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10 December 2025
Violent Felons in Indianapolis Receive Federal Sentences for Firearms CrimesRead the Press Release
INDIANAPOLIS- Four violent felons have been removed from the streets of Indianapolis having been sentenced to federal prison for illegally possessing firearms. Each case stemmed from separate investigations and was prosecuted independently.
DefendantCharge(s)SentencePrior Felony ConvictionsChristopher Martin, 33Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon5 yearsMartin was previously convicted and incarcerated for reckless homicide and possession of a firearm by a serious violent felon
Desmond Hess, 33Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon (x2)5.5 yearsHess was previously convicted and incarcerated for criminal confinement and possession of a firearm by a serious violent felonAndrew Pernell Jr., 44Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon4 years, 9 monthsPernell was previously convicted and incarcerated for dealing cocaine and possession of a firearm by a serious violent felonJessie Stephens, 24Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon7.5 yearsStephens was previously convicted and incarcerated for strangulation, domestic battery resulting in serious bodily injury, intimidation, criminal confinement, and resisting law enforcementAs part of these investigations, the following firearms were seized and forfeited to law enforcement:
- Glock 23 .40-caliber handgun with extended magazine and machinegun conversion device
- Glock Model 17, 9mm semiautomatic handgun
- Glock 22 .40-caliber pistol (reported stolen in Hamilton County)
- Springfield Saint Edge AR pistol with machinegun conversion device
- Taurus G2S 9mm semiautomatic pistol (reported stolen in 2022)
- Taurus G2C 9mm handgun
Desmond Hess and Christopher Martin:
On November 17, 2023, Lawrence Police Department officers attempted a traffic stop on Hess (driver) and Martin (passenger). The men fled at a high rate of speed, eventually crashing and abandoning their vehicle. A search of the wrecked car revealed a loaded Glock 23 with an extended magazine on the driver’s floorboard, along with a loaded Glock 22 and a loaded AR pistol on the passenger side. The Glock had been reported stolen in Hamilton County, and the AR pistol was equipped with an illegal machinegun conversion device. Both men were later arrested on outstanding warrants for illegal firearm possession.
Andrew Pernell Jr.:
On July 19, 2024, an off-duty IMPD officer driving a personal vehicle stopped at a downtown Indianapolis traffic light. As the traffic light turned green, Pernell, Jr. walked in front of the officer’s vehicle and removed a semiautomatic pistol from his waistband. Seeing the pistol in Pernell’s hand, the officer, still seated in his car, drew his service weapon. Pernell chambered a round, pointed his pistol at the officer, and fled. The officer immediately provided Pernell’s description to on-duty IMPD officers. Later that day, officers located Pernell and found him carrying a loaded semiautomatic pistol reported stolen in 2022.
Jessie Stephens:
On February 10, 2025, IMPD officers conducted a welfare check after Stephens’ GPS monitor was tracked near the residence of a person with a no-contact order against him. When approached, Stephens attempted to discard a loaded handgun by throwing it over a fence. He was arrested that day without incident.
“Convicted violent felons who continue to arm themselves pose a grave threat to our communities. These prosecutions demonstrate our commitment to working with federal, state, and local law enforcement to remove illegal firearms from the streets and hold offenders accountable. We will not tolerate individuals who repeatedly disregard the law and endanger public safety.,” said Tom Wheeler, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana.
“The prosecution of convicted felons who unlawfully possess firearms is among the ATF’s highest priorities. These convictions underscore the agency’s continued commitment to reducing violent crime. Regrettably, these offenders chose actions inconsistent with the obligations imposed by their prior convictions, and they will now bear the consequences,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Jorge Rosendo.
“Each of these cases demonstrates how critical it is to keep firearms out of the hands of convicted violent felons to protect our communities,” said FBI Indianapolis Special Agent in Charge Timothy J. O’Malley. “The FBI will continue working with our partners to identify and remove illegally possessed guns from the hands of those who are prohibited from having them.”
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, FBI, IMPD, and Lawrence Police Department investigated these cases. The sentences were imposed by U.S. District Court Judges Jane Magnus-Stinson, Tanya Walton Pratt, and James P. Hanlon.
U.S. Attorney Wheeler thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jayson W. McGrath, Brendan J. Sullivan, and Matt Barloh, who prosecuted these cases.
These cases were brought as part of the Indiana Crime Guns Task Force (ICGTF). ICGTF is a partnership of law enforcement officers and analysts from several central Indiana law enforcement agencies in Boone, Hamilton, Hancock, Hendricks, Marion, Morgan, Johnson, and Shelby counties. In cooperation with state, local, and federal partners, ICGTF collaborates to address violent crime through a comprehensive strategy including innovative approaches to locating suspects and evidence related to violent crimes and illegal possession of firearms.
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Upshur County felon sentenced to federal prison for firearms violationRead the Press Release
TYLER, Texas –A Gilmer convicted felon has been sentenced to federal prison for firearms violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.
Jimmy Lavoice Duffey, 47, pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm and was sentenced to 18 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Jeremy D. Kernodle on December 10, 2025.
According to information presented in court, on May 7, 2022, Duffey was stopped for a traffic violation in Cherokee County. During the stop, it was discovered that Duffey had a firearm in the vehicle. Further investigation revealed Duffey was a convicted felon and prohibited by federal law from owning or possessing firearms.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Longview Police Department and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Dustin Farahnak.
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Union City Man Sentenced to over 19 Years in Prison for Methamphetamine OffenseRead the Press Release
Jackson, TN – Charles Belk, 51, of Union City, Tennessee, has been sentenced to 235 months in federal prison for possessing a large quantity of methamphetamine with the intent to distribute it, in violation of federal law. D. Michael Dunavant, United States Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the sentence today.
According to evidence presented in court, on January 31, 2024, postal inspectors with the U.S. Postal Inspection Service were alerted to a suspicious package that was mailed from California to an apartment complex in Union City. The package came to their attention because it had similar characteristics to previous packages that had been delivered to the same apartment complex and which had been tracked by an IP address in Mexico. After securing a federal search warrant on the package, law enforcement determined that it contained over 2,200 grams of suspected methamphetamine.
When law enforcement delivered the package to the apartment complex, Belk took the package—which was addressed to a different recipient and apartment number—into his possession and brought it into his apartment. A search warrant execution at Belk’s apartment led to the seizure of an additional amount of methamphetamine, over $7,000 of U.S. currency, and several firearms. Further investigation revealed that Belk had been using his neighbors’ names and addresses to receive prior packages. In all, the amount of actual methamphetamine involved was over 1,700 grams.
Belk pled guilty to two counts of possessing with the intent to distribute actual methamphetamine. On December 5, 2025, United States District Court Judge S. Thomas Anderson sentenced Belk to 235 months’ imprisonment with five years of supervised release to follow. There is no parole in the federal system.
U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant said, "Methamphetamine continues to destroy individuals, families, and communities in West Tennessee, and we will continue to aggressively investigate, prosecute, and punish drug dealers to hold them accountable. Belk has sowed addiction and pain into the rural Northwest Tennessee community, and now he will reap the consequence of a long prison sentence."
This case was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, and the 27th Judicial District Drug Task Force.
Assistant United States Attorney Immanuel Chioco prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
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For more information, please contact the Media Relations Team at [email protected]. Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office on Facebook or on X at @WDTNNews for office news and updates.
U.S. Attorney Jason A. Reding Quiñones Meets with Miami International Airport Leadership to Strengthen Public Safety and Federal PartnershipsRead the Press Release
MIAMI – United States Attorney Jason A. Reding Quiñones met this week with Ralph Cutié, Director and CEO of the Miami International Airport (MIA) and the Miami-Dade Aviation Department, along with senior members of his leadership team: Andria Muñiz-Amador, Chief of Staff and Senior Strategic Advisor; Mark Hatfield Jr., Director of Security; and Tony Quintero, Associate Aviation Director for Governmental Affairs. The meeting focused on strengthening coordination between MIA and federal prosecutors to ensure a secure, efficient, and resilient international gateway for the millions of passengers who travel through Miami each year.
Joining the U.S. Attorney were First Assistant U.S. Attorney Yara Klukas and Border and Immigration Crimes Enforcement (BICE) Section Chief John Grivner. BICE is the new criminal-enforcement section created to prioritize immigration offenses, border-related crime, human smuggling, passport and document fraud, and international narcotics interdictions. The section works closely with DHS, CBP, HSI, and airport law enforcement partners to safeguard the integrity of the border and protect the traveling public.
During the meeting, leadership discussed current trends in international smuggling, airport-based narcotics trafficking, passport fraud, and threats to aviation security. The U.S. Attorney’s Office and MIA committed to expanding information-sharing, improving rapid coordination for interdiction cases, and strengthening joint responses to emerging threats.
U.S. Attorney Reding Quiñones stated:
“Miami International Airport is one of the busiest and most important international gateways in the country, and it thrives because of the leadership of Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava and Airport Director Ralph Cutié. Their commitment to safety, efficiency, and public service sets the standard for how a world-class airport should operate. Our Office will continue to work hand in hand with MIA to protect travelers, secure our border, and ensure that anyone who threatens the safety of this airport is held accountable. Today’s meeting reflects a shared mission to keep Miami safe and to protect one of our most important national assets.”
The U.S. Attorney’s Office and MIA leadership will continue regular coordination to support joint enforcement efforts and airport security initiatives.
For additional information about the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida, visit justice.gov/usao-sdfl.
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Two Men Arrested in International Firearms Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Tampa, FL - United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces the unsealing of an indictment charging Tyler Corbin (25, Tampa), Edward Noel (26, Canada), Alfredo Santana (32, Miami), Omar Singateth (24, Canada), and Arif Jhuman (39, Canada) with conspiracy to traffic firearms, trafficking in firearms, and dealing firearms with a license. The indictment also charges Corbin with possession with intent to distribute fentanyl. The indictment was unsealed following the recent arrests of Corbin and Santana.
According to the indictment and court hearings, these individuals trafficked, and conspired to traffic, more than 100 firearms from Florida to Canada in 2023 and 2024. Of those firearms, 29 were recovered from Canadian crime scenes, including homicides. One firearm purchased by Corbin was recovered at the scene of a homicide 32 days after Corbin had purchased the firearm. None of these defendants are licensed to deal firearms.
These arrests were the result of joint investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Homeland Security Investigations Miami Field Office. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Samantha Newman.
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).
IndictmentTwice-convicted smuggler sentenced in new conspiracy involving over 100 illegal aliensRead the Press Release
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A 30-year-old Brownsville resident has been sentenced for conspiracy to transport illegal aliens, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Christian Ivan Hernandez pleaded guilty May 19.
U.S. District Judge Nelva Gonzales Ramos has now ordered Hernandez to serve 60 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by two years of supervised release. At the hearing, the court heard how Hernandez conspired with others to transport over 100 illegal aliens in dangerous conditions. The court also reviewed Hernandez’s lengthy criminal history which includes two prior convictions: transporting illegal aliens in 2018 and conspiracy to transport illegal aliens in 2019. In handing down the sentence, Judge Ramos noted that his past smuggling offenses carry consequences but believes he can move past them.
From May 1 – July 21, 2024, Hernandez facilitated the smuggling of approximately 107 illegal aliens concealed in the cargo areas of three separate tractor trailers, as well as another 10 found in the vehicles’ cab areas.
At the time of his plea, Hernandez admitted that in early May 2024, he called Carlos Josue Cruz-Rivas and asked him to pick up several illegal aliens at a warehouse in McAllen. Authorities later arrested Cruz-Rivas for attempting to smuggle the 36 illegal aliens found in his empty utility trailer along with six other aliens in the sleeper portion of the cab.
That same month, authorities arrested David Vargas-Muniz for attempting to smuggle 46 illegal aliens in a tractor trailer in Brooks County. Hernandez had met him at the location and told him the illegal aliens were in his trailer and not to make any stops.
On July 21, 2024, law enforcement also identified and arrested Mendez-Hernandez after attempting to smuggle 25 aliens in a utility trailer and another four in the tractor’s cab.
The court found that Hernandez was the organizer of the overall conspiracy. He also operated three stash houses in the McAllen area.
Hernandez has been and will remain in custody pending transfer to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
Honduran national Cruz-Rivas, 35, who illegally resided in Brawley, California, Vargas-Muniz, 53, Waxahachie, and Mendez-Hernandez, 31, Santa Maria, California, have all pleaded guilty for their roles and been sentenced.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement - Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation with the assistance of Customs and Border Protection. Assistant U.S. Attorney Young Min Burkett prosecuted the case.
Three Charged in Fentanyl Case Resulting in DeathRead the Press Release
DENVER – The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado announces that Felicia Ortiviz, 36, Joe Elijo Herrera, 51, and Alina Serena Ochoa-Luna, 33, all of Denver, were indicted by a federal grand jury. All three defendants face a charge of conspiracy to distribute fentanyl resulting in death. Ochoa-Luna faces an additional charge of distribution of fentanyl resulting in death. Ortiviz faces additional charges of distribution of fentanyl resulting in death and distribution of fentanyl to a person under twenty-one-years of age.
According to statements made on the record in court, Herrera allegedly started dealing “blues” to the victim in September 2023, shortly after the victim’s nineteenth birthday. “Blues” are a common street name for counterfeit M/30 pills which contain illicit fentanyl. Herrera continued dealing blues to the victim until late January 2024 when Herrera’s girlfriend, Ortiviz, started dealing blues directly to the victim. On the afternoon of February 13, 2024, Ochoa-Luna delivered blues to Ortiviz at the residence where Ortiviz and Herrera lived. That night, Ortiviz distributed blues to the victim at the same residence. The victim then returned to his apartment in a student housing complex and died shortly thereafter. The victim died as a result of the toxic effects of fentanyl.
The charges contained in the indictment are allegations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
If convicted at trial, the defendants face a mandatory minimum sentence of not less than 20 years’ imprisonment and up to life in prison.
The investigation is being conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Denver Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by the Transnational Organized Crime and Money Laundering Section of the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado.
CASE NUMBER: 25-cr-00327-WJM
Thirteen Defendants from Across the U.S. Indicted in Cocaine Trafficking RingRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A federal grand jury in Pittsburgh has indicted 13 individuals from Pennsylvania, California, New York, Florida, and New Mexico on charges of violating federal drug and firearm laws, First Assistant United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today. The seven-count Indictment follows a two-year investigation into the drug trafficking organization.
The Indictment named the following individuals as defendants:
Name
Age
Residence
Feng Ruan35
Brooklyn, NYMaoxuan Xia30
Flushing, NYJhon Canizales-Soto32
Miami, FLMarcos Francisco-Tomas34
Riverside, CAAndres Flores-Cedeno39
New Kensington, PAEric Vega38
Riverside, CAManuel Rivera43
Coachella, CAFernando Gonzalez-Gonzalez24
Los Angeles, CAJulio Flores23
Los Angeles, CAMichael Johnson63
Albuquerque, NMAaron Mitchell48
Pittsburgh, PARaymond Simmons54
New Kensington, PAToriano Wilson46
New Kensington, PAAccording to the Indictment, from January 2023 to April 2024, Francisco-Tomas, Flores-Cedeno, Vega, Rivera, Gonzalez-Gonzalez, Flores, Johnson, Mitchell, Simmons, and Wilson conspired to distribute and possessed with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine. Additionally, on August 30, 2023, Rivera possessed with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine. On February 17, 2024, both Francisco-Tomas and Flores-Cedeno possessed with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine. The Indictment further alleges that, on January 17, 2023, Ruan engaged in monetary transactions in property derived from specified unlawful activity, and that, from in and around January 2023 through in and around April 2024, Xia, Canizales-Soto, Francisco-Tomas, Flores-Cedeno, Vega, Rivera, Gonzalez-Gonzalez, and Flores participated in interstate travel or transmission in aid of racketeering. Finally, the Indictment charges that, on October 5, 2023, Mitchell possessed a firearm and ammunition as a previously convicted felon. Federal law prohibits possession of a firearm or ammunition by a convicted felon.
For Francisco-Tomas, Flores-Cedeno, Vega, Rivera, Gonzalez-Gonzalez, Flores, Johnson, Mitchell, Simmons, and Wilson, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 10 years and up to life in prison, a fine of up to $10 million, or both. For Ruan and Xia, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 10 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, or both. For Canizales-Soto, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to five years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, or both. In relation to the firearms charge for Mitchell, the law provides for a maximum sentence of up to 15 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense(s) and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Katherine C. Jordan is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
This prosecution is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. The HSTF for the Western District of Pennsylvania comprises agents and officers from the Drug Enforcement Administration and Internal Revenue Service, with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Pennsylvania.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Telehealth Company Agrees to Pay $300,000 to Resolve False Claims Act AllegationsRead the Press Release
Telehealth Company Agrees to Pay $300,000 to Resolve False Claims Act Allegations
CONCORD –U.S. Attorney Erin Creegan announced today that the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Hampshire has entered into a settlement agreement with LifeWorks Counseling Associates, PLLC and its owner Dr. David Ferruolo where they will pay $300,000 to resolve allegations that they violated the False Claims Act by improperly billing Medicaid for services provided by an individual excluded from the Medicaid program.
No program payments may be made for services furnished by an individual excluded by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of the Inspector General (“HHS-OIG”). HHS-OIG has advised health care providers to check the List of Excluded Individuals/Entities on the HHS-OIG web site (http://oig.hhs.gov/exclusions) in order to avoid potential liability.
LifeWorks is telehealth mental health provider based in New Hampshire. The United States contended that Ferruolo and LifeWorks submitted claims and received reimbursement from Medicaid for services provided by Erik Alonso, who was excluded from federal health care programs by HHS-OIG at the time such services were provided, which were therefore not reimbursable. To resolve their liability, Ferruolo and his company will pay $300,000. The settlement amount is based on their ability to pay.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office, along with the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section, also handled the criminal prosecution of Erik Alonso, who pleaded to one count of healthcare fraud on October 23, 2025. LifeWorks and Ferullo fully cooperated in the parallel criminal investigation.
U.S. Attorney Creegan said, “A provider is federally excluded from being paid to give heathcare for good reasons, such as prior fraud, criminal convictions, or patient abuse. To protect the public, we will hold accountable those who violate healthcare exclusions.”
“The exclusion authority is a cornerstone of our efforts to protect federal health care programs from fraud and abuse,” said Roberto Coviello, Special Agent in Charge for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General. “When providers submit claims to the Medicaid program for services rendered by excluded individuals, they violate a fundamental safeguard designed to ensure program integrity. This settlement sends a clear message: we will hold providers accountable when they fail to comply with exclusion rules.”
“This settlement should put others on notice that exploiting federally funded health care programs will not be tolerated and those who engage in this type of activity will be identified and held accountable,” said Ted E. Docks, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Boston Division. “The FBI will continue to work with our partners to protect taxpayers’ resources from those who would take advantage of such programs for their own greed.”
This case was investigated by HHS-OIG and the FBI. The case was handled by Civil Chief Raphael Katz. There was no admission of liability.
Tangipahoa Parish Man Sentenced for Violating Federal Controlled Substances ActRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that on December 4, 2025, RODNEY BERRY (“BERRY”), age 43, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Barry Ashe to 60 months of imprisonment, after previously pleading guilty to Counts One, Six, and Seven of a superseding indictment. Count One charged BERRY with conspiracy to distribute, and possess with intent to distribute, controlled substances, in violation of Title 21 U.S.C. § 841(a)(1); § 841(b)(1)(A); § 841(b)(1)(B); and 846. Count Six charged BERRY with illegal use of communications facility, in violation of Title 21, U.S.C. §843(b) and Title 18, U.S.C. §2. Count Seven charged BERRY with possessing with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of a mixture containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21 U.S.C. § 841(a)(1) and § 841(b)(1)(B).
According to the indictment, beginning on a time unknown but continuing until at least September 10, 2024, BERRY and seven other individuals conspired to distribute, and possess with intent to distribute, fentanyl and methamphetamine throughout the Tangipahoa Parish region of the Eastern District of Louisiana. The conspiracy was carried out through wire and electronic communications.
Acting United States Attorney Simpson praised the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, Hammond Police Department, Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Lauren Sarver 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.
The case was investigated under the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF). OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. For more information about Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces, please visit Justice.gov/OCDETF.
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Tahlequah Resident Pleads Guilty to Illegally Possessing Firearms and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that David Dewey McDaniel, age 42, of Tahlequah, Oklahoma, entered a guilty plea to an Information of one count of Felon in Possession of Firearm and Ammunition, punishable by up to 15 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
The Information charged McDaniel with knowingly possessing one .22 Magnum caliber revolver, one .223 Remington caliber break-open rifle, and assorted ammunition on January 31, 2025, after having been previously convicted of a crime punishable by more than one year imprisonment.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office.
The Honorable D. Edward Snow, 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.
McDaniel will remain in the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending sentencing.
Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Olivia Staubus and Assistant U.S. Attorney Jordan Howanitz represented the United States.
Syracuse Man Sentenced to 120 Months for Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Cyril Swan, age 30, was sentenced last week to 120 months in prison for distribution and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Special Agent in Charge of the New York Field Division of ATF Bryan DiGirolamo made the announcement.
As part of his prior plea, Swan admitted that he began selling methamphetamine and fentanyl to another individual during the summer of 2024, and that he sold approximately 100 grams of methamphetamine and 8 grams of fentanyl during the offense.
Senior United States District Court Judge David N. Hurd also imposed a five-year term of supervised release, to begin after Swan completes his sentence.
Acting U.S. Attorney John Sarcone stated: “Peddling dangerous drugs like fentanyl and methamphetamine in this District will not be tolerated. I commend ATF for getting this dealer off the streets for 10 years and sending a message to other would-be drug dealers.”
ATF Special Agent in Charge DiGirolamo stated: “This sentence reflects the strong, coordinated work of ATF NY and our partners in Syracuse. By identifying and removing individuals who drive drug trafficking and the harm it fuels, we remain steadfast in our mission to safeguard our neighborhoods and reduce violent crime. Special thank you to ATF NY Syracuse Field Office, Syracuse PD Criminal Intelligence Division, the New York State Police Community Stabilization Unit & the U.S. Attorney’s Office of Northern District of NY.”
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) investigated the case with assistance from the Syracuse Police Department Criminal Intelligence Division and the New York State Police Community Stabilization Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica N. Carbone prosecuted the case.
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St. Louis County Sex Offender Admits Illegal Gun SalesRead the Press Release
ST. LOUIS – A registered sex offender from St. Louis County on Wednesday admitted selling guns on five occasions to an undercover agent with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Antoine Maurice Gant, 39, entered an open plea in U.S. District Court in St. Louis to four counts of being a felon in possession of a firearm. On May 24, 2024, he sold a 9mm handgun for $400 to the ATF agent in a St. Louis alley. Seven days later, he sold two handguns to the agent. On June 14, 2024, he sold two handguns and $140 worth of cocaine. One June 27, 2024, Gant sold an AK-47-style rifle to the agent in East St. Louis, and a .40-caliber pistol, an AR-style pistol and a 12-gauge shotgun outside a St. Louis laundromat about an hour later.
As a felon, Gant is barred from possessing firearms. He was convicted of statutory rape in 2012 and sentenced to seven years in prison. In 2018, he was sentenced to four years in prison for second-degree assault.
Gant is scheduled to be sentenced on March 4, 2026. Each charge carries a potential sentence of up to 15 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000 or both prison and a fine.
The ATF investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Finlen is prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces and Project Safe Neighborhood.
Spokane Physician Pays $120,000 to Resolve Allegations He Prescribed Controlled Substances Without Legitimate Medical PurposeRead the Press Release
Spokane, Washington – First Assistant United States Attorney Pete Serrano announced that Dr. Duncan Lahtinen, a licensed physician, has paid $120,000.00 in penalties to resolve allegations that he wrote prescriptions for controlled substances that lacked legitimate medical purposes or were outside the usual course of his professional practice.
Between 2017 and 2025, Dr. Lahtinen issued over 1,400 prescriptions for controlled substances to thirteen identified patients, many of which were issued in some combination of opioids, benzodiazepines, sedatives, and carisoprodol. These combinations of controlled substances are dangerous and highly abused by those with substance use disorders. In issuing the prescriptions, the United States alleged Dr. Lahtinen failed to address numerous red flags of substance abuse by his patents. The United States contended that Dr. Lahtinen’s conduct rendered him liable to the United States for civil penalties and damages under the Controlled Substances Act and the False Claims Act. Dr. Lahtinen had previously been sanctioned twice by the Washington Department of Health for improper controlled substance prescribing practices.
“Doctors are highly educated and sophisticated individuals who are trusted with the ability to prescribe controlled substances for legitimate medical purposes. When a doctor abuses that power, they trade all the principles of patient care and become drug dealers in white coats. The United States Attorney’s Office will investigate and hold accountable physicians who prescribe controlled substances in this manner,” said First Assistant Serrano.
“DEA holds physicians who prescribe controlled substances to a very high standard so they do not become drug dealers with a medical license,” said David F. Reames, Special Agent in Charge, DEA Seattle Field Division. “Dr. Lahtinen failed to uphold this standard and DEA and our partners held him accountable.”
“Physicians who distribute controlled substances outside the usual course of professional practice undermine the ongoing public health efforts to address the opioid crisis and the safety and well-being of the public,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Jeffrey McIntosh of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “HHS-OIG, along with our law enforcement partners, will continue to relentlessly investigate such allegations to protect patients, the public, and American taxpayers from this dangerous conduct.”
The settlement can be found here.
The settlement was the result of an investigation conducted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Washington, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General, Seattle Field Office. Assistant United States Attorney Jeremy Kelley of the Eastern District of Washington handled this matter on behalf of the United States.
South Dakota and Arizona Men Collectively Sentenced to Decades in Federal Prison for Conspiracies to Distribute Fentanyl Pills and to Launder Drug ProceedsRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier has sentenced a Sioux Falls, South Dakota man and a Phoenix, Arizona man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance and Conspiracy to Commit Money Laundering. The sentencings took place for both defendants on December 1, 2025.
Fame Cobbs, 40, of Sioux Falls was sentenced to 24 years in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $200 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. In addition to the drug and money laundering convictions, Cobbs was also sentenced in a separate case following a conviction for Assault on a Federal Officer. In the assault case Cobbs was sentenced to 18 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment. This sentence is to run concurrent with the drug sentence.
Mario Taylor, 34, of Phoenix was sentenced to 15 years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $200 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
“Fentanyl traffickers are merchants of death who knowingly flood our communities with substances so lethal that two milligrams—less than a few grains of salt—can kill,” said U.S. Attorney Parsons. “Each pill they press, each gram they move, is a loaded weapon aimed directly at our children, our neighbors, and our future.”
Cobbs and Taylor were indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance and Conspiracy to Commit Money Laundering by a federal grand jury in December 2023. Cobbs pleaded guilty on August 29, 2025, and Taylor pleaded guilty on September 8, 2025. Cobbs was indicted for Assault on a Federal Officer in September 2024 and pleaded guilty on August 29, 2025.
During the conspiracy Mario Taylor was the source of supply in Arizona of thousands of fentanyl pills. He arranged for packages containing fentanyl to be mailed from Arizona to Fame Cobbs and others in the Sioux Falls area. Cobbs and his co-conspirators in Sioux Falls then distributed the fentanyl pills in Sioux Falls. Investigators identified approximately 18 packages through historical records and learned that each package contained approximately 2,000-4,000 fentanyl pills. Additionally, Cobbs collected money from various individuals to send back to Taylor in Arizona. Cobbs and Taylor utilized the electronic payment system Cash App to move proceeds related to the sale of fentanyl and to promote their drug distribution. Investigators believe a total of approximately 35,000 fentanyl pills were trafficked during the conspiracy.
Cobbs’ criminal activity did not stop once he was in arrested. While in federal custody pending resolution of his case, Cobbs engaged in multiple instances of assaultive behavior while confined at the Minnehaha County jail. During one incident, Cobbs flooded his cell and physically struggled with officers. During the struggle Cobbs kicked one of the officers.
“Today’s federal sentences reflect a simple truth,” said U.S. Attorney Parsons. “If you traffic fentanyl in South Dakota, you will end up behind bars for a long time.”
These cases were investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, IRS-Criminal Investigations, the Sioux Falls Area Drug Task Force, and the United States Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mark Hodges and Meghan Dilges prosecuted the cases.
Cobbs and Taylor were immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
South Carolina Man Charged for Fraudulently Selling Millions of Dollars’ Worth of “Discounted” Ski and Snowboard Passes in UtahRead the Press Release
SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – Jonathan Rembert, 41, of Fort Mill, South Carolina, was indicted by a federal grand jury today for financial crimes after he allegedly participated in a fraud scheme that sold ski and snowboard passes, including Ikon and Epic passes, to skiers and snowboarders in Utah. The passes were purchased at full price for skiers via stolen credit cards; the skiers in turn paid Rembert and others a “discounted” price via online payments.
The Epic Pass is a mountain resort access pass sold by Vail Resorts, Inc., which has forty-two mountain resorts throughout the world, including Park City Mountain Resort, in Park City, Utah. The Ikon Pass is a mountain resort access pass sold by Alterra Mountain Company. Alterra is the parent company of Solitude Mountain Resort and Deer Valley Resort, which are both located in Utah. The Ikon Pass sold by Alterra offers purchasers access to the following Utah resorts: Alta Ski Resort, Brighton Resort, Deer Valley Resort, Snowbasin Resort, Snowbird, and Solitude Mountain Resort. (See indictment for details.)
According to court documents, from approximately November 2020 to May 2024, members of the scheme placed targeted online advertisements in Utah and elsewhere, offering “discounted” ski and snowboard passes. Members of the scheme would then communicate directly with individuals who responded to the online advertisements, or who, in some instances were prior customers or referred by others, through text and other online communication.
Prior to receiving payment from the pass purchasers, members of the scheme would obtain and use the purchasers’ personal information to establish or access accounts through the online portals of individual resorts, Alterra (Ikon Pass), and Vail Resorts (Epic Pass). After obtaining access, ski and snowboard passes were purchased at full price using other individuals’ stolen bank card information. The stolen bank card information was obtained and shared between coconspirators prior to the full price purchases being made and without the pass purchasers’ knowledge of the fraud. As a result, the fraudulently purchased ski and snowboard passes were delivered to the pass purchasers, both electronically and in some instances via the United States Postal Service.
As part of the scheme, after purchasing the ski and snowboard passes at full price using stolen bank card information, the coconspirators would resume communication with the pass purchasers to confirm the purchases and request payment of a negotiated “discount” price through peer-to-peer apps such as Venmo, Zelle, PayPal, and Apple Pay. The money went directly into the accounts of Rembert and his coconspirators. The fraudulent funds were then distributed between him and others for personal use.
Individuals whose stolen bank card information was used to purchase ski and snowboard passes at full price challenged the transactions as fraudulent, resulting in large scale “charge backs” born by various mountain resorts, including Altera and Vail Resorts, when the funds were returned to the bank card holders. Many of the ski and snowboard passes obtained by pass purchasers were cancelled as a result of the “charge backs” and fraud. As a result, the scheme resulted in millions of dollars of loss.
Rembert is charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud, conspiracy to commit mail fraud, possession of fifteen or more unauthorized access devices, and aggravated identity theft. His initial appearance on the charges is January 7, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. in courtroom 8.4 before a U.S. Magistrate Judge at the Orrin G. Hatch United States District Courthouse in downtown Salt Lake City.
“For generations, Utah’s families have enjoyed the greatest snow on earth at our renowned ski resorts,” said U.S. Attorney Melissa Holyoak of the District of Utah. “The alleged fraud targeted local skiers, snowboarders, and resorts and we intend to seek justice for those victims. We are grateful to the law enforcement agencies that had the foresight to investigate and present this case to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for prosecution.”
"The U.S. Postal Inspection Service is charged with safeguarding the U.S. Mail against criminal exploitation,” said Glen Henderson, Inspector in Charge of the Phoenix Division. “When this mission is challenged, Postal Inspectors conduct thorough investigations and remain resolute in pursuing justice. This case serves as a reminder to be cautious of offers that seem ‘too good to be true,’ particularly those which require payment through peer-to-peer applications.”
“Investigating fraud cases is crucial in protecting and maintaining trust in our communities. The Salt Lake County Sheriff’s Office is committed to holding those who take advantage of our ski resorts and patrons accountable,” said Salt Lake County Sheriff Rosie Rivera. “This is one of the largest fraud cases that the Salt Lake County Sheriff’s Office has investigated and is attributed to the ongoing partnership with our federal agencies and committed detectives who work hard every day to ensure our canyons are safe to enjoy our annual ski season.”This case is being investigated jointly by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) and the Salt Lake County Sheriff’s Office.
Assistant United States Attorneys Mark E. Woolf and Luisa Gough of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah 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.
Attachments:
rembert_indictment.pdfSouth Carolina Businessman who Operated Bowling Entertainment Business in Massachusetts Charged with $1.2 Million Covid Relief FraudRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A South Carolina businessman has been charged today in federal court in Worcester with COVID relief fraud.
David Breen, 54, of Mount Pleasant, S.C., was charged by an Information with one count of theft of government property, for allegedly misappropriating COVID-19 funds for personal use.
According to court filings, Breen allegedly spent more than $1.2 million in Economic Injury and Disaster Loan (EIDL) money that he obtained from the U.S. Small Business Administration (“SBA”) to build a home and purchase motor vehicles. Through the EIDL program, the SBA provided loans to small businesses that suffered substantial economic injury due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Specifically, it is alleged that in March 2022, Breen applied for EIDL funds on behalf of ‘Fun Zone,’ an entity through which he operated ‘Pinz,’ a bowling alley and other entertainment venue in Milford, Mass. To obtain the loan, Breen allegedly entered into a loan agreement with the SBA in which he agreed, among other things, to use the loan proceeds as working capital for his business. After receiving approximately $1.5 million from the SBA, Breen allegedly used more than $1.2 million of this money, through June 2023, to build a home for himself in Mount Pleasant, S.C., to purchase a $111,000 truck and for a downpayment on a $98,289 Mercedes.
The charge of theft of government property carries a maximum penalty of up to 10 years in prison, up to three years of supervised release and a fine up to $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Michael J. Krol, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in New England; and Massachusetts Inspector General Jeffrey S. Shapiro made the announcement. Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Small Business Administration, Office of Inspector General, Boston Region. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brendan D. O’Shea of the Worcester Branch Office is prosecuting the case.
On May 17, 2021, the Attorney General established the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force to marshal the resources of the Department of Justice in partnership with agencies across government to enhance efforts to combat and prevent pandemic-related fraud. The Task Force bolsters efforts to investigate and prosecute the most culpable domestic and international criminal actors and assists agencies tasked with administering relief programs to prevent fraud by augmenting and incorporating existing coordination mechanisms, identifying resources and techniques to uncover fraudulent actors and their schemes, and sharing and harnessing information and insights gained from prior enforcement efforts. For more information on the department’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus and https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus/combatingfraud.
Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline via theNCDF Web Complaint Form.
The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Snapchat Predator Nets 14 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
NEW BERN, N.C. – A federal judge sentenced a Virginia man to 174 months in federal prison after he met a minor on Snapchat and manipulated her into sexual activity. On May 7, 2025, David Anthony Howard, II, age 27, pleaded guilty to transporting a minor across state lines to engage in criminal sexual activity.
“Criminals who use apps like Snapchat to target and exploit our children are some of the worst offenders we face,” said U.S. Attorney Ellis Boyle. “We will not hesitate to bring the full force of the federal law down against anyone who preys on minors. Parents deserve to know we are doing everything possible to keep their kids safe.”
According to court documents and other information presented in court, in April 2023, a Vance County mother reported that her fifteen-year-old daughter was missing and possibly being held by an adult male. The FBI, the Vance County Sheriff’s Office, the Dinwiddie County (Virginia) Sheriff’s Office, and the Virginia State Police determined that the minor was in Virginia with Howard at his residence. Further investigation revealed that Howard met the minor on Snapchat and manipulated her into a romantic and sexual relationship, traveling repeatedly from Virginia to her home in North Carolina to engage in sexual acts with her. He also enticed her to provide sexual images and videos. Finally, on the night of April 22, 2023, Howard tricked her to sneak out of her house and go to his home in Virginia. He kept her at his residence, continuing to sexually exploit her, until law enforcement recovered her five days later.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Erin Blondel, Sarah Nokes, and Ashley Foxx prosecuted the case, and the FBI, the Vance County Sheriff’s Office, the Dinwiddie County (Virginia) Sheriff’s Office, and the Virginia State Police investigated the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC.
Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 5:24-CR-237-FL.
Smith County man sentenced to federal prison in human trafficking conspiracyRead the Press Release
TYLER, Texas – A Tyler man has been sentenced to federal prison for his role in a human trafficking conspiracy in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.
Michael Anthony Martinez, 28, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to transport illegal aliens and was sentenced to 33 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Jeremy D. Kernodle on December 10, 2025.
According to information presented in court, Martinez used a social media account to promise lucrative payment to people who were willing to drive illegal aliens to their destination. Bank records and text messages between Martinez and those he had recruited verified the criminal conduct.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs) and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
This case was investigated by the FBI – Tyler Resident Office and the Tyler Police Department and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Dustin Farahnak.
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Sisseton Man Sentenced to Nearly 3 Years in Federal Prison for Assaulting Another Person with a KnifeRead the Press Release
ABERDEEN - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann has sentenced a Sisseton, South Dakota, man convicted of Assault with a Dangerous Weapon. The sentencing took place on December 4, 2025.
Garrett Joseph Ojeda, Sr., age 33, was sentenced to two years and eleven month in federal prison, three years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Ojeda was indicted by a federal grand jury in July 2025. He filed a Petition to Plead Guilty on September 15, 2025.
The conviction stemmed from an incident February 9, 2025, on the Lake Traverse Reservation when Ojeda became angry about a missing TV remote device. Ojeda took out his anger on the victim and stabbed the victim several times before the victim could escape. The victim sustained serious bodily injuries which required medical treatment and reparative surgery.
This case was investigated by the FBI and the Sisseton-Wahpeton Law Enforcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth A. Ebert-Webb prosecuted the case.
This matter is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office because the Major Crimes Act, a federal statute, mandates that certain violent crimes alleged to have occurred in Indian Country be prosecuted in federal court as opposed to State court.
Ojeda was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Sioux Falls Man Sentenced to over 13 Years in Federal Prison for Conspiring to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that U.S. District Judge Schreier has sentenced a Sioux Falls, South Dakota man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance. The sentencing took place on December 1, 2025.
Alex Lang, 31, was sentenced to 160 months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, fine, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Lang was indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury in April 2025. He pleaded guilty on September 9, 2025.
Lang worked with others to distribute multiple pounds of methamphetamine in Sioux Falls. He obtained methamphetamine from a co-conspirator who investigators identified as sourcing the methamphetamine from Arizona through the mail. Lang then sold methamphetamine to others. In total, investigators believe that Lang was responsible for selling approximately seven pounds of methamphetamine in the community.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
This case was investigated by United States Postal Investigation Service and the Minnehaha County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Hodges prosecuted the case.
Lang was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Shelton Man Sentenced to Prison for Fraudulently Obtaining COVID-19 Relief FundsRead the Press Release
David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that VINCENZO MINUTOLO, 39, of Shelton, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Kari A. Dooley in Bridgeport to 21 months of imprisonment and three years of supervised release for fraudulently obtaining COVID-19 relief funds.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in March 2020, Congress passed the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, which provided emergency financial assistance to Americans suffering the economic effects caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. One source of relief provided by the CARES Act was the authorization of forgivable loans to small businesses for job retention and certain other expenses through the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). In April 2020, Congress approved more than $300 billion in additional PPP funding. The PPP allowed qualifying small businesses and other organizations to receive unsecured loans at an interest rate of 1%. PPP loan proceeds were to be used by businesses on payroll costs, interest on mortgages, rent and utilities. The PPP allowed the interest and principal to be forgiven if businesses spent the proceeds on these expenses within a certain period of time of receipt and used at least a certain percentage of the amount to be forgiven for payroll.
The PPP was overseen by the Small Business Administration, which has authority over all PPP loans. Individual PPP loans, however, were issued by private approved lenders, which received and processed PPP applications and supporting documentation, and then made loans using the lenders’ own funds, which were guaranteed by the SBA.
Minutolo claimed an ownership interest or representative relationship with City Sounds Productions LLC (“City Sounds”). Between March and September 2021, Minutolo defrauded the PPP loan program of more than $145,000 by providing false information on loan applications for City Sounds, including overstating the yearly gross income for City Sounds; misrepresenting that similar PPP loans had not been or would not be sought when he had, in fact, sought and obtained, and intended to seek and obtain, such loans; and providing fraudulent IRS tax filings and tax payment vouchers for City Sounds that had, in fact, never been filed with the IRS. Similarly, on the forgiveness applications he submitted, Minutolo materially misrepresented having complied with all the requirements of the PPP rules.
In addition, the CARES Act created a new temporary federal unemployment insurance program for pandemic unemployment assistance (“Pandemic Unemployment Assistance”). Pandemic Unemployment Assistance provided unemployment insurance (“UI”) benefits for employed individuals who are not eligible for other types of UI due to their employment status. The CARES Act also created a new temporary federal program called Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (“FPUC”) that provided additional weekly benefits to those eligible for Pandemic Unemployment Assistance or regular UI. The Connecticut Department of Labor (CT-DOL) administers UI benefits for residents of Connecticut.
Between March 2020 and April 2021, Minutolo defrauded the CT-DOL of more than $140,000 by providing the CT-DOL with fraudulent Pandemic Unemployment Assistance applications seeking unemployment insurance payments in others’ names, including individuals who had died, and individuals who did not know that their name and sometimes other personal information was being used. One fraudulent application was for Minutolo’s grandfather, who died in 2014, and included a telephone number associated with Minutolo. Minutolo continued to make online weekly certifications to the CT-DOL attesting that the information contained in his grandfather’s application, and other applications, were true in order to receive continued unemployment insurance benefits.
Judge Dooley ordered Minutolo to pay $244,612 in restitution.
On February 28, 2025, Minutolo pleaded guilty to two counts of wire fraud. Released on a $50,000 bond, he is required to report to prison on January 22.
This matter was investigated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security – Office of Inspector General and the U.S. Department of Labor – Office of the Inspector General. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher W. Schmeisser.
Individuals with information about allegations of fraud involving COVID-19 are encouraged to report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721, or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
Senior Manager for Government Contractor Charged in Cybersecurity Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
A federal grand jury in the District of Columbia returned an indictment yesterday charging a former senior manager at a Virginia-based government contractor with major government fraud, wire fraud, and obstructing federal audits for allegedly carrying out a multi-year scheme to mislead federal agencies about the security of a cloud-based platform used by the U.S. Army and other government customers.
According to court documents, from approximately March 2020 through at least November 2021, Danielle Hillmer, 53, of Chantilly, Virginia, allegedly carried out a scheme to defraud the United States by obstructing federal auditors and falsely representing that the contractor’s cloud platform had implemented required security controls. The indictment alleges that, although the platform was marketed as a secure environment for federal agencies, Hillmer concealed the platform’s noncompliance with security controls under the Federal Risk and Authorization Management Program (FedRAMP) and the Department of Defense’s Risk Management Framework. Specifically, the indictment alleges that Hillmer falsely represented that security controls were implemented at the FedRAMP High baseline and at Department of Defense Impact Levels 4 and 5, despite repeated warnings that the system lacked required access controls, logging, monitoring, and other security capabilities.
As part of the scheme, Hillmer allegedly sought to influence and obstruct third-party assessors during required audits in 2020 and 2021 by concealing deficiencies and instructing others to hide the true state of the system during testing and demonstrations. She also allegedly made false and misleading representations to the U.S. Army to induce it to sponsor the platform for a Department of Defense provisional authorization. According to the indictment, Hillmer submitted, and caused others to submit, authorization materials to assessors, authorizing officials and government customers that she knew contained materially false information in order to obtain and maintain government contracts and authorizations to operate.
Hillmer is charged with two counts of wire fraud, one count of major government fraud and two counts of obstruction of a federal audit. If convicted, Hillmer faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison for wire fraud, a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison for major government fraud and a maximum penalty of five years in prison for each count of obstruction of a federal audit. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division and Deputy Inspector General Robert C. Erickson of the U.S. General Services Administration Office of Inspector General (GSA-OIG) made the announcement.
The GSA-OIG, Defense Criminal Investigative Service, Naval Criminal Investigative Service and The Department of the Army Criminal Investigation Division are investigating the case.
Trial Attorneys Lauren Archer and Paul Hayden of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section are prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Rockford Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Prison for Illegally Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
ROCKFORD — A Rockford man was sentenced on Tuesday to 15 years in federal prison for illegally possessing a firearm as a previously convicted felon.
U.S. District Judge Iain D. Johnston imposed the sentence on TIMOTHY GENTRY, 47, during a hearing in federal court in Rockford.
Gentry admitted in a plea agreement that on July 6, 2023, he sold a loaded handgun to a man in Rockford. Unbeknownst to Gentry, the buyer was cooperating with law enforcement. Gentry was previously convicted of multiple violent felonies in state courts and is considered an Armed Career Criminal under federal law.
The sentence was announced by Andrew S. Boutros, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, and Christopher Amon, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago Field Division of the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosive. The Winnebago County, Ill. Sheriff’s Office provided valuable assistance. The government was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan S. Kim.
Holding illegal firearm possessors accountable through federal prosecution is a centerpiece of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). In the Northern District of Illinois, the U.S. Attorney’s Office and law enforcement partners have deployed the PSN program to attack a broad range of violent crime issues facing the district, particularly firearm offenses.
Ringleader of fentanyl trafficking conspiracy sentenced to prisonRead the Press Release
WICHITA, KAN. – An Arizona man was sentenced to 272 months in prison for his part in a drug trafficking ring that transported large amounts of fentanyl into Kansas.
According to court documents, Rafael Turner, 35, of Phoenix, Arizona, and formerly of Wichita, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance.
Beginning on a date unknown and continuing through March 2023, Turner conspired with other people to distribute fentanyl.
“Turner was part of a criminal organization that injected both fentanyl and illegal drug proceeds into our communities,” said IRS-Criminal Investigation’s Special Agent in Charge William Steenson, St. Louis Field Office. “We’re more committed than ever to using our financial expertise to help disrupt these drug trafficking organizations and bring the criminals who run them to justice.”
Forty-five other individuals were prosecuted as part of this overall investigation, which included individuals in Kansas. Across the country, individuals have been sentenced or are awaiting sentencing. Included among them are Clifton Ray Weatherspoon, 33, and Antonio Dawayne Knight, 27, both of Wichita, who were each convicted of one count of possession of fentanyl with intent to distribute. Weatherspoon was sentenced to 300 months in prison. Knight was sentenced to 150 months in prison.
In February 2023, Weatherspoon and Knight traveled by plane from Wichita to Phoenix, Arizona, to purchase 300,000 fentanyl pills. They packed the pills into two suitcases, checked the luggage under their names, and flew back to Wichita. Pursuant to a federal search warrant, law enforcement officers seized one of the bags before it reached the baggage claim area. They x-rayed and searched the luggage and discovered 15 bags stuffed inside containing 150,000 fentanyl pills. Agents arrested Weatherspoon and Knight, who had by then retrieved the second suitcase from baggage claim. A search of that bag showed it also contained approximately 150,000 fentanyl pills.
“Over the past few years, the federal government has partnered with state and local governments as well as community groups to curtail the fentanyl crisis. The prosecution of this large drug conspiracy was part of that work. However, we are not done in these efforts. While we try to save lives by raising awareness about the dangers of fentanyl, criminals seek to undermine that hard work” said U.S. Attorney Ryan A. Kriegshauser. “Fentanyl dealers have little to no regard for human life and are willing to let children get ahold of this poison in efforts to turn a profit. We are grateful to law enforcement agents whose investigations keep this toxic substance off our streets.”
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Wichita Police Department, Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office, IRS-Criminal Investigation, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Debra Barnett and Ola Odeyemi prosecuted the case.
This prosecution is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF Wichita comprises agents and officers from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Agency (ATF), U.S. Marshals Service, and Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigative Division (IRS-CID) with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Kansas.
###Registered Sex Offender Convicted of Sex Trafficking Minors Sentenced to 17 years’ ImprisonmentRead the Press Release
DETROIT – A convicted sex offender, Kevin Lavon Giles, was sentenced to 17 years’ imprisonment for sex trafficking two minors and one adult by the Honorable Terrence G. Berg. Giles was convicted after a seven-day trial in July 2025, United States Attorney Jerome F. Gorgon, Jr. announced.
Gorgon was joined in the announcement by Jennifer Runyan, Special Agent in Charge of the Detroit Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Giles, 59, of Detroit, was convicted of two counts of sex trafficking children and through force, fraud, or coercion, and one count of sex trafficking an adult through force, fraud, or coercion.
The testimony at trial proved Giles exploited his female victims by requiring them to perform commercial sex acts in return for shelter for them and their children. Two of Giles’s victims were under 18 at the time he trafficked them. Giles posted advertisements for commercial sex for all of his victims, arranged their commercial sex dates, and collected the proceeds of the sex acts. Witnesses testified that Giles used hidden cameras to monitor the sex acts of all of his victims and to direct the sex acts of the adult victim.
“The defendant is wicked and loathsome. He forced women and girls to sell their bodies while he watched,” U.S. Attorney Gorgon said. “The court sentenced him. But the full measure of justice is waiting for him.”
“Coercing and trafficking women and children is an evil crime that must be stopped,” said Jennifer Runyan, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Detroit Field Office. “FBI Detroit remains committed to protecting vulnerable people in our society and stopping anyone who seeks to exploit them. I want to recognize the dedicated members from the Southeast Michigan Trafficking and Exploitation Crimes (SEMTEC) Task Force for their outstanding investigative work throughout this case, as well as the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Michigan for their successful prosecution in securing this lengthy sentence.”
The FBI’s Southeast Michigan Trafficking and Exploitation Crimes Task Force investigated this. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Diane Princ and Ranya Elzein prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States.
Recovery Centers of America Agrees to Pay $2 Million to Resolve Allegations That It Violated the Controlled Substances Act and the False Claims Act by Mishandling Controlled Substances and Providing Inadequate Treatment ServicesRead the Press Release
PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney David Metcalf announced today that Recovery Centers of America (RCA) has agreed to pay $1,000,000 to resolve allegations that it failed to comply with provisions of the Controlled Substances Act (CSA) that are designed to prevent the diversion of controlled substances for illegal uses, and an additional $1,000,000 to resolve allegations that it violated the False Claims Act (FCA) by billing the government for drug and alcohol treatment services that it failed to adequately provide.
The United States’ allegations under the CSA arise from audits and investigations the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) conducted at RCA facilities in Pennsylvania and Maryland between 2019 and 2024. Based on those audits and investigations, the United States contends that RCA dispensed controlled substances in an unlawful manner, that certain controlled substances were missing from the company’s records, and that the company failed to comply with additional recordkeeping requirements of the CSA.
In addition, the United States alleges that, at certain facilities during a period from 2017 through 2019, RCA violated the FCA by billing the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program and Medicaid for the care of beneficiaries to whom it failed to provide and document the requisite treatment services.
“Drug and alcohol treatment facilities must prescribe and store controlled substances in a manner that comports with rules designed to ensure that dangerous drugs do not fall into the wrong hands. They also must provide treatment services that comply with all governing laws and regulations,” said U.S. Attorney Metcalf. “When they fail in either of those critical duties they will face significant consequences.”
“When rehabilitation and treatment centers do not live up to their obligations, our office will vigorously pursue the violations,” said Thomas Hodnett, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Philadelphia Division. “Careless behavior and failure to adhere to the provisions of the CSA allows for substances to be diverted and sold without accountability.”
“This settlement underscores our agency’s steadfast commitment to investigating alleged False Claims Act violations targeting federal health care programs,” said Maureen Dixon, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “Unlawful dispensing of controlled substances and billing for unprovided care endanger patients and defraud taxpayers. HHS-OIG will continue working with our partners to hold providers accountable and protect patient safety.”
“Patients seeking to recover from addiction should be able to trust that treatment facilities will provide safe, legitimate care in support of their health,” said Derek M. Holt, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Office of Personnel Management Office of Inspector General (OPM-OIG). “We thank our dedicated staff and federal law enforcement partners for holding accountable those facilities that instead seek to exploit vulnerable federal employees and their family members.”
The settlement resolves a lawsuit filed under the whistleblower provisions of the False Claims Act, which permit private parties to sue on behalf of the government when they believe that a defendant has submitted false claims for government funds and receive a share of any recovery. The settlement in this case provides for the whistleblower, a former Outcomes Supervisor at RCA’s corporate headquarters in King of Prussia, Pa., to receive a $230,000 share of the settlement amount. The qui tam case is captioned U.S. ex rel. McLoyd v. TRC-OC, Trading as Recovery Centers of America Holdings, LLC, No. 17-cv-5164 (E.D. Pa.).
The resolution obtained in this matter was the result of a coordinated effort among the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, the DEA, the Office of Personnel Management Office of Inspector General, and the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General.
The matter was handled in the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Peter Carr and Charlene Keller Fullmer and former auditor Dawn Wiggins.
The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only; there has been no determination of liability.
Pickaway County man faces federal drug, gun chargesRead the Press Release
COLUMBUS, Ohio – A federal grand jury has indicted an Ashville, Ohio, man, charging him with trafficking in bulk amounts of fentanyl, cocaine and methamphetamine, and with illegally possessing firearms.
Samuel A. Griffith, 35, is charged in a six-count indictment.
According to charging documents, in October 2025, Griffith allegedly sold narcotics from a room at the Red Roof Inn on Renner Road in Columbus. When law enforcement agents executed a search warrant at the location, they discovered 18 firearms and kilogram quantities of fentanyl, cocaine and methamphetamine.
As a convicted felon, Griffith is prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition. Griffith has at least three prior felony convictions in Franklin and Pickaway counties for robbery, aggravated possession of drugs and illegally having weapons.
Griffith is charged with federal drug distribution and possession charges that carry potential punishments of at least 10 years and up to life in prison and five to 40 years in prison. Griffith faces up to 15 years in prison for illegally possessing a firearm as a convicted felon.
Dominick S. Gerace II, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio; Jorge Rosendo, Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF); Columbus Police Chief Elaine Bryant; Ohio State Highway Patrol Superintendent Col. Charles A. Jones; Pickaway County Sheriff Matthew O. Hafey; Fairfield County Sheriff Alex Lape; and Franklin County Sheriff Dallas Baldwin announced the indictment filed on Dec. 4. The South-Central Ohio Major Crimes Unit, Columbus Division of Police Gang Enforcement Unit, Franklin County Sheriff’s Office Special Investigations Unit and the Ohio State Highway Patrol Special Response Team participated in the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Kevin W. Kelley is representing the United States in this case.
An indictment merely contains allegations, and defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.
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Pennsylvania Man Found Guilty After 2-Day Jury TrialRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – On December 10, 2025, Keisand Santiago-Maldonado, 33 years old, of Milton, Pennsylvania, was convicted of one felony drug count after a two-day jury trial before United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty, announced Acting United States Attorney M. Scott Proctor.
Santiago-Maldonado was found guilty of possession with intent to distribute over 500 grams of a mixture and substance containing cocaine.
Sentencing is scheduled for March 25, 2026.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration with assistance from the LaPorte County Sheriff’s Department and the Indiana State Police Laboratory Division. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Lydia T. Lucius, Hannah T Jones, and Acting Criminal Division Chief Joseph P. Falvey.
North Carolina man sentenced to 10 years in prison for trafficking 10 kilos of cocaineRead the Press Release
NORFOLK, Va. – A North Carolina man was sentenced this week to 10 years in prison for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 10 kilograms of cocaine.
According to court documents, Kareem Akeem McMurrin, 41, and another person conspired to ship a package containing 10 kilograms of cocaine from San Diego, California, to Portsmouth.
“McMurrin’s conduct was inherently dangerous and damaging on a transnational scale,” said Lindsey Halligan, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia. “He attempted to contribute to the success of a dangerous and larger enterprise. This administration has prioritized the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations and to protect our communities from their crimes. My office will persist in prosecuting drug traffickers to achieve these goals.”
“This is a result of local, state, and federal assets working together to achieve a common goal. DEA alongside the Norfolk Police Department accept this mission every day to protect our citizens,” said Christopher Goumenis, Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Washington Division. “By intercepting this shipment of drugs and apprehending those involved, we are taking significant steps toward dismantling dangerous transnational drug networks and ensuring public safety.”
“Postal Inspectors work aggressively to eliminate illegal narcotics from the U.S. Mail,” said Damon E. Wood, Inspector in Charge, U.S. Postal Inspection Service – Washington Division. "Our dedication to these efforts helps us to protect both our employees and the public from this criminal activity. By working closely with our law enforcement partners, we were able to bring this case to a successful resolution.”
On Feb. 5, law enforcement investigators intercepted a package containing 10 kilograms of cocaine. The cocaine was removed from the package and the parcel was delivered to the intended address where it was retrieved by McMurrin. When investigators attempted to arrest McMurrin, he fled at a high rate of speed with his adolescent child in the vehicle. McMurrin attempted to discard the package and continued to flee. Investigators located McMurrin in March and took him into custody on an outstanding warrant.
The Drug Enforcement Administration and the U.S. Postal Inspection Services investigated this case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kevin Comstock and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Marc W. West, an Assistant Attorney General with the Virginia Attorney General’s Office, prosecuted the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:25-cr-84.
New York Man Pleads Guilty to Mortgage Fraud and Maintaining an Illegal Marijuana Grow HouseRead the Press Release
BANGOR, Maine: A New York man pleaded guilty today in U.S. District Court in Bangor to submitting a false mortgage loan application and maintaining a marijuana-involved premises.
According to court records, Ken Yiu, 49, of New York City, purchased a house in Saint Albans using an $80,000 residential mortgage loan he obtained from a Maine bank. To receive the funding, Yiu submitted a loan application in which he answered “Yes” to the question, “Do you intend to occupy the property as your primary residence?” Yiu never intended to occupy the property in Saint Albans as a residence. From September 2020 through January 2024, he instead used the property to grow and distribute marijuana.
In December 2024, federal law enforcement agents interviewed Yiu. During the interview, Yiu admitted selling marijuana he grew at his property in Saint Albans to buyers in Massachusetts. A federal search warrant for the property was executed in January 2025. The search confirmed that the property had been used and maintained by Yiu to grow and distribute marijuana.
Yiu faces up to 30 years in prison and a maximum fine of $1 million for the mortgage fraud count and 20 years in prison and a maximum fine of $500,000 for the drug count. He will be sentenced after the completion of a presentence investigative report by the U.S. Probation Office. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Neither Yiu nor his property was licensed through the Maine Office of Cannabis Policy.
The FBI, U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, and IRS Criminal Investigation investigated the case.
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New Orleans Man Guilty of Violations of Federal Controlled Substances and Federal Gun Control ActsRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that AUSTIN MONTGOMERY (“MONTGOMERY”), age 37, a resident of New Orleans, pleaded guilty on November 20, 2025 to Counts 1 and 3, of an indictment charging him with violations of the Federal Controlled Substances Act and the Federal Gun Control Act.
In Count 1 of the indictment, MONTGOMERY is charged with possession with the intent to distribute forty (40) grams or more of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and (b)(1)(B)(vi). For this count, MONTGOMERY faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of five (5) years up to a maximum of forty (40) years imprisonment. A fine up to $5,000,000.00 may be imposed, as well as a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00. A period of supervised release of at least 4 years may also be imposed.
In Count 3 of the indictment, MONTGOMERY is charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8). For this count, MONTGOMERY faces a maximum term of imprisonment of fifteen (15) years, a fine up to $250,000.00, a period of supervised release up to 3 years, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00.
According to court documents, on September 14, 2023, the New Orleans Police Department (“NOPD”) was conducting surveillance in the 2400 block of Clio Street and observed MONTGOMERY operating a white Dodge Charger approached by an unknown individual
operating a Ford Maverick. The unknown individual gave MONTGOMERY U.S. currency and in return, MONTGOMERY sold the individual a controlled substance. After the transaction, another individual entered the passenger side of MONTGOMERY’s vehicle MONTGOMERY and they drove together to a Shell gas station in the 2700 block of South Claiborne Avenue. MONTGOMERY then exited the vehicle with a firearm concealed in his waistband. NOPD officers in marked units entered the gas station parking lot and positioned their vehicles in front of and behind the Charger. MONTGOMERY attempted to exit the parking lot but was unable to do so due to the positioning of the vehicles. Thereafter, NOPD officers lawfully detained MONTGOMERY and recovered a Glock Model 27 Gen 4, .40 caliber pistol, from his waistband.
Officers also saw a large quantity of fentanyl, a loaded Keltec, multicaliber .223/5x56 rifle, and a Glock model 19X, nine-millimeter caliber pistol on the front seat of the vehicle. Officers, after getting a vehicle search warrant, also found a box of Glad sandwich bags, a digital scale, and, various white and blue pills.
A search warrant was also executed at MONTGOMERY’s residence and officers located various items of contraband used to facilitate drug trafficking and marijuana.
MONTGOMERY is a convicted felon and is federally prohibited from possessing firearms.
United States District Judge Carl J. Barbier will sentence MONTGOMERY on February 26, 2026.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the New Orleans Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Brittany Reed of the Violent Crime Unit.
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Mount Airy Man Facing Federal Indictment for Sexually Exploiting Minors to Produce Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
Baltimore, Maryland – A federal grand jury returned an indictment today, charging Mark Travis Brigham, 36, of Mount Airy, Maryland, with seven counts of sexual exploitation of a child and one count of possession of child sexual abuse material.
Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the indictment with Acting Special Agent in Charge Evan Campanella, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) – Maryland; Sheriff Charles A. Jenkins, Frederick County Sheriff’s Office; and J. Charles Smith III, State’s Attorney for Frederick County.
According to the indictment, between September 2023 and December 2024, Brigham persuaded, induced, enticed, and coerced two minor females to engage in sexually explicit conduct. Brigham exploited the minors for the purpose of producing visual depictions of the sexually explicit conduct. Further, the indictment alleges that Brigham possessed child sexual abuse material on four digital devices.
If convicted, Brigham faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years and a maximum sentence of 30 years in federal prison for each of the seven counts of sexual exploitation of a minor. Additionally, Brigham faces a maximum of 10 years in federal prison for one count of possessing child sexual abuse material.
Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge determines sentencing after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
An indictment is not a finding of guilt. Individuals charged by indictment are presumed innocent until proven guilty at a later criminal proceeding.
This case is part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, visit justice.gov/psc. For more information about Internet safety education, visit justice.gov/psc and click on the “Resources” tab on the left of the page.
U.S. Attorney Hayes commended HSI, Frederick County Sheriff’s Office, and State’s Attorney’s Office for Frederick County, for their work in the investigation. Ms. Hayes also thanked Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexandria A. Bell and Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul E. Budlow who are prosecuting the federal case.
For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, visit justice.gov/usao-md and justice.gov/usao-md/community-outreach.
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Mexican man sentenced for illegal reentryRead the Press Release
MISSOULA – A man from Mexico who was in the United States illegally was sentenced today to time served – 200 days in custody – to be followed by one year of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Eduardo Heriberto Mendoza-Almanza, 41, pleaded guilty to one count of illegal reentry of a removed alien.
U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided.
The government alleged in court documents that Mendoza-Almanza was arrested on April 6, 2025, in Belgrade, Montana, after an officer stopped him for driving with no license plate light after dark. He was identified with his Mexico driver’s license. His driving privileges were suspended in Montana and revoked in New Mexico. He also had numerous active warrants. He was arrested for driving without a license.
Mendoza-Almanza has been removed from the U.S. on eight prior occasions:
- March 6, 2006
- February 2, 2007
- February 22, 2007
- February 25, 2007
- May 11, 2007
- January 11, 2008
- June 18, 2011
- September 5, 2023
He was convicted previously of felony illegal reentry in Montana on March 15, 2023. He was sentenced to time served and removed. There is no record he applied for or was granted permission by the Attorney General or the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security to return to the United States.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case. Immigration and Customs Enforcement conducted the investigation.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
Mexican National Sentenced to Life Imprisonment in the Hostage Taking and Murdering U.S. Citizen in TijuanaRead the Press Release
SAN DIEGO – Brian Alexis Patron Lopez, a Mexican National, was sentenced in federal court today to life imprisonment. The sentence comes after a federal jury found Patron guilty for his role in the kidnapping, hostage taking, torture, and murder of 18-year-old M.A.R., a U.S. citizen whose death was punishment for a drug dispute.
The jury deliberated for less than a full day at the end of a seven-day trial. The jury found Patron guilty on all counts, including Intentional Killing While Engaged in Drug Trafficking, Hostage Taking Resulting in Death, and Conspiracy to Commit Hostage Taking Resulting in Death.
“Here’s a wakeup call to drug traffickers and cartel members in Tijuana: You harm an American, you will face American justice,” said U.S. Attorney Adam Gordon, “This sentence appropriately reflects the grim reality of drug trafficking in Tijuana. But, the FBI and U.S. Attorney’s Office will continue to secure justice for crimes against American citizens even if they occur south of the border.”
“Patron’s callous and blatant disregard for human life is unconscionable,” said Mark Dargis, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI San Diego Field Office. “Today’s life sentence is the price Patron must pay for such a gruesome attack on a U.S. citizen and the pain inflicted on his family. The FBI will always work relentlessly with our law enforcement partners devoting every available resource, tool, and technique at our disposable to hold violent criminals accountable and seek justice for our citizens.”
The victim was abducted from a hotel in Tijuana, Mexico on May 29, 2020. He was then beaten, tortured, and finally shot to death, all while his attackers sought a ransom from his family. His body was recovered on a hillside in Tijuana six days later.
According to evidence presented at trial, on May 29, 2020, at approximately 11:57 p.m., Patron and others forcibly removed the victim from his hotel room. Patron and others punched, kicked, and pistol-whipped M.A.R. Once subdued, the attackers put M.A.R. in a waiting car and drove away.
Patron and his co-conspirators then drove M.A.R. to Patron’s neighborhood, where they continued to beat and torture M.A.R. At around the same time, Patron and his co-conspirators began to make ransom demands on M.A.R.’s family over texts and calls, with the demand ranging from $2,000 to $3,000 to methamphetamine in exchange for M.A.R.’s release.
In the afternoon of May 30, 2020, Patron and his co-conspirators brought M.A.R. to a different motel and then to an apartment before bringing him to a deserted hillside on the night of May 30, 2020. There, Patron fatally shot M.A.R., even as his family attempted to pay his ransom.
During the trial, the government presented evidence connecting Patron to the crimes, including Facebook messages between Patron and co-conspirators about the crimes, plus surveillance video that captured the kidnapping outside a Tijuana hotel. In that video, Patron wore a jacket that matched the one he wore earlier in the night. Patron’s bracelet was left behind at the kidnapping and was later recovered by law enforcement. Patron was wearing the same bracelet in Facebook photos posted before the murder. Jurors were also presented with the call logs and WhatsApp messages with the ransom demands and proof-of-life evidence.
At sentencing, a member of the victim’s family informed the Court that the Defendant “didn’t just take [the victim’s] life, he took a part of mine.” She continued, explaining that “every day, I wake up with pain that will never go away.” And closed by telling the Court, “I want [the Defendant] to carry the weight of what he did for the rest of his life.”
Judge Hayes addressed the Defendant and told him, “You literally walked the victim to his death.” Judge Hayes explained that the victim must have known at some point that he would be killed and, as the Defendant walked the victim down a deserted Tijuana hillside, the victim “knew that he was going to die alone, left with the trash on the hill.” But the Defendant did not care. “You executed him, turned around, walked up that hill and you left.” Judge Hayes added that the victim’s parents “will live with that until they die.”
Judge Hayes closed by sentencing the Defendant to life, as required by statute, on the hostage-taking resulting in death counts, and 420 months (35 years), followed by five years’ Supervised Release for intentional killing while engaged in drug trafficking. All counts to run concurrent.
Assistant U. S. Attorneys Mario Peia and Alexandra F. Foster prosecuted this case.
DEFENDANT Case Number 21CR1683-WQH
Brian Alexis Patron Lopez Age: 24 Tijuana, Mexico
AKA Leobardo Garcia
SUMMARY OF CHARGE
Intentional Killing While Engaged in Drug Trafficking, in violation of 21 U.S.C. § 848(e)(1)(A)
Maximum Penalty: Life in Prison
Minimum Penalty: Twenty years in Prison
Hostage Taking Resulting in Death, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1203
Maximum Penalty: Life in Prison
Minimum Penalty: Life in Prison
Conspiracy to Take Hostages Resulting in Death, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1203.
Maximum Penalty: Life in Prison
Minimum Penalty: Life in Prison
INVESTIGATING AGENCY
Federal Bureau of Investigation
This case is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF San Diego comprises agents and officers from FBI, Homeland Security Investigations, DEA, ATF, U.S. Marshals, Department of Defense, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Naval Criminal Investigative Service, IRS Criminal Investigation, U.S. Coast Guard, U.S. Customs and Border Protection and Interpol, with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of California.
Mexican National Pleads Guilty to Illegally Reentering the United States and Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – A Mexican National pleaded guilty in federal court yesterday to illegal reentry and alien in possession of a firearm.
Israel Ramirez-Jaramillo, 33, pleaded guilty before Chief Magistrate Judge Willie J. Epps, Jr. to a federal indictment charging him with one count of illegal reentry and one count of alien in possession of a firearm.
According to the plea agreement filed in the case, on April 20, 2025, Osage Beach Police Department officers were called to an apartment building regarding a report of shots fired and a domestic disturbance. Upon their arrival, officers contacted the subjects reportedly engaged in the domestic disturbance. The investigation revealed that Ramirez-Jaramillo and his girlfriend had been at a party earlier in the evening and upon coming back to her apartment, got into an argument. Witness statements indicated that after a neighbor who had overheard the argument went outside to check on the girlfriend, Ramirez-Jaramillo retrieved a firearm from his vehicle, walked towards the neighbor’s apartment while making a threatening statement, and then discharged the firearm into the air.
Officers eventually located the firearm and loaded magazine in the toilet upon which Ramirez-Jaramillo was seated.
In his plea agreement, Ramirez-Jaramillo admitted that he was first removed from the United States on April 5, 2011, at San Ysidro, California. His initial order of removal was reinstated after he was apprehended by U.S. Border Patrol on April 13, 2011, near Cowlic, Arizona. Ramirez-Jaramillo was again removed from the United States to Mexico on July 13, 2011, at Brownsville, Texas.
Under federal statutes, Ramirez-Jaramillo is subject to a sentence of up to 15 years in federal prison without parole for the firearms offense, and up to two years on the illegal reentry offense. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Cecily L. Hicks. It was investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement – Homeland Security Investigations and Enforcement and Removal Operations, and Osage Beach Police Department.
Operation Take Back America
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
Mexican Felon Returns to Prison for Meth TraffickingRead the Press Release
SAN ANTONIO – A Mexican national was sentenced in a federal court in San Antonio to 155 months in prison for trafficking methamphetamine.
According to court documents, Cesar Sepulveda Esquivel aka Cesar Sepulveda Jimenez, 47, of Piedras Negras, was identified as a supplier for methamphetamine and cocaine in December 2022. A joint investigation resulted in multiple narcotics transactions between Jan. 11 and April 5, 2023.
Esquivel was arrested at his home on May 24, 2023, and was found to be in possession of a 45-caliber handgun, two ounces of marijuana, several grams of methamphetamine, and 10 grams of cocaine. He pleaded guilty on Aug. 13, 2025, and was sentenced Dec. 8 by U.S. District Judge David Ezra.
In 2008, Esquivel was convicted of possession with intent to distribute cocaine. He served 48 months in prison before being removed to Mexico. Esquivel illegally returned to the U.S. in 2022, continuing to distribute narcotics.
U.S. Attorney Justin R. Simmons for the Western District of Texas made the announcement.
The DEA and Texas Department of Public Safety Criminal Investigations Division investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Spears prosecuted the case.
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Mescalero Man Sentenced for AssaultRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Mescalero man was sentenced to 57 months in prison for assaulting a woman and causing severe injuries.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court records, on June 27, 2024, Myron Edward Blake, Jr., 40, an enrolled member of the Mescalero Apache Tribe, assaulted Jane Doe with a cinder block and a 2x6 board, causing substantial bodily injury.
Blake pleaded guilty to one count of assault resulting in substantial bodily injury. Upon his release from prison, Blake will be subject to three years of supervised release.
Acting U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison made the announcement today.
The Bureau of Indian Affairs investigated this case. The Assistant U.S. Attorney Silvia Delgado is prosecuting the case.
Management Company for Major Metro Detroit Auto Dealer to Pay $1.5 Million to Settle Fraud Allegations Regarding Paycheck Protection Program LoanRead the Press Release
DETROIT – United States Attorney Jerome F. Gorgon, Jr. announced today that LaFontaine Management, Inc., which is affiliated with the network of auto dealerships and other related entities in Michigan known as the LaFontaine Automotive Group, has agreed to pay $1,500,000 to settle allegations that it violated the False Claims Act by making false statements to the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) to obtain a Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan for which LaFontaine Management was ineligible.
Congress created the PPP in March 2020 to provide emergency financial assistance to American businesses suffering from the economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Under the PPP, eligible small businesses could receive forgivable loans guaranteed by the SBA. Regulations imposed various eligibility requirements for the PPP, including limitations on the number of employees and restrictions for certain types of businesses operating as franchises, such as auto dealerships. When applying for PPP loans, borrowers were required to certify the truthfulness and accuracy of all information provided in their loan applications.
In April 2020, LaFontaine Management obtained a first draw PPP loan for $1,000,000. The United States alleged that LaFontaine Management falsely certified it was eligible for its first draw loan and loan forgiveness, even though, together with its affiliates, it had more than 500 employees and was not operating as a franchise with a franchise identifier code from SBA, in violation of the PPP rules.
“Even though the PPP Program has ended, our mandate to investigate and redress the harm from fraudulent and improper PPP loans continues,” said U.S. Attorney Jerome F. Gorgon, Jr. for the Eastern District of Michigan. “We will continue to vigorously pursue allegations against companies and individuals who obtained COVID-19 relief funds that they didn’t deserve.”
“Investigations like this one reflect collaboration of the Small Business Administration, including SBA’s Office of General Counsel, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office, as well as the work of private individuals who uncover fraudulent conduct to recover funds obtained through fraud,” said SBA General Counsel Wendell Davis.
This civil settlement resolved a sealed lawsuit originally filed under the qui tam or whistleblower provisions of the False Claims Act, which permit private parties to file suit on behalf of the United States for false claims and share in a portion of the government’s recovery. The qui tam lawsuit has been unsealed and is captioned U.S. ex rel. Patricia Lesko and Bram Lesko v. Lafontaine Management, Inc., Case No. 2:23-cv-13130. The whistleblowers will receive a combined 15% of the settlement amount.
This matter was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Anthony Gentner from the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Michigan, with assistance from the SBA’s Office of General Counsel.
Individuals with information about allegations of fraud involving COVID-19 are encouraged to report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form
The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only; there has been no determination of liability.
Madison Man Sentenced for Possession with Intent to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – Willie Frank Hicks, 42, of Madison, Florida, has been sentenced to a 10-year term of imprisonment for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “Thanks to the excellent work of our state and federal law enforcement partners, my office has been able to deliver another successful prosecution that will keep this drug dealer off our streets. Meth has a devastating impact on the communities where it proliferates, but drug traffickers’ days are numbered in the Northern District of Florida as my office aggressively pursues prosecutions like these to keep our residents safe and our streets drug-free.”
Court documents reflect that on May 29, 2025, Madison County Sheriff’s Office deputies on patrol conducted a traffic stop of a vehicle occupied by the defendant. During the traffic stop, the defendant attempted to flee the scene on foot and was subsequently apprehended by deputies. After being detained, the defendant was found in possession of approximately one kilogram of methamphetamine.
“Methamphetamine is the second most common substance found in people who die from a drug poisoning,” said Drug Enforcement Administration Miami Field Division Special Agent in Charge Deanne L. Reuter. “With meth, addiction is all but guaranteed. Our agents will not stop until distributors of this poison have been brought to justice.”
The case involved a joint investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Madison County Sheriff’s Office, and Florida Highway Patrol. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Eric K Mountin and James McCain.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America (https://www.justice.gov/dag/media/1393746/dl?inline ) a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
Lynn Man Pleads Guilty to Sex Trafficking Two WomenRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Lynn man pleaded guilty yesterday to benefitting financially from trafficking two women for sex and knowingly persuading and coercing both women to travel to another state to engage in prostitution.
Anthony Coleman, 36, pleaded guilty to two counts of benefitting financially from trafficking and one count of knowingly persuading and coercing a person to travel to engage in prostitution. U.S. District Court Judge Richard G. Stearns scheduled sentencing for March 11, 2026. Coleman was indicted by a federal grand jury in April 2024. He remains in federal custody.
Coleman targeted victims who had lost their jobs or homes during the COVID-19 pandemic shutdowns in March through August of 2020. Coleman had his victims move with him into a house in Lawrence, posted or controlled online commercial sex advertisements for them, provided them scripts to negotiate payment and terms with commercial sex buyers and transported his victims to hotels and other places to engage in commercial sex – requiring them to give him all the money they made. Coleman also regularly coerced and forced his victims to have sex with him.
Specifically, in March 2020, Coleman recruited one victim who had lost her job due to the pandemic. The victim would sometimes serve up to 10-16 clients per day, with Coleman taking all the profits. Coleman also took the victim to Florida on multiple occasions and had her engage in commercial sex in Florida. Coleman also physically abused the victim – one time holding the victim underwater and threatening to drown her.
Around March and April 2020, Coleman recruited a second victim, convincing her to come live with him after she was kicked out of her home by a relative following their disagreements around COVID-19 safety practices. The victim was unable to get a job because many businesses were closed due to COVID-19. The victim began engaging in commercial sex for Coleman and in May 2020, Coleman persuaded the victim to travel to California to engage in commercial sex. When she wanted to leave Coleman threatened the victim – telling her that if she left, he would hurt her mother and her sibling.
The charges of benefitting financially from trafficking provides for a sentence of up to life in prison, up to five years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. The charge of knowingly persuading and coercing a person to travel to engage in prostitution provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, up to three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Michael J. Krol, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in New England made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Massachusetts State Police and the Revere and Cambridge Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorney Torey B. Cummings of the Human Trafficking & Civil Rights Unit is prosecuting the case.
Local cell phone stores employee charged federally with child pornography, video voyeurism crimesRead the Press Release
COLUMBUS, Ohio – Federal agents arrested a Grove City man today who has been charged federally with child pornography and video voyeurism crimes.
Neil Brown, 41, worked at multiple cell phone stores in Columbus and allegedly captured nude photos and videos from customers’ phones.
A cyber tipline received in January 2025 led investigators to search Brown’s digital accounts and devices.
According to charging documents, Brown was employed by Cellular Sales and would take the phones of female customers and search through them for illicit content. Brown then allegedly created videos of the content on his own phone. To date, investigators have identified three victimized customers.
Investigators also discovered more than 75 images and videos of child pornography on Brown’s cell phone. Brown allegedly paid virtual currency on an app to receive videos of child sexual abuse material.
Brown was initially arrested locally and charged with pandering obscenity involving a minor. The federal charges have superseded the local ones, and the local charges have now been dismissed.
The defendant appeared in federal court today at 2:30pm and his case was unsealed at that time.
Dominick S. Gerace II, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio; Jason Cromartie, Special Agent in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Cincinnati Division; Franklin County Sheriff Dallas Baldwin and other members of the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force announced the charges. Assistant United States Attorney Emily Czerniejewski is representing the United States in this case.
A criminal complaint merely contains allegations, and defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.
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Law Enforcement Announces Drones Restricted Near Saturday's Army-Navy Game at M&T Bank StadiumRead the Press Release
Baltimore, Maryland – The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) – Baltimore Field Office announced today, there is a Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) in place for the Army-Navy Game taking place this Saturday, December 13, at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland. This area is considered a No-Drone Zone from 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Game time is set for 3 p.m.
Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the TFR with Special Agent in Charge Jimmy Paul, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) – Baltimore Field Office.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is implementing the TFR which extends for a two-nautical mile radius around the stadium and up to 2,000 feet above ground level. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland and FBI Baltimore Field Office are reminding the public to heed these restrictions, along with local and federal partners including the FAA, Federal Air Marshals Service, Naval Criminal Investigation Service, Department of the Army Criminal Investigation Division, United States Secret Service, Baltimore Police Department, and Maryland State Police. Law enforcement will enforce local and federal laws regarding Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), commonly known as drones.
“Operating a drone in restricted airspace is dangerous and against the law. An Unmanned Aircraft System operator could lose control of the drone, threatening the safety and lives of those below, or interfere with air operations around the stadium,” Hayes said. “As we have demonstrated in the past by bringing charges where appropriate, the office remains committed to investigating and prosecuting anyone who violates the no-drone zone in effect during the Army-Navy Game at M&T Bank Stadium this weekend.”“Illegally flying a drone is a safety and security risk to a large crowd,” said Paul. “The FBI is committed to working with our local, state and federal partners to ensure the Army-Navy game remains a special experience for all and to keep everyone safe as they enjoy America’s game.”
Members of the public are encouraged to report all suspicious activity. Law enforcement will actively monitor the airways for illegal UAS/drones and is committed to identifying, investigating, disrupting, and prosecuting the careless or criminal use of drones in the area.
There is a zero-tolerance policy regarding any UAS/drone use anywhere within the No Drone Zone established by the FAA. Anyone who attempts to fly a UAS/drone in any prohibited manner may be subject to arrest, prosecution, fines, and/or imprisonment.
Learn more about all federal UAS/drone regulations on the FAA website.
Las Cruces Man Pleads Guilty to Two Bank RobberiesRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Las Cruces man pleaded guilty in federal court to robbing two banks in February 2025.
According to court documents, on February 12, 2025, Daniel Guereca, 29, robbed the U.S. Bank in Los Lunas, New Mexico. Wearing a black hoodie and a white mask, Guereca passed a handwritten demand note to two tellers before fleeing the bank with at least $6,000 in cash. Guereca then escaped the scene with the assistance of Breanne Gallegos, 29, who was waiting in the getaway vehicle and who had written the demand note that Guereca used.
Eight days later, on February 20, 2025, Guereca robbed the PNC Bank in Las Cruces, New Mexico. Wearing a green hat, white mask, black hoodie, Adidas jacket, and sunglasses, Guereca again passed a handwritten note, claiming he was armed and demanding $20,000. The teller turned over $3,313 before Guereca fled the bank, leaving the demand note behind. Guereca then escaped the scene with the assistance of, Aarika Cuevas, 35, who was waiting in the getaway vehicle, who had written the demand note that Guereca used for this second bank robbery, and who had entered PNC bank a few minutes before the robbery to assess the feasibility of robbing the bank.
Fingerprint analysis of the demand note recovered from the PNC Bank positively identified Guereca as the robber, and surveillance footage from both incidents showed a suspect matching his height and build.
Photos from US Bank Robbery on Feb. 12, 2025 Photos from PNC Bank Robbery on Feb. 20, 2025Guereca pleaded guilty to bank robbery and faces up to 20 years in federal prison. Upon his release from prison, Guereca will be subject to three years of supervised release.
Gallegos pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit bank robbery and faces up to five years in federal prison. Upon her release from prison, Gallegos will be subject to three years of supervised release. Cuevas is currently charged with one count of conspiracy to commit bank robbery and likewise faces up to five years in federal prison if convicted.
Acting U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Las Cruces Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with the assistance of the Las Cruces Police Department, the Los Lunas Police Department, and the Valencia County Sheriff's Office. Criminal Chief Richard Williams and Assistant U.S. Attorney Grant B. Gardner are prosecuting the cases.
Kyle Man Found Guilty of Assault Following Federal Jury TrialRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a jury has convicted Oliver Brown Bull, age 37, of Kyle, South Dakota, of Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury following a 3-day jury trial in federal district court in Rapid City. The verdict was returned on December 4, 2025.
The charges carry a maximum penalty of ten years in custody and/or a $250,000 fine, three years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
Brown Bull was indicted by a federal grand jury in March 2025, for two counts of Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury and one count of Assault with a Dangerous Weapon. At the conclusion of a federal jury trial, he was found guilty of assaulting one victim and not guilty of assaulting another victim.
On January 31, 2025, in the Pine Ridge Reservation, Brown Bull assaulted another man by pushing him to the ground and punching him multiple times in the face. Brown Bull then kicked the victim in the face. As a result, the victim suffered several injuries, including a broken eye socket, a laceration around his eye, two broken bones in his nose, and severe bruising. At the time of trial, the victim was still suffering from the assault, including continued pain and disfigurement.
This matter was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office because the Major Crimes Act, a federal statute, mandates that certain violent crimes alleged to have occurred in Indian country be prosecuted in Federal court as opposed to State court.
This case was investigated by the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety Criminal Investigations Division. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Schroeder prosecuted the case.
A presentence investigation was ordered, and a sentencing date will be set. In the interim, Brown Bull was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Justice Department Sues Minneapolis Public Schools for Racial Discrimination Against TeachersRead the Press Release
Yesterday, the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division filed a lawsuit against Minneapolis Public Schools (MPS) over MPS’ collective bargaining agreement (CBA) with a teachers’ union which preferences teachers who are members of an “underrepresented population” in employment decisions and prioritizes “Black Men Teach Fellows” for certain employment benefits, terms, and conditions.
“Discrimination is unacceptable in all forms, especially when it comes to hiring decisions,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “Our public education system in Minnesota and across the country must be a bastion of merit and equal opportunity — not DEI.”
“Employers may not provide more favorable terms and conditions of employment based on an employee’s race and sex,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “The Department of Justice will vigorously pursue employers who deny their employees equal opportunities and benefits by classifying and limiting them based on their race, color, national origin, or sex.”
The lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Minnesota, notes that MPS seeks to increase their “BIPOC staffing . . . to at least 40% by 2026,” and that by 2026–2027, at least “54.3 %” of new teacher hires “identify as Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC).” MPS’ CBA classifies teachers for involuntary reassignment, layoff, and reinstatement depending on whether the teacher is a member of an “underrepresented population.” The United States’ complaint further alleges that MPS awards members of a third-party group organization called “Black Men Teach Fellows” multiple benefits, terms, and conditions of employment not available to female or non-black teachers, in violation of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended.
The complaint asks the court to declare that MPS discriminates against teachers based on their race, color, national origin, and sex, in violation of Title VII, and to enter a permanent injunction against MPS stopping them from implementing similar discriminatory provisions in a future CBA.
This case stems from an investigation launched by the Employment Litigation Section of the Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division.
You can view the complaint here.
Jury finds Billings man guilty of child sexual abuse on the Crow Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
BILLINGS – A Billings man who sexually assaulted a child on the Crow Indian Reservation was found guilty by a federal jury today, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Following a 1.5-day trial, Matthew Paul Stopsatprettyplaces, 49, was found guilty of abusive sexual contact of a child. Stopsatprettyplaces faces up to life in prison, a $250,000 fine, and 5 years to a lifetime of supervised release.
U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided and will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing was set for April 8, 2026.
The government alleged in court documents and at trial that in 2019, Stopsatprettyplaces gave 9-year-old Jane Doe a ride to a family member’s residence in Hardin. While on the way, he took advantage of Jane Doe while she was asleep. He first put his hands on Jane Doe’s thighs which woke Jane Doe up. But Stopsatprettyplaces continued the assault by putting his hand on her inner thighs and then under Jane Doe’s shirt and fondling her bare breasts. On a subsequent occasion at Jane Doe’s house in Hardin, Stopsatprettyplaces assaulted 10-year-old Jane Doe again by kissing her all over and fondling her over her clothes.
Jane Doe disclosed the sexual abuse a few years later to a therapist, who mandatorily reported to the child abuse hotline, which triggered an immediate investigation by the FBI.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kelsey Hendricks and Paul Vestal prosecuted the case. The investigation was conducted by the FBI.
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Jury Finds Convicted Sex Offender Guilty of Assaulting a Federal OfficerRead the Press Release
ST. PAUL – Roberto Carlos Munoz-Guatemala, age 40, was found guilty today in U.S. District Court of Assault on a Federal Officer with a Dangerous and Deadly Weapon and Causing Bodily Injury, announced U.S. Attorney Daniel N. Rosen.
On June 17, 2025, law enforcement officers attempted to arrest Munoz-Guatemala, a convicted sex offender, on an immigration order. Agents made a traffic stop of Munoz-Guatemala. The defendant was uncooperative and refused to follow directions. After warning Munoz-Guatemala several times, an agent broke the back window so that he could open the vehicle from the inside. Munoz-Guatemala then accelerated his car. As he sped away, the agent’s arm became trapped between the seat and the car frame. Munoz-Guatemala dragged the federal agent for more than 100 yards, while weaving back and forth in an attempt to shake the agent from the car. The agent was eventually jarred free from the car but suffered significant injuries to his arms and hand.
Munoz-Guatemala is illegally present in the United States. In December 2022, Munoz-Guatemala was convicted in Hennepin County of repeatedly sexually abusing a minor.
The jury found Munoz-Guatemala guilty on December 10, 2025, following a three-day trial before U.S. District Judge Jeffrey M. Bryan. The jury found that Munoz-Guatemala assaulted the agent with a deadly or dangerous weapon, and that in doing so Munoz-Guatemala caused the agent bodily injury.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Enforcement and Removal Operations, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Bloomington Police Department.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Raphael B. Coburn and Thomas Calhoun-Lopez.
Indian national sentenced to federal prison for scamming elderly residentsRead the Press Release
EAST ST. LOUIS, Ill. – A district judge sentenced an Indian national to 90 months in federal prison for his involvement in an imposter scheme to defraud 11 identified victims, including elderly residents from Edwardsville and Effingham, Illinois, and St. Louis, Missouri.
Ligneshkumar H. Patel, 38, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and financial institution fraud and two counts of wire fraud. The judge ordered him to pay more than $2 million in restitution.
“Imposter scams are international conspiracies often using U.S.-based money mules to meet victims in person to take their money,” said U.S. Attorney Steven D. Weinhoeft. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecutes these fraudsters aggressively, and anyone who targets elderly victims will face certain justice.”
An imposter scam occurs when a scammer lies to victims and impersonates law enforcement or a federal official to defraud people into giving them money, access to financial accounts or other personal information. In this case, Patel’s conspirators convinced the victims they needed to hand over their assets for protection.
According to court documents, Patel drove to the residences of at least 11 elderly victims in five states to steal their assets totaling $2,231,216.99. Patel worked within a major conspiracy that included at least 85 additional victims with an intended loss of more than $6.9 million.
“This case highlights the serious consequences for individuals who prey on the elderly through sophisticated fraud schemes,” said Matthew J. Scarpino, special agent in charge of HSI Chicago. “HSI remains dedicated to protecting our communities from financial crimes and ensuring that those responsible are prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”
Patel acted as a courier or “money mule,” and admitted to picking up money and gold from victims in Illinois, Missouri, Iowa, Michigan and Wisconsin to fuel the conspiracy.
Homeland Security Investigations and the Edwardsville Police Department contributed to the investigation, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Peter Reed prosecuted the case.
Illegal Immigrant Sentenced to Time Served in PrisonRead the Press Release
MOBILE, AL – A Honduran national was sentenced today to time served in prison for illegally reentering the United States after previously having been deported.
According to court documents, Jhostin Nunez-Murcia, 36, was the driver of a vehicle stopped by the Mobile County Sheriff’s Office on September 12, 2025, for a traffic violation. Mobile County deputies suspected that Nunez-Murcia was not a United States citizen, so they contacted law enforcement personnel with U.S. Border Patrol. A Border Patrol agent was able to determine that Nunez-Murcia had previously been removed from the United States in 2012.
At sentencing, U.S. District Judge Terry F. Moorer imposed a time-served sentence of incarceration and a one-year term of supervised release upon his release. Upon his release from prison, Nunez-Murcia is to be referred to immigration officials for deportation proceedings. Nunez-Murcia was ordered to pay $100 in special assessments.
U.S. Attorney Sean P. Costello of the Southern District of Alabama made the announcement.
The Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, Immigrations and Customs Enforcement, and the Mobile County Sheriff’s Department investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica S. Terrill prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.