and Chief Pamela A. Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD).
According to court documents, on Jan. 10, 2024, members of the MPD’s Robbery Suppression Unit were on patrol on the 700 block of Florida Ave. NW when they saw a silver VW stopped on a crosswalk and impeding traffic. Officers attempted a vehicle stop, but the VW fled. The VW subsequently was seen on the 900 block of R Street, NW. Officers again attempted a traffic stop, however, this time the driver, later identified as Robert Williams, exited the car and fled on foot. As officers followed Williams, another officer stayed with the VW and ordered the front seat passenger, Daron Brown, to get out of the car.
As the officer approached, he spotted a gun on the front driver’s seat. Brown exited the vehicle and had a blue coat in his lap. As Brown was pulled out of the vehicle he put the coat back onto the seat. Once outside the vehicle Brown attempted to run but was eventually restrained. Another investigator searched the vehicle and located a second gun, a Glock 21, .45 caliber semi-automatic firearm with a converter switch, under the blue coat on the front passenger seat where Brown had been sitting.
The Glock was found under a blue coat where Brown had been sitting.
Brown was on supervised release for a 2021 firearms offense in 2021. Brown pleaded guilty in July 2022 and served 36-months. He also has previous convictions for assault with a dangerous weapon offense committed while on release and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence.
This case was investigated by the Metropolitan Police Department and the ATF. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Benjamin Helfand and Shehzad Akhtar and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Haley Pennington.
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Editor's Note:
This matter occurred on date indicated but not published at that time due to government shutdown. Press release posted and made available following the return to normal operations.Convicted Felon Sentenced to 37 Months for Unlawful Possession of a 9mm PistolRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Raymond Davon Benson, 32, a convicted felon residing in the District of Columbia, was sentenced today, October 31, in U.S. District Court to 37 months in prison for illegally possessing a 9mm firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro.
Benson pleaded guilty July 1, 2025, before Judge Trevor N. McFadden to an indictment charging him with unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition by a felon. In addition to the 37-month prison term, Judge McFadden ordered Benson to serve three years of supervised release.
According to court documents, on March 29, 2025, about 1:45 a.m., Metropolitan Police officers were on patrol in the U Street Corridor when they spotted Benson holding a red Solo cup in his hand. As officers parked and exited their cruiser, Benson noticed their approach and tossed the cup to the ground. He walked away and then took headlong flight.
Benson ran into the alleys off the 200 block of Vermont Ave, NW. While running, he withdrew a large firearm from his waistband and threw it over a fence in the 900 block of U Street, NW. Police eventually caught and detained him.
Investigators recovered Benson’s Cobray M-11 9mm pistol and 28 rounds of ammunition. Benson was previously convicted in Superior Court for a 2016 charge of Aggravated Assault and Carrying a Pistol Without a License. He was sentenced to 60 months in prison and, as a convicted felon, forbidden from possessing firearms.
This case was investigated by the Metropolitan Police Department with valuable assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Washington Division. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Solomon Eppel and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas Strong.
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Editor's Note:
This matter occurred on date indicated but not published at that time due to government shutdown. Press release posted and made available following the return to normal operations.Colombian National Sentenced to over Seven Years in Prison for Participation in International Money Laundering ConspiracyRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Colombian man was sentenced on Oct. 28, 2025 in federal court in Boston for his involvement in a sophisticated international money laundering organization that laundered more than $6 million in drug trafficking proceeds from Colombian cartels through the United States, Caribbean and European banking systems.
Oscar Rodriguez-Camargo, 37, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Richard G. Stearns to 87 months in prison. The defendant is subject to deportation upon completion of the imposed sentence. In March 2025, Rodriguez-Camargo pleaded guilty to one count of money laundering conspiracy and 18 counts of money laundering.
Rodriguez-Camargo was among 20 individuals from Colombia, Jamaica and Florida who were indicted by a federal grand jury in May 2022 in connection with the money laundering conspiracy. Rodriguez-Camargo is the 16th defendant to be sentenced. All 20 defendants have been convicted either at trial or by pleading guilty.
Over the course of the investigation, $1 million was seized from corporate bank accounts and other investigative activity. Nearly 3,000 kilograms of cocaine – with a street value of over $90 million – was traced back to the money laundering organization. This includes approximately 1,193 kilograms of cocaine seized at sea 60 miles south of Jamaica in July 2019, as well as 1,555 kilograms of cocaine seized in nine scrap metal shipping containers at the Port of Buenaventura, Colombia in March 2019.
In or about October 2016, an investigation began into a sophisticated money laundering organization located primarily in Barranquilla, Colombia. During an extensive five-year investigation, the organization laundered over $6 million in drug proceeds through intermediary banks in the United States, including banks in Massachusetts, as well as additional proceeds through banks in the Caribbean and Europe by use of the Colombian Black Market Peso Exchange (BMPE). By using the BMPE, the defendants and their co-conspirators sought to conceal drug trafficking activity and proceeds from law enforcement as well as evade currency exchange requirements in the United States and Colombia through the illegal currency exchange process. As part of the conspiracy, members of the organization held roles and responsibilities relative to the needs and opportunities of the scheme, such as drug suppliers, peso brokers, money couriers and business owners/dollar purchasers.
Through the BMPE, Colombian drug trafficking organizations with drug proceeds generated in the United States use third parties – generally referred to as “peso brokers” that are also based in Colombia – who agree to exchange Colombian pesos they control for the drug supplier’s dollar proceeds. Peso brokers then use money couriers in the United States and elsewhere to physically secure the drug proceeds, often in suitcases or bags on the street, and transfer the proceeds into the United States banking system. To avoid detection, peso brokers deposit the drug proceeds into bank accounts in company or individual names intended to appear as legitimate business activity, or through multiple small deposits into different bank accounts which are then consolidated into larger accounts. As a result, Colombian peso brokers control a pool of drug-derived proceeds in United States bank accounts. These dollar proceeds are then purchased by individuals or companies in Colombia seeking to exchange pesos for United States dollars at a favorable exchange rate and in a manner that avoids currency exchange and income reporting requirements. The dollar drug proceeds are transferred at the direction of the purchaser and often end up in bank accounts of individuals or companies who appear to have no direct involvement in drug trafficking crimes.
Beginning in 2016 and continuing until 2022, an undercover agent infiltrated the organization by portraying himself as an international money launderer able to pick up bulk cash throughout the world, launder the proceeds through his United States-based accounts and send the money to Colombia through the BMPE.
Throughout the course of the investigation, members of the money laundering organization would contact the undercover and arrange meetings for the undercover and the undercover’s purported associates to collect bulk cash throughout the world. Members of the money laundering organization would then direct where the money was to be sent, and facilitators, such as Rodriguez-Camargo, would facilitate the payout of the laundered proceeds in Colombia for the benefit of the drug suppliers. Over the course of the conspiracy, Rodriguez-Camargo was personally responsible for the laundering of over $2.4 million in drug proceeds.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Jarod Forget, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Field Division; Thomas Demeo, Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, Boston Field Office; Aura Liliana Trujillo Rojas, Delegate for Criminal Finance for the Colombian Attorney General’s Office; Ricardo Sánchez Silvestre, Brigadier General of the Colombian National Police Anti-Narcotics Directorate; Jervis Moore, Chief of the Narcotics Division for the Jamaica Constabulary Force; and Colonel Geoffrey Noble of the Massachusetts State Police made the announcement. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs and the Criminal Division’s Narcotic and Dangerous Drug Section’s Office of the Judicial Attaché in Bogotá, Colombia provided significant assistance in securing the arrests and extraditions of Cover, Rowe, and other co-defendants from Colombia and Jamaica. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jared C. Dolan and Alathea E. Porter of the Criminal Division are prosecuting the case.
Cocaine Dealer Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
BOISE – William Charles Jones, 34, of St. Louis, Missouri, was sentenced to 120 months in federal prison for his involvement in the distribution of cocaine in Idaho, U.S. Attorney Bart M. Davis announced today.
According to court records, Jones was a high-volume cocaine distributor in the treasure valley. He would travel to Missouri to purchase kilos of cocaine, ship the cocaine to himself at a residence in Idaho, and then distribute the cocaine into the community through several mid-level distributors. On one occasion, Jones traveled to Canada, purchased two kilos of cocaine, and shipped it to himself in Idaho. Through the efforts of Customs and Border Protection and the Drug Enforcement Administration, that shipment was seized at the U.S./Canadian border.
After his indictment, investigators executed a federal search warrant at his residence and located a workstation in his garage consisting of a scale, packaging material, and a heat sealer. Investigators also found one and a half kilos of cocaine in brick form, an additional five one-ounce bundles of cocaine, several psilocybin mushrooms bars, and sixteen unlawfully possessed firearms strategically placed throughout the residence to afford him quick access to a firearm in the event he needed to protect his drugs or illicit proceeds.
U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill also ordered Jones to serve four years of supervised release following his prison sentence.
U.S. Attorney Davis commended the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Nampa Police Department Special Investigations Unit, the Ada County Sheriff’s Office, the Boise Police Department, the Meridian Police Department, Customs and Border Protection, and the United States Postal Inspection Service, which led to the charges and arrest. Assistant U.S. Attorney David Morse prosecuted this case.
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Clinton Man Found Guilty of Illegal Machinegun PossessionRead the Press Release
Jackson, MS – On October 2, 2025, following a two-day jury trial, a federal jury convicted a Clinton man for illegal possession of a machinegun. The trial and jury verdict occurred during the government shutdown.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Lennell Antonio Moore, Jr., 28, was stopped by Capitol Police for a traffic violation in Jackson. Officers conducted a probable cause search of the vehicle and located three Glocks pistols with attached machinegun conversion devices (MCDs a/k/a switches). Two were in the center console, directly next to Moore, along with a drum magazine that held approximately 40-rounds of ammunition.
Moore is scheduled to be sentenced on January 28, 2026. Moore faces a maximum penalty of ten years. He is currently being held in federal custody.
Acting United States Attorney Patrick Lemon of the Southern District of Mississippi and ATF Special Agent in Charge Joshua Jackson made the announcement.
The United States Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Capitol Police Department, and the Jackson Police Department investigated the case.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Matt Allen and Amber Jones.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
Climate Activist Sentenced in Defacing Degas Exhibit at National Gallery of ArtRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Timothy Martin, 55, of Raleigh, North Carolina, was sentenced today in U.S. District Court to two years of supervised release for his role in the April 27, 2023, defacement of Edgar Degas’ Little Dancer, Age Fourteen, at the National Gallery of Art, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro.
A jury found Martin guilty on Apr. 7, 2025, of conspiracy to commit an offense against the United States and injury to a National Gallery of Art exhibit.
In addition to the two months of supervised release, U.S. District Judge Amy Berman Jackson ordered Martin to serve 150 hours of community service that must include 20 hours of cleaning graffiti. He must also stay out of Washington, D.C. and not visit any museum. Judge Berman Jackson also ordered Martin to pay $4,062. in restitution.
According to evidence introduced in court, Martin and co-defendant Johanna Smith, 54, of Brooklyn, NY, smeared paint on the case and base of Edgar Degas’ Little Dancer, Age Fourteen, a sculpture which has drawn visitors for years to the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C. Following the attack, a group called Declare Emergency claimed credit.
Martin and Smith agreed, along with other co-conspirators, to enter the National Gallery of Art for the purpose of injuring the exhibit and entered the museum armed with water bottles filled with paint. Martin and Smith handed their phones to other co-conspirators and waited until patrons cleared the area in front of the Little Dancer. The pair proceeded to smear paint on the case and base of the exhibit, at times smacking the case with force. Prior to the attack, members of the conspiracy had alerted the Washington Post. Two reporters from the Post recorded and photographed the offense, as did additional members of the conspiracy
Smith and Martin caused over $4,000 in damage, including material and labor costs, and the exhibit was removed from public display for 10 days so that it could be repaired.
Smith pleaded guilty December 15, 2023, to one count of causing injury to a National Gallery of Art exhibit. She was sentenced to 60 days in prison, followed by 24 months of supervised release and ordered to pay a $3,000 fine and $4,062 in restitution.
The case is being investigated by the FBI’s Washington Field Office, specifically the FBI’s Art Crime Team, with assistance from National Gallery of Art Police, and U.S. Park Police. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron A. Tepfer of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia.
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Editor's Note:
This matter occurred on date indicated but not published at that time due to government shutdown. Press release posted and made available following the return to normal operations.Clarksdale Man Sentenced to 30 Months for being a Felon in Possession of a Stolen FirearmRead the Press Release
JACKSON, MS – A Clarksdale man was sentenced on November 4, 2025, to 30 months of incarceration for being a felon in possession of a firearm in Hinds County. The defendant was also ordered to pay a fine and serve 3 years of supervised release following his incarceration.
According to court documents, Kyler Seamster, 29, was found by law enforcement agents to be in possession of a stolen firearm during a street level narcotics operation executed by Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics throughout Jackson in 2024. Seamster had previous felony convictions for grand larceny and residential burglary in Tallahatchie County.
Seamster was indicted by a federal grand jury on January 24, 2025, and pleaded guilty on August 5, 2025. Seamster will continue serving a concurrent 15-year state sentence for trafficking in stolen firearms out of Madison County.
Acting U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Mississippi, Patrick A. Lemon and Special Agent in Charge Joshua Jackson of the United States Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives made the announcement.
The ATF investigated this case with the assistance of the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics.
Assistant U.S. Attorney C. Brett Grantham prosecuted the case.
This case was investigated by the ATF as 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).
Cincinnati fentanyl dealer sentenced to 18 years in federal prisonRead the Press Release
CINCINNATI – A local multi-kilogram drug trafficker – who was captured on camera in February 2024 shooting a rival fentanyl dealer repeatedly in the chest, after losing a bet over who sold more potent fentanyl – was sentenced in U.S. District Court today to 216 months in prison.
According to court documents, Robert Lee Howard, 34, of Cincinnati, was primarily a multi-kilogram dealer of fentanyl, but also sold cocaine, methamphetamine and marijuana.
In June 2024, agents recorded the defendant advising he was waiting on 23 pounds of methamphetamine to come in the mail in five separate packages. Agents intercepted one of those packages and discovered it contained more than four kilograms of 96 percent pure crystal meth.
That same month, Howard’s car was shot up while he was driving around Cincinnati. The next day, he was recorded on calls offering to pay $10,000 total for “friends from Chicago” to come to Cincinnati and solve his “problem” by “putting [the rival fentanyl dealer] on a T-shirt.”
Agents then executed a search warrant at Howard’s primary residence in Price Hill – where four young children also lived – and arrested him. At Howard’s home, they discovered more than nine kilograms of fentanyl, cocaine, an industrial size pill press, press parts and other supplies for making fake “ecstasy” pills with fentanyl, body armor, ammunition and AK-47 magazines. Howard had multiple firearms lying out on his bedroom floor amongst scattered vials of fentanyl, including a Mini Draco style rifle and two pistols with extended magazines.
Howard was charged by federal criminal complaint in June 2024 and pleaded guilty in July 2025.
Dominick S. Gerace II, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio; Joseph O. Dixon, Special Agent in Charge, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Detroit; West Chester Police Chief Brian Rebholz; Cincinnati Interim Police Chief Adam Hennie; Jorge Rosendo, Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF); and Lesley Allison, Inspector in Charge, U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), Pittsburgh Division; announced the sentence imposed by U.S. District Court Judge Jeffery P. Hopkins. Assistant United States Attorney David P. Dornette is representing the United States in this case.
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Chroma Systems Solutions Agrees to Pay over $1.9 Million to Resolve Allegations of PPP Loan FraudRead the Press Release
BOSTON – Chroma Systems Solutions, Inc. (Chroma Systems) has agreed to pay over $1.9 million to resolve False Claims Act allegations that the company falsely certified its eligibility for a Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan.
As detailed in the settlement agreement, Chroma Systems admitted that in January 2021 it applied for a second draw PPP loan and certified that it was eligible to receive the loan under the PPP rules. When it applied, Chroma Systems, together with its foreign affiliate, had over 1,800 employees.
Congress enacted the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and the Economic Security Act (CARES Act) on March 29, 2020, to provide emergency financial assistance to the millions of Americans who were suffering the economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. The CARES Act authorized forgivable loans to small businesses for job retention and certain approved expenses through the PPP. On May 5, 2020, the SBA issued guidance that explained that, for purposes of meeting size eligibility requirements (i.e. whether the applicant is a “small business concern” or otherwise falls below the cap on employee headcount) an applicant must count all of its employees and the employees of its U.S. and foreign affiliates, absent a waiver of or an exception to the affiliation rules. SBA’s guidance also made clear that it would only enforce this rule prospectively, i.e. for applications made on or after May 5, 2020. On Jan. 8, 2021, SBA announced the availability of a second round of PPP loans, known as the “second draw” PPP loans. Businesses with more than 300 employees were not eligible for second draw loans.
The settlement credits Chroma Systems for cooperation under the Department of Justice’s Guidelines for Taking Voluntary Disclosure, Cooperation and Remediation into Account in False Claims Act Matters.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and the U.S. Small Business Administration made the announcement today. Assistant United States Attorney Steven Sharobem of the Affirmative Civil Enforcement Unit handled the case.
Cheyenne trio sentenced for trafficking fentanylRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Smith announced that three co-conspirators have recently been sentenced for conspiracy to distribute fentanyl in Cheyenne, Wyoming. Beginning in September of 2024, detectives with the Cheyenne Police Department Community Action Team began an investigation into the distribution of fentanyl in the Cheyenne area. All three convictions were obtained through plea agreements resulting in a minimum of 12 years in federal prison.
According to court documents, through surveillance and interviews, investigators were able to track Brady Ehlers and Ashley Haberman’s movements as they purchased fentanyl from Colorado and distributed it in Laramie County. Detectives obtained search warrants, resulting in the seizure of fentanyl and drug paraphernalia from Ehler’s vehicle and their shared hotel room. The investigation also revealed that they were redistributing the fentanyl for several months and that one redistributor, Stacy Scrak, sold the fentanyl to another person who overdosed. The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Cheyenne Police Department investigated the crime.
U.S. Attorney Smith said, “It is devastating to see the impact that this terrible drug has had across our nation. Knowing that fentanyl has a high rate of death, it makes it that much harder to understand how people can put profit over human life. I am grateful for the strong alliance between the Cheyenne Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration, and I commend their work on this case.”
Brady Joseph Ehlers, 35, of Evanston was sentenced to a total of 168 months’ imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release for conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and distribution of fentanyl. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mackenzie Morrison prosecuted the case. A criminal complaint was filed Nov. 16, 2024, and Ehlers pleaded guilty on Feb. 28. U.S. District Judge Alan B. Johnson imposed the sentence in Cheyenne on April 15. Case No. 25-CR-00026
Ashley Nicole Haberman, 40, of Cheyenne, Wyoming, was sentenced to a total of 144 months’ imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release for conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and distribution of fentanyl. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mackenzie Morrison prosecuted the case. A criminal complaint was filed Nov 26, 2024, and Haberman pleaded guilty on March 18. U.S. District Judge Scott W. Skavdahl imposed the sentence in Casper on June 5. Case No. 25-CR-00033.
Stacey Claire Scrak, 28, of Cheyenne, Wyoming, was sentenced to 144 months’ imprisonment with three years of supervised release to follow for the distribution of fentanyl. Assistant U.S. Attorney Z. Seth Griswold prosecuted the case. Scrak was arrested on complaint Feb. 19 and pleaded guilty on April 17. Chief U.S. District Court Judge Kelly H. Rankin imposed the sentence on Oct. 8 in Cheyenne.
Case No. 24-CR-00067
Cheyenne restaurant owner sentenced for filing false tax returnRead the Press Release
CHEYENNE, WYOMING – Shu Ping Chen, 48, of Cheyenne, Wyoming, was sentenced to 18 months in federal prison with no supervised release for filing a false tax return. U.S. District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson imposed the sentence on October 28 in Cheyenne. Chen was also ordered to pay restitution totaling $293,270 to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and $66,426 to the State of Wyoming, a $75,000 fine, and $35,000 towards the cost of prosecution.
According to court documents, Chen owned and operated China Buffet restaurant in Cheyenne where she was responsible for the restaurant’s day-to-day operations and financial reporting. From at least 2018, Chen knowingly provided false financial information to her Certified Public Accountant (CPA), fully aware that the CPA would use this information to prepare and file her tax returns. Specifically, for tax years 2018 through 2022, Chen willfully underreported the restaurant’s gross cash receipts by providing false figures to her CPA. The total underreported amount over the five-year period was $959,693.94, resulting in a tax loss of $293,270 to the IRS and $66,426 to the State of Wyoming.
On January 4, 2024, the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) executed search warrants at both the restaurant and Chen’s residence. During the search, Chen was caught attempting to destroy business records.
Chen waived indictment and pleaded guilty to the charges on August 5, following the filing of an Information on July 11. The case was investigated by the IRS-Criminal Investigation division.
“Tax fraud is a serious crime that undermines the integrity of our tax system and places an unfair burden on honest taxpayers,” said U.S. Attorney Darin Smith. “This sentence demonstrates the commitment of IRS-Criminal Investigation to holding individuals accountable for their actions and ensuring that everyone pays their fair share.”
Casamero Lake Woman Pleads Guilty to Involuntary Manslaughter in Fatal Hit-and-RunRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Casamero Lake woman pleaded guilty to involuntary manslaughter after striking and killing a pedestrian on a dirt road while driving drunk.
According to court documents, on or about August 6, 2024, Debbie Rojack, 45, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, hit and killed John Doe on a dirt road after drinking a 6-pack of beer the day of the incident. John Doe’s body was found on the side of the road four days later. The cause of death is listed as blunt force trauma. Investigators located car parts in the area of John Doe’s body which later came back to a vehicle owned by Rojack.
On October 4, 2024, Special Agents spoke to Rojack again, who stated that she had heard that someone was killed in the same canyon where her accident had occurred and confirmed that she was the only person in the vehicle at the time of the accident.
Rojack pleaded guilty to involuntary manslaughter. At sentencing, Rojack faces up to eight years in prison. Upon her release from prison, Rojack will be subject to three years of supervised release.
Acting U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Gallup Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Police Department and Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations and the New Mexico State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brittany DuChaussee is prosecuting the case.
This press release was posted November 13, after the end of the federal government shutdown.
California Man Who Distributed Hundreds of Pounds of Meth in Dubuque Sentenced to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
A man who distributed hundreds of pounds of methamphetamine and cocaine to co-conspirators in the Dubuque, Iowa, area, was sentenced today to more than 15 years in federal prison.
Juan Jose Ruiz, age 29, from Visalia, California, received the prison term after an April 24, 2025 guilty plea to one count of conspiracy to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine and 50 grams or more of actual (pure) methamphetamine.
Evidence at sentencing showed that in 2021, Ruiz was responsible for distributing 200 pounds of methamphetamine and 2,000 grams of cocaine to other members of a drug-trafficking organization based in Dubuque, Iowa. In December 2021, Ruiz was driving a car from California to Iowa, when law enforcement stopped him in Colorado. Law enforcement searched his car and, under cutout doors in the metal floor of the car, found 25 pounds of ice methamphetamine.
Ruiz was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Chief Judge C.J. Williams. Ruiz was sentenced to 188 months’ imprisonment and must also serve a 5-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
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).
Ruiz 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 Devra T. Hake and investigated by the Dubuque Drug Task Force, Dubuque County Sheriff’s Office, Dubuque Police Department, Quad City Metropolitan Enforcement Group, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Drug Enforcement Administration, United States Postal Inspection Service, and the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation Criminalistics Laboratory.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 23-CR-1006.
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Court Proceedings During Government ShutdownRead the Press Release
Despite the recent government shutdown, federal courts across the nation utilized various resources to guarantee the continuity of justice and continued to operate on essential cases, including criminal prosecutions, immigration hearings, and civil rights violations.
This press release outlines the significant court hearings that were conducted in the Middle District of Louisiana during this period, highlighting their importance in maintaining legal processes and upholding citizens’ rights.
Damian R. Raby, age 42, of Gonzales, Louisiana, was sentenced by U.S. Chief Judge Shelly D. Dick to 216 months in federal prison following his convictions for conspiracy to launder money and obstructing the administration of the internal revenue laws, relating to a multimillion-dollar scheme to defraud a COVID-19 economic relief program. Raby must serve three years of supervised release upon completing his term of imprisonment. In addition to the term of imprisonment, Raby was ordered to pay $2,603,678,04 in restitution to the U.S. Treasury and forfeit an additional $2,045,241.58.
Trisha Milstead, age 53, of Newport, Tennessee, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Brian A. Jackson to 21 months in federal prison following her conviction for wire fraud. Milstead must serve three years of supervised release upon completing her term of imprisonment. In addition to the term of imprisonment, Milstead was ordered to pay $2,623.58 in restitution.
Antonio Felipe Belda, age 39, of Ontario, Canada, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge John W. deGravelles to 120 months in federal prison following his conviction for possession of child pornography. Belda must serve five years of supervised release upon completing his term of imprisonment. In addition to the term of imprisonment, the Court imposed a fine of $17,000, ordered Belda to pay $6,000 in restitution, and ordered him to register as a sex offender upon his release. Belda may also be deported from the United States upon completing his sentence.
Quarles James Harris, age 51, of Zachary, Louisiana, pled guilty before Chief Judge Shelly Dick to bank robbery and related firearms offenses.
Six individuals pled guilty before Judge Brian A. Jackson to various charges, including firearm and drug trafficking offenses resulting from an investigation into a drug trafficking organization based out of Ascension Parish. This case was investigated under the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF). OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. For more information about Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces, please visit Justice.gov/OCDETF.
- Leroy Miles, age 46, of Donaldsonville, Louisiana, for conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute heroin, cocaine, fentanyl, methamphetamine, and oxycodone, possession of firearms and ammunition by a convicted felon, and possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime;
- Joseph Brown, age 38, of Donaldsonville, Louisiana, for conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute heroin, cocaine, fentanyl, methamphetamine, and oxycodone, and distribution of heroin and fentanyl;
- James Miles, age 48, of Donaldsonville, Louisiana, for conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute heroin, cocaine, fentanyl, methamphetamine, and oxycodone;
- Corey Powe, age 56, of Donaldsonville, Louisiana, for possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime;
- Marishell Ealem, age 39, of Donaldsonville, Louisiana, for conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute heroin, cocaine, fentanyl, methamphetamine, and oxycodone, and distribution of heroin and fentanyl; and
- Destiny Renee McBride, age 35, of Donaldsonville, Louisiana, for conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute heroin, cocaine, fentanyl, methamphetamine, and oxycodone.
A federal grand jury returned an eight-count indictment charging Anisha Devall Hunter, age 47, of Denham Springs, Louisiana, with wire fraud. Hunter appeared for her arraignment and pled not guilty to the pending charges. An indictment is an accusation by a grand jury. The defendant is presumed innocent until and unless adjudicated guilty at trial or through a guilty plea.
U.S. Attorney Kurt Wall stated, “The resilience exhibited by my office and the judiciary during this challenging time underscores the commitment to maintaining the rule of law. We remain committed in our service to the communities within the Middle District of Louisiana.”
Brockton Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Fentanyl Trafficking and Possessing a Loaded FirearmRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Brockton man was sentenced on Oct. 3, 2025 in federal court in Boston for possessing with intent to distribute over 70 grams of fentanyl and possessing a handgun loaded with 14 rounds of ammunition.
Edson Gomes, 28, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Patti B. Saris to 10 years in prison, to be followed by four years of supervised release. In June 2025, Gomes pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl and one count of being a felon in possession of ammunition.
Gomes was arrested on Aug. 14, 2023, after law enforcement encountered him in a Brockton apartment building. During the interaction, the bottom of a .40 caliber Smith & Wesson pistol was observed protruding from Gomes’s pant pocket. The firearm had a defaced serial number and was loaded with 14 rounds of ammunition. Four bags of fentanyl weighing approximately 72 grams and $1,488 in cash were also located in Gomes’s pockets. A search warrant was subsequently obtained for the apartment and other items associated with drug dealing were also located.
At the time of his arrest, Gomes was on supervised release for a prior federal drug dealing conviction. In June 2017, Gomes was sentenced to 71 months in prison and three years of supervised release for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute fentanyl. As a condition of his supervised release, Gomes was banned from entering the City of Brockton without permission. At the Oct. 3, 2025 hearing, Gomes was also sentenced to 24 months in prison for violating his supervised release, which was the statutory maximum penalty.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Ted E. Docks, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division made the announcement. Valuable assistance was provided by the Massachusetts State Police, the Brockton Police Department and the Plymouth County District Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney David Cutshall of the Organized Crime & Gang Unit prosecuted the case.
Brazilian National Sentenced to Prison for Selling Firearms Without a LicenseRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Brazilian national unlawfully living in Worcester was sentenced on Oct. 23, 2025 for engaging in the business of selling firearms without a license.
Israel Dos Santos, 25, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Brian Murphy to two years in prison. The defendant is subject to deportation upon completion of the imposed sentence. In July 2025, Dos Santos pleaded guilty to one count of engaging in the business of dealing firearms without a license.
Between May 2024 and July 2024, Dos Santos sold nine firearms to a cooperating witness without the required license in exchange for cash. In addition to firearms, Dos Santos also sold ammunition and magazines, some of which were large capacity magazines. One firearm had an obliterated serial number.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Thomas Greco, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Boston Field Division; Michael J. Krol, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in New England; and Patricia H. Hyde, Acting Field Office Director, Boston, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations made the announcement. Valuable assistance was provided by the Massachusetts State Police and the Framingham and Worcester Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael J. Crowley and John Reynolds of the Organized Crime & Gang Unit prosecuted the case.
Brazilian National Sentenced to Prison for Receiving and Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Brazilian national, residing in Lynn, Mass., was sentenced on Oct. 8, 2025 in federal court in Boston for receiving and possessing over 100 files of child sexual abuse material (CSAM).
Wernher Heideriqui, 38, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Richard G. Stearn to 66 months in prison to be followed by five years of supervised release, during which time Heideriqui will be required to register as a sex offender. The defendant will be subject to deportation upon completion of the imposed sentence. In April 2025, Heideriqui pleaded guilty to one count of receipt of child pornography and one count of possession of child pornography. Heideriqui was arrested on June 9, 2023 after being smuggled across the U.S. border into Canada.
In August 2021, an investigation began following a CyberTip regarding the trafficking of CSAM. During a search of Heideriqui’s residence and person in May 2023, multiple electronic devices, including phones and computers, were located and seized. Forensic examination of the devices revealed that two devices had over 100 files depicting adult men raping children as young as four years old.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Michael J. Krol, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in New England made the announcement. Valuable assistance was provided by the Lynn Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica L. Soto of the Major Crimes Unit prosecuted the case.
The case is brought as part of Project Safe Childhood. In 2006, the Department of Justice created Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov/.
Brazilian National Sentenced for Selling a Dozen Firearms and Ammunition Without a LicenseRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Brazilian national unlawfully living in Fall River and on Cape Cod was sentenced on Oct. 3, 2025 for selling 12 firearms and large capacity magazines without a license.
Alason Ferreira-Peixoto, 23, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Angel Kelley to 35 months in prison, to be followed by two years of supervised release. The defendant is subject to deportation upon completion of the imposed sentence. In June 2025, Ferreira-Peixoto pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to engage in the business of dealing firearms without a license and one count of engaging in the business of dealing firearms without a license.
Between June 2024 and August 2024, Ferreira-Peixoto sold 12 firearms to cooperating witnesses without the required license in exchange for cash. Ferreira-Peixoto also conspired with others to obtain the firearms in South Carolina and sell them in Massachusetts. In addition to firearms, Ferreira-Peixoto also sold ammunition and magazines, some of which were large capacity magazines.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Thomas Greco, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives, Boston Field Division; Michael J. Krol, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in New England; and Patricia H. Hyde, Field Office Director, Boston, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations made the announcement. Valuable assistance was provided by the Massachusetts State Police and the Barnstable and Fall River Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael J. Crowley and John Reynolds of the Organized Crime & Gang Unit prosecuted the case.
Brazilian National Sentenced for Selling Firearms Without a License and ConspiracyRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Brazilian national unlawfully living in Milford was sentenced on Oct. 24, 2025 in federal court in Worcester for conspiracy and engaging in the business of selling firearms without a license.
Rafaell Martins Ferreira, 28, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Margaret R. Guzman to time-served (approximately 13 months) followed by two years of supervised release. The defendant is subject to deportation upon completion of the imposed sentence. In July 2025, Martins Ferreira pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to engage in the business of dealing firearms without a license and one count of engaging in the business of dealing firearms without a license.
Between February and March 2024, Martins Ferreira sold two firearms to cooperating witnesses without the required license. In addition, Martins Ferreira indicated he had access to additional firearms. One of these firearms included a large capacity magazine (capable of holding more than 15 rounds of ammunition).
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Thomas Greco, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Boston Field Division; Michael J. Krol, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in New England; Patricia H. Hyde, Field Office Director, Boston, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations; and Ketty Larco-Ward, Inspector in Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service’s Boston Division made the announcement. Valuable assistance was provided by the Massachusetts State Police and the Milford Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael J. Crowley and John Reynolds of the Organized Crime & Gang Unit prosecuted the case.
Brazilian National Sentenced for Selling Firearms Without a License and ConspiracyRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Brazilian national unlawfully residing in Florida was sentenced on Oct. 29, 2025 in federal court in Worcester for conspiracy and engaging in the business of to sell firearms without a license.
Marcos Alves Silva, 24, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Margaret R. Guzman to 18 months in prison, to be followed by two years of supervised release. The defendant is subject to deportation upon completion of the imposed sentence. In June 2025, Silva pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to engage in the business of dealing firearms without a license and one count of engaging in the business of dealing firearms without a license.
Between March 2024 and June 2024, Silva shipped nine firearms to individuals in Massachusetts. In addition to firearms, Silva also sold ammunition and magazines, some of which were large capacity magazines.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Thomas Greco, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Boston Field Division; Michael J. Krol, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in New England; Patricia H. Hyde, Acting Field Office Director, Boston, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations; and Ketty Larco-Ward, Inspector in Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service’s Boston Division made the announcement. Valuable assistance was provided by the Massachusetts State Police and the Milford Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael J. Crowley and John Reynolds of the Organized Crime & Gang Unit prosecuted the case.
Brazilian National Sentenced for Selling 11 Firearms Without a LicenseRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Brazilian national unlawfully living in Milford was sentenced on Oct. 7, 2025 for selling firearms and ammunition without a license.
Vanderson Rocha Oliveira, 31, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Margaret R. Guzman to three years in prison followed by two years of supervised release. The defendant is subject to deportation upon completion of the imposed sentence. In July 2025, Rocha Oliveira pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to engage in the business of dealing firearms without a license and one count of engaging in the business of dealing firearms without a license.
Between March 2024 and September 2024, Rocha Oliveira sold 11 firearms to cooperating witnesses without the required license. In addition, three more firearms shipped from Florida were intercepted by law enforcement. Rocha Oliveira conspired with others to deliver the firearms and to obtained them from Florida. In addition to firearms, Rocha Oliveira also sold ammunition and magazines, some of which were large capacity magazines.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Thomas Greco, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Boston Field Division; Michael J. Krol, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in New England; and Patricia H. Hyde, Acting Field Office Director, Boston, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations; and Ketty Larco-Ward, Inspector in Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service’s Boston Division made the announcement. Valuable assistance was provided by the Massachusetts State Police and the Milford Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael J. Crowley and John Reynolds of the Organized Crime & Gang Unit prosecuted the case.
Brazilian National Sentenced for Conspiracy to Obtain Driver's Licenses for Illegal AliensRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Brazilian national illegally residing in Danbury, Conn. was sentenced on Oct. 2, 2025 for conspiring to obtain driver’s licenses for ineligible applicants, principally illegal aliens.
Helbert Costa Generoso, 41, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Margaret R. Guzman to nine months in prison. The defendant is subject to deportation upon completion of the imposed sentence. In June 2025, Helbert Costa Generoso pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to unlawfully produce and possess with intent to transfer identification documents and one count of furnishing a false passport to another for use. In December 2024, Costa Generoso was charged along with four co-conspirators.
From in or about November 2020 through in or about September 2024, Costa Generoso and his alleged co-conspirators fraudulently procured driver’s licenses for illegal alien customers who resided in states that prohibited illegal aliens from obtaining driver’s licenses. Prior to July 2023, illegal aliens residing in Massachusetts were not permitted to obtain Massachusetts driver’s licenses. Beginning in 2019, illegal aliens residing in New York became eligible to obtain New York driver’s licenses.
Costa Generoso and his alleged co-conspirators conspired to fraudulently obtain New York driver’s licenses for illegal alien customers who did not reside in New York, including Massachusetts residents, and after July 2023 to fraudulently obtain Massachusetts driver’s licenses for illegal alien customers who did not reside in Massachusetts. In exchange for fraudulently obtaining the driver’s licenses, the co-conspirators allegedly typically charged approximately $1,400 per customer. Costa Generoso also charged $1,400 to obtain fraudulent foreign passports in the customers’ names, to be used as identification in the driver’s license applications.
In New York, before obtaining a driver’s license, applicants were required to pass a written permit test and complete driver’s education coursework from a New York driving school. Online permit test-takers were required by the New York Department of Motor Vehicles (NY DMV) to take a picture of themselves with a web camera during the test. This was to ensure that the test-taker was indeed the applicant and that there was not a person sitting with and helping the applicant with the test.
To avoid the customers having to take the permit tests, the co-conspirators allegedly conspired to obtain several pictures of the customers sitting down, making it look as if the customers were taking the tests. They also allegedly conspired to complete the permit tests for the customers online and, when prompted by the NY DMV to take pictures during the tests, they uploaded the pictures that the customers previously provided – purporting to show that it was the customers who were taking the tests, not the defendants. Costa Generoso and his alleged co-defendants also conspired to create fraudulent driver’s education certificates of completion, purportedly from New York driving schools, and conspired to forge the signatures of driving school staff on the fake certificates.
The NY DMV also required that applicants appear at a NY DMV location and provide documents to prove their identity and residence in New York. The co-conspirators allegedly conspired to meet Massachusetts-based customers at locations in Massachusetts – typically several customers at a time – and drive them to NY DMV branch locations. When they arrived at the NY DMV locations, the defendants allegedly gave the customers fraudulent documents falsely purporting to demonstrate that the customers resided in New York. The customers provided these fake records to the NY DMV staff, and the NY DMV relied on the misrepresentations to issue New York driving permits to the customers. The co-conspirators allegedly conspired to arrange for the NY DMV to mail the permits to locations in New York that were controlled by the defendants and provided the permits to the customers in-person. The defendants then allegedly conspired to schedule road driving license tests for the customers with the NY DMV and, again, drive the customers to New York for them to take the road tests. If the customers passed the tests, the NY DMV sent the driver’s licenses to mailing addresses in New York that the defendants allegedly controlled, and the defendants then provided the licenses to the customers.
The defendants allegedly conspired to obtain Massachusetts driver’s licenses for out-of-state residents, in generally the same manner as they obtained the New York licenses for Massachusetts residents. Collectively, the co-conspirators allegedly fraudulently applied for licenses for more than 1,000 customers, obtained licenses for more than 600 of the customers and collected at least hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Costa Generoso is the second defendant to plead guilty in the case. In September 2025, defendant Cesar Agusto Martin Reis was sentenced to time served (290 days in prison), for his role in the conspiracy.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Michael J. Krol, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in New England; and Kelly Larco-Ward, Inspector in Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Boston Division made the announcement. Valuable assistance was provided by the NY DMV Division of Field Investigation; the Boston, Danbury (Conn.) and Waterbury (Conn.) Police Departments; the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Connecticut; and the New York State Inspector General’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brendan O’Shea of the Worcester Branch Office is prosecuting the case.
The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The remaining defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.