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17 December 2025
U.S. Customs and Border Protection Officer Charged with Bribery OffensesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Jay Clayton, and Assistant Director in Charge of the New York Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”), Christopher G. Raia, announced today the unsealing of a Complaint charging KEVIN SETO, a U.S. Customs and Border Protection Officer (“CBP”), and HIU KIT DAVID CHONG, a/k/a “Hk David,” a former administrator at a private research university, in connection with a bribery scheme that involved SETO accepting bribes and gratuities from CHONG and others in exchange for disseminating confidential law enforcement and immigration information and providing special treatment while processing the entry of foreign nationals and other individuals into the United States at JFK Airport in Queens, New York. SETO was arrested yesterday afternoon and will be presented today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Gary Stein. CHONG was arrested this morning and will be presented later today in the Central District of California.
“New Yorkers trust and rely on the integrity of our U.S. Customs and Border Protection Officers, who are tasked with the critical mission of safeguarding and protecting our borders,” said U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton. “As alleged, Kevin Seto breached that trust and jeopardized the safety of our borders by accepting bribes and gratuities from Hiu Kit David Chong and others in exchange for access to confidential law enforcement and immigration information and special treatment for foreign nationals and others entering the United States at JFK Airport. These charges highlight this Office’s commitment to pursuing those, including members of law enforcement, who seek to profit by abusing their positions of public trust.”
“Kevin Seto, a CBP officer, allegedly accepted bribes in exchange for providing others with confidential law enforcement information and expediting the entry process for various visitors, to include foreign nationals,” said FBI Assistant Director in Charge Christopher G. Raia. “Seto’s alleged participation exposed sensitive information to unauthorized recipients and leveraged his access to bypass travel regulations. The FBI will never tolerate any individual who abuses their authority to prioritize personal financial gain over the security of our country’s borders.”
According to the allegations in the Complaint unsealed today in Manhattan federal court:[1]
From at least in or about 2018 through at least in or about 2024, SETO, a CBP officer stationed at JFK International Airport, and Henry Yau, who was a Supervisory Detention and Deportation Officer with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (“ICE”),[2] participated in a scheme to obtain bribes and gratuities from friends and acquaintances in exchange for disseminating confidential law enforcement and immigration information and processing the entry of foreign nationals and other individuals into the United States. One of the individuals who paid bribes and gratuities to SETO and Yau in exchange for such benefits was CHONG, who was an Assistant Director in the Office of Graduate Admissions at a private research university based in Southern California (“University-1”) between in or about September 2008 and in or around March 2016.[3]
For example, SETO and Yau disseminated confidential law enforcement and immigration information—from password-protected law enforcement databases to which they had access as law enforcement officers working within the United States Department of Homeland Security (“DHS”)—to CHONG on multiple occasions, either relating to CHONG himself or foreign nationals that CHONG was seeking to assist with entry into the United States. The information that SETO and Yau disclosed to CHONG included confidential information regarding the status of a criminal investigation into CHONG. Additionally, SETO on multiple occasions facilitated the entry into the United States of CHONG or other individuals at CHONG’s request at JFK Airport, following international travel, allowing CHONG and these other individuals to bypass long lines at passport control and take advantage of expedited screening.
In exchange for these benefits from SETO and Yau, CHONG provided a subsidized hotel suite and various goods to SETO and offered to pay cash to Yau. In addition to CHONG, SETO and Yau also improperly provided confidential law enforcement and immigration information and/or assistance with entry into the United States to a variety of other foreign nationals and United States citizens. On at least two occasions, SETO provided entry assistance to individuals for the explicit purpose of bypassing secondary inspections or the payment of applicable duties on goods that the individuals purchased abroad. In exchange for providing these benefits, SETO and Yau were offered, among other things, cash payments, dinners at expensive restaurants, and top-shelf bottles of alcohol.
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SETO, 38, of Queens, New York, and CHONG, 41, of El Monte, California, are each charged with conspiracy to receive and accept bribes and gratuities, which carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison; conspiracy to convert government records and property and disclose agency records containing individually identifiable information, which carries a maximum sentence of one year in prison; and identity theft conspiracy, which carries a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison. SETO is also charged with obstruction of justice, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison; and making false statements to law enforcement, which carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison.
The maximum potential sentences in this case are prescribed by Congress and provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendants will be determined by the judge.
Mr. Clayton praised the outstanding investigative work of the FBI. Mr. Clayton also thanked CBP’s Office of Professional Responsibility and the DHS Office of Inspector General for their assistance with the investigation.
This case is being handled by the Office’s Public Corruption Unit and Violent Organizations & Crime Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Andrew K. Chan, James Ligtenberg, and Ni Qian are in charge of the prosecution.
The charges contained in the Complaint are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
[1] As the introductory phrase signifies, the entirety of the text of the Complaint and the description of the Complaint set forth herein constitute only allegations, and every fact described should be treated as an allegation.
[2] On December 12, 2024, Yau was charged by a grand jury sitting in the Southern District of New York with one count of identity theft conspiracy, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1028(f); four counts of conspiracy to convert records and property of the United States and disclose agency records containing individually identifiable information, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 371; one count of conversion of records and property of the United States, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 641; and one count of disclosure of agency records containing individually identifiable information, in violation of 5 U.S.C. § 552a(i)(1). See United States v. Henry Yau, S8 23 Cr. 572 (CM), Dkt. 50 (S.D.N.Y. Dec. 12, 2024). The charges against Yau, which remain pending, are merely accusations and Yau is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty
[3] On or about June 15, 2020, CHONG pleaded guilty in the United States District Court for the Central District of California to wire fraud in connection with a scheme to obtain graduate school admission slots for unqualified Chinese nationals at University-1 in exchange for thousands of dollars in cash. On or about September 17, 2020, CHONG was sentenced to one year of probation. See United States v. Hiu Kit David Chong, 20 Cr. 171 (MWF) (C.D. Cal.).
Two Trinidadian Men Indicted for Violating Federal Transnational Drug Trafficking ActRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LA – Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that on September 19, 2025, DAVEANAN DEONARINE a/k/a “Dave,” (“ DEONARINE”) age 49, and MICHAEL SAMSONDAR a/k/a “Don,” a/k/a “Captain,” a/k/a “Fisherman,” (“SAMSONDAR”) age 48, both of Trinidad and Tobago, were charged in a recently unsealed two-count indictment for international cocaine distribution conspiracy, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 959(a), 959(d), 960(a)(3), 960(b)(1)(B), and 963 and international cocaine distribution, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 959(a), 959(d), 960(a)(3), and 960(b)(1)(B).
During a bilateral investigation, agents arrested both DEONARINE and SAMSONDAR stemming from a 2023 Drug Enforcement Administration investigation that yielded the seizure of approximately 168 kilograms of cocaine that was intended for distribution in the United States.
If convicted, DEONARINE and SAMSONDAR each face a minimum term of ten years imprisonment and up to life imprisonment, a fine of up to $10,000,000.00, and at least five (5) years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment as to each charged count of, international cocaine distribution conspiracy, and international cocaine distribution. As to each charged count, DEONARINE and SAMSONDAR, individually, also face payment of a $100.00 mandatory special assessment fee.
Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson reiterated that the indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendants must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago Country Office, the Transnational Organized Crime Unit, the Strategic Services Agency, and the Special Investigative Unit of the Trinidad and Tobago Police Services. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lynn E. Schiffman and André Jones of the Narcotics Unit.
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Two Pennsylvania Men Charged with Stealing Firearms from Licensed Firearms DealerRead the Press Release
Williamsport - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Tahir Dixon, age 18, of Williamsport, Pennsylvania, and Shamier Gadson, age 19, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, were indicted on December 11, 2025, by a federal grand jury on charges of stealing firearms from a licensed dealer and possessing stolen firearms.
According to United States Attorney Brian D. Miller, the indictment alleges that on June 6, 2025, Dixon, Gadson and their coconspirators stole two firearms from a licensed firearm dealer located in Williamsport, Pennsylvania, by throwing bricks and cinderblocks to break a window for entry into the business. It is further alleged that Dixon, Gadson and their coconspirators used a stolen Kia SUV to transport the stolen firearms – a Radical Firearms RF-15 5.56 caliber rifle and a Wilson Combat Protector .300 caliber rifle.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). Assistant U.S. Attorney Geoffrey W. MacArthur is prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America (https://www.justice.gov/dag/media/1393746/dl?inline) a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
The maximum penalty under federal law for this offense is 10 years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
Indictments are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
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Two Massachusetts Men Charged with Large-Scale SNAP Benefits TraffickingRead the Press Release
BOSTON – Two men have been arrested and charged in an alleged scheme to fraudulently obtain millions of dollars’ worth of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits through small retail stores they operated in Boston. Defendants’ monthly SNAP redemptions allegedly ranged from $100,000 - $500,000 per month, outpacing full-service supermarkets. Defendants also allegedly sold donated food product intended for food-insecure children overseas.
Antonio Bonheur, 74, of Mattapan and Saul Alisme, 21, of Hyde Park, were each charged with one count of food stamp fraud. The defendants were arrested this morning and will appear in federal court in Boston at 3:15 p.m. today.
Bonheur owned Jesula Variety Store and Alisme owned Saul Mache Mixe Store, both of which operated as small variety stores within a single street-facing storefront in the Mattapan neighborhood of Boston. Jesula Variety Store occupied about 150 square feet. Saul Mache Mixe Store occupied about 500 square feet.
According to the charging documents, despite their limited size, inventory and food offerings, both stores allegedly exhibited extraordinarily high SNAP redemption volumes, far beyond what could reasonably be supported by legitimate food sales. Specifically, transaction data allegedly revealed that the stores had exceptionally large and anomalous average monthly SNAP redemption rates when compared to similarly situated businesses of the same size, type and location. It is alleged that the defendants’ monthly SNAP redemptions for Jesula Variety Store regularly exceeded $100,000 – with many months exceeding $300,000 and, at times, $500,000. By comparison, one full-service supermarket in the same area redeems approximately $82,000 per month in SNAP benefits.
Additionally, transaction-level data showed that only approximately 10%of SNAP transactions were for amounts under $40, while more than 70% of transactions exceeded $95. Such transaction patterns are typically associated with large supermarkets, not small variety stores with limited food inventory.
During undercover operations conducted at both businesses over the course of the investigation, SNAP benefits were allegedly trafficked for cash on four occasions from Jesula Variety Store and on two occasions from Saul Mache Mixe Store. In each instance, the defendants themselves allegedly worked the cash registers and personally exchanged SNAP benefits for cash. Both stores were also allegedly observed selling liquor in exchange for SNAP benefits.
It is further alleged that both stores sold MannaPack meals, a donated food product manufactured by the nonprofit Feed My Starving Children. These meals are paid for entirely by charitable donations intended for shipment and distribution to food-insecure children overseas and are never authorized for retail sale. The defendants allegedly sold donated MannaPack meals in their stores for approximately $8 per package, profiting from food intended for humanitarian relief.
According to the charging documents, because both stores carried little legitimate food inventory and generated minimal lawful revenue, the defendants allegedly relied almost entirely on USDA-funded SNAP redemptions as their source of income. To conceal the nature and source of these funds, the defendants allegedly maintained numerous secondary bank accounts through which SNAP proceeds were transferred, withdrawn as cash and redeposited to create the appearance of legitimate business activity while obscuring the true source of funds.
The charge of food stamp fraud greater than $100 provides for a sentence of up to five years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of $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; Charmeka Parker, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Office of Inspector General, Office of Investigations – Northeast Region; Ted E. Docks, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division; and Boston Police Commissioner Michael Cox made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Mallard of the Organized Crime & Gang Unit is prosecuting the case.
The details contained in the charging document are allegations. The defendants are presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in the court of law.
Two Indicted for $20 Million Fraud and Money Laundering SchemeRead the Press Release
BOISE –United States Attorney Bart M. Davis announced that Tochukwu Nwaneri, 51, of Nigeria, made his initial appearance yesterday before U.S. Magistrate Raymond E. Patricco. Co-defendant Vickie Smith, 66, of Peoria, Arizona, previously made her initial appearance on October 22, 2025. Nwaneri and Smith face prosecution in an indictment for their role in an advance-fee loan scheme in which they fraudulently obtained more than $20 million from an Idaho business owner (Victim-1).
Vickie Smith and Tochukwu Nwaneri are charged with one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering, and multiple counts of wire fraud and money laundering.
As alleged in the indictment, Smith, using the alias Nina Cheliyan, and Nwaneri, using the alias Dr. Simon Godwin, enriched themselves by falsely promising to provide Victim-1 with a financing opportunity of a $140 million business loan through a purported Singapore-based lender in exchange for significant advance fees. The indictment alleges that Smith and Nwaneri used the fees paid by Victim-1 for various personal expenses and wired the funds to family members and offshore bank accounts.
If convicted, Smith and Nwaneri each face a maximum penalty of up to 20 years in prison for the conspiracy and wire fraud counts and up to 10 years for each count of engaging in monetary transactions in criminally derived property. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The United States Secret Service is investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brittney Campbell and Darci Crane for the District of Idaho are prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Two Idaho Men Sentenced to Federal Prison for Possessing Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
BOISE – U.S. Attorney Bart M. Davis announced the outcomes in two separate cases in which defendants were sentenced to 87 months and 78 months in federal prison, respectively, for possessing child sexual abuse material.
Aaron Jacob Balcom, 28, of Caldwell, was sentenced to 87 months in prison. According to court records, the investigation began when Homeland Security Investigations (“HSI”) received CyberTip reports from an online messaging platform. A CyberTip is a report submitted to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (“NCMEC”). NCMEC gathers leads and tips regarding suspected online crimes against children and forwards them to the appropriate law enforcement agencies. Law enforcement determined that online accounts, later identified as belonging to Balcom, had been used to upload and distribute child sexual abuse material.
Law enforcement obtained search warrants for the contents of Balcom’s online accounts and located hundreds of files of child sexual abuse material, along with chat conversations where Balcom discussed his sexual interest in children. HSI subsequently executed a search warrant at Balcom’s Caldwell residence and seized his cellphone. HSI located additional files of child sexual abuse material on the cellphone.
Chief U.S. District David C. Nye also ordered Balcom to serve ten years of supervised release following his prison sentence and to pay $6,000 in restitution to the victims in the images that he possessed. Balcom will be required to register as a sex offender as a result of his conviction.
In a separate and unrelated case, Paul Vargas Jr., 34, of Payette, was sentenced to 78 months in prison for the same crime. According to court records, this investigation also began when HSI received a CyberTip involving Vargas’ online account, which had been used to upload and distribute child sexual abuse material. Pursuant to a search warrant, HSI seized Vargas’ cellphone and located evidence that the cellphone had previously been used to store child sexual abuse material.
Judge Nye ordered Vargas to be placed on supervised release for 15 years after the end of his prison term and to pay $6,000 in restitution to the victims in the images he possessed. Vargas will also be required to register as a sex offender as a result of his conviction.
“The endless distribution of child sexual abuse material can impact victims for life,” said U.S. Attorney Davis. “We are deeply committed to seeking justice for the victims in these images and to holding offenders accountable for their egregious conduct. Our law enforcement partners share the same goal, and I am grateful for their hard work.”
“These two sentencings illustrate how a single cyber tip can result in investigative action to remove predators from our communities and protect children,” said HSI Seattle acting Special Agent in Charge April Miller. “HSI and our partners are relentless in our mission to combat the heinous crime of online child sexual exploitation and abuse. We encourage everyone to help protect children online by immediately reporting suspected crimes or potential victims so law enforcement can act.”
Both cases were investigated by HSI in Boise with assistance from the Idaho Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. The Payette Police Department and the Canyon County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office also assisted with the Vargas investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kassandra McGrady prosecuted these cases.
These cases were brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. As part of Project Safe Childhood, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Idaho and the Idaho Attorney General’s Office partner to marshal federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
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Two Alaska State Troopers indicted on federal criminal civil rights violationsRead the Press Release
ANCHORAGE, Alaska – A federal grand jury in Alaska returned an indictment yesterday charging two Alaska State Troopers with federal criminal civil rights violations while serving in the line of duty during an incident in May 2024.
According to court documents, on May 24, 2024, Joseph Miller, 50, and Jason Woodruff, 43, acting in their official capacity as law enforcement officials with the Alaska State Troopers under the color of the law, allegedly deprived a victim of his constitutional rights.
The indictment alleges that Miller and Woodruff, while acting under the color of law as a Sergeant and a Trooper with the Alaska State Troopers, respectively, willfully deprived a victim of his right to be free from unreasonable seizures, which includes the right to be free from the use of unreasonable force by a law enforcement officer.
Specifically, the indictment alleges that Miller tased, hit and kicked the victim without legal justification, and that the offense involved the use of a dangerous weapon, resulting in bodily injury to the victim. The indictment further alleges that Woodruff unreasonably caused and directed his police canine, Olex, to bite the victim while the victim did not pose a threat that warranted use of the police canine, resulting in bodily injury to the victim.
Miller and Woodruff are each charged with one count of deprivation of rights under the color of law. The defendants are scheduled to make their initial court appearances on a later date before a U.S. Magistrate Judge of the U.S. District Court for the District of Alaska. If convicted, each defendant faces up to 10 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
U.S. Attorney Michael J. Heyman of the District of Alaska and Acting Special Agent in Charge Brandon Waddle of the FBI Anchorage Field Office made the announcement.
The FBI Anchorage Field Office is investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Tom Bradley is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Three Indicted for Conspiracy to Violate Asbestos-Related Laws at Barry County Long-Term Care FacilityRead the Press Release
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – The former administrator, maintenance contractor, and company owner of a Monett, Mo., skilled nursing facility were indicted by a federal grand jury today for their roles in a conspiracy to impede the EPA, a related state agency, and OHSA, and violate the Clean Air Act regarding the removal of asbestos-containing materials.
Juan Carlos Aguilar Gomez, 45, a citizen of Honduras, residing in Lawrence, N.Y., who was previously charged by criminal complaint on Aug. 1, 2025, with one count of violating the Clean Air Act, was charged in the indictment with one count of conspiracy to defraud the United States and violate the Clean Air Act, six counts of violating the Clean Air Act, and one count of making a false statement to a federal department or agency.
Rebecca Massey, 46, of Granby, Mo., was charged in the indictment with one count of conspiracy to defraud the United States and violate the Clean Air Act, six counts of violating the Clean Air Act, and one count of making a false statement to a federal department or agency.
Goldner Capital Management, LLC (GCM), a limited liability company located in the state of New York, was charged in the indictment with one count of conspiracy to defraud the United States and violate the Clean Air Act, and six counts of violating the Clean Air Act.
“The Department of Justice, working in partnership with the EPA, will seek to hold accountable those who violate environmental laws, as evidenced by the charges returned today,” said R. Matthew Price, United States Attorney for the Western District of Missouri.
“Conspiring to violate our nation’s environmental laws to prevent exposure to the lethal dangers of asbestos is a betrayal of trust that puts the most defenseless members of our society at risk. By neglecting proper asbestos inspections and precautions, the defendants have not only violated laws but endangered the health of over 150 residents and staff,” said Cate Holston, Assistant Special Agent in Charge for EPA’s Criminal Investigation Division in Missouri.
According to today’s indictment, in Dec. 2018, Gomez’s company was contracted to do maintenance and renovation work at nursing homes within GCM’s investment portfolio, including a long-term care facility in Monett, Mo. The services in their signed agreement included planning and overseeing all construction, alteration, maintenance, and repair projects at the facilities.
The facility provided senior and other assisted-living care to at least 67 residents and was staffed by approximately 80 employees between 2018 and 2021 and was owned and operated as part of an investment portfolio owned by GCM, which funded all capital improvements to facilities owned by the parent company.
As early as July 2020 GCM agents and employees, including Massey, began plans to renovate the facility, including plans to remove the existing linoleum flooring and replace it with new flooring. This flooring contained at least 6-12% chrysotile asbestos, was in poor condition and crumbled easily, making the tile a regulated asbestos-containing material (RACM) under EPA guidelines. The removal of RACM requires special handling and disposal precautions and procedures.
GCM, Massey, and Gomez were advised during the bidding process by other construction contractors and maintenance employees that the floor needed to be tested for the presence of asbestos and that an asbestos certified contractor needed to remove any flooring containing asbestos.
Despite receiving at least one bid from a reputable contracting company, which advised that the floors likely contained asbestos, no testing or asbestos abatement was conducted at the facility. Instead, GCM agents and employees engaged Gomez to conduct the proposed renovations. Neither Gomez, nor any of his employees were qualified asbestos abatement contractors, workers, or supervisors.
Renovations began around Oct. 2020 and continued through Jan. 2021. During renovations, Gomez and his employees used an electrical/mechanical floor stripper, other scrapers, chippers, and other abrading or grinding machinery to remove the tile flooring. This process generated visible emissions throughout the facility’s hallways, dining areas, and residents’ rooms. Additionally, Gomez and his employees posted no signs regarding potential asbestos exposure, erected no containment, used no water to mitigate visible emissions, had no decontamination units constructed, did not use negative air machines, and disposed of RACM waste in an unlined, unsealed dumpster that was sent to a landfill not authorized to accept RACM.
Massey, knowing that no asbestos analysis/inspection had occurred and that one was needed, permitted the work to continue even though as the Administrator she was empowered, and obligated, under law to shut down any operations that posed a health or safety hazard to the facility’s residents.
On Jan. 20, 2021, officials with the Missouri Department of Natural Resources (MDNR) inspected the facility and obtained a bulk floor sample from the hallway. MDNR conveyed to Massey that they were concerned that the materials contained RACM and that, if they did, the owners of the facility would need to evacuate the residents. Gomez told MDNR inspectors that he had no knowledge of the presence of asbestos or permitting requirements prior to their inspection, both of which were false statements.
The indictment alleges that on April 30, 2021, Massey falsely told OSHA inspectors that she was unaware of the renovation project involving the flooring prior to Gomez and his workers beginning work in Dec. 2020. She also claimed that she knew nothing about asbestos until MDNR arrived at the facility. Both were false statements.
The charges contained in this indictment are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Casey Clark, who was significantly assisted by former Environmental Crimes Section Senior Litigation Counsel Todd W. Gleason. It was investigated by the EPA – Criminal Investigations Division and the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.
Three Honduran Nationals Sentenced to Prison for Their Roles in a Bank Fraud ConspiracyRead the Press Release
HAMMOND – Three Honduran nationals are the latest co-conspirators to be sentenced to prison for their roles in an expansive bank fraud conspiracy resulting in significant losses to small businesses and community banks in more than a dozen states, announced Acting United States Attorney M. Scott Proctor. The sentences were imposed by United States District Court Judge Philip P. Simon at hearings held on December 12 and 15, 2025.
Carlos Aquino Sosa, 26 years old, of Honduras, was sentenced to 41 months in prison followed by 1 year of supervised release after pleading guilty to two counts of conspiracy to commit bank fraud. He was also ordered to pay $533,043 in restitution.
Edwin Palacios Sosa, 27 years old, of Honduras, was sentenced to 27 months in prison followed by 1 year of supervised release after pleading guilty to two counts of conspiracy to commit bank fraud and one count of illegal re-entry. He was also ordered to pay $533,043 in restitution.
Delvin Velasquez Romero, 33 years old, of Honduras, received a time-served sentence dating back to July 8, 2024 (approximately 17 months in custody) followed by 1 year of supervised release after pleading guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit bank fraud and one count of illegal re-entry. He was also ordered to pay $233,569 in restitution.
These defendants have no legal status within the United States and will each be subject to a separate and immediate removal process upon release from prison.
According to documents in each case, on January 11, 2023, Aquino Sosa, Palacios Sosa, Velasquez Romero, and their co-conspirators used fake identification cards to cash 169 fraudulent paychecks totaling $233,569 at three branches of the same bank in the Northern District of Indiana. The fraudulent paychecks were designed to look like they had been issued by a company that operates dairy farms in the Northern District of Indiana.
Almost six months later, on June 23, 2023, Aquino Sosa, Palacios Sosa, Velasquez Romero, and their co-conspirators used fake identification cards to cash 178 fraudulent paychecks totaling $299,474 at five branches of the same bank and three check cashing businesses in the Eastern District of Oklahoma. The fraudulent paychecks were designed to look like they had been issued by a building materials supply company in the Eastern District of Oklahoma.
“Aquino Sosa, Palacios Sosa, and Velasquez Romero participated in a far-reaching conspiracy that caused major financial harm to small businesses and community banks across the United States. Due to the unwavering efforts and collaboration between federal, state, and local law enforcement in multiple jurisdictions, these defendants were brought to justice for their respective roles in this scheme,” said Proctor. “The sentences imposed by the court send a message that there are real consequences for engaging in fraud, particularly in northwest Indiana.”
“The illicit actions of co-conspirators to commit bank fraud as they travel throughout the United States will not be tolerated,” said Matthew J. Scarpino, special agent in charge of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) in Chicago. “HSI will continue to partner with our fellow law enforcement agencies to disrupt these types of offenders and hold them accountable for their crimes.”
“Sophisticated fraud operations like this require investigative teamwork that spans state lines,” said Sergeant Jeremy Piers, Public Information Officer for the Indiana State Police. “From the first lead to the final arrest, our detectives, troopers, and support staff worked relentlessly alongside federal, state, and local partners to track the suspects’ movements, gather critical evidence, and bring this scheme to an end. This outcome reflects countless hours of coordination and determination, and it sends a clear message: when criminal activity crosses into Indiana, we will work tirelessly with our partners to protect our communities, our businesses, and our financial institutions.”
Co-conspirators Luis Banegas Rodriguez and Ricardo Castro Murillo were previously sentenced to 27 and 37 months in prison, respectively, for their roles in this scheme.
These cases were investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the United States Secret Service, and the Indiana State Police, with valuable assistance provided by the Benton County (Indiana) Sheriff’s Department, the Benton County (Indiana) Prosecutor’s Office, the Poteau (Oklahoma) Police Department, the Texas Department of Public Safety, the Travis County (Texas) Sheriff’s Office, the Houston (Texas) Police Department, the Nebraska State Police, and the Stanton County (Nebraska) Sheriff’s Office. The cases were prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Steven J. Lupa from the Northern District of Indiana and Assistant United States Attorneys Kara Traster and Jordan Howanitz from the Eastern District of Oklahoma.
This prosecution is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF Indianapolis comprises agents and officers from FBI, HSI, DEA, ATF, IRS, Indiana State Police, and other partners, with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Offices for the Northern and Southern Districts of Indiana.
Texas Woman Sentenced for Quarter Million Dollar COVID FraudRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Texas woman was sentenced in federal court today for her leadership role in a case that resulted in more than $250,000 in fraudulent Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans being issued under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act.
Daisha Sanders, formerly from Kansas City, Mo., 34, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Beth Phillips to 18 months imprisonment based upon her conspiracy to commit wire fraud relating to a scheme to fraudulently obtain Paycheck Protection Plan (PPP) loans, guaranteed by the SBA under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act).
Sanders conspired with others to prepare and file fraudulent PPP loan applications on their behalf. Sanders received kickbacks of $5,000 for each of the $20,832 PPP loans. Sanders filed false PPP loan applications for numerous persons resulting in a loss of approximately $270,820,33, which she was ordered to pay back in a restitution judgment.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul S. Becker. It was investigated by IRS-Criminal Investigation and the Kansas City, Missouri, Police Department.
Texas Man Pleads Guilty to COVID-19 Unemployment Fraud Scheme in New MexicoRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Texas man pleaded guilty to federal charges after admitting he fraudulently filed unemployment insurance claims in New Mexico using stolen identities to obtain federally funded COVID-19 relief benefits.
According to court documents, from July 2020 through February 2021, Marc Long, 46, devised and carried out a scheme to defraud the United States and financial institutions by submitting fraudulent unemployment insurance claims funded by federal COVID 19 relief programs. While residing in Texas, Long used the names and personally identifiable information of multiple individuals to file false unemployment insurance applications and weekly certifications with the New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions (NMDWS), even though neither he nor the individuals whose identities he used were eligible to receive benefits.
As a result of the fraudulent claims, federally funded unemployment benefits were distributed through interstate wire transfers, mailed debit cards, and direct deposits to accounts accessible by Long. In total, Long stole more than $160,000 in federal unemployment relief funds issued through the NMDWS.
Long pleaded guilty to two counts of wire fraud, two counts of mail fraud and two counts of theft of government property. At sentencing, he faces up to 30 years imprisonment followed by a three-year term 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 FBI Albuquerque Field Office and Department of Homeland Security’s Office of Inspector General investigated this case, with assistance from the New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico is prosecuting the case.
Taos Pueblo Man Charged for Hatchet AssaultRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Taos Pueblo man has been indicted on federal charges for allegedly attacking another man with hatchets.
According to court documents, on August 6, 2025, Joe Daniel Gomez, 49, an enrolled member of the Taos Pueblo, allegedly assaulted John Doe with two hatchets, which caused Doe to suffer serious bodily injury.
Gomez is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon and assault resulting in serious bodily injury. He will remain in a halfway house pending trial, which has not yet been scheduled. If convicted, Gomez faces up to 10 years in prison.
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 Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Taos Pueblo Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorney Zachary C. Jones is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Tallahassee Man Sentenced to Twenty Years in Federal Prison for Child Exploitation CrimeRead the Press Release
TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – Ryan Isbell, 36, of Tallahassee, Florida, was sentenced to 20 years in federal prison after previously pleading guilty to producing child pornography. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “The sexual exploitation and abuse of children is one of the most heinous crimes that deserves severe punishment, and this successful prosecution and lengthy prison sentence ensures this disgusting offender will not be able to victimize another child for decades. I applaud the outstanding investigative work by the Tallahassee Police Department, in close collaboration with our federal law enforcement partners, to help bring this offender to justice.”
Court documents reflect that in 2020 the Tallahassee Police Department received reports that the defendant’s social media account contained child pornography. During the execution of a November 2020 arrest warrant, law enforcement encountered a minor victim who had been exploited by the defendant. A search of the defendant’s computer and cellular telephone confirmed the exploitation had been recorded.
“The production of child sexual abuse material is a horrific crime that inflicts lasting trauma and violates the very innocence of our children,” said Homeland Security Investigations Tallahassee Assistant Special Agent in Charge Nicholas Ingegno. “The devastating effects of this depraved criminal activity can follow victims throughout their lives, impacting their sense of safety, trust, and overall well-being. HSI remains steadfast in our commitment to aggressively prosecute offenders and protect the most vulnerable members of our community.”
The defendant’s imprisonment will be followed by a 15-year term of supervised release, meaning if he violates any of the conditions of his supervision, he will potentially face an additional period of incarceration. Additionally, the defendant was ordered to pay restitution, and he will be required to register as a sex offender.
The sentence was the result of a joint investigation by the Tallahassee Police Department and the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations. The case was prosecuted by First Assistant United States Attorney Michelle Spaven.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice and led by the U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Divisions Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), it marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
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.
Syracuse Man Pleads Guilty to Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – Jonte McCall, age 39, of Syracuse, New York, pled guilty yesterday to possession of child pornography. Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Erin Keegan, Special Agent in Charge of the Buffalo Field Office of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), made the announcement.
As part of his guilty plea, McCall admitted that on December 23, 2021, he was convicted of the New York State offense of Possession of a Sexual Performance by a Child Less Than 16 Years Old and was placed on probation. He further admitted that in February 2024, while still on probation, he possessed a cell phone that contained 14 videos of child pornography.
Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III stated: “The defendant, already a registered sex offender and while on state probation, chose to once again seek out and gratify his sexual desires with child pornography. This behavior is disgusting and intolerable. Sex offenders in the Northern District of New York who reoffend will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. This is another prime example of how the senseless bail laws and soft-on-crime New York State legislature does not protect our children. Albany legislatures, this should be a wake-up call.”
“Crimes against children represent the deepest form of depravity and inflict lasting harm on the most vulnerable members of our community,” said Erin Keegan, Special Agent in Charge of HSI Buffalo. “HSI remains steadfast in our commitment to investigating these horrific offenses and bringing perpetrators to justice. Protecting children will always be our highest priority.”
Sentencing is scheduled for April 27, 2026, before Chief United States District Judge Brenda K. Sannes. Because of his prior conviction, McCall faces a mandatory minimum term of 10 years in prison, a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years, a fine of up to $250,000, and a term of supervised release of between 5 years and up to life. McCall will also have to pay restitution to victims, forfeit the cell phone used to commit the offense, and again be required to register as a sex offender. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the statutes a defendant violated, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, and other factors.
The case is being investigated by HSI with assistance from the New York State Police Troop D Computer Crimes Unit and the Onondaga County Probation Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ben Gillis is prosecuting the case.
Project Safe Childhood is a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
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Stillwater Man Faces Life in Federal Prison After Pleading Guilty to Aggravated Sexual Abuse and Producing, Receiving, and Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – LEE GRANT CLARK, 78, of Stillwater, has pleaded guilty to aggravated sexual abuse and production, receipt, and possession of child pornography, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
According to public record, in October 2024, FBI agents began investigating a computer user requesting child sexual abuse material (CSAM) through a file-sharing website. An investigation into the IP address of the user led authorities to Clark’s home in Stillwater. FBI agents spoke with officers from the Stillwater Police Department, who alerted the agents of a report involving Clark’s alleged sexual abuse of two minors around 2004. Court records further show that Clark produced CSAM on at least two occasions and sexually abused minors under the age of 12.
On December 3, 2025, a federal Grand Jury returned a Superseding Indictment, charging Clark with two counts of production of child pornography and one count each of aggravated sexual abuse, receipt of child pornography, and possession of material containing child pornography. On December 16, 2025, Clark pleaded guilty to all charges in the Superseding Indictment. He admitted he sexually exploited two minors for the purpose of creating CSAM, that he crossed state lines to sexually abuse two minors, that he knowingly received CSAM via the internet, and that he possessed hard drives containing CSAM.
At sentencing, Clark faces not less than ten years and up to life in federal prison. He also faces fines of up to $250,000 for each count.
This case is the result of an investigation by the FBI Oklahoma City Field Office and the Stillwater Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jordan Ganz and Brandon Hale are prosecuting the case.
This case is also part of Project Safe Childhood (PSC), a nationwide initiative by the Department of Justice (DOJ) to combat child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the DOJ Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, PSC marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about PSC, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Stamford Man Sentenced to More Than 9 Years in Federal Prison for Trafficking NarcoticsRead the Press Release
David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that on December 15, 2025, RODNEY CANADA, also known as “Supreme,” 48, of Stamford, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Michael P. Shea in Hartford to 110 months of imprisonment and four years of supervised release for trafficking narcotics in southwestern Connecticut.
According to court documents and statements made in court, the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Bridgeport High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) Task Force and Stamford Police Department identified Canada as the leader of a drug trafficking organization that was distributing large quantities of fentanyl, heroin, cocaine, and crack cocaine in Stamford and elsewhere in southwestern Connecticut. An investigation in 2024, which included court-authorized wiretaps and controlled purchases of narcotics, revealed that Canada and others orchestrated the street level distribution of narcotics through other members of the conspiracy. Investigators intercepted more than 5000 text messages and calls in which Canada coordinated his drug trafficking activities.
Canada and several associates were arrested on May 14, 2024. On that date, investigators conducted court-authorized searches at locations in Stamford, Norwalk, Bridgeport, and Darien, and seized approximately three kilograms of cocaine, nearly 400 grams of raw fentanyl, more than 500 bags of fentanyl, five firearms, a bulletproof vest, and seven vehicles.
Canada has been detained since his arrest. On February 28, 2025, he pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute fentanyl, cocaine, and heroin.
Canada’s criminal history spans more than 30 years and includes numerous convictions, including two prior federal narcotics trafficking convictions, in 2001 and 2013, for which he served a total of approximately 14 years in federal prison.
This investigation has been conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Bridgeport High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) Task Force, the Stamford Police Department, the Bridgeport Police Department, and the U.S. Marshals Service, with the assistance of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Connecticut State Police, and the Norwalk, Danbury, and Darien Police Departments. The DEA HIDTA Task Force includes personnel from the DEA Bridgeport Resident Office, the Connecticut State Police, and the Norwalk, Stamford, Stratford, Milford, and Danbury Police Departments.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Patricia Stolfi Collins and Geoffrey M. Stone.
St. Tammany Parish Woman Indicted for Violating Federal Controlled Substances ActRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – On December 12, 2025, SHERIDA GRAHAM, age 57, a resident of St. Tammany Parish, Louisiana was indicted for possession with intent to distribute fifty (50) grams or more of a substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(A), announced Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson.
According to court documents, on or about June 17, 2025, in the Eastern District of Louisiana, GRAHAM knowingly and intentionally possessed with intent to distribute fifty (50) grams or more of methamphetamine.
If convicted, GRAHAM faces a minimum term of imprisonment of ten (10) years, up to a maximum term of imprisonment of life, a fine of up to $10,000,000.00, at least five (5) years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00.
Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson reiterated that the indictment is merely a charging document and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
The case was investigated by the Office of Homeland Security Investigations and the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney André Jones of the Narcotics Unit.
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St. Louis County Man Sentenced After Shooting GirlfriendRead the Press Release
ST. LOUIS – U.S. District Judge Audrey G. Fleissig on Wednesday sentenced a man who shot and wounded his girlfriend in 2024 to 54 months in prison.
Demetrius D. Vaughn, 31, pleaded guilty in August to being a felon in possession of firearms. He admitted that on May 6, 2024, his then-girlfriend told Saint Louis County Police Department officers that she’d been shot after a dispute with Vaughn. Vaughn fired six to seven shots from the balcony of his apartment at his girlfriend and her friends, striking his girlfriend in both legs. Officers arrested Vaughn later that day and found two handguns. One had been stolen. As a prior felon, Vaughn is prohibited from possessing firearms.
The Saint Louis County Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Catherine Hoag prosecuted the case.
Springfield Business Owner Indicted for Covid Fraud and Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Springfield business owner was indicted by a federal grand jury for fraudulently obtaining $316,062 in Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act and for laundering over $35,000 of PPP funds.
Jason L. Hemingway, 47, was charged with two counts each of bank fraud and making a false statement on a loan application, and three counts of money laundering.
According to the indictment, Hemingway applied for a PPP loan for his business, Principal Transfer Group, LLC on Feb. 9, 2021. The CARES Act established several new temporary programs and provided for the expansion of others to address the COVID-19 pandemic. Among these programs, the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) authorized forgivable loans to small businesses to retain workers and maintain payroll, make mortgage interest payments, lease payments, and utility payments.
On his electronically submitted loan application Hemingway claimed that another individual was the owner of his business, Principal Transfer Group, LLC, and stated that the business had an average monthly payroll of $63,212 and employed 25 people, all of which were false statements. Hemingway signed the application in the name of the individual he claimed was the president and owner. Hemingway received $158,031 in PPP proceeds.
On April 8, 2021, Hemingway applied for a second PPP loan on behalf of Principal Transfer Group, LLC. On that application, again submitted under another individual’s name, Hemingway certified that he had received a previous PPP loan and that he had used the full loan amount for eligible expenses only, which was a false statement. He again claimed that another individual was the president and owner, that the business had an average monthly payroll of $63,212 and employed eight people, all of which were false statements. Hemingway signed the application in the name of the individual he claimed was the president and owner and received another $158,031 in PPP loan proceeds.
The indictment alleges that Hemingway used the PPP proceeds for non-approved purposes, including for his personal benefit. According to the indictment, Hemingway transferred $11,000 of the PPP funds into the bank account for another business he owned, 417 Print Shop, LLC, an additional $11,000 in PPP funds into his personal bank account, and $13,851.16 of PPP funds to his Robinhood account. Robinhood is a financial services company that allows users to invest and trade in stocks and cryptocurrencies.
The indictment also contains a forfeiture allegation, which would require Hemingway to forfeit to the government any property derived from the alleged fraud scheme, including a money judgment of at least $316,062, and an additional $35,851.16 money judgment for proceeds derived from the alleged money laundering scheme.
The charges contained in this indictment are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Casey Clark. It was investigated by the IRS-Criminal Investigation and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
South Dayton man pleads guilty to receipt of child pornographyRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Joseph A. Buelow, 31, of South Dayton, NY, pleaded guilty to receipt of child pornography, which carries a mandatory minimum penalty of five years in prison, a maximum penalty of 20 years, and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron J. Mango, who is handling the case, stated that in February 2024, the West Seneca Police Department seized Buelow’s phone, based on communications he was having online. A search of the phone recovered six images of child pornography that were saved on the phone and received by Buelow between August 2022, and November 2023. Some of the images depicted prepubescent minors and violence against children. In addition, Buelow admits that he engaged in the sexual abuse, exploitation, or attempted sexual abuse or exploitation of a minor on two or more occasions.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Philip Tejera, the West Seneca Police Department, under the direction of Chief Brian Cosgrove and the Town of Tonawanda Police Department, under the direction of Chief James Stauffiger.
Sentencing is scheduled for April 27, 2026, at 9:30 a.m. before Judge Vilardo.
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South Carolina Man Indicted on Hate Crime and Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
A federal grand jury in Columbia, South Carolina returned an indictment charging Jonathan Andrew Felkel, 34, with violating the housing rights of his black neighbor, J.M., and for using a firearm in the commission of a crime of violence.
According to court documents, on July 17, Felkel, while driving into the gated community where both he and J.M. lived, fired a gun and shouted at J.M., “You better keep running, boy!” while J.M. was standing at the gate to the community.
If convicted, Felkel faces a maximum penalty of ten years in prison on the housing charge, and an additional ten years in prison on the firearms charge.
Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division; U.S. Attorney Bryan P. Stirling for the District of South Carolina; and Special Agent in Charge Kevin Moore of the FBI Columbia Field Office made the announcement.
The FBI Columbia Field Office investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Elle Klein and Lamar Fyall of the District of South Carolina and Trial Attorney Sarah Armstrong and Special Legal Counsel Mark Blumberg of the Civil Rights Division’s Criminal Section are prosecuting the case.
South Bend Man Sentenced to 82 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Quervo Taylor, 26 years old, of South Bend, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm announced Acting United States Attorney M. Scott Proctor.
Taylor was sentenced to 82 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, police attempted to conduct a traffic stop on a car that Taylor was driving. Taylor did not stop and led police on a high-speed chase through St. Joseph County. The chase lasted over 30 minutes, and Taylor reached speeds of over 100 miles per hour. During the pursuit, Taylor crashed into an officer’s patrol car. He was arrested after driving to the South Bend International Airport, where a barrier arm blocked him from driving any further. Police recovered two loaded firearms that were thrown out of the window of the car that Taylor was driving. One of the firearms was affixed with a machinegun conversion device, and both firearms were equipped with extended magazines. Taylor was a felon and was therefore prohibited from possessing a firearm. His criminal history includes prior felonies for carrying a handgun without a license within 500 feet of a school, possession of methamphetamine, and resisting law enforcement.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, with assistance from the South Bend Police Department and the St. Joseph County Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lydia T. Lucius.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Shiprock Man Charged with Second-Degree MurderRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Shiprock man has been charged after authorities say he beat a woman to death following a day of drinking.
According to court documents, on November 15, 2025, Harlan Joe, 21, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, beat Jane Doe to death at a residence in Shiprock, New Mexico after a day of drinking. When officers arrived at the residence, they found Jane Doe deceased outside the house with obvious signs of abuse and trauma and immediately detained Joe. During a subsequent interview, Joe stated that he had known what he was doing and that it was wrong.
Joe is charged with second degree murder and will remain in custody pending trial, which has not been scheduled. Joe faces life in prison if convicted of the current 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 Farmington Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Nation Police Department and the Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron O. Jordan is prosecuting the case.
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
San Jose Engineer Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Bombings of PG&E Transformers, Causing Property Damage and Widespread Power OutagesRead the Press Release
SAN JOSE – Peter Karasev, 39, of San Jose, California, was sentenced yesterday to 120 months in federal prison for two counts of willful destruction of an energy facility related to two separate bombings of PG&E electrical transformers in late 2022 and early 2023. U.S. District Judge Beth Labson Freeman handed down the sentence.
“Karasev’s attacks on critical infrastructure were direct threats to public safety and national security,” said U.S. Attorney Craig H. Missakian. “He aimed to inflict widespread disruption and harm, but we remain steadfast in our commitment to holding accountable those who threaten the safety and well-being of the residents of San Jose. We and our law enforcement partners will leverage every available resource to ensure that violent extremists like the defendant face the full force of justice.”
“This defendant admitted to attacking critical infrastructure which could have harmed people in the San Jose, California community and he will now face the consequences of his actions,” said Assistant Director Donald Holstead of the FBI’s Counterterrorism Division. “This individual conducted research and prepared homemade explosives which knocked out power to multiple homes and caused more than $200,000 in property damage to local businesses. The FBI will work with our partners to identify and hold accountable those who engage in such dangerous and illegal acts.”
“Peter Karasev’s actions were deliberate, dangerous, and designed to disrupt critical infrastructure relied upon by our residents. This 10-year federal prison sentence reflects the seriousness of using explosive devices to attack our power grid and the real-world consequences of those choices,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Sanjay Virmani. “The FBI is grateful for the outstanding collaboration with the San Jose Police Department in this case. Together, we remain committed to protecting our communities and holding those who threaten public safety fully accountable.”
Karasev pleaded guilty on April 29 to two counts of willful destruction of an energy facility. Karasev admitted that on Dec. 8, 2022, and Jan. 5, 2023, he willfully damaged energy facilities involved in the production, storage, transmission, and distribution of electricity. The Jan. 5, 2023, explosion was captured on nearby surveillance footage:
Explosion of transformer located near Plaza Del Ray shopping center on Snell Avenue captured by nearby surveillance footage.
In both attacks, Karasev used homemade explosive devices to cause significant destruction and widespread power outages in the San Jose area. According to the government’s sentencing memorandum, the bombings caused over $200,000 in damages to affected businesses and disrupted service to over 1,500 households in the San Jose area. Of those affected included 15 households enrolled in PG&E’s Medical Baseline Program that required continued electrical service for life-sustaining medical needs.Karasev admitted that the attacks were premeditated and deliberate, and that he had conducted extensive internet searches regarding explosive materials, infrastructure attacks, and geopolitical conflicts.
In addition to the prison term, Judge Freeman also sentenced the defendant to a three-year period of supervised release and ordered $214,880.67 in restitution and $200 special assessment. The defendant was immediately remanded into custody to begin serving his sentence.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Anne C. Hsieh for the Northern District of California prosecuted the case with the assistance of Sara Slattery and the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section. The prosecution is the result of an investigation by the FBI and San Jose Police Department.
Salvadoran national and MS-13 associate convicted for illegally possessing a firearmRead the Press Release
ALEXANDRIA, Va. – A Salvadoran national was sentenced today to a year in prison for possession of a firearm by an alien illegally and unlawfully in the United States.
According to court documents, Oscar Misael Ventura Ventura, 23, unlawfully entered the United States from Mexico near McAllen, Texas. On Feb. 10, 2022, Fairfax County Police (FCPD) officers responded to a report that a group of men outside an apartment complex had guns. As officers arrived, the men fled. After a short pursuit, officers detained Ventura and recovered a stolen handgun from his waistband. The following year, FCPD found Ventura with another handgun in his waistband, along with 23 fentanyl pills in his pocket. By his own admission, Ventura is an MS-13 associate.
Ventura is subject to removal from the United States.
“Oscar Ventura did not enter the United States to pursue a lawful and productive life,” said Lindsey Halligan, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia. “He immediately associated himself with one of the most dangerous gangs in America and began illegally carrying a stolen firearm. We are committed to eradicating MS-13 and its associates from the Eastern District of Virginia and removing those who choose to ignore our laws and endanger our citizens.”
“Individuals who are in our country illegally and choose to associate with violent gangs and unlawfully carry firearms represent a serious and unacceptable threat to our communities,” said Christopher Heck, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations, Washington, D.C. “Homeland Security Investigations remains committed to our unrelenting protection of the United States by investigating and dismantling violent transnational criminal organizations and holding criminal illegal aliens accountable through arrest and prosecution. HSI will continue working closely with our law enforcement partners and the U.S. Attorney’s Office to safeguard the public and disrupt the criminal networks that fuel violence in our cities”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Marc J. Birnbaum and former Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Coulter Goodman prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:25-cr-94.
Roofing Contractor Sentenced to 15 Months in Prison for Tax Evasion SchemeRead the Press Release
David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that ANTHONY DELMARO, 49, of Woodbridge, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Sarala V. Nagala in Hartford to 15 months of imprisonment and two years of supervised release for tax evasion. Delmaro is required to perform 200 hours of community service while on supervised release.
According to court documents and statements made in court, since at least 2012, Delmaro has owned and operated a commercial roofing businesses in Connecticut, most frequently doing business as “Kings Roofing.” The business also provided paving services. Until Delmaro was notified of this investigation, Kings Roofing was not registered with the Connecticut Secretary of State and did not have a federal Taxpayer Identification Number. From 2012 to 2022, Kings Roofing earned approximately $20.9 million in customer receipts, but Delmaro paid his workers in cash, never filed income or payroll tax returns for himself or the business, and took several steps to conceal income and operating expenses from the IRS.
As part of his tax evasion scheme, Delmaro and others associated with his business cashed checks from customers at various check cashing businesses instead of depositing them into bank accounts. Delmaro provided the check cashers with addresses associated with UPS mailboxes rather than his home address. When the check cashers filed Currency Transaction Reports (“CTRs”), the IRS only had a UPS mailbox location to try to identify source of income. When not using a check casher, Delmaro made business-related deposits into his personal bank account.
Delmaro also had customers file false Forms 1099 made out to a family member, rather than his business, or made out to Delmaro himself, making income attribution more difficult. Delmaro sometimes provided customers with an alias, “Sonny Rubino,” which they used on the 1099. If a customer refused to pay unless Delmaro provided a Form W-9 identifying his taxpayer identification number and address, Delmaro often provided a W-9 completed with his father’s name and Social Security number and an address associated with a UPS mailbox. Delmaro’s father used an alias, which differed from the name and information Delmaro provided to the customer.
As an example, for the 2022 tax year, Delmaro cashed $3,710,628 in checks made payable to Kings Roofing at check cashing businesses, received $439,700 in business-related deposits into his personal bank account, and caused 24 Forms 1099-NEC totaling $1,908,095 to be filed with false information.
The investigation also revealed that from 2019 to April 2025, Delmaro received more than $500,000 in Husky Health Low Income Medical benefits. Husky Health is a Connecticut Medicaid program, jointly funded by the federal government and by the State of Connecticut and administered by the Connecticut Department of Social Services.
Judge Nagala ordered Delmaro to pay restitution of $1,129,669 to the IRS, and $578,259 to the Connecticut Medicaid program.
Delmaro pleaded guilty to the offense on August 19, 2025.
Delmaro, who is released on a $50,000 bond, is required to report to prison on March 17, 2026.
This investigation was conducted by the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division and the Social Security Administration, Office of the Inspector General. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher W. Schmeisser.
Rochester woman going to prison for robbing a postal carrierRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Shyasia Kelis McCullough, 25, of Rochester, NY, who was convicted of robbery of a postal worker, was sentenced to serve 12 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Frank P. Geraci. Jr.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Katelyn M. Hartford, who is handling the case, stated that in June 2023, McCullough, co-defendant Malik Shameer McCray and others, robbed a United States letter carrier to obtain a postal key on Lake Avenue in Rochester. McCray committed the robbery while McCullough and others waited nearby in a getaway car. McCullough sent McCray a text message encouraging him to do the robbery, “U gotta scare him and make sure he don't see u again bro jus get up on him when he least expected ... It 100,000 on the line take a deep breath and jus go for it ... He not stronger then you.” After the robbery, McCray fled to the getaway car and he and McCullough fled the area.
Malik Shameer McCray was previously convicted and is awaiting sentencing.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, under the direction of Boston Division Acting Inspector-in-Charge Nicholas J. Bucciarelli, the Rochester Police Department, under the direction of Chief David Smith and the Gates Police Department, under the direction of Chief Robert Long.
Richmond man sentenced to nine years in prison for illegally possessing a firearmRead the Press Release
RICHMOND, Va. – A Richmond man was sentenced today to nine years in prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm.
According to court documents, on March 28, Richmond Police detained Brandale Trayvon Cooper, 36, on an active warrant for a felony probation violation. At that time, Cooper was carrying a satchel containing a firearm, which Cooper claimed to have stolen from a group of teenagers a month earlier while he was in the area to obtain narcotics. The firearm was loaded with a round in the chamber. In addition to the firearm, officers located methamphetamine in Cooper’s pocket.
At the time of his arrest, Cooper previously had been convicted for, among other crimes, possession with intent to distribute cocaine, possession of a controlled substance with the intent to distribute near a school, distribution of a schedule I or II controlled substance as an accommodation, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. As a previously convicted felon, Cooper cannot legally possess firearms or ammunition.
“We will not allow recidivists such as Brandale Cooper to repeatedly return to a life of guns and drugs,” said Lindsey Halligan, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia. “The law-abiding citizens of Richmond deserve safe neighborhoods and schools, and my office is committed to ensuring the city’s streets are free of gun violence and illegal narcotics.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Janet Jin Ah Lee prosecuted the case.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Washington Field Division and the Richmond Police Department.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:25-cr-109.
Registered Sex Offender Sentenced to 24 Years in Prison for Coercion and Enticement of MinorsRead the Press Release
Earlier today, in federal court in Brooklyn, Jorel Fowler was sentenced by United States District Judge Nina R. Morrison to 24 years in prison for coercion and enticement of a minor and receipt of child pornography. Fowler, a registered sex offender, communicated with multiple victims over the internet and requested that they send him sexually explicit images and videos. Fowler was previously convicted of sex offenses in New York State court for similar conduct between 2013 and 2014. He committed the charged offenses after his release from state prison on the prior offenses and while on parole.
Joseph Nocella, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York; Christopher G. Raia, Assistant Director in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, New York Field Office (FBI); and Jessica S. Tisch, Commissioner, New York City Police Department (NYPD), announced the sentence.
“Today’s lengthy sentence will protect the community, especially children, for decades from this repeat offender,” stated United States Attorney Joseph Nocella. “After he was paroled for similar depraved conduct, Fowler squandered that second chance to lead a law-abiding life and unfortunately, caused great harm to at least three minors. Our Office will never relent in protecting the most vulnerable members of our community from sexual predators.”
Mr. Nocella expressed his appreciation to the Fairfax County Police Department in Virginia for its assistance during the investigation.
“Jorel Fowler, a recidivist sexual predator, prowled online platforms to target minor girls and groom them into sharing sexually explicit content,” stated FBI Assistant Director in Charge Raia. “Despite being a registered sex offender, Fowler continued to exploit vulnerable victims, violating their trust and physical autonomy. May today’s sentencing highlight the FBI’s determination to hold accountable any depraved individual who relentlessly preys on children to satisfy their own twisted desires.”
As set forth in the government’s sentencing memorandum and other court filings, between at least December 2022 and April 2023, Fowler communicated over the internet and through social media with multiple children, ultimately soliciting them for sexually explicit videos and images. In some cases, Fowler posed as a child himself, earning his victims’ trust and grooming them to provide the graphic sexual material that he sought. Soon after beginning the conversation, Fowler would instruct his victims regarding what type of material they should send him, requesting that they record themselves posing in different positions and engaging in specific sex acts. Fowler was previously convicted of sex offenses in New York State Supreme Court and was a registered sex offender at the time of these offenses.
In December 2022, Fowler communicated through Snapchat with a 15-year-old girl (“Jane Doe 1”) requesting that she send him sexually explicit videos and images. Beginning in January 2023, Fowler communicated through Snapchat with a 12-year-old girl (“Jane Doe 2”) claiming that he was a 5-year-old boy. Fowler first met Jane Doe 2 through the game Roblox and soon requested that she begin speaking to him through Snapchat. In approximately April 2023, Fowler communicated with a 14-year-old girl (“Jane Doe 3”). He told Jane Doe 3 that he wanted to “do a pic session” with her and promised to send her digital currency in an online game afterward if she complied. Jane Doe 3 then sent Fowler images of herself posing in the positions he requested and engaging in his requested sex acts.
When Fowler was arrested in April 2023, law enforcement recovered multiple cellphones from the defendant’s residence containing hundreds of images and videos of child pornography.
This prosecution is part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by United States Attorneys’ 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 to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
The government’s case is being handled by the Office’s General Crimes and National Security and Cybercrime Sections. Assistant United States Attorney Gilbert Rein is in charge of the prosecution.
The Defendant:
JOREL FOWLER
Age: 35
Queens, New YorkE.D.N.Y. Docket No. 23-CR-215 (NRM)
Rapid City Man Sentenced to over 2 Years in Federal Prison for Failing to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that U.S. District Judge Camela C. Theeler has sentenced a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender. The sentencing took place on December 16, 2025.
Darwin Carlow, 39, was sentenced to two years and eight months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Carlow was indicted for three counts of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender by a federal grand jury in May 2025. He pleaded guilty to one count on September 18, 2025.
Carlow was charged following repeated failures to maintain his sex offender registration as required by state and federal law following his earlier federal conviction for a sexual offense in the Pine Ridge Reservation.
This case was investigated by the United States Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Anna Lindrooth prosecuted the case.
Carlow was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Raleigh County Man Sentenced for Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
BECKLEY, W.Va. – James E. Monroe Jr., 60, of Daniels, was sentenced today to three years of federal probation, including six months on home detention, for money laundering.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on February 25, 2022, Monroe filed a petition for personal bankruptcy. Monroe knew he was required to submit true and correct schedules listing his assets and a statement detailing his financial affairs as part of the bankruptcy process. Monroe admitted that he sold his collection of over 10,000 sports trading cards after filing for bankruptcy and without disclosing its existence or its post-petition sale in the bankruptcy filings as required. Monroe further admitted that he sold the collection to a friend online to convert the collection into cash and disguise the nature of the resulting proceeds.
Monroe admitted that his asset schedules and statement of financial affairs also did not disclose the December 2021 sale of his marital home in the Glade Springs residential development for $525,000, or the existence of a retirement account, two loans he obtained by using the equity associated with his whole-life insurance policy as collateral, and a storage unit he rented in the Shady Spring area that contained property belonging to the bankruptcy estate. Monroe further admitted that his schedules falsely stated that his then-minor daughter lived with him and was his dependent when neither was true.
United States Attorney Moore Capito made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). The United States Trustee’s Charleston field office, which serves West Virginia, made the criminal referral of this case to the U.S. Attorney’s Office. The United States Trustee Program is a component of the Department of Justice whose mission is to promote the integrity and efficiency of the bankruptcy system for the benefit of all stakeholders — debtors, creditors and the public.
Chief United States District Judge Frank W. Volk imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan T. Storage prosecuted the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 5:24-cr-121.
Predator Sentenced to 84 Years in Nationwide Child Exploitation Case; 84 Victims Across U.S. and Abroad IdentifiedRead the Press Release
INDIANAPOLIS –Austin Ryan Lauless, 31, of Colorado, has been sentenced to 84 years in federal prison, followed by a lifetime of supervised release. In September 2025, Lauless pleaded guilty to 13 counts of Sexual Exploitation of a Child, 5 counts of Sex Trafficking of a Minor, two counts of Advertising Child Sexual Abuse Material, and Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Material.
As of December 17, 2025, 84 victims have been identified from nearly every state in the United States and at least five foreign countries. Investigators believe additional victims may still be unidentified. If you or someone you know has been a victim of Lauless, also known online as Cason Fredrickson or APOPHIS, contact your local FBI field office, call 1-800-CALL-FBI, or report it online at tips.fbi.gov.
According to court documents, between late 2019 and May 19, 2023, Lauless used social media applications such as Instagram, Snapchat, Discord, Yubo, Purp, and others to coerce, exploit, and threaten at least 84 minor victims into producing thousands of sexually explicit images and videos. The victims ranged in age from 13 to 17 at the time of the offenses.
Using these social media platforms, Lauless misrepresented his identity, posing as “Cason Fredrickson,” a teenager from New York or other cities. In reality, Lauless was in his late 20s, unemployed, and living in hotels and motels in Texas and Colorado. To conceal his identity, he accessed the public Instagram page of Individual A and, without their knowledge or consent, saved images and videos to impersonate Individual A while posing as “Cason Fredrickson.”
Lauless’ criminal methods included misrepresenting his age, identity, background, and likeness to groom minors and create a false sense of safety in online communications. He also used voice modulators and third-party image and video applications to edit content, making it appear as though it was recorded live through social media platforms such as Snapchat.
He feigned romantic interest in victims, told them they were attractive, and pretended to be in online relationships. He purchased items for many victims through Amazon—including fishnet stockings, sexual devices, and customized t-shirts—which he instructed them to wear while producing sexually explicit material. These items were shipped either directly to victims or to designated Amazon lockers for pickup.
To prolong his exploitation and avoid detection, Lauless threatened victims with dissemination of their images and videos if they failed to comply with his demands or sought help from parents or law enforcement. At least one victim reported to Lauless that she was contemplating suicide.
Lauless also sex trafficked at least five minor victims by forcing them to engage in oral, vaginal, and anal intercourse with adult males, producing numerous videos of these commercial sex acts. Some victims were forced to endure sadomasochistic abuse at his direction.
Once he obtained images and videos, Lauless advertised and sold the sexually explicit material on platforms such as Discord, Instagram, Telegram, and MEGA. He engaged in at least 141 transactions, receiving payment through Venmo, PayPal, Bitcoin, and CashApp. He admitted that his collection of child sexual abuse material included thousands of images and videos depicting prepubescent children engaged in sexually explicit conduct, as well as children subjected to bestiality and sadomasochistic abuse.
“The sheer scale of this investigation and prosecution underscores the relentless commitment of federal law enforcement to dismantle networks of exploitation that prey on our children. Austin Lauless orchestrated a campaign of abuse that spanned nearly every state and multiple countries, leaving behind profound harm,” said John Childress, First Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “While no punishment can erase the trauma these young survivors endured, today’s sentence sends a clear message: we will pursue predators across every platform, every jurisdiction, and every border until justice is served.”
“This case represents one of the most egregious forms of exploitation the FBI investigates. This was not an isolated crime - it was a nationwide and international campaign of exploitation that victimized at least 84 people, including children, and involved the trafficking of human beings,” said FBI Indianapolis Special Agent in Charge Timothy J. O’Malley. The FBI is committed to identifying offenders who use technology to abuse, manipulate, and control others, and to ensuring they are held fully accountable. Today’s sentence delivers justice for the victims and reinforces that these crimes will not go unanswered.”
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Tiffany Preston and Carolyn Haney prosecuted this case with invaluable assistance from Victim Witness Coordinators, Stephanie Lloyd and Johnna Preidt.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation, with additional support from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) and the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Sarah Evans Barker.
Additionally, 13 U.S. Attorney’s Offices provided cooperation during the investigation. Without their assistance, bringing Lauless to justice and legally resolving the harm he imposed on the victims would have been delayed.
- Southern District of Iowa
- Eastern District of Missouri
- Northern District of Florida
- Northern District of Texas
- Western District of Kentucky
- Southern District of Ohio
- Northern District of New York
- District of South Carolina
- Southern District of Texas
- District of Colorado
- Central District of California
- District of Arizona
- Eastern District of Tennessee.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims.
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- Southern District of Iowa
Pittsburgh Resident Indicted for Violating Federal Firearms LawsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating federal firearms laws, First Assistant United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
The one-count Indictment named Kyreik Vanstory, 26, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment, on or about December 9, 2025, Vanstory, who had been previously convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, knowingly possessed a 9mm Glock 19 pistol. Vanstory is prohibited from possessing a firearm as a result of his felony conviction.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 15 years in prison, a fine of not more than $250,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney R. Chase Stelzer is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the City of Duquesne Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Pearl River Man Sentenced in Reservation MurderRead the Press Release
Jackson, MS – A Pearl River man was sentenced today to 380 months in prison for the use of a firearm during the murder of another tribal member, announced U.S. Attorney Baxter Kruger of the Southern District of Mississippi and Robert A. Eikhoff, Special Agent in Charge, of the F.B.I. Mississippi Field Office.
According to court documents, Brian Keith Bell, 56, of the Pearl River Community used a handgun to shoot the victim at a tribal home in the Bogue Chitto Community of the Choctaw Indian Reservation which resulted in the death of the victim.
In April of 2024, a federal grand jury indicted Bell on charges of second-degree murder and the use of a firearm during a crime of violence. On September 10, 2025, Bell was found guilty of second-degree murder, and the use of a firearm during a crime of violence at trial. During the trial, the jury heard testimony that, following a verbal altercation, Bell used a handgun to shoot the victim in the chest.
U.S. Attorney Kruger commended the work of the Choctaw Police Department of the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians and the Federal Bureau of Investigation who investigated the case. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Kevin J. Payne and Brian K. Burns.
Pensacola Man Sentenced to Four Years in Federal Prison for Unregistered MacHinegun Conversion DeviceRead the Press Release
PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – Prashant M. Jenkins Jr., 24, of Pensacola, Florida, was sentenced to four years in federal prison after having previously pled guilty to possession of an unregistered machinegun conversion device. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “Our outstanding state and federal law enforcement partners are on the front lines keeping our communities safe from violent criminals, like this defendant, and my office stands ready to back up their hard work with successful prosecutions to send those offenders to federal prison.”
Court documents reflect that on October 30, 2024, law enforcement officers found and seized from Jenkins’ residence an AR-style machinegun conversion device, a Glock pistol with a loaded magazine, a loaded AR-15 magazine, approximately 500 grams of marijuana, and other suspected drug trafficking paraphernalia. The conversion device, which itself is considered a machinegun under federal law, was not marked with a serial number and was not registered in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record as required.
The sentence was the result of a joint investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Alicia H. Forbes.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
Oregon Woman Sentenced to Federal Prison for Bank Fraud and Tax EvasionRead the Press Release
MEDFORD, Ore.—An Oregon woman was sentenced to federal prison today for embezzling more than $250,000 from her employer and evading over $50,000 in federal taxes.
Notja Michelle Brower, 53, was sentenced to 78 months in federal prison and five years of supervised release. She was also ordered to pay $310,106 in restitution to her victims.
According to court documents, in July 2018, Victim Business 1 (VB1) hired Brower as a bookkeeper and office manager. Within one month of her hire, Ms. Brower began defrauding VB1 by issuing herself unauthorized company checks and pocketing thousands of dollars in cash payments. She then altered VB1’s business records to conceal her thefts as business expenses and payroll draws. Brower also fraudulently opened a credit card in the personal name of a VB1 owner and used that card to purchase over $20,000 in travel, casino, restaurant, and exotic car rental expenses. Brower then made payments to that credit card using VB1’s business checking account.
Also, for tax years 2018 and 2019, Brower willfully failed to report the embezzled funds as income, resulting in over $250,000 in unreported income and a total tax due and owing of $57,705.
On April 4, 2024, a federal grand jury in Medford returned a twelve-count indictment charging Brower with bank fraud, wire fraud, unauthorized use of an access device, aggravated identity theft, and tax evasion.
On March 10, 2025, Brower pleaded guilty to one count of bank fraud and one count of tax evasion.
This case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation and Medford Police Department. It was prosecuted by John C. Brassell, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.
New Orleans Man Sentenced for Possession of Firearm by FelonRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA –JARRETT HALL (“HALL”), age 33, of New Orleans, was sentenced on December 17, 2025, by United States District Judge Jane Triche Milazzo after previously pleading guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8), announced Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson.
According to court documents, on December 8, 2023, following a traffic stop by the Plaquemines Parish Sheriff’s Office, HALL was found in possession of a .45 caliber Colt Commander handgun, after having previously been convicted of a felony.
Judge Milazzo sentenced HALL to 60 months imprisonment, a 3-year term of supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Plaquemines Parish Sheriff’s Office. The prosecution was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Briana Williams of the Narcotics Unit.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.
New Orleans Man Guilty of Possession of over 100 Glock and AR-15 Machine Gun Conversion Devices, Possession with Intent to Distribute Marijuana, Attempted Obstruction of Justice, and Receiving ExplosivesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that on December 11, 2025, KODY SEVERIN (“SEVERIN”), age 28, a resident of New Orleans, pled guilty to all charges of the eight-count third superseding indictment pending against him. Sentencing is set for March 26, 2026, before U.S. District Judge Barry W. Ashe.
SEVERIN pled guilty to violations of the Federal Gun Control Act, the Federal Controlled Substances Act, as well as to Attempted Obstruction of Justice. Specifically, SEVERIN pled guilty to the following offenses:
Count 1-Possession with intent to distribute marijuana, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and (b)(1)(D);
Count 2-Possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1);
Count 3-Felon in possession of firearms, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8);
Count 4-Possession of machine guns, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(o) and 924(a)(2);
Count 5-Possession of an unregistered firearms, in violation of Title 26, United States Code, Sections 5841, 5861(d) and 5871;
Count 6-Felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8);
Count 7-Attempt to obstruct justice, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1512(b)(1); and
Count 8-Receiving explosive materials, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 842(a)(3)(A) and 844(a).
According to court documents, on December 12, 2022, law enforcement received a consent to search an apartment in the 1400 block of Milan Street. Inside, law enforcement located and seized the following items: (1) Glock model 17L, nine-millimeter caliber pistol, (2) Glock model 24, .40 caliber pistol, (3) Ruger model Security-6, .357 magnum caliber pistol, (4) Glock model 21, .45 caliber pistol, equipped with a device to convert this pistol to a fully automatic machinegun (more commonly referred to as a “Glock switch”); (5) Masterpiece Arms model Mac 11, nine-millimeter caliber pistol, (6) Privately Made Firearm (“PMF”) semi-automatic handgun, .40/.357 caliber (more commonly referred to as a “Ghost Gun”); (7) upper receiver with bolt carrier group of a rifle; (8) Several PMF parts; (9) Approximately one hundred (100) machinegun conversion devices in various stages of completion, to include drop-in auto sears to convert AR-Type firearms to fully automatic machineguns and “Glock switches;” (10) One clear plastic bag containing suspected marijuana with a total package weight of approximately 81.2 grams; (11) One clear plastic bag with the word “Politics” containing suspected marijuana with a total package weight of approximately 339.8 grams; (12) Multiple completed silencers; (13) Several silencers in various stages of completion; (14) One industrial milling machine covered in metal shavings; (15) Two explosive devices; (16) Quantities of various caliber ammunition; (17) Several extended magazines; (18) SEVERIN’s mail, clothing; and several cellphones.
On December 13, 2022, law enforcement encountered SEVERIN at the apartment. After establishing verbal and visual contact with SEVERIN, law enforcement observed SEVERIN throw a black Smith and Wesson model 36, .38 special caliber, revolver from the apartment’s second floor balcony. SEVERIN eventually opened the door to the apartment and was taken into custody without further incident. Law enforcement booked SEVERIN on active NOPD warrants and for being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Law enforcement verified that SEVERIN had been previously convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year. Specifically, on February 25, 2019, SEVERIN pled guilty to the felony charge of possession of methamphetamine in case number 18-2993 in the 24th Judicial District Court for the Parish of Jefferson.
SEVERIN faces the following maximum penalties:
Count 1: Five (5) years imprisonment, followed by at least two (2) years of supervised release and/or a fine of $250,000, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee;
Count 2: Minimum consecutive sentence of five (5) years up to life imprisonment, followed by up to five (5) years of supervised release and/or a fine of $250,000, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee;
Count 3: Fifteen (15) years imprisonment, followed by up to three (3) years of supervised release and/or a fine of $250,000, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee;
Count 4: Ten (10) years imprisonment, followed by up to three (3) years of supervised release and/or a fine of $250,000, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee;
Count 5: Ten (10) years imprisonment, followed by up to three (3) years of supervised release and/or a fine of $10,000, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee;
Count 6: Fifteen (15) years imprisonment, followed by up to three (3) years of supervised release and/or a fine of $250,000, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee;
Count 7: Twenty (20) years imprisonment, followed by up to three (3) years of supervised release and/or a fine of $250,000, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee; and
Count 8: Ten (10) years imprisonment, followed by up to three (3) years of supervised release and/or a fine of $250,000, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee;
Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson praised the work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the New Orleans Police Department in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorneys Duane A. Evans of the General Crimes Unit and Lynn E. Schiffman of the Narcotics Unit are responsible for the prosecution.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
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New Orleans Man Guilty of Federal Firearm and Drug Trafficking ChargesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that on December 4, 2025, DAVID SCOTT (SCOTT), age 22 from New Orleans, pled guilty to Counts One and Two of an indictment. Count One charged SCOTT with possession with the intent to distribute Tapentadol, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C). As to Count One, SCOTT faces up to 20 years imprisonment, up to a $1,00,000 fine, at least three years of supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100. Count Two charged SCOTT with possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, in violation of 18 U.S.C. §924(c)(1)(A)(i). As to Count Two, SCOTT faces a minimum of five years up to life imprisonment, to run consecutively to any other term of imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, up to five years of supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100. SCOTT’s sentencing is set for March 12, 2026.
According to court documents, on August 3, 2023, a New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) detective conducted surveillance on a convenience store/gas station in New Orleans and saw a black male exit a burgundy Kia sedan, dressed in a yellow hoodie. This raised suspicion as New Orleans was under an excessive heat advisory and the temperature was 95 degrees. The detective could see on the surveillance that the suspect had and noticed a bulge in the hoodie he wore that he was suspiciously clutching.
The suspect, later identified as DAVID SCOTT, re-entered the Kia sedan and as officers approached him, they noticed a handgun with a drum magazine on the driver’s seat. Officers secured the gun and placed SCOTT under arrest. A search incident to his arrest revealed 15 packs of Tapentadol, totaling 148 pills, and $1,315 in U.S. currency.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the New Orleans Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Sarah Dawkins of the Violent Crime Unit is in charge of the prosecution.
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Nassau County Repeat Offender Pleads Guilty to Firearm and Drug OffensesRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces that Samuel Walter Perkins, Jr. (46, Fernandina Beach) today pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm as a convicted felon and distribution of cocaine and cocaine base (commonly known as crack cocaine). Perkins faces a minimum penalty of 15 years, up to life, in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
According to the plea agreement, in late 2024, Perkins twice sold crack cocaine to a confidential informant in Nassau County. After detectives from the Nassau County Sheriff’s Office confronted Perkins about these two drug sales, Perkins agreed to work with them as a confidential informant himself. Before taking on that role, Perkins was specifically instructed that he could not engage in illegal activities, could not possess firearms, and would never be tasked “to create crime,” but instead should be “only working to interrupt ongoing criminal activity.”
Ostensibly, in his role as a confidential informant, on January 29, 2025, Perkins provided a tip to his law enforcement handler about two individuals traveling to Jacksonville to meet with an unknown subject to obtain drugs and guns. Later that day, without telling Perkins, the detectives followed up on that lead by surveilling the two targets named by Perkins. Following those individuals, the detectives saw them drive from Nassau County to Jacksonville where the pair met with only one person—Perkins—who gave the two men a black bag, which they put in the truck of their car. During a subsequent stop and search of that car, detectives located the bag, which contained a loaded 9mm pistol, cocaine, and cocaine base.
Detectives later interviewed Perkins about these events. After a detective explained what they had seen while conducting surveillance, Perkins asked, “So they got it from me?” – referring to the firearm and drugs in the black bag. The detective replied, “They got it from you.” Realizing that he was caught, Perkins then stated, “Well, I tried, man.” Asked where he obtained the gun, Perkins stated, “I just had a gun.”
Perkins is a multi-time convicted felon who previously has been prosecuted by both state and federal authorities for a variety of drug offenses. As such, he is prohibited from possessing firearms under federal law.
This case was investigated by the Nassau County Sheriff’s Office, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael J. Coolican.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN).
Nash County Drug Dealer Sentenced to 20 Years in Federal Prison for Selling over 22 Pounds of MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
NCDOCRALEIGH, N.C. – A federal judge sentenced a Nash County man to 20 years in federal prison for selling more than 50 grams of methamphetamine. On February 14, 2024, Kenneth Orlin Simmons, Jr., age 36, pleaded guilty to these crimes.
“Drug dealers flood our communities with deadly methamphetamine and arm themselves with guns to violently carry out their trade. Criminals like this Big Shark Bad Boy pose a serious threat to public safety,” said U.S. Attorney Ellis Boyle. “This sentence sends a clear message: if you poison our communities and endanger the lives of our children and families, you will sit in a federal prison for a long time. We will continue working with our law enforcement partners to shut down these operations, clean these villains off our streets, and protect the citizens.”
“Drugs destroy lives and tears apart communities, and when traffickers arm themselves, the danger only grows. I’m proud of the work our team put into holding this individual accountable and ensuring he can no longer victimize our citizens. A sincere thank you to the U.S. Attorney’s Office, DEA, and the ATF for their hard work with this case,” said Nash County Sheriff Keith Stone.
According to court documents and evidence presented in court, in July 2022, Simmons sold over a kilogram of methamphetamine to a confidential informant in Nash County. The Nash County Sherriff’s Office along with the DEA later obtained a search warrant for Simmons residence. During that search, law enforcement seized 10 kilograms of methamphetamine, nearly 1,000 grams of marijuana, a stolen Glock .40 caliber handgun, a Smith and Wesson .40 caliber handgun, an AR-15 rifle, a 29-round magazine with 22 .40 caliber rounds, and a 96-round drum magazine.
Simmons was previously convicted of felonies including two counts of felony abduction of children, and also of two counts of sexual battery.
Special Assistant U.S. Attorney, Aria Q. Merle prosecuted the case. The Nash County Sheriff’s Office, the Warren County Sheriff’s Office, the DEA, and the ATF investigated the case.
Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 5:23-CR-00015.
Muskogee Resident Pleads Guilty to Illegally Possessing Firearm with Obliterated Serial NumberRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Caleb Colton Beauvais, age 31, of Muskogee, Oklahoma, entered a guilty plea to one count of Possession of a Firearm with an Obliterated Serial Number, punishable by a term of up to 5 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, or both.
The Indictment alleged that on May 9, 2025, Beauvais knowingly and unlawfully possessed a revolver from which the manufacturer’s serial number had been removed, obliterated, or altered, and Beauvais knew that the serial number had been removed, obliterated, or altered.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Muskogee County Sheriff’s Office.
The Honorable Gerald L. Jackson, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.
A U.S. District Court Judge will determine the sentence to be imposed after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Beauvais will remain in the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending sentencing.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Emily Wittlinger represented the United States.
Mountain Home Man Sentenced to 27 Months for EmbezzlementRead the Press Release
BOISE – Javier D. Ruiz, 35, of Mountain Home, was sentenced to 27 months in federal prison for Wire Fraud, U.S. Attorney Bart Davis announced today.
According to court records, Ruiz stole $685,376 from his employer, a franchisee of national restaurant chains. As a district manager, Ruiz supervised a number of restaurants in Idaho, including overseeing payroll. From at least April 2021 through April 2024, Ruiz devised a scheme wherein he manipulated his employer’s payroll system, changing the names and other information associated with employee numbers of former employees. After manipulating the employee numbers, Ruiz entered hours using the numbers that were never worked, causing fraudulent payroll payments to issue. To access and take the fraudulent payroll money, Ruiz used at least three different methods – cashing checks, depositing earnings on fraudulent Rapid Paycards, and direct deposit.
U.S. District Judge Amanda K. Brailsford also ordered Ruiz to serve two years of supervised release following his prison sentence and $685,376 in restitution.
U.S. Attorney Davis made the announcement and commended the work of Federal Bureau of Investigation, which led to the charges. Assistant U.S. Attorney Darci Crane prosecuted the case.
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Mount Laurel Man Admits to Aggravated Identity Theft and Conspiring to Commit Bank FraudRead the Press Release
CAMDEN, N.J. – A Mount Laurel man admitted to engaging in a scheme to defraud banks using checks stolen from the U.S. mail and fraudulent debit cards, Senior Counsel Philip Lamparello announced.
Kharon Parson-Wright, 28, of Mount Laurel, New Jersey, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Edward S. Kiel to an information charging him with one count of conspiring to commit bank fraud and one count of aggravated identity theft.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
Parson-Wright conspired with Yasmene Johnson, Dante Ford, and others to commit bank fraud with checks stolen from the U.S. mail. Parson-Wright, Ford, and others stole U.S. mail from blue U.S. mail collection boxes. Ford and other members of the conspiracy then created counterfeit versions of the stolen checks or altered the stolen checks by increasing the value of the checks and changing the name of the payee either to a member of the conspiracy or somebody else recruited by the conspiracy. Parson-Wright admitted that he and others negotiated the counterfeit or altered checks and then attempted to the withdraw the funds before the bank learned that the checks were illegitimate. The conspiracy involved the negotiation of checks at banks across southern New Jersey and elsewhere, with checks written for tens of thousands dollars.
As a separate part of their conspiracy, Parson-Wright connected Johnson with a bank employee who created fraudulent debit cards in the name of victims who held accounts at the bank. Parson-Wright and his co-conspirator used one of the fraudulently issued debit cards to make purchases and ATM withdrawals in New Jersey. Parson-Wright admitted that the bank fraud conspiracy resulted in actual losses exceeding $424,000 and intended losses exceeding $1,500,000.
The count of conspiracy carries a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison and a fine of up to $1,000,000, or twice the gross loss to the victim or gain to the defendant, whichever is greatest. The count of aggravated identity theft carries a statutory mandatory penalty of two years in prison, which must run consecutively to any other term of imprisonment, and a fine of $250,000, or twice the gross loss to the victim or gain to the defendant, whichever is greatest. Sentencing is scheduled for April 20, 2026.
Johnson previously pleaded guilty to the same two offenses for her role in the conspiracy and is scheduled to be sentenced in March 2026. Ford and three other defendants were previously sentenced in 2025 after pleading guilty to participating in the same bank fraud conspiracy: Ford was sentenced to 27 months’ incarceration, Donovan Bunch was sentenced to 33 months, Tracy Felder-Carter was sentenced to 18 months, and Quamell Keyes-Griffin was sentenced to 18 months.
Senior Counsel Lamparello credited postal inspectors of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service – Philadelphia Division, under the direction of Inspector in Charge Christopher A. Nielsen, with the investigation leading to this plea. He also thanked the Mount Laurel Police Department, under the direction of Chief Timothy Hudnall, for its valuable assistance in the investigation.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey Bender of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Camden.
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Defense counsel: Justin Capek, Esq., Mount Laurel, New Jersey
parson_wright.information.pdfMishawaka Man Sentenced to 60 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Jamaal Husband, 42 years old, of Mishawaka, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Cristal C. Brisco after pleading guilty to possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of a substance containing methamphetamine, announced Acting United States Attorney M. Scott Proctor.
Husband was sentenced to 60 months in prison followed by 4 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, police executed a search warrant at Husband’s house and found two firearms, about 146 grams of methamphetamine, and smaller amounts of fentanyl, cocaine, and marijuana.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with assistance from the Mishawaka Police Department and the Indiana State Police Laboratory. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Joel Gabrielse.
Mexican national convicted of federal witness tamperingRead the Press Release
McALLEN, Texas – A 53-year-old man illegally residing in McAllen has been convicted of attempting to threaten or intimidate a government witness from testifying in a pending trial, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
The jury deliberated for more than six hours before convicting Carlos Gerardo Perez-Munoz following a two-day trial.
The investigation began in July when law enforcement learned that Perez-Munoz approached an individual and threatened them not to “snitch.” He told the individual he knew where they lived in Mexico and knew they had been speaking with authorities about an ongoing investigation.
At trial, the jury heard Perez-Munoz illegally worked at a used clothing warehouse while in the United States on a tourist visa. They also viewed photographs of the warehouse and heard a recording of Perez-Munoz’s interview with authorities.
The defense argued the government witness fabricated the threat and claimed the statements were intended to deter the witness from testifying against other workers who were in the country illegally, not the owner of the used clothing store. The jury rejected those claims and found Perez-Munoz guilty as charged.
U.S. District Judge Randy Crane presided over the trial and set sentencing for Feb. 24, 2026. At that time, Perez-Munoz faces up to 20 years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.
Perez-Munoz remains in custody pending sentencing.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement - Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Benjamin S. Lyles and Patricia Cook Profit are prosecuting the case.
Mexican National with Multiple Felony Convictions and Deportations Charged for Illegally Reentering the United StatesRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Mexican national made his initial court appearance yesterday to face charges of illegally reentering the United States after previously being removed from the country.
Rito Lopez-Mundo, 54, is charged with one-count of deported alien found in the United States. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for December 30, 2025, before United States Magistrate Judge Brenda N. Weksler.
According to allegations contained in the criminal complaint and statements made during court proceedings, Lopez-Mundo is a citizen and national of Mexico who was previously deported on six prior occasions and reentered the United States illegally.
On July 4, 2023, Las Vegas Metropolitan Police arrested Lopez-Mundo for robbery with a deadly weapon, assault with a deadly weapon, kidnapping 1st degree with a deadly weapon, and own possess gun by prohibited person. On November 26, 2025, the Nevada Department of Corrections remanded Lopez-Mundo to ICE Las Vegas, Nevada, custody after he served a 19-to-48-month sentence for conspiracy to commit robbery. Lopez-Mundo also has four prior felony convictions for the same offense he is currently charged with.
If convicted, Lopez-Mundo faces the maximum statutory penalty of 20 years in prison, a three-year term of supervised release, a $250,000 fine, and a $100 special assessment. After serving his sentence, Lopez-Mundo will be deported to Mexico for a seventh time.
First Assistant United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada and Salt Lake City Acting Field Office Director Brian Henke made the announcement.
The ICE Salt Lake City, Las Vegas Sub-Office investigated the case; and the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Nevada is prosecuting the case.
Members of the public can report crimes and suspicious activity by dialing 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or completing the online tip form.
An indictment is merely an accusation, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
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Mexican National Illegally Present in the United States Indicted for Assault Causing Bodily Injury After Biting Federal AgentRead the Press Release
LAFAYETTE – A federal grand jury in Lafayette returned an indictment on December 17 charging Maximiliano Perez-Perez, a Mexican national illegally in the United States, with assaulting a federal officer and causing bodily injury. Perez-Perez faces up to 20 years in federal prison for the charge.
“If you injure a federal agent doing his or her job, then you’re going to jail—simple as that,” said United States Attorney Zachary A. Keller. “Law enforcement officers place themselves in harm’s way every day to make our community safe, and our Office stands ready to take swift action to punish and deter those who put them in danger.”
According to court documents, Perez-Perez, 22, was encountered by Immigrations and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations (ICE/ERO) officers on November 21, 2025, after the officers received a tip that a van would be transporting illegal immigrants in Louisiana. When the ICE/ERO officers attempted to detain Perez-Perez, he refused to exit the vehicle and grabbed onto the vehicle’s steering wheel. When the officers removed Perez-Perez, he then fled on foot. When the officers caught him, Perez-Perez resisted further by biting deeply into the hand of one of the ICE/ERO officers, drawing blood and leaving Perez-Perez with blood on his face from the officer’s injury.
U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations and Homeland Security Investigations investigated this case. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Craig R. Bordelon, II.
You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer. The case number for this matter is currently pending assignment.
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Mesa Woman Convicted of Embezzling Money from a Mesa BankRead the Press Release
PHOENIX, Ariz. – Brooke McDonough, 35, of Mesa, Arizona, was convicted by a jury on Thursday, December 11, 2025, after a two-week trial, of one count of embezzlement by bank employee, six counts of transactional money laundering, and five counts of structuring transactions to evade reporting requirements. McDonough served as the branch manager for a bank in Mesa between 2020 and early 2022.
The evidence at trial revealed that, starting in June 2021, McDonough stole cash from the ATM machines and vault inside the branch she managed. She then deposited most of the cash she stole into her personal bank accounts, using different ATMs at multiple bank branches. In total, between June 2021 and February 2022, McDonough embezzled $655,000 from the branch she managed and deposited or spent approximately $645,000 in cash during the same time period. McDonough broke down her ATM cash deposits into smaller amounts to avoid having the banks file Currency Transaction Reports for deposits of over $10,000 in cash.
“Significant trust is placed in business leaders in our community,” said U.S. Attorney Timothy Courchaine. “When those individuals take advantage of their leadership position to embezzle large amounts of money from the business they were entrusted to lead, our Office will hold them accountable.”
"FDIC OIG is laser focused on working with our law enforcement partners and the United States Attorney’s Office to protect the Nation’s financial system,” said Special Agent in Charge Ryan Korner. “The guilty verdict in this case should serve as a stern warning to others who are considering stealing from FDIC insured and/or regulated financial institutions to line their own pockets.”
“We are grateful to the U.S. Attorney’s Office, The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, and all of those involved for their outstanding cooperation and dedication throughout this investigation. Their professionalism and commitment were instrumental in achieving this outcome,” said Spokesperson for Mesa Police Department, Detective J. Macias.
This case was investigated by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation – Office of Inspector General and Mesa Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Aron Ketchel and Adriana Genco, District of Arizona, Phoenix, handled the prosecution.
CASE NUMBER: CR-24-376-ROS
RELEASE NUMBER: 2025-177_McDonough# # #
For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on Twitter @USAO_AZ for the latest news.
Members of A Local Drug Trafficking Organization Sentenced in Federal CourtRead the Press Release
MOBILE, AL – Five members of an interstate drug distribution organization were sentenced in federal court during October and December of 2025. Richard Wells, III, 48; Ronald Darnell Phillips, 45; and Demetrius James Lutin, 45 were sentenced on October 9, 2025. John David Clarke, 49, was sentenced on December 4, 2025, and Desmon Demond James, 49, was sentenced on December 11, 2025. All five men are from Mobile. Court documents show that they were indicted as members of a cocaine and heroin trafficking conspiracy that operated from 2016 through April 2025. They entered guilty pleas to the conspiracy charge during the fall of 2024. Phillips, Clarke, and Lutin also pleaded guilty to substantive counts charging possession with intent to distribute cocaine. Clarke pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit fraud and wire fraud in a separately charged case. Clarke further pled guilty to possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and possession of prison contraband. James also pled guilty to possession of prison contraband.
Court documents show that the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) initiated the investigation into the drug distribution of John David Clarke and eventually obtained a court-authorized wiretap on Clarke’s phone. During the monitoring of Clarke’s calls, agents identified Clarke’s drug supplier, who was charged as a co-defendant. Court documents further show that substantial incriminating evidence was obtained from Clarke’s phone communications with his drug supplier. Evidence obtained from several phones belonging to Clarke’s drug supplier identified other drug distributors including Wells, Phillips, James, and Lutin. They discussed drug amounts, prices and locations where the drugs were delivered for further distribution. During the conspiracy, hundreds of kilograms of cocaine and at least three kilograms of heroin, sourced from Mexico, traveled through Texas and were distributed in Mobile and elsewhere. During the conspiracy, hundreds of thousands of dollars in drug proceeds were delivered from Mobile to drug suppliers in Texas. Eight guns were also seized from locations in Mobile and Katy, Texas, along with hundreds of rounds of ammunition.
Court documents show that Clarke and James were found in possession of prison contraband, identified as cell phones, while awaiting sentencing on their other cases in the custody of the U.S. marshal’s service at a local jail. That investigation established that Clarke had used his contraband cell phone to smuggle fentanyl and other substances into the facility.
Court documents further detail Clarke’s involvement in a separate case charging him and other co-conspirators with fraud. During the monitoring of Clarke’s calls pursuant to the court-authorized wiretap, FBI and Internal Revenue Service (IRS) investigators discovered a stolen identity tax refund fraud scheme carried out by Clarke and others. The scheme involved the submission of hundreds of fraudulent tax returns falsely claiming COVID-related sick family leave credits the 2021 tax year. These fraudulent tax returns were filed on behalf of individuals without full knowledge or consent as to how their means of identification were being utilized and what had been submitted on their behalf. The fraudulent tax returns generated illegitimate tax refunds, which were ultimately split amongst the conspirators, including Clarke. Investigators also determined that Clarke had fraudulently obtained Paycheck Protection Program loans based on the misrepresentation that he had been engaged in legitimate business activities in the year preceding the COVID pandemic.
United States District Court Judge Terry F. Moorer imposed the sentences. Clarke was sentenced to 240 months’ imprisonment in both the drug trafficking and fraud cases, with the sentences to run concurrently. Clarke was ordered to serve a ten-year term of supervised release upon release from prison. Wells was sentenced to 108 months’ imprisonment, to be followed by a 10-year term of supervised release. Lutin was sentenced to 90 months’ imprisonment, to be followed by a ten-year term of supervised release. Phillips was sentenced to 37 months’ imprisonment, to be followed by a ten-year term of supervised release. James was sentenced to 58 months’ imprisonment, to be followed by a five-year term of supervised release. As conditions of their supervision, all five defendants will undergo testing and treatment for drug and/or alcohol abuse, and each will be subject to a search of his person and premises upon reasonable suspicion. No fine was imposed but the judge ordered that Phillips pay $100 in special assessments; Lutin, and Wells were ordered to pay $200 in special assessments; James was ordered to pay $125 in special assessments; and Clarke was ordered to pay $525 in special assessments and $83,931.70 in restitution to the IRS and Small Business Administration. Judge Moorer further ordered the forfeiture of the property that was seized during the investigation, including cash and numerous weapons.
United States Attorney Sean P. Costello made the announcement.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, United States Customs and Border Protection, the Internal Revenue Service, the Small Business Administration Office of Inspector General, the Mobile County Sheriff’s Office, and the Mobile Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Justin Kopf and Gloria Bedwell prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.