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15 September 2026
Mandan, ND, Woman Pleads Guilty to Wire Fraud for Stealing $304,000 from Local Non-Profit OrganizationRead the Press Release
BISMARCK – United States Attorney Nicholas W. Chase announced that Andrea Jo Bonness, age 56, from Mandan, North Dakota, pleaded guilty before United States District Court Judge Daniel L. Hovland to a felony charge of Wire Fraud for stealing from a Mandan non-profit organization while providing accounting services.
According to court documents, between April 1, 2025, and February 24, 2026, while employed as an accountant who provided payroll and charitable gaming audit services for non-profit clients, Bonness fraudulently accessed client bank accounts and transferred approximately $304,070.40 to her personal bank account to pay for online gambling.
Sentencing in this case is scheduled for January 14, 2027, at 2:30 p.m. in Bismarck before United States District Court Judge Daniel L. Hovland.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the United States Postal Inspection Service and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan J. O’Konek.
On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division (“Fraud Division”). The Fraud Division is investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.
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Maduro Regime Ally Alex Saab Pleads Guilty to Money Laundering Scheme Involving Bribery and Public Contracts for Food and MedicineRead the Press Release
Alex Nain Saab Moran, 54, of Caracas, Venezuela, and formerly of Baranquilla, Colombia, a former Minister of Industry in the regime of former Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, pleaded guilty today to conspiring to launder proceeds of a massive bribery and fraud scheme in Venezuela and the United States.The plea was heard by U.S. District Judge Kathleen M. Williams in Miami.
According to court documents, Saab carried out a nearly decade-long conspiracy to corruptly profit from a Venezuelan public welfare program for food and medicine known as Comité Local de Abastecimiento y Producción (CLAP). As part of the plea, Saab admitted to organizing a system of bribes and other illegal payments to public officials so entities secretly controlled by the conspirators could be awarded lucrative contracts from the Venezuelan government to import food and medicine under the auspices of the CLAP. The conspirators neglected to deliver in full on the contracts, and instead used fake companies, false invoices, false shipping records, and other fraudulent documents to skim hundreds of millions of dollars for themselves and their associates, as well to conceal their association with the illegal activity and avoid detection. Saab further admitted that he used shell companies outside of Venezuela to launder proceeds of the conspiracy around the world, including to the United States.
“Criminals like Alex Saab who stole from the people of Venezuela and worked to exploit and misuse American financial institutions to fund illicit activities will be held accountable by this FBI,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “The message is clear – under the leadership of the Trump administration, this FBI will work with our partners to deploy all necessary resources to protect the integrity of U.S. financial institutions and track down those who profit from these criminal operations.”
“Alex Saab exploited the U.S. financial system to profit off the backs of the Venezuelan people,” said Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “He created a complex web of front companies, shell accounts, and false records to perpetuate his scheme, win lucrative public contracts, and line his own pockets as well as his conspirators. The Criminal Division has held Saab accountable and will do the same for others seeking to abuse the U.S. economy for their own gain.”
“Today’s plea agreement signifies a substantial disruption to the illicit financial networks supporting narcoterrorism and political corruption,” said Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Administrator Terry Cole. “DEA has long investigated the financial crimes and networks tied to Alex Saab and his relationship to the former Maduro regime. Thanks to this Administration’s support of law enforcement and DEA’s relentless pressure, Alex Saab will again be brought to justice in the United States.”
“In December 2023, President Biden granted Alex Saab clemency while he was awaiting trial in this district, and Saab was released from federal custody and returned to Venezuela. But that was not the end of the story,” said U.S. Attorney Jason A. Reding Quiñones for the Southern District of Florida. “Our office built a new criminal case, secured a new indictment in January 2026, and, working with our federal and international partners, brought Saab back before a federal court in Miami on May 18. Today, he is accepting responsibility for his crimes. Saab exploited programs intended to provide critical food and medicine to the Venezuelan people, bribed government officials, and used shell companies and the U.S. financial system to move and conceal criminal proceeds. This case sends a clear message: political connections, wealth, and proximity to a corrupt regime will not put anyone beyond the reach of American justice.”
Saab pleaded guilty to conspiracy to launder monetary instruments. A sentencing date has not been set. Saab faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The DEA Miami Field Division is investigating the case, with assistance from the FBI Miami Field Office and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Miami. The Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs provided significant assistance in this matter.
Deputy Chief Joseph Palazzo of the Criminal Division’s Money Laundering, Narcotics and Forfeiture Section (MNF) and Assistant U.S. Attorney Monique Botero for the Southern District of Florida are prosecuting the case.
MNF’s mission is to take the profit out of crime, eliminate drug cartels, and protect the U.S. financial system. MNF pursues criminal prosecutions and criminal and civil asset recovery actions involving: financial facilitators who launder profits for criminals; financial institutions and their officers and employees whose actions threaten the U.S. financial system and financial institutions; international money launderers who support transnational organized crime; and the top command and control of international drug trafficking organizations.
MNF’s Money Laundering and Forfeiture Unit investigates and prosecutes sophisticated money laundering schemes involving financial facilitators, gatekeepers, and other individuals and entities laundering criminal proceeds, and litigates complex civil forfeiture cases to recover assets on behalf of victims.
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 Miami comprises of agents and officers from the DEA’s Miami Office, FBI’s Miami Office, and HSI Miami Office.
Maduro Regime Ally Alex Saab Pleads Guilty to Money Laundering Scheme Involving Bribery and Public Contracts for Food and MedicineRead the Press Release
MIAMI – Alex Nain Saab Moran, 54, of Caracas, Venezuela, and formerly of Baranquilla, Colombia, a former Minister of Industry in the regime of former Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, pleaded guilty today to conspiring to launder proceeds of a massive bribery and fraud scheme in Venezuela and the U.S. The plea was heard by U.S. District Judge Kathleen M. Williams.
According to court documents, Saab carried out a nearly decade-long conspiracy to corruptly profit from a Venezuelan public welfare program for food and medicine known as Comité Local de Abastecimiento y Producción (CLAP). As part of the plea, Saab admitted to organizing a system of bribes and other illegal payments to public officials so entities secretly controlled by the conspirators could be awarded lucrative contracts from the Venezuelan government to import food and medicine under the auspices of the CLAP. The conspirators neglected to deliver in full on the contracts, and instead used fake companies, false invoices, false shipping records, and other fraudulent documents to skim hundreds of millions of dollars for themselves and their associates, as well to conceal their association with the illegal activity and avoid detection. Saab further admitted that he used shell companies outside of Venezuela to launder proceeds of the conspiracy around the world, including to the U.S.
“Criminals like Alex Saab who stole from the people of Venezuela and worked to exploit and misuse American financial institutions to fund illicit activities will be held accountable by this FBI,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “The message is clear – under the leadership of the Trump administration, this FBI will work with our partners to deploy all necessary resources to protect the integrity of U.S. financial institutions and track down those who profit from these criminal operations.”
“Alex Saab exploited the U.S. financial system to profit off the backs of the Venezuelan people,” said Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “He created a complex web of front companies, shell accounts, and false records to perpetuate his scheme, win lucrative public contracts, and line his own pockets as well as his conspirators. The Criminal Division has held Saab accountable and will do the same for others seeking to abuse the U.S. economy for their own gain.”
“Today’s plea agreement signifies a substantial disruption to the illicit financial networks supporting narcoterrorism and political corruption,” said Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Administrator Terry Cole. “DEA has long investigated the financial crimes and networks tied to Alex Saab and his relationship to the former Maduro regime. Thanks to this Administration’s support of law enforcement and DEA’s relentless pressure, Alex Saab will again be brought to justice in the United States.”
“In December 2023, President Biden granted Alex Saab clemency while he was awaiting trial in this District, and Saab was released from federal custody and returned to Venezuela. But that was not the end of the story,” said U.S. Attorney Jason A. Reding Quiñones for the Southern District of Florida. “Our Office built a new criminal case, secured a new indictment in January 2026, and, working with our federal and international partners, brought Saab back before a federal court in Miami on May 18. Today, he is accepting responsibility for his crimes. Saab exploited programs intended to provide critical food and medicine to the Venezuelan people, bribed government officials, and used shell companies and the U.S. financial system to move and conceal criminal proceeds. This case sends a clear message: political connections, wealth, and proximity to a corrupt regime will not put anyone beyond the reach of American justice.”
Saab pleaded guilty to conspiracy to launder monetary instruments. A sentencing date has not been set. Saab faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The DEA Miami Field Division is investigating the case, with assistance from the FBI Miami Field Office and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Miami.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Monique Botero for the Southern District of Florida and Deputy Chief Joseph Palazzo of the Criminal Division’s Money Laundering, Narcotics and Forfeiture Section (MNF) are prosecuting the case.
MNF’s mission is to take the profit out of crime, eliminate drug cartels, and protect the U.S. financial system. MNF pursues criminal prosecutions and criminal and civil asset recovery actions involving: financial facilitators who launder profits for criminals; financial institutions and their officers and employees whose actions threaten the U.S. financial system and financial institutions; international money launderers who support transnational organized crime; and the top command and control of international drug trafficking organizations.
MNF’s Money Laundering and Forfeiture Unit investigates and prosecutes sophisticated money laundering schemes involving financial facilitators, gatekeepers, and other individuals and entities laundering criminal proceeds, and litigates complex civil forfeiture cases to recover assets on behalf of victims.
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 Miami comprises of agents and officers from the DEA’s Miami Office, FBI’s Miami Office, and HSI Miami Office.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or at http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov, under case numbers 26-cr-20020.
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Middle District of Louisiana Joins DOJ Fraud Division, Sba, and Sba OIG in Surge Takedown Exceeding $245 Million in COVID-Era Loan FraudRead the Press Release
The Middle District of Louisiana announced multiple charges and guilty pleas as part of a nationwide enforcement action led by the Justice Department’s National Fraud Enforcement Division, the Small Business Administration (SBA), and the SBA Office of Inspector General (SBA OIG) targeting fraud on the SBA’s Paycheck Protection Program (PPP).
From June 12 to September 1, federal prosecutors across the country facilitated enforcement actions spanning over 160 criminal defendants, including approximately 80 newly charged defendants, reaching approximately $245 million dollars in intended loss to American taxpayers.
U.S. Attorney Kurt Wall stated, “Millions of taxpayer dollars have been wrongfully obtained through fraudulent Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans. Our office is committed to finding those who have scammed the system, and we will prosecute them to the fullest extent possible.”
In the Middle District of Louisiana, seventeen (17) defendants have been prosecuted as part of this takedown for PPP-related fraud involving approximately $5 million in alleged intended or actual losses.
Charges Announced
Jovan Renee Darbonne: Jovan Renee Darbonne, age 47, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, was charged on August 31, 2026, in a Bill of Information with one count of making false statements to a financial institution and has indicated her intent to waive indictment and plead guilty. According to the charging document, Darbonne allegedly submitted fictitious 2020 IRS Form 941s on behalf of LA Educational Fund, LLC to a bank in support of a Paycheck Protection Program loan application, despite knowing the forms were fraudulent and had never been filed with the IRS. Assistant United States Attorney Stephen Vick is prosecuting the case.
Brelle Ford and Rydell Banks, Jr.: Brelle Ford, age 34, of Geismar, Louisiana, and Rydell Banks, Jr., age 28, of Geismar, Louisiana, were indicted on August 26, 2026, on charges arising from an alleged multi-year scheme to fraudulently obtain federal emergency relief funds through the Paycheck Protection Program, the Economic Injury Disaster Loan program, and FEMA disaster assistance. According to the indictment, Ford and Banks allegedly conspired to submit false applications and supporting documents for pandemic and Hurricane Ida relief, including fraudulent PPP and EIDL applications in the names of multiple businesses, fictitious leases and receipts, and FEMA claims falsely asserting property damage. The indictment further alleges that the defendants used interstate wires to obtain FEMA deposits and made false statements to federally insured financial institutions in connection with second‑draw PPP loan applications. Ford is charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud, two counts of wire fraud, and making a false statement to a bank, while Banks is charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud, one count of wire fraud, and making a false statement to a bank. Assistant United States Attorney Elizabeth E. White is prosecuting the case.
Michelle Jackson and Ryachenelle L. Morris: Michelle W. Jackson, age 52, of Denham Springs, Louisiana, and Ryachanelle L. Morris, age 29, of Vacherie, Louisiana, were indicted on August 12, 2026, for their alleged roles in a scheme to fraudulently obtain COVID‑19 pandemic relief and unemployment insurance benefits. According to the indictment, Jackson and Morris purportedly conspired with others to submit false PPP, EIDL, and unemployment applications using fabricated tax records, falsified payroll information, and misrepresentations about employment history and business operations, enabling them to gain or attempt to gain control of more than $289,000 in federal relief funds. Jackson is charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud and three counts of wire fraud, and Morris is charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud. The indictment further alleges that Jackson used interstate wires to deposit PPP funds into bank accounts she controlled and that both defendants used the fraudulently obtained funds for personal expenses, including food, shopping, travel, and vehicle rentals. Assistant United States Attorney John B. Casey is prosecuting the case.
Cedrick Kelly: Cedrick Kelly, age 45, of Denham Springs, Louisiana, was indicted on August 12, 2026, on one count of wire fraud for allegedly obtaining a $20,833 Paycheck Protection Program loan through a fraudulent application submitted in April 2021. According to the indictment, Kelly purportedly falsely overstated his business income and provided a fictitious 2019 Schedule C tax form to support his claim, despite knowing the information was untrue. Based on these misrepresentations, an SBA‑approved lender wired the PPP loan proceeds to Kelly’s bank account in the Middle District of Louisiana, funds that he was not entitled to receive. Assistant United States Attorney Ellison C. Travis, who also serves as District Fraud Counsel, is prosecuting the case.
Elton R. Kelly: Elton R. Kelly, age 46, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, was indicted on August 12, 2026, on one count of wire fraud for allegedly submitting a fraudulent Paycheck Protection Program loan application in May 2021. According to the indictment, Kelly purportedly overstated his business income, misrepresented his criminal history, and submitted a fictitious 2019 Schedule C tax form falsely claiming more than $99,000 in gross receipts. Based on these misrepresentations, an SBA‑approved lender wired $20,732 in PPP funds to Kelly’s bank account in the Middle District of Louisiana, money he was not entitled to receive. Assistant United States Attorney Ellison C. Travis, who also serves as District Fraud Counsel, is prosecuting the case.
Chris Plant, Jr.: On June 17, 2026, Chris Plant, Jr., age 39, of White Castle, Louisiana, a local preacher, was indicted for wire fraud and for making a false statement to a bank. As set forth in the indictment, Plant allegedly devised a scheme to defraud a financial institution by filing false and fraudulent applications for PPP funds. In furtherance of the scheme, Plant allegedly submitted fraudulent and misleading documents, including fictitious 2019 and 2020 Schedule C tax forms, which falsely represented Plant’s gross receipts, expenses, and net profits for applicant businesses. Based on Plant’s purportedly false representations and fraudulent supporting materials, the financial institution approved and funded four PPP loans for a total amount of $77,081. Assistant United States Attorney Elizabeth E. White is prosecuting the case.
Marvin Richardson: Marvin Richardson, age 29, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, was indicted on August 20, 2026, on two counts of wire fraud for allegedly obtaining more than $28,000 in fraudulent pandemic‑relief funds through the Small Business Administration’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) and Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). According to the indictment, Richardson submitted multiple false applications between July 2020 and May 2021, falsely overstating business revenues, employee counts, and income, and providing fabricated tax documents to support his claims. Based on these misrepresentations, Richardson received an $8,000 EIDL advance and a $20,832 PPP loan, which were transmitted to his bank account in the Middle District of Louisiana. Assistant United States Attorney Ellison C. Travis, who also serves as the District Fraud Counsel, is prosecuting the case.
Guilty Pleas and Sentences Announced
Keerria Anderson: On August 6, 2026, U.S. District Judge Brian A. Jackson sentenced Keerria Anderson, age 33, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, to two years of supervised release after Anderson pled guilty to wire fraud. Anderson worked for the U.S. Postal Service between March 2016 and at least October 2022. Between July 2020 and at least October 2021, Anderson devised a scheme to defraud the United States, through the SBA and two financial institutions, by submitting applications for an EIDL and two PPP loans that contained false representations and documentation regarding her purported businesses and gross revenues and income. As part of her sentence, Judge Jackson also ordered Anderson to pay $50,962.00 as restitution to the SBA. Assistant United States Attorney Jessica M. Thornhill prosecuted the case.
Lashae M. Bell and Johntrell Jamar White: On July 9 and July 28, 2026, U.S. District Judge Brian A. Jackson sentenced Lashae M. Bell, age 33, of Gonzales, Louisiana, and Johntrell Jamar White, age 32, of Simmesport, Louisiana, to 30 months and 27 months in federal prison, respectively, after each pled guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud for their roles in a scheme to defraud multiple COVID‑19 pandemic relief programs. Bell and White submitted fraudulent unemployment insurance applications in their own names and in the names of others to numerous state workforce agencies and to Puerto Rico, and Bell also obtained Paycheck Protection Program funds through false statements. Judge Jackson ordered Bell to pay $851,241 in restitution and imposed a forfeiture money judgment of $164,891. The court also ordered White to pay $830,409 in restitution with a forfeiture money judgment of $135,300. According to their plea agreements, the defendants’ fraudulent claims caused state workforce agencies and the SBA to disburse hundreds of thousands of dollars in federal pandemic relief funds to which they were not entitled. Assistant United States Attorney Elizabeth E. White prosecuted the case.
Daysha Blount: Daysha Renee Blount, age 34, of Gonzales, Louisiana, pled guilty on August 13, 2026, to one count of wire fraud for fraudulently obtaining more than $83,000 in Paycheck Protection Program loan proceeds. According to court documents, Blount submitted four PPP loan applications in 2021—three in her own name and one on behalf of a company—using fabricated tax forms and altered bank records to falsely claim significant business income. She later submitted forgiveness applications containing additional false statements, resulting in all four loans being forgiven. Blount is scheduled to be sentenced on November 10, 2026, by U.S. District Judge Brian A. Jackson. Assistant United States Attorney Stephen Vick is prosecuting the case.
Makyro Ferguson, Maletica Ferguson, and Vanshion Byrd: Maletica V. Ferguson, age 49; Vanshion J. Byrd, age 51; and Makyro V. Ferguson, age 26, all of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, pled guilty to one count each of conspiracy to commit wire fraud following their February 11, 2026 indictment for participating in a scheme to fraudulently obtain pandemic-related relief funds through the Paycheck Protection Program, the Economic Injury Disaster Loan Program, and unemployment insurance programs. According to court documents, the defendants and their co‑conspirators submitted numerous false applications supported by fabricated tax forms, altered bank records, and other fraudulent information, causing the disbursement of significant federal relief funds to which they were not entitled. Maletica Ferguson and Vanshion Byrd entered their guilty pleas on July 7, 2026, and Makyro Ferguson pled guilty on July 21, 2026. All three defendants are scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Brian A. Jackson on December 3, 2026. Assistant United States Attorney John B. Casey is prosecuting the case.
Lonell Taylor: Lonell Taylor, 32, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, was sentenced on June 30, 2026, by U.S. District Judge Brian A. Jackson to five months in federal prison and ordered to pay $126,985.16 in restitution after pleading guilty to wire fraud and fraud to obtain federal employees’ compensation. According to her plea agreement, Taylor was an employee of the U.S. Postal Service who falsely claimed for years that she had no outside income while receiving workers’ compensation benefits, despite actively operating two businesses and earning income. Taylor also devised a scheme to obtain pandemic-related Paycheck Protection Program funds by submitting multiple fraudulent loan applications supported by fabricated tax documents, ultimately receiving more than $40,000 in SBA-backed PPP loans that she used for personal expenses. Assistant United States Attorney Jessica M. Thornhill prosecuted the case.
U.S. Attorney Wall praised the Small Business Administration, Office of Inspector General; the Federal Bureau of Investigation; the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Office of Inspector General; the U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General; the Export-Import Bank of the United States, Office of Inspector General; the U.S. Secret Service; and the U.S. Postal Service, Office of Inspector General, for their investigations in these matters.
On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division (“Fraud Division”). The Fraud Division is laser-focused on investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.
An indictment, information, or complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Licking, Mo. Man Pleads Guilty to Child Sexual Exploitation, Meth Trafficking and Firearms ChargesRead the Press Release
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Licking, Mo., man pleaded guilty in federal court yesterday for the sexual exploitation of a minor as well as illegally possessing methamphetamine and firearms.
John P. Weaver, 44, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Megan Blair Benton to using a minor victim to produce child pornography and receiving and distributing child pornography from Jan. 22 to Feb. 5, 2024. Weaver admitted to possessing more than 20 photos and videos depicting child pornography of the minor victim.
Weaver also pleaded guilty to possessing methamphetamine with the intent to distribute, possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug-trafficking crime, and being a felon in possession of firearms on Feb. 29, 2024. Weaver admitted to possessing over 1.5 kilograms of methamphetamine and two Hi-Point pistols.
Under federal law, it is illegal for anyone who has been convicted of a felony to be in possession of any firearm or ammunition. Weaver has two prior convictions for possessing a controlled substance as well as prior felony convictions for stealing a motor vehicle, burglary, stealing, and resisting arrest by creating a substantial risk of serious injury or death to any person.
Under federal statutes, Weaver is subject to a minimum mandatory sentence of 15 years and up to 30 years maximum in federal prison without parole for his conviction for sexual exploitation of children. He is also facing a minimum of 10 years on his conviction for possession with intent to distribute and a minimum of five years for his conviction for possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug-trafficking crime, which must run consecutively to any other sentence.
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 Stephanie L. Wan. It was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pulaski County, Missouri Sheriff’s Office, the Springfield, Missouri Police Department, and the Texas County, Missouri Sheriff’s Office.
Project Safe Childhood
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' 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, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc . For more information about Internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab "resources."
Lexington Man Sentenced to More than 18 years in Federal Prison for Drug DistributionRead the Press Release
COLUMBIA, S.C. — Demetrius Tyare Glenn, 36, of Lexington, has been sentenced to more than 18 years in federal prison for his role in a drug trafficking conspiracy.
Evidence gathered during the investigation showed that, beginning in 2023, members of a drug-trafficking organization distributed large quantities of methamphetamine, fentanyl, cocaine, crack cocaine, and marijuana throughout the Columbia and Lexington County areas. Investigators identified Glenn as a key source of supply and determined he used four locations to store and distribute narcotics. The investigation further revealed that Glenn manufactured counterfeit pills using a pill press machine.
On Oct. 24, 2024, law enforcement executed search warrants at three of Glenn’s stash houses. Officers recovered approximately 1,423.69 grams of methamphetamine, 57.4 grams of fentanyl, 189.7 grams of cocaine, 150 grams of MDMA, 56 grams of marijuana, more than $14,000 in cash, money counters, two loaded firearms, ammunition, digital scales, packaging materials, and other drug paraphernalia. Glenn was also held responsible for an additional 9,000 grams of cocaine, 1,130 grams of methamphetamine, and 170 grams of fentanyl attributed to him over the course of the investigation.
Glenn has prior convictions for assault and battery 1st degree and possession of marijuana. Because of his prior convictions, he was prohibited by law from possessing firearms and ammunition.
United States District Judge Mary Geiger Lewis sentenced Glenn to 220 months’ imprisonment, to be followed by a five-year term of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system.
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.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the City of Columbia Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ariyana Gore prosecuted the case.###
Las Vegas Felon Sentenced to over Five Years in Prison for Unlawful Possession of Firearm and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A felon who has prior convictions was sentenced today by United States District Judge Gloria M. Navarro to 65 months in prison to be followed by a three-year term of supervised release for unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition. The government requested a sentence of 65 months imprisonment.
“Keeping illegal firearms out of our neighborhoods and holding repeat offenders accountable is a top priority for our office,” said First Assistant United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada. "When individuals with prior felony convictions choose to violate federal law by possessing firearms and ammunition, they pose a direct threat to public safety. We will continue to work tirelessly alongside our local and federal law enforcement partners to enforce these critical gun safety laws, remove dangerous weapons from our streets, and protect the families of Nevada."
According to court documents, on April 21, 2022, Christian Demarco Thomas was driving a stolen vehicle. During a vehicle stop, law enforcement observed a firearm with a loaded magazine and another magazine on Thomas. He possessed a loaded .45 caliber firearm containing an extended magazine, a fully loaded Glock 13 magazine, and hollow-point cartridges and other ammunition. Thomas has been previously convicted of battery with use of a deadly weapon and attempted battery with substantial bodily harm, both in Clark County, Nevada. He is prohibited by law from possessing a firearm, magazines, and ammunition.
Thomas pleaded guilty to one count of felon in possession of a firearm and one count of felon in possession of ammunition.
The ATF investigated this case. Assistant United States Attorney Afroza Yeasmin prosecuted the case.
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Killington, Vermont Man Sentenced to 90 Months in Child Pornography CaseRead the Press Release
RUTLAND – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that on September 15, 2026, Russell Biathrow, 68, of Killington, Vermont, was sentenced by United States District Judge Mary Kay Lanthier to a term of 90 months’ imprisonment to be followed by a lifetime term of supervised release. Judge Mary Kay Lanthier also imposed a fine of $10,000. Biathrow previously pleaded guilty to production of a morphed image of child sexual abuse material (CSAM).
According to court records, in or about March 2025, Biathrow produced an image of an identifiable minor by cropping a hardcopy image that depicted a prepubescent girl engaging in a sex act. The image was printed on laminated paper and the reverse side of the paper contained cut-out images depicting three different children in various poses and stages of nudity. Biathrow produced the image with the intent of distributing it.
Biathrow has a long history of involvement with CSAM. In 2008, Biathrow was convicted of CSAM-related offenses in the Eastern District of North Carolina, receiving a 100-month sentence and a lifetime term of supervised release. After his release from custody, Biathrow had numerous violations of his supervised release, including a 2019 violation for possessing CSAM that resulted in a 78-month term of imprisonment. Biathrow was on federal supervised release in March of 2025 when he produced the morphed image of CSAM.
First Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan A. Ophardt commended the investigatory efforts of Homeland Security Investigations and thanked the United States Marshals Service for their assistance.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michelle Arra. Biathrow was represented by Assistant Federal Public Defender Emily Kenyon.
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.
Kansas inmate sentenced to federal prison for attempted drug smugglingRead the Press Release
WICHITA, KAN.– A Kansas inmate was sentenced to 78 months in federal prison for his part in conspiring to smuggle methamphetamine into a state prison.
According to court documents, Tommie Baggett, 26, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.
In February 2024, while an inmate at Hutchinson Correctional Facility, Baggett took part in a conspiracy to throw a package of methamphetamine over the prison wall. He worked with another inmate to flag a location in the yard to show co-defendant, Jermel Fleming, 33, of Lawrence where to make the drop. While Fleming was outside the prison, Baggett gave him instructions over the phone. Baggett used a prison phone system which recorded the call. Fleming threw the package over the prison wall but at the wrong location, and corrections staff intercepted it. Laboratory results showed the package to contain 247.94 grams of pure methamphetamine.
“Being in prison wasn’t enough to stop Mr. Baggett from committing further crimes," said U.S. Attorney Ryan A. Kriegshauser. “The drugs Mr. Baggett wanted tossed into the prison yard didn’t land where he expected. However, his actions will land him in federal prison when he’s done with his state prison sentence.”
Fleming was sentenced to 96 months in prison after pleading guilty to one count of distribution of a controlled substance.
The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Katie Andrusak prosecuted the case.
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Justice Department Announces Settlement Ending Discrimination Against Jewish Students at Lincoln Memorial UniversityRead the Press Release
This week the U.S. Department of Justice, Civil Rights Division (DOJ) and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Office for Civil Rights entered a voluntary settlement agreement with Lincoln Memorial University (LMU) to end discrimination against its Jewish students. The settlement agreement resolves the joint investigation conducted under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, or national origin, and Section 1557 of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.
“Students of all ethnic and religious backgrounds — including Jewish students — should receive the same treatment at our nation’s universities,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “As its Jewish students prepare this week to observe Yom Kippur, we commend Lincoln Memorial University for its swift action addressing the Department’s concerns regarding discrimination and unequal treatment.”
“HHS’ Office for Civil Rights is committed to eliminating antisemitism and religious discrimination—a commitment we underscored earlier this month by issuing guidance on discrimination rooted in antisemitism to entities that receive HHS funding,” said Director Paula M. Stannard of the HHS Office for Civil Rights. “Our nation’s future healthcare professionals should be able to pursue their training without compromising their faith or their civil rights. Through our joint action with the Department of Justice, Lincoln Memorial University is ending practices that penalized Jewish students and will establish clear protections for religious accommodations moving forward.”
The joint investigation revealed that during the 2025-26 school year, LMU’s DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine (LMU-DCOM) denied requests by Jewish students to reschedule classes, exams, and other academic assignments so they could celebrate or observe their religious holidays, but granted requests by non-Jewish students who sought the same accommodations. In January 2026 — after Jewish students challenged LMU-DCOM’s double standard — DCOM adopted a policy that it would not accommodate any religious observance requests, but would permit excused absences for “professional student leadership obligations” and other non-religious reasons. In February 2026, DOJ and HHS opened their joint investigation.
Under the settlement agreement, LMU-DCOM will revise its absence policy to allow excused absences for religious reasons on the same basis as non-religious reasons. When an excused absence is approved, the student will not suffer any penalties because of the absence. LMU-DCOM will also educate students, administrators, professors, faculty, and staff regarding the revised absence policy. Finally, LMU will reverse all penalties previously imposed on Jewish students who were wrongly denied religious accommodations during the 2025-26 school year.
Because of LMU’s cooperation, LMU will remain eligible for federal funding. The Civil Rights Division will close the investigation once LMU has completed its commitments under the settlement agreement.
Members of the public may report possible civil rights violations at www.civilrights.justice.gov.
Illinois Man Charged with Transporting Minor Across State Lines for Illegal Sexual ActivityRead the Press Release
Paducah, KY – An indictment was returned by the grand jury in Bowling Green, Kentucky, on September 10, 2026, charging an Erie, Illinois, man with child exploitation offenses, including transportation of a minor to engage in illegal sexual activity and online enticement of a minor.
U.S. Attorney Kyle G. Bumgarner of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Olivia Olson of the FBI Louisville Field Office, and Sheriff Ryan Norman of the McCracken County Sheriff’s Office made the announcement.
According to a previously filed federal criminal complaint, on August 3, 2026, Kenon Bradford, 26, of Erie, Illinois, drove from his residence approximately 7 hours to Paducah, where he picked up a minor victim. Bradford then transported the minor victim back to Illinois with the purpose of engaging in illegal sexual activity. On August 4, 2026, Bradford and the minor victim were located near Peoria, Illinois. Bradford was taken into custody and acknowledged engaging in sexual communications over Snapchat with the minor victim between July 29, 2026, and the date he picked the victim up.
Bradford is currently in state custody and will make his initial appearance at a later date before a U.S. Magistrate Judge of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Kentucky. If convicted, Bradford faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in federal prison, and a maximum sentence of life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case is being investigated by the FBI Paducah Resident Agency and the McCracken County Sheriff’s Office.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Leigh Ann Dycus of the U.S. Attorney’s Paducah Branch Office is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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.
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Illegal Immigrant Sentenced to 11 Years in Prison for Multimillion-Dollar Ponzi SchemeRead the Press Release
ST. LOUIS – U.S. District Judge Zachary M. Bluestone on Tuesday sentenced an illegal immigrant who ran a Ponzi scheme that bilked investors in Missouri and elsewhere out of millions of dollars to 11 years in prison.
Judge Bluestone also ordered Siddharth Jawahar, 38, to pay $31.35 million in restitution to victims.
Judge Bluestone cited the “enormous” losses and the lengthy duration of Jawahar’s fraud and echoed a victim who said Jawahar “weaponized” investors’ trust. He also said Jawahar’s failure to begin repaying victims was a major factor.
Jawahar ran a Texas-based investment company called Swiftarc Capital LLC. In 2015, he began investing client funds in a single investment, Philip Morris Pakistan (PMP). Eventually, 99% of client funds were consolidated into PMP. When the value of PMP declined, Jawahar did not tell investors and falsely claimed that his investors were making profits. Investors were also falsely led to believe that he’d invested their money in a specific company or companies but he never made the promised investments.
From about July 2016 through December 2023, Jawahar took in more than $35 million from Swiftarc investors but invested only about $10 million.
Jawahar used money from new investors to repay older investors and to fuel an extravagant lifestyle that included travel on private jets, stays at luxury hotels, a luxury apartment in Austin and New York City, memberships at multiple private clubs across the country, spending sprees at clothing stores and expensive outings at fancy restaurants.
After his indictment, Jawahar tried to obstruct justice by trying to coach a victim into giving a favorable statement to the FBI, lying about his immigration status and finances and trying to get his sister to remotely wipe his iPhone to hide evidence.
Jawahar also managed additional entities that he utilized during his scheme, including Swiftarc Fund LP, Swiftarc LLC, Swiftarc Holdings, SJ Investment Holdings LLC, Order of Magnitude Ventures LLC, Extra Sensory Perception Inc., Swiftarc Growth Fund LP, Swiftarc Opportunities Fund LP, SJ Investment Holdings LLC, SV Labs SPV 1 LP, Swiftarc Venture Labs Fund GP LLC, SJDB Ventures LLC, Swiftarc Ventures LLC, Swiftarc Venture Labs Fund LP, Swiftarc Telehealth Labs Fund LP, NI Stubbs LLC and Swiftarc Beauty Fund LP.
He pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court in St. Louis in January to three counts of wire fraud.
The FBI and the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Derek Wiseman is prosecuting the case.
Illegal Alien from Guatemala Pleads Guilty to Fraudulently Seeking to Obtain Custody of an Unaccompanied Alien ChildRead the Press Release
Gladys Marina Caal Chen, 21, of Guatemala, pleaded guilty today to submitting a sponsorship application with false statements to the Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) to gain custody of an unaccompanied alien child (UAC).
According to court documents, Caal Chen falsely stated in a UAC sponsorship application under the penalty of perjury that she was the UAC’s sister. The HHS-funded care provider discontinued its consideration of Caal Chen’s application based in part on concerns that Caal Chen misrepresented her identity and relationship with the UAC in application materials. Caal Chen was arrested on May 22, after law enforcement encountered her during a court-authorized search of a residence belonging to another illegal alien from Guatemala who was charged with crimes relating to UACs. Caal Chen was previously sponsored as a UAC by one of that alien’s co-conspirators who fraudulently used an alias. Caal Chen is also alleged to have lied to ORR in or around January 2024 in an application to sponsor a UAC using an alias. At the time of her arrest, Caal Chen lied to law enforcement by providing another alias, but she later admitted her real name was Caal Chen.
“This defendant defrauded and undermined a government program designed to protect children,” said Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “The investigative efforts that led to this guilty plea demonstrate that the United States and Joint Task Force Alpha will prosecute those who seek to take advantage of children, ignore the laws designed to protect them, and take measures to thwart our government’s efforts to ensure their safety.”
“Those who intentionally manipulate federal systems and programs to gain illegal custody of children are despicable,” said U.S. Attorney David M. Toepfer for the Northern District of Ohio. “We will aggressively prosecute anyone who lies to federal authorities, and we will not tolerate actions that enable them to smuggle or traffic others — especially children.”
“This guilty plea underscores Homeland Security Investigations’ (HSI) commitment to protecting unaccompanied children from individuals who attempt to exploit the sponsorship process through fraud and deception,” said Special Agent in Charge Jared Murphey of HSI Detroit. “False statements in these applications can and have placed vulnerable children at serious risk. HSI will continue working with our federal, state and local partners to identify fraudulent schemes, protect potential victims and ensure those who undermine the integrity of the process are held accountable.”
“Caal Chen abused the very program that is designed to help vulnerable children by lying and taking advantage of the system,” said Assistant Director Heith Janke of the FBI. “The FBI will use every resource at our disposal to safeguard the government programs designed to help these children and to pursue justice against anyone who seeks to exploit them.”
“Fraudulently manipulating the sponsorship process for unaccompanied children not only violates federal law, it endangers vulnerable young children who rely on these protections,” said Acting Deputy Inspector General for Investigations Miranda L. Bennett of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “HHS‑OIG and our law enforcement partners will continue to safeguard programs designed to protect children and will hold accountable anyone who seeks to exploit them.”
Caal Chen pleaded guilty to making a false, fictitious, or fraudulent statement. She faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison. Sentencing is set for Nov. 23. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The HSI, FBI, and HHS-OIG Cleveland field offices jointly led the investigation with assistance from HSI’s Attaché team in Guatemala. Additionally, HSI’s Center for Countering Human Trafficking and HSI’s Human Smuggling Unit in Washington, D.C., and ORR, have provided valuable assistance. The U.S. Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs and prosecutors from Guatemala’s Office of Public Ministry provided significant assistance in this matter.
Deputy Chief Christian Levesque and Trial Attorney Spencer M. Perry of the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section (HRSP) and Assistant U.S. Attorney/Senior Litigation Counsel Carol Skutnik and Assistant U.S. Attorney Edward D. Brydle for the Northern District of Ohio are prosecuting the case, with assistance from HRSP Analyst/Latin America Specialist Joanna Crandall.
The investigation and indictment leading to the guilty plea announced today was supported and prosecuted by Joint Task Force Alpha (JTFA), the Department’s lead effort in combating high-impact human smuggling and trafficking committed by cartels and Transnational Criminal Organizations (TCOs). A highly successful partnership between the Department of Justice and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), JTFA investigates and prosecutes human smuggling and trafficking and related immigration crimes that impact public safety and border security. JTFA’s mission is to target the leaders and organizers of cartels and TCOs involved in human smuggling and trafficking throughout the Americas. The Attorney General has elevated and expanded JTFA to target the most prolific and dangerous human smuggling and trafficking groups operating not only in Mexico and the Northern Triangle countries of Guatemala, El Salvador, and Honduras, but also in Canada, the Caribbean and the maritime border, and elsewhere. Led by the Criminal Division’s HRSP Section and supported by the Money Laundering, Narcotics and Forfeiture Section, the Office of International Affairs, and the Office of Enforcement Operations, among others, JTFA has dedicated prosecutors from the Southern District of California; District of Arizona; District of New Mexico; Western and Southern Districts of Texas; Southern District of Florida; Northern District of New York; and District of Vermont. JTFA also partners with other USAOs throughout the country and supports high-priority cases in any district. All JTFA cases rely on substantial law enforcement resources from DHS, including Immigration and Customs Enforcement/HSI and U.S. Customs and Border Protection/Border Patrol and Office of Field Operations, as well as FBI and other law enforcement agencies. To date, JTFA’s work has resulted in more than 483 domestic and international arrests of leaders, organizers, and significant facilitators of alien smuggling and/or trafficking; more than 436 U.S. convictions; and more than 371 significant jail sentences imposed, and forfeitures of substantial assets.
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 other 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 Project Safe Neighborhood.
Illegal Alien with Felony Drug Conviction Charged for Illegal ReentryRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Mexican national, with a felony conviction for possession of a controlled substance with intent to sell, made his initial court appearance today to face charges of illegally reentering the United States after previously being removed from the country.
“The law is clear that individuals who are removed from the country cannot simply turn around and walk back across our borders,” said First Assistant U.S. Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada. “When a previously deported individual willfully violates federal law to return illegally, they will be caught and face federal prosecution. Our neighborhood safety gets stronger every day when law enforcement agencies work closely together. By upholding federal laws and focusing our resources on repeat offenders, we keep our streets secure and ensure our communities remain safe places for families to thrive.”
Aurus Jeshua Cervantes-Mitre is charged with one-count of deported alien found in the United States. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for September 29, 2026, before U.S. Magistrate Judge Maximiliano D. Couvillier, III.
According to allegations contained in the criminal complaint and statements made during court proceedings, Cervantes-Mitre is a citizen and national of Mexico who was previously deported on or about February 9, 2025, and reentered the United States illegally.
On February 4, 2026, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) learned that Cervantes-Mitre was in custody at the Clark County Detention Center, after he was arrested on three counts of possession of a Schedule I or II controlled substance, flunitrazepam/GHB, with intent to sell. On September 4, 2026, the Nevada Department of Corrections remanded Cervantes-Mitre to ICE Las Vegas, Nevada, custody after he served a sentence of 12 to 36 months for possession of a controlled substance with intent to sell.
If convicted, Cervantes-Mitre faces the maximum statutory penalty of two years in prison, a one-year term of supervised release, a $250,000 fine, and a $100 special assessment.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada and Salt Lake City Field Office Director Jason Knight made the announcement.
The ICE Salt Lake City, Las Vegas Sub-Office investigated this case; and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Nevada is prosecuting the case.
Members of the public can report crimes and suspicious activity by dialing 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or completing the online tip form.
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.
A complaint is merely an accusation, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
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Illegal Alien Who Ran Drug Trafficking Operation Sentenced to over 11 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Dominican national unlawfully residing in Roxbury, Mass., was sentenced yesterday in federal court in Boston for trafficking and conspiring to traffic large quantities of methamphetamine, fentanyl and cocaine.
Bryan Moises Frias Sanchez, 51, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Julia E. Kobick to 136 months in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release. The defendant is subject to deportation upon completion of the imposed sentence. In January 2026, Frias Sanchez pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances; distribution and possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, aiding and abetting; distribution and possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, and cocaine, aiding and abetting; and distribution and possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl, aiding and abetting. He was indicted in April 2025, along with Jean Carlos Frias Polanco and Rafael Vargas Cabrera.
Frias Sanchez was the leader of a drug trafficking conspiracy operating out of Roxbury, Mass. Between July 2024 and January 2025, law enforcement conducted controlled purchases of methamphetamine, fentanyl and cocaine from Frias Sanchez and his drug trafficking organization. For each of the controlled purchases, Frias Sanchez arranged the transaction, but for some of the deals he sent one of his associates to deliver the drugs, including co-defendants Frias Polanco and allegedly Vargas Cabrera. During a number of those transactions, Frias Sanchez offered to sell firearms in addition to the controlled substances. In total, Frias Sanchez is responsible for distributing approximately 2.6 kilograms of pure methamphetamine, 70 grams of fentanyl and over 800 grams of cocaine.
Frias Polanco pleaded guilty and was sentenced on May 8, 2026 to 19 months in prison. Co-defendant Vargas Cabrera is scheduled to plead guilty on Sept. 28, 2026.
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 Boston is comprised of agents and officers from HSI, FBI, DEA, ATF, USMS, IRS-CI, USPIS, DOL-OIG and DSS, as well as several state and local law enforcement agencies, with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Massachusetts.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Thomas Greco, Special Agent in Charge of the Boston Field Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Department of Homeland Security and the Boston Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Alathea E. Porter and Brad Rocheville of the Criminal Division are prosecuting the case.
The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The remaining defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Ice Trafficker Receives Frosty 14 Year Federal Prison SentenceRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, N.C.– A federal judge sentenced Lara Joy Ezell, 42, to over 14 years in federal prison for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of meth and distribution of 50 grams or more of meth. Ezell pleaded guilty to the charges on June 10, 2026.
“After numerous state court convictions this repeat offender should have learned her lesson, but instead she returned to her criminal drug pushing ways,” said U.S. Attorney Ellis Boyle. “Let me be clear, if you peddle poison for profit in EDNC we will catch you and we will send you to federal prison. Eastern North Carolina will be safer for it. Drugs kill. Prison awaits. Do right.”
In April 2025, ATF and the Dunn Police Department opened an investigation into Ezell’s drug‑trafficking activities. During the investigation, law enforcement officers conducted multiple controlled purchases of meth from Ezell. They also determined that between June 2024 and April 2025, Ezell possessed and distributed approximately 1.3 pounds of Ice, also known as crystal meth.
Ezell has several North Carolina state convictions, including driving while impaired, possession of drug paraphernalia, larceny and financial fraud, possession of a Schedule IV controlled substance, possession with intent to manufacture, sell, or deliver a Schedule II controlled substance, and larceny.
“This investigation demonstrates the importance of strong partnerships between federal, state, and local law enforcement,” said Michael J. Connolly, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Atlanta Field Division. “By working together, we were able to disrupt the flow of methamphetamine and bring this defendant to justice. His federal prison sentence is a direct result of those collaborative efforts.”
“The Dunn Police Department is committed to working side-by-side with our federal law enforcement partners and the U.S. Attorney’s Office to ensure that these investigations do not stop at the city limits or with a single arrest,” said Dunn Police Chief Lynn Gay. “We will follow the evidence wherever it may lead and pursue those responsible at every level. If you choose to sell poison in Dunn, you should know that we are coming after you.”
Ellis Boyle, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after sentencing by Chief U.S. District Judge Richard E. Myers II. The ATF and the Dunn Police Department collaborated on this investigation.
A copy of this press release is located on our website. 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. 5:25CR00253M-001.
Husband and Wife Plead Guilty to Insider Trading SchemeRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON - Fan Yang, also known as "Jocelyn Yang," 35, and her husband, Jing Tian, 36, of Carmel, Indiana, pleaded guilty today in U.S. District Court to charges arising from an insider trading conspiracy, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro.
“Fan Yang abused her corporate position by tipping confidential, market‑moving information about a multi‑billion‑dollar acquisition, fueling an insider trading scheme that gave herself, her husband Jing Tian, and others an unfair advantage over the investing public,” said U.S. Attorney Pirro. “Insider trading destroys confidence in our markets. We are committed to safeguarding market integrity and ensuring that individuals who exploit their access for personal gain are held fully accountable.”
Yang and Tian pleaded guilty before Judge James E. Boasberg to conspiracy to commit securities fraud. As part of their plea agreements, both defendants have agreed to forfeit all traceable profits derived from the scheme pursuant to federal forfeiture laws. The pair face a maximum of five years in prison when they are sentenced on January 15, 2027.
According to court documents, Yang was employed as a Corporate Development Manager and Strategy Finance Controller at a manufacturer headquartered in Indiana. Beginning in late 2021, Yang obtained material non-public information (MNPI) through her position regarding the company’s confidential negotiations to acquire a Michigan-based automobile component manufacturer for $3.7 billion.
In breach of her fiduciary duties, Yang used this confidential information for her own financial benefit and illegally tipped the information to her husband, Tian, who was also employed at the same manufacturing company. Yang and Tian, knowing the information was confidential, executed securities trades and tipped third parties.
The conspiracy resulted in illicit trading across multiple individuals—including individuals in Washington, D.C., Virginia, Washington state, and overseas—who collectively generated hundreds of thousands of dollars in illegal profits prior to the public announcement of the acquisition on February 22, 2022. In one WeChat message exchanged during the scheme, Yang calculated that their unlawful profits would be enough to buy a Tesla without needing a loan.
The prosecution is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sridhar Kaza of the Fraud, Public Corruption, and Civil Rights Section of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia.
The case was investigated by the FBI Washington Field Office.
25cr0369
Howell County Man Indicted in Possession of 34 Firearms and MethRead the Press Release
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Howell County, Mo., man was indicted by a federal grand jury with illegally possessing 34 firearms and more than 150 grams of methamphetamine.
Gregory Porter, 57, of Mountain View, Mo., was charged in a four-count indictment that was returned under seal by a federal grand jury in Springfield, Mo., on Sept. 8, 2026. That indictment was unsealed and made public today following Porter’s arrest and initial appearance in federal court.
The indictment alleges that Porter possessed 50 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing methamphetamine with the intent to distribute and possessed a Taurus pistol in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime on Nov. 18, 2025. The indictment also alleges that Porter is a prior felon who unlawfully possessed an additional 33 firearms, including numerous pistols, rifles, and shotguns on Nov. 18 and 19, 2025. Under federal law, it is illegal for anyone who is convicted of a felony to be in possession of any firearm or ammunition.
The charges contained in this indictment are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Hannah R. Lucas. It was investigated by the Howell County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.
Project Safe Neighborhoods
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.
Homeland Security Task Force investigation identifies illegal alien from Mexico sentenced to six years in prison for dealing fentanyl and unlawfully possessing firearmsRead the Press Release
Seattle – A 22-year-old Mexican national illegally present in the U.S. was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Seattle to six years in prison for drug and gun crimes, announced First Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles Neil Floyd. Jesus Cristerna Lucas delivered 5,000 fentanyl pills to an undercover agent in November 2024 as part of a Homeland Security Task Force Investigation. This drug sale came mere months after he had been arrested in California with a large load of methamphetamine and more than $100,000 in cash drug proceeds. At today’s sentencing hearing U.S. District Judge James L. Robart highlighted the danger of fentanyl saying, “You were unleashing in this community the dire threat of death from those pills… This is someone who needs to be removed from society.”
According to records filed in the case, Cristerna Lucas came to the attention of law enforcement during a wiretap investigation of a drug trafficking organization. The investigation was led by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). Lucas agreed to sell the undercover agent 5,000 fentanyl pills. The drugs tested positive for fentanyl.
On July 2, 2025, Cristerna Lucas was arrested while driving in Seattle. DEA agents found that he had a Ruger AR-556 semi-automatic rifle and three loaded magazines and multiple rounds of .223 ammunition in his car. He was booked federally and charged with conspiracy to distribute controlled substances. In June 2026 he pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute controlled substances and unlawful possession of a firearm.
Cristerna Lucas will next be transferred to King County custody since he has been linked to a robbery plot that resulted in a fatal shooting in November 2024.
Judge Robart ordered four years of supervised release to follow the federal prison term. However, Lucas will likely be deported following his prison sentence.
“As a drug courier, Mr. Cristerna Lucas was responsible for trafficking thousands of deadly fentanyl pills into Western Washington and putting lives at risk,” said Robert A. Saccone, Special Agent in Charge, DEA Seattle Field Division. “Drug trafficking and firearms are a deadly combination. When the defendant was arrested, he possessed a semi-automatic rifle. Through Fentanyl Free America, DEA is disrupting the fentanyl supply chain, reducing its availability, and protecting American lives.”
The case was investigated by the DEA, HSI, and the Puyallup Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Casey Conzatti.
This investigation 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 Seattle comprises agents and officers from Homeland Security Investigations, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), The United States Marshals Service (USMS), the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations (IRS-CI), the United States Secret Service (USSS), U.S. Customs and Border Protection, and the U.S. Coast Guard Investigative Service, with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Washington.
Holliston Man Charged with Sexual Exploitation of ChildrenRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Holliston, Mass. man was charged yesterday in federal court in Boston with sexually exploiting a minor.
Wilson Fabian Mizhirumbay Granda, 23, was charged with one count of sexual exploitation of children. Granda is currently in Rhode Island state custody on an unrelated criminal case and will appear in federal court in Boston at a later date.
Between August and September 2023, Granda is alleged to have coerced a minor victim to engage in sexually explicit conduct.
Granda has prior state convictions in Hampshire Country Superior Court for rape of a child and enticing a child under 16, for which he was sentenced in May 2024 to four years and one day in state prison to be followed by five years of probation. Currently, Granda also has pending charges in Norfolk County for rape of child with force, rape of child and enticing a child under 16 related to another minor.
The charge of sexual exploitation of children provides for a sentence of up to 30 years in prison, a lifetime of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Ted E. Docks, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Holliston, Scituate (R.I.), Amherst, Westminster, Medway, Worcester, Millis and UMass Lowell Police Departments; and the Middlesex County, Hampshire County, Northwestern County, Norfolk County and Worcester County District Attorney’s Offices. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys David G. Tobin and Jessica L. Soto of the Criminal Division.
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 the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
The details contained in the charging document are allegations. The defendant is presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in the court of law.
High-Ranking MS-13 Gang Member Sentenced to 60 Years’ Imprisonment for Racketeering, Seven Murders, Multiple Attempted Murders, Arson, and Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
Earlier today, in federal court in Central Islip, Jairo Saenz, also known as “Funny,” a high-ranking member of the Brentwood/Central Islip chapter of the Sailors Locos Salvatruchas Westside (Sailors) clique of La Mara Salvatrucha, also known as the MS-13, a transnational criminal organization, was sentenced by United States District Judge Gary R. Brown to 60 years’ in prison for racketeering, including predicate racketeering acts relating to his participation in seven murders, namely, the January 28, 2016 murder of Michael Johnson; the April 29, 2016 murder of Oscar Acosta; the September 13, 2016 murders of Kayla Cuevas and Nisa Mickens; the October 10, 2016 murder of Javier Castillo; the October 13, 2016 murder of Dewann Stacks; and the January 30, 2017 murder of Esteban Alvarado-Bonilla. Saenz’s sentence also reflected his participation in three attempted murders, arson, narcotics trafficking, firearms offenses and a conspiracy to kill Marcus Bohannon, who was murdered on September 5, 2016 by other members of the MS-13. Saenz pleaded guilty to these crimes on January 14, 2025.
Joseph Nocella, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York; James C. Barnacle, Jr., Assistant Director in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, New York Field Office (FBI); and Kevin Catalina, Commissioner, Suffolk County Police Department (SCPD), announced the sentence.
“Jairo Saenz and his brother Alexi were at the forefront of a violent reign of terror and bloodshed that plagued communities across Long Island for years,” stated United States Attorney Nocella. “They will both spend decades in prison, effectively life sentences, for their unspeakable crimes. Our Office and our law enforcement partners will continue to work tirelessly to hold the MS-13 and its members accountable for their horrific crimes. I hope that today’s sentence brings some measure of closure to the surviving victims and the families of the fallen victims who, after these many years, continue to suffer unimaginable grief over the loss of their loved ones.”
“The MS-13 gang members’ reign of brutality — marked by murders, attempted murders, arson, and firearms offenses — can no longer inflict harm on our communities. The FBI's Safe Streets Task Force will continue pursuing MS-13’s leadership at every level until every community is free from their violence and intimidation,” stated FBI Assistant Director in Charge Barnacle.
"Saenz was essentially a serial killer, having played a role in seven murders and three attempted murders," Suffolk County Police Commissioner Kevin Catalina said. "His horrific crimes brought national attention to the bloodshed caused by MS-13. While no amount of prison time can bring these victims back, we hope this sentence brings some measure of justice and solace to their families. We will continue to dedicate the resources necessary to ensure gang violence never takes hold in our communities.”
According to court filings and statements made during the guilty plea and sentencing proceedings, Jairo Saenz was a high-ranking member of the Brentwood/Central Islip chapter of the Sailors clique of the MS-13 – one of the more powerful, violent and well-established cliques on the East Coast of the United States. At the time of his crimes, he was second in command to his brother, Alexi Saenz, who pleaded guilty to the same crimes on July 10, 2024, and who was sentenced on July 2, 2025 principally to 68 years’ imprisonment. Jairo Saenz committed the following crimes to maintain and increase his membership and status within the gang, and to further the mission of the MS-13:
January 28, 2016 Murder of Michael Johnson
On January 28, 2016, Alexi Saenz and other MS-13 members and associates were at the Jocorena Deli in Brentwood, where they saw 29-year-old Michael Johnson, and claimed to recognize him as a member of the rival Bloods street gang. At that point, Johnson was marked as their “food” – a reference to their intention to kill him.
After receiving the requisite approval from the New York leader of the Sailors clique to commit this murder, Alexi Saenz contacted Jairo Saenz and several other MS-13 members, informed them of the plan to kill Johnson and instructed them to bring weapons, including a machete and a baseball bat, to a wooded area in Brentwood. Alexi Saenz then lured Johnson to that secluded meeting location under the guise of smoking marijuana. The MS-13 members and associates, including Jairo Saenz, ambushed Johnson from behind – striking Johnson with the baseball bat, stabbing him with a knife and taking turns hacking him with the machete. They fled after hearing police sirens in the area.
Johnson was reported missing by family members. Less than one week after his murder, on February 2, 2016, members of the SCPD responded to a 911 call about a body found in the woods by a passerby and recovered Johnson’s body. An autopsy determined Johnson’s cause of death to be sharp and blunt force injuries.
April 29, 2016 Murder of Oscar Acosta
In early 2016, Alexi Saenz, Jairo Saenz and their fellow Sailors clique members decided to “green light,” or approve, the murder of 19-year-old Oscar Acosta because they suspected that he was associating with the rival 18th Street gang after previously aligning himself with the MS-13. The New York Sailors clique leader assigned roles as to which members would take the lead in planning and carrying out the murder.
On April 29, 2016, MS-13 members met Acosta in a wooded area near an elementary school in Brentwood where he had been lured under the guise of smoking marijuana. They brutally beat Acosta with tree limbs, knocking him unconscious. They bound Acosta’s hands and feet, wrapped an article of clothing around his mouth to prevent him from making noise and summoned other MS-13 members, including Alexi Saenz and Jairo Saenz, who arrived together. The MS-13 members loaded Acosta into the trunk of the Saenz brothers’ car, and drove to a more secluded area in Brentwood near the abandoned Pilgrim State Psychiatric Hospital. At the direction of Alexi Saenz, the MS-13 members removed Acosta, who was still alive, from the trunk and carried him deeper into the woods where they took turns hacking him to death with a machete. The murder was supervised by the Saenz brothers. The MS-13 members then buried Acosta’s body in a shallow grave.
Acosta’s body was discovered by law enforcement nearly five months later, on September 16, 2016, during a search for another MS-13 victim. His cause of death was homicidal violence, including sharp and blunt force injuries to his head and torso.
July 18, 2016 Attempted Murders of John Doe #1 and John Doe #2
On July 18, 2016, during a Sailors clique meeting at the Saenz brothers’ house in Central Islip, Alexi Saenz instructed the group to hunt for rival gang members who had been disrespectful to the MS-13, to attack and kill them.
Later that evening, Jairo Saenz and other members of the MS-13, who were driving around Brentwood armed with firearms and a machete, spotted a group of men on Apple Street. Believing these men to be members of a rival gang, three MS-13 members got out of the car driven by Jairo Saenz and attacked the group, firing rounds from two different guns, and then using a machete to hack at one of the men who had fallen to the ground.
Two individuals were injured as a result of this attack. John Doe #1 was struck with a bullet, but survived. John Doe #2 was attacked with a machete, and was permanently disfigured.
August 10, 2016 Attempted Murders of Suspected Rival Gang Members
In 2016, members of the MS-13 were engaged in a series of disputes with members of the Goon Squad, a rival gang in Brentwood.
On August 10, 2016, Alexi Saenz and another MS-13 member drove through the neighborhood around Lukens Avenue in Brentwood, and spotted several men who they believed were members of the Goon Squad. They then rallied other members of the Sailors clique, including Jairo Saenz, to come kill the rivals.
The MS-13 members divided into two vehicles and drove towards the house where the suspected Goon Squad members had been spotted. The Saenz brothers’ car kept watch for the police, while two other MS-13 members, each armed with a gun, approached the group of suspected rivals and fired numerous shots in their direction. No one was hit, although a stray bullet entered a neighbor’s house and struck the headboard of a bed in which the neighbor was sleeping.
September 5, 2016 Murder of Marcus Bohannon
On September 4, 2016, after a Sailors clique meeting at the Saenz brothers’ house in Central Islip, Jairo Saenz, Alexi Saenz and other MS-13 members went out hunting for rival gang members to kill.
The MS-13 members separated into several cars and drove around Central Islip and Brentwood, until Alexi Saenz’s group spotted 27-year old Marcus Bohannon walking along Lowell Avenue in Central Islip in the early morning hours of September 5. Suspecting that Bohannon was a member of the rival Bloods gang, two MS-13 members, carrying firearms, got out of the vehicle, approached him and started shooting. Bohannon was struck nine times, including in his head, neck, and chest, and died from his wounds.
September 12, 2016 Arson
During the summer of 2016, Sailors clique members of the MS-13 regularly had altercations with local gang members based in a neighborhood on Freeman Avenue in Brentwood.
On September 12, 2016, the MS-13 members retaliated by setting fire to a car parked in the driveway of one of the houses in that rival gang neighborhood. Alexi Saenz directed other gang members to purchase gasoline and carry out the arson, while he drove around watching for police. Jairo Saenz drove the other MS-13 gang members to that house, where they poured gasoline on a car parked in the driveway, and set it on fire. The car exploded and set another parked car on fire.
September 13, 2016 Murders of Kayla Cuevas and Nisa Mickens
On September 13, 2016, Sailors clique members brutally murdered 15-year-old Nisa Mickens and 16-year-old Kayla Cuevas, both students at Brentwood High School.
In the months leading up to the murders, Cuevas was involved in a series of disputes with members and associates of the MS-13. Approximately one week before the murders, these disputes escalated when Cuevas and several friends were involved in an altercation with MS-13 members at Brentwood High School. After that incident, the MS-13 members vowed to seek revenge against Cuevas.
On the evening of September 13, 2016, the Saenz brothers and other members of the Sailors clique of the MS-13 were driving in separate cars around Brentwood in search of rival gang members to attack and kill. One group of MS-13 members spotted Cuevas and Mickens walking down residential Stahley Street. Recognizing Cuevas, they called the Saenz brothers and were granted permission to kill the girls. Several MS-13 members then chased down and attacked both Cuevas and Mickens, wielding baseball bats and a machete, striking each of the girls numerous times in their heads and bodies, while the Saenz brothers’ car drove around watching for police. After the murders, the group retreated to the Saenz brothers’ home in Central Islip, where they changed clothes and hid the weapons.
Mickens, whose body was discovered later that evening on Stahley Street, not far from Cuevas’s home, sustained significant sharp force trauma to her face and blunt force trauma to her head. Cuevas, whose body was discovered the following day behind a house adjacent to where Mickens’s body was found, sustained significant blunt force trauma to her head and body and multiple lacerations.
October 10, 2016 Murder of Javier Castillo
In October 2016, the MS-13 targeted 15-year-old Javier Castillo because he was believed to be a member of the 18th Street gang, one of MS-13’s principal rivals.
On October 10, 2016, Jairo Saenz and other members of the Sailors clique convinced Castillo, who lived in Central Islip, to drive with them to Freeport – approximately 30 miles away – to smoke marijuana. Once there, they met Alexi Saenz and other Sailors clique members. The group then lured Castillo to an isolated marsh area in Cow Meadow Park, where they attacked him, taking turns hacking him to death with a machete.
Afterwards, the MS-13 members dug a hole and buried Castillo’s body, which was not recovered until one year later, in late October 2017. Castillo was determined to have suffered multiple sharp force injuries to his head, neck, torso and extremities.
October 13, 2016 Murder of Dewann Stacks
On the evening of October 13, 2016, the Saenz brothers and other members of the Sailors clique of MS-13 were driving around Central Islip and Brentwood in search of rival gang members to attack and kill.
That night, they spotted 34-year-old Dewann Stacks and, believing him to be a rival gang member, Alexi Saenz authorized his murder. While Alexi Saenz drove around watching for police presence, Jairo Saenz drove three MS-13 members, armed with two machetes and a baseball bat, to attack Stacks. The three armed MS-13 members got out of the car, and beat and hacked Stacks to death on American Boulevard, a residential street in Brentwood. Stacks sustained severe sharp and blunt force trauma to his face and head, leaving his body nearly unrecognizable.
January 30, 2017 Murder of Esteban Alvarado-Bonilla
On the morning of January 30, 2017, Alexi Saenz and other members of the Sailors clique of MS-13 spotted 29-year-old Esteban Alvarado-Bonilla inside El Campesino Deli in Central Islip. Alvarado-Bonilla was wearing a football jersey bearing the number “18,” which led the MS-13 to conclude that he was a member of a rival gang, and they plotted to kill him.
After Alvarado-Bonilla was observed in the deli, Jairo Saenz drove MS-13 members to get a mask and another vehicle, both of which would be used when committing the murder. Alexi Saenz provided the clique’s 9-millimeter handgun for use in the murder.
At approximately 10:30 a.m., a masked MS-13 member entered the deli, approached Alvarado-Bonilla from behind, and shot him multiple times, killing him. One of the bullets pierced through Alvarado-Bonilla’s head and struck the chest of a female employee of the deli, who was standing directly in front of him. The deli employee survived the gunshot wound.
Narcotics Trafficking Conspiracy
From approximately April 2016 through March 2017, to finance the illegal operations of the Sailors clique, the Saenz brothers obtained wholesale quantities of cocaine and marijuana, which they distributed to other Sailors clique members and associates for street-level sales in Brentwood and its surrounding areas. After the sales, the profits were turned over to the Saenz brothers, for use in, among other things, purchasing firearms for use by clique members, wiring money to MS-13 leaders in El Salvador and buying additional narcotics for further distribution.
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Today’s sentencing is the latest achievement in a series of federal prosecutions by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of New York targeting members of the MS-13, a violent transnational criminal organization. The MS-13 is comprised primarily of immigrants from Central America, with a leadership base in El Salvador, Honduras, Guatemala, and Mexico, but with thousands of members all over the world. With numerous branches, or “cliques,” the MS-13 is the most violent criminal organization on Long Island. Since 2003, hundreds of MS-13 members, including dozens of clique leaders, have been convicted of racketeering and other felonies in the Eastern District of New York, including charges for participating in murders, attempted murders, and assaults. Since 2010, this Office has obtained indictments charging MS-13 members with carrying out more than 80 murders in the Eastern District of New York, resulting in the convictions of dozens of MS-13 leaders and members. These prosecutions are the product of investigations led by the FBI’s Long Island Gang Task Force, which is comprised of agents and officers of the FBI, SCPD, Nassau County Police Department, Nassau County Sheriff’s Department, Suffolk County Probation Office, Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office, the New York State Police, the Hempstead Police Department, the Rockville Centre Police Department, and the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision.
The case is also part of Operation Take Back America, a Department of Justice initiative aimed at eradicating transnational criminal organizations, combating violent crime and restoring the rule of law.
The government’s case is being handled by the Criminal Section of the Office’s Long Island Division. Assistant United States Attorneys Paul G. Scotti, Justina L. Geraci and Megan E. Farrell are in charge of the prosecution, with the assistance of Paralegal Specialist Kerryanne Ucci and Automated Litigation Specialist Michael Compitello.
The Defendant:
JAIRO SAENZ (also known as “Funny”)
Age: 30
El Divisadero, Morazán, El Salvador; and Central Islip, New YorkE.D.N.Y. Docket No. 16-CR-403 (S-8) (GRB)
Grand Haven Man Gets Prison for Internet ThreatsRead the Press Release
Defendant threatened to use chemical weapons against ICE agents
GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN – U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan Timothy VerHey today announced that Christopher Ray Plyler, 43, of Grand Haven, Michigan was sentenced to 12 months in prison for communicating an interstate threat, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 875(c). During sentencing, Chief U.S. District Judge Hala Y. Jarbou said, “As an American, you have an absolute right to speak out, but there’s a line you can’t cross,” and “threats will not be tolerated.”
Between November 2025 and January 2026, Plyler posted a dozen threatening comments in response to YouTube videos about civil unrest in Minneapolis. In one message, Plyler discussed using chemical gas to attack Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents. Federal agents found that Plyler used Google to search for instructions on making hazardous chemical gases. He had also searched for the home address of a former Secretary of Homeland Security. In May 2026, Plyler pled guilty to posting a message that read, “Let them come I’m ready to kill ICE Nazis and make them pay with their lives the war is on.”
U.S. Attorney Timothy VerHey said, “Threatening federal officers for doing their job will not be tolerated in this district. Our immigration laws were enacted by our representatives in Congress and they will be enforced. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents have been given this job, and it is unreasonable for anyone to direct their anger towards them for doing it. Nobody gets to veto federal law by making threats against these officers, and anyone who tries will be prosecuted by my office.”
“There is a clear line between expressing an opinion and threatening to kill federal law enforcement officers. Crossing that line has consequences,” said Jennifer Runyan, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Detroit Field Office. “I am grateful for the outstanding work of our FBI Grand Rapids Resident Agency Joint Terrorism Task Force and the United States Secret Service. Their diligence, coordination, and commitment helped disrupt a potential threat before it could be carried out.”
“Today’s sentence underscores that threatening government officials is a serious federal crime with significant consequences,” said David Dobb, Resident Agent in Charge of the U.S. Secret Service’s Grand Rapids Resident Office. “The U.S. Secret Service will continue to work with our partners to investigate threats, support successful prosecutions, and ensure those who target public officials are held accountable.”
The case was investigated by the FBI and the U.S. Secret Service.
Gainesville Woman Pleads Guilty to Federal Production and Distribution of Child Pornography ChargesRead the Press Release
Gainesville, Florida – Trinity Joy Johnson, 26, of Gainesville, pleaded guilty in federal court to two counts of sexual exploitation of children producing child pornography, fifteen counts of distribution of child pornography, and one count of possession of child pornography. The plea was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “Thanks to the outstanding investigative work by the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office and Homeland Security Investigations, my office was able to aggressively prosecute this defendant to ensure she is held fully accountable for her disgusting crimes victimizing an innocent child.”
Court documents reflect that the defendant used her cell phone to take sexually explicit photographs of a toddler that she was supposed to be taking care of. The defendant then shared those photos, and other files of child pornography, online with strangers while discussing sexually explicit topics. A search of the defendant’s phone revealed over 100 files that depicted child sex abuse material.
As to each count of production of child pornography, Johnson faces a minimum term of fifteen years’ imprisonment and a maximum term of thirty years’ imprisonment. As to each count for distribution of child pornography, Johnson faces a minimum term of five years’ imprisonment and a maximum term of twenty years’ imprisonment. As to the sole count of possession of child pornography, Johnson faces a maximum term of twenty years’ imprisonment.
Sentencing is scheduled for November 23, 2026, at 3:00 p.m., at the United States Courthouse in Gainesville, Florida before Chief United States District Court Judge Allen C. Winsor.
The case was investigated by the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office and Homeland Security Investigations. Assistant United States Attorney Adam Hapner is prosecuting 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.
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 for the Northern District of Florida, visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl.
Former Middleton Police Officer Sentenced to Federal Prison for Child Pornography OffenseRead the Press Release
Brad D. Schimel, First Assistant United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on September 10, 2026, Senior United States District Judge William C. Griesbach sentenced Myles S. Schumaker (age 26), to 60 months’ imprisonment following his conviction for Attempted Transportation of Child Pornography, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 2252A(a)(1) and 2252A(b)(1).
According to court documents and arguments presented in court, in November 2025, Schumaker, who was at that time a City of Middleton, Wisconsin, police officer and Marine reservist, used the internet to communicate with a minor located in Winnebago County, Wisconsin. The communications were sexual in nature and resulted in Schumaker traveling to a park and ride lot to meet the minor victim. He then proceeded to sexually assault the child in his vehicle. He continued to communicate with the minor and requested sexually explicit images and videos from the child, which would have constituted child sexual abuse material (child pornography).
Judge Griesbach described the defendant’s crime as a serious criminal offense. He noted that the defendant’s actions were particularly alarming given his position in law enforcement. He cited a need to deter Schumaker and others from engaging in similar criminal behavior in the future. Judge Griesbach determined that a sentence of 5 years of imprisonment was an appropriate sentence. Following his release from federal prison, Schumaker will spend 5 years on supervised release and will be required to register as a sex offender under state and federal law.
This case was investigated by the Winnebago County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Daniel R. Humble.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006, by the U.S. Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
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For further information contact:
Public Affairs Officer Steve Caballero
[email protected]
Follow us on XFormer Federal Prison Employee Sentenced to More Than Three Years in Prison for Sexually Abusing Two InmatesRead the Press Release
ROCKFORD — A former employee of the Federal Correctional Institute in Thomson, Ill., has been sentenced to more than three years in federal prison for sexually abusing two inmates.
DANNY L. SPYKER, 42, a corrections officer who was working as a cook supervisor, knowingly engaged in sexual acts with two inmates, which is a federal crime. At the time of the abuse in March 2024, both victims were in official detention in the prison and under the custodial, supervisory, and disciplinary authority of prison employees, including Spyker.
A jury in U.S. District Court in Rockford earlier this year convicted Spyker of two counts of knowingly engaging in sexual acts with inmates. On Monday, U.S. District Judge Sunil R. Harjani sentenced Spyker to three years and five months in federal prison.
The sentence was announced by Andrew S. Boutros, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, and Matt Loux, Acting Special Agent-in-Charge of the Midwest Regional Office of the Department of Justice’s Office of Inspector General.
“Defendant’s criminal conduct was not the result of a one-time mistake or a momentary lapse of judgment,” Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan S. Kim argued in the government’s sentencing memorandum. “He used his knowledge and position as a corrections officer/cook supervisor for his own sexual gratification. When a correctional officer abuses his power and harms an inmate, it is not only a violation of federal law—it is a betrayal of the trust that the community places in our penal institutions.”
“Today’s sentencing shows the Federal Bureau of Prisons’ commitment to protecting the people in our custody and holding anyone who breaks the law accountable,” said William K. Marshall III, Director of the Federal Bureau of Prisons. “We will continue working with our law enforcement partners to keep every BOP facility safe, secure, and worthy of the public’s trust.”
Former Falls Church youth minister indicted for sexual abuse of childrenRead the Press Release
ALEXANDRIA, Va. – A former youth minister for a Northern Virginia church was arrested and made an initial appearance in court yesterday on charges of enticement of minors for illegal sexual activity and traveling with the intent to engage in illegal sexual activity with minors.
According to court documents, Jeffrey Turner Taylor, 66, now of Milford, Ohio, served as a youth minister at The Falls Church from 1990 to 2002. Taylor allegedly sexually groomed multiple boys under the guise of spiritual guidance. His alleged grooming behaviors included sexual horseplay, probing inquiries into the sexual secrets and habits of boys, and detailed revelations about his own sexual experiences. On multiple occasions, Taylor traveled with the alleged intent to engage in illicit sexual conduct by taking boys with him to ministry events in another state or country. On several occasions, Taylor allegedly engaged or attempted to engage in sexual molestation of multiple boys.
According to court documents, Taylor served as a youth minister at two other churches in Atlanta, where he allegedly groomed and sexually abused a boy in his ministry there. Of the conduct known to investigators, Taylor’s alleged sexual grooming and abuse spanned from at least 1990 until 2008.
Anyone with information not yet provided to this investigation or who may have been a victim of Jeffrey Taylor is encouraged to contact the FBI Washington Field Office at this link.
Taylor is scheduled for arraignment in the Eastern District of Virginia on Sept. 24. If convicted, Taylor faces up to 105 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Theophani K. Stamos, First Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, and Jeffrey L. Tyler, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Washington Field Office's Criminal Division, made the announcement.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Vanessa K. Strobbe is prosecuting the case. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Ohio provided substantial assistance with this case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Court documents may be obtained through PACER for the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Ohio, under Case Nos. 1:26-mj-750 and 1:26-mj-737.
Former Employee of Child Advocacy Nonprofit Pleads Guilty to Embezzling Almost $100,000 of Program FundsRead the Press Release
ROME, Ga. - Jennifer O’Neal, a former program specialist for a nonprofit corporation serving abused and neglected children, pled guilty today to stealing nearly $100,000 from the organization.
“O’Neal violated her company’s core values, stealing tens of thousands of dollars meant to support the most vulnerable members of our community – abused and neglected children,” said U.S. Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg. “We are thankful for the cooperation of our state and local law enforcement partners who helped uncover and investigate this reprehensible conduct.”
“This was not a one-time, spur of the moment decision. Jennifer O’Neal frequently and repeatedly stole from her company for her own personal gain,” said Mitchell Jackson, Supervisory Senior Resident Agent in FBI Atlanta’s Cartersville Office. “The FBI is committed to uncovering and bringing to justice those who commit criminal actions like these.”
“Organizations that serve vulnerable individuals depend on their employees to uphold the highest standards of integrity. O’Neal violated that trust for her own personal gain, stealing funds intended to serve abused and neglected children,” said Chris Hosey, Director, Georgia Bureau of Investigation. “The GBI remains committed to working alongside our local, state, and federal partners to hold accountable those who abuse positions of trust.”
According to U.S. Attorney Hertzberg, the charges, and other information presented in court: Court Appointed Special Advocates of Polk & Haralson, Inc. (“CASA of Polk & Haralson” or “CASA”) is a nonprofit organization that recruits, trains, and supports citizen-volunteers to advocate for the best interests of abused and neglected children in courts and the community. It also helps volunteers establish consistent, one-on-one relationships with foster children.
CASA of Polk & Haralson employed O’Neal as a program specialist in charge of processing payroll and expense reimbursements for staff and volunteers. From 2018 to 2022, O’Neal issued frequent fraudulent payments to herself and others from CASA’s bank accounts that were not for legitimate CASA expenses.
Some of the improper payments were disguised as mileage payments for travel to court appearances or conferences, or expense reimbursements for restaurants, groceries, utilities, and clothes purportedly for volunteers, staff, and children. However, the mileage charges were inflated or were based on travel that did not occur, and the restaurant, grocery, utilities, and clothes reimbursements were made for O’Neal’s personal expenses. For example, O’Neal used CASA funds to pay for her own power, water/sewage, and cell phone bills. Some payments covered charges at a Six Flags amusement park, a Netflix subscription, and purchases of softball gear and lingerie. O’Neal also issued payments purportedly for office supplies but used to purchase home theater equipment that she installed at her residence.
In total, O’Neal embezzled $96,713 from CASA of Polk & Haralson.
Jennifer O’Neal, 63, of Cedartown, Georgia, pled guilty to a criminal information charging theft of federal program funds. Sentencing is scheduled for December 17, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. before United States District Judge William M. Ray, II.
This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Georgia Bureau of Investigation.
Assistant United States Attorneys Garrett L. Bradford and Calvin A. Leipold, III are prosecuting the case. The Tallapoosa Judicial Circuit District Attorney’s Office referred the case to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for federal prosecution.
For further information please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office at [email protected] or (404) 581-6185. The Internet address for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia is http://www.justice.gov/usao-ndga.
Former Church Elder in Alaska Pleads Guilty to Possessing Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
Dwight Chris John, 74, a former church elder in Ketchikan, Alaska, pleaded guilty to possessing child sexual abuse material (CSAM) depicting a minor under the age of 12.
“Dwight Chris John repeatedly exploited a vulnerable child in Mexico and engaged in the exploitation of children online in Alaska,” said Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Department of Justice’s Criminal Division. “Yesterday’s guilty plea is an important step toward justice for these children. We will hold U.S. citizens accountable wherever they exploit children.”
“Demonstrated by his reprehensible pattern of conduct involving online child exploitation, Mr. John posed a significant threat to children in Alaska and abroad,” said Special Agent in Charge Matthew Schlegel of the FBI Anchorage Field Office. “Protecting children is one of the FBI’s highest priorities. Together with our law enforcement partners, we will continue to pursue and hold accountable anyone who exploits our most vulnerable.”
According to court documents, in May 2024, John’s relatives contacted the Ketchikan Police Department after they found a USB drive containing what they thought was CSAM. At the time of discovery, John was serving a sentence in an Alaska state prison for sexually abusing a minor.
A law enforcement officer reviewed the photos on the USB drive and found numerous sexually explicit images of a young girl known to John through an institution located in Mexico. Law enforcement officers searched John’s cell phones and laptop computer, where they discovered dozens of sexually explicit photos of the minor victim and over 1,000 images of CSAM depicting prepubescent minors, including infants and toddlers.
John admitted to producing sexually explicit photographs of the minor victim during his trips to Mexico in 2018 and 2019.
John was charged through Operation Relentless Justice in late 2025, a coordinated enforcement effort to identify, track, and arrest child sex predators. He is scheduled to be sentenced on Dec. 16 and faces a minimum penalty of 10 years in prison and a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The FBI Anchorage Field Office, Juneau Resident Agency investigated the case, with assistance from the Ketchikan Police Department, as part of the FBI’s Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force.
Trial Attorney Rachel L. Rothberg of the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS) and Assistant U.S. Attorney Jack Schmidt for the District of Alaska are prosecuting 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.
Former Bullard High School teacher pleads guilty to child exploitation offensesRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — Ray Anthony Waller, 39, of Fresno, pleaded guilty today to sexual exploitation of a child, receipt of child sexual abuse material (CSAM), and sending obscene material to a minor, U.S. Attorney Eric Grant announced.
According to court documents, between November 2024 and February 2025, Waller communicated with a minor by sending text, voice, and iMessages enticing the minor create and transmit to Waller images of CSAM. During this time Waller was a teacher at Bullard High School. Waller sent obscene images of himself to the victim and convinced the victim to reciprocate with images of the victim engaging in sexually explicit conduct.
The Central California Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force conducted the investigation, specifically the Fresno Police Department with assistance from Homeland Security Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney David Gappa is prosecuting the case.
Waller is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Kirk E. Sherriff on Dec. 14, 2026. Waller faces a prison term of between 15-30 years and a potential $250,000 fine for the child exploitation charge. For receipt of child sexual abuse images, he faces a prison term of between 5-20 years and a potential $250,000 fine. For transmitting obscene material to a minor, he faces a prison term of up to 10 years and a potential $250,000 fine. The actual sentence, however, will be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables.
Florida Man Indicted for Defrauding Columbia HBCU of $3M in Football Stadium SchemeRead the Press Release
COLUMBIA, S.C. — A federal grand jury in Columbia returned a four-count indictment, presented by the U.S. Attorney’s Office, charging Lamonica “Monti” Valrie, 66, of Hollywood, Florida, for wire fraud and money laundering in a scheme that defrauded Allen University (AU), the African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church (AU’s parent organization), and other victims of over $6 million.
The indictment alleges that Valrie devised a scheme to defraud Allen University and the AME Church through his business entity “50 Plus 1 L.L.C.” In August 2023, Valrie partnered with AU and promised to build a football stadium at no cost to AU. Valrie did not have sufficient funding sources to develop, construct, or build a stadium. In January 2024, he secured an amendment to the agreement obligating AU to pay him up to $3 million to expedite the construction of the stadium and to provide a playable field by the start of the 2024 football season. The agreement explicitly required Valrie to use the expedite fee to advance the project. Valrie secured a $500,000 lump sum from AU, plus $70,000 per month from AU to expedite the construction of the stadium. The indictment further alleges that Valrie defrauded the AME Church of approximately $154,000 in other stadium related funds. No stadium was ever built.
Instead, Valrie spent the funds on personal luxury purchases including exotic supercars, jewelry, luxury goods, a Yacht charter, and a high-end rental home in south Florida.
Valrie faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison. He was arrested in Florida and made an initial appearance in federal court in the Southern District of Florida. He will have a future court appearance in the District of South Carolina.
The case was investigated by FBI Columbia Field Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney T. DeWayne Pearson is prosecuting the case.
All charges in the indictment are merely accusations and defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.###
Five Defendants Charged with Defrauding and Exploiting H-2A Visa Program to Smuggle Aliens into the United StatesRead the Press Release
A superseding indictment was unsealed today in the Southern District of Georgia charging five defendants for their roles in a scheme to exploit a nonimmigrant visa worker program to fraudulently obtain worker visas and smuggle aliens into the United States.
According to court documents, Martha Aquino, also known as “Martha Patricia Resendez Sanchez,” or “Marta,” 61, Evangelina Aquino De Galvan, 49, and Julio Cervantes, 38, all of Alma, Georgia, as well as Marco Cervantes, also known as “Chiquilin,” 41, of Rowlett, Georgia, and Juan Felipe Romero-Lopez, 31, an illegal alien from Mexico, conspired to exploit the H-2A visa program by fraudulently obtaining temporary visas to bring workers into the United States. They lied about where the workers would work and reside and did not comply with the laws and rules governing the visa program, specifically by demanding and receiving improper payments from the workers before the workers could seek H-2A visas or begin working in the United States. The conspirators confiscated and withheld the workers’ identification documents, including passports, and at times threatened or used violence against the workers to deter them from leaving or failing to work. After the workers’ visas had expired, the conspirators enabled them to remain in the United States and even offered to transport them elsewhere in the United States in exchange for additional improper payments.
“The H-2A is specifically designed to help farmers fill temporary or seasonal jobs when there is a shortage of domestic labor,” said Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Instead of helping American farmers, these defendants allegedly concocted a scheme to enrich themselves by manipulating the program and smuggling aliens into the country for profit.”
“Those who exploit immigrant workers and abuse the H-2A visa program for their own financial gain will be held accountable,” said U.S. Attorney Margaret E. “Meg” Heap for the Southern District of Georgia. “We will continue to partner with our federal, state and local agencies to protect these workers, safeguard the integrity of the H-2A program and prosecute those who turn a lawful employment program into a vehicle for profit and abuse.”
“Exploiting a lawful worker visa program to profit from vulnerable individuals undermines our immigration system, harms legitimate employers, and puts workers at risk,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Ellen Johnson of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Georgia and Alabama. “HSI will continue to work with our federal, state, and local partners to identify and dismantle criminal networks that use fraud, coercion, and violence to facilitate human smuggling and trafficking.”
“The H-2A program exists to meet critical U.S. labor needs through lawful employment, not to facilitate fraud or exploitation,” said Deputy Assistant Director William Ferrari of the U.S. Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service (DSS) Office of Investigations. “Working closely with Homeland Security Investigations, and alongside the Department of Labor Office of Inspector General and the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, DSS jointly investigated this case. Through our global presence and expertise in visa fraud investigations, DSS will continue working with our law enforcement partners to identify abuses of U.S. visa programs and hold alleged offenders accountable.”
“The defendants allegedly used fraud and intimidation to exploit vulnerable workers and undermine the H-2A visa program, a system designed to meet legitimate agricultural labor needs,” said Inspector General Anthony P. D’Esposito of the U.S. Department of Labor Office of Inspector General. “Their egregious conduct included demanding improper payments, confiscating workers’ identification documents, and using threats or violence to maintain control. The Department of Labor Office of Inspector General will aggressively investigate those who exploit labor programs and workers for profit. We will continue working with our law-enforcement partners to ensure these individuals are held fully accountable.”
Aquino, Julio Cervantes, and Marco Cervantes were arrested this week. Aquino De Galvan remains at large. Romero-Lopez has been detained after being originally charged in May 2026 for unlawful possession of a firearm by an illegal alien. Aquino, Aquino De Galvan, and Julio Cervantes are charged with conspiring to commit visa fraud, visa fraud, and encouraging and inducing aliens to enter the United States illegally for commercial advantage and private gain. Marco Cervantes is charged with conspiring to commit visa fraud and visa fraud. Juan Felipe Romero-Lopez is charged with conspiring to commit visa fraud and being an illegal alien in possession of a firearm. If convicted, Aquino, Aquino De Galvan, Julio Cervantes, Marco Cervantes, and Romero-Lopez each face a maximum penalty of five years in prison for visa fraud conspiracy; Aquino, Aquino De Galvan, Julio Cervantes, and Marco Cervantes each face a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison for visa fraud; Aquino, Aquino De Galvan, and Julio Cervantes each face a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison for encouraging and inducing illegal entry; and Romero-Lopez faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison for being an illegal alien in possession of a firearm.
HSI Savannah, the U.S. Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service, Department of Labor-Office of Inspector General, and the Georgia Bureau of Investigation are investigating the case. HSI’s Human Smuggling Unit in Washington, D.C., and Custom and Border Protection’s National Targeting Center International Interdiction Task Force also assisted with the investigation.
Trial Attorney Sean F. Mulryne of the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section (HRSP) and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Marcela C. Mateo and Makeia R. Jonese for the Southern District of Georgia are prosecuting the case, with assistance from HRSP Analyst/Latin America Specialist Joanna Crandall.
The indictment announced today was supported and prosecuted by Joint Task Force Alpha (JTFA), the Department’s lead effort in combating high-impact human smuggling and trafficking committed by cartels and Transnational Criminal Organizations (TCOs). A highly successful partnership between the Department of Justice and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), JTFA investigates and prosecutes human smuggling and trafficking and related immigration crimes that impact public safety and border security. JTFA’s mission is to target the leaders and organizers of Cartels and TCOs involved in human smuggling and trafficking throughout the Americas. The Attorney General has elevated and expanded JTFA to target the most prolific and dangerous human smuggling and trafficking groups operating not only in Mexico and the Northern Triangle countries of Guatemala, El Salvador, and Honduras, but also in Canada, the Caribbean and the maritime border, and elsewhere. Led by the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section and supported by the Money Laundering, Narcotics and Forfeiture Section, the Office of International Affairs, and the Office of Enforcement Operations, among others, JTFA has dedicated prosecutors from the Southern District of California; District of Arizona; District of New Mexico; Western and Southern Districts of Texas; Southern District of Florida; Northern District of New York; and District of Vermont. JTFA also partners with other USAOs throughout the country and supports high-priority cases in any district. All JTFA cases rely on substantial law enforcement resources from DHS, including Immigration and Customs Enforcement/HSI and U.S. Customs and Border Protection/Border Patrol and Office of Field Operations, as well as FBI and other law enforcement agencies. To date, JTFA’s work has resulted in more than 458 domestic and international arrests of leaders, organizers, and significant facilitators of alien smuggling and/or trafficking; more than 408 U.S. convictions; and more than 357 significant jail sentences imposed, and forfeitures of substantial assets.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Federal prosecutors crack down on illegal voting: Seven non-citizens charged in sweeping federal election integrity operationRead the Press Release
FORT WORTH, Texas — United States Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Ryan Raybould announced that seven non‑citizens have been charged for unlawfully voting in federal elections or falsely claiming United States citizenship.
Six defendants were indicted on Sept. 10, while the seventh was charged by criminal complaint on Sept. 11. Federal agents arrested one defendant on Sept. 11 and five defendants on Sept.14. One fugitive defendant surrendered to federal authorities today.
“Federal elections belong to American citizens—period,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan Raybould. “When individuals who are not citizens cast ballots or falsely claim citizenship, they violate federal law, undermine the integrity of our electoral process and erode the public’s confidence in the fairness of our elections. These charges send a clear message: We will enforce the law. We will hold offenders accountable. And we will safeguard the voting process for the citizens it is meant to serve.”
“Election integrity is a national security priority, and HSI will continue working with our federal, state, and local partners to investigate violations that threaten public confidence in our electoral process,” said HSI Dallas acting Deputy Special Agent in Charge Judy Pardo. “These charges reflect HSI’s commitment to enforcing federal law, protecting the rights of U.S. citizens, and ensuring that only those legally eligible participate in American elections.”
“Americans have a right to expect free and fair elections. This includes ensuring that the only people who vote in our elections are in fact eligible to vote,” said FBI Dallas Special Agent in Charge R. Joseph Rothrock. “The FBI will continue to work with our partners to thoroughly investigate any allegation of voter fraud or other election crimes.”
The seven non-citizens are charged with the following offenses:
- Helen Sayen Adams, is a 67-year-old citizen of Nigeria and lawful permanent resident (Green Card holder) since May 2024, is charged with voting by an alien in a federal election and false statement of citizenship in order to register to vote. Adams allegedly falsely claimed U.S. citizenship on a Texas Voter Registration Application in June 2024 and voted in the November 2024 general election in Tarrant County. She later admitted she was not a U.S. citizen.
- Joshua Nmelichukwu Akpom, is a 27-year-old citizen of Nigeria and lawful permanent resident since 2016, charged with false statements in relation to naturalization. As alleged, Akpom falsely denied on his 2026 naturalization application that he had ever claimed U.S. citizenship, registered to vote, or voted, despite registering in 2017 and voting in the 2018 general election. Due to the five‑year statute of limitations, prosecutors relied on the naturalization offense rather than the voting conduct.
- Carlos Salas Barrios, is a 41-year-old Mexican citizen and lawful permanent resident since 2018, charged by complaint with allegedly voting by an Alien in a Federal Election. Barrios unlawfully cast a provisional ballot in Tarrant County in the November 2024 general election despite not being a U.S. citizen and not being registered. Although the ballot was ultimately rejected, casting it was still unlawful under Texas and federal law.
- Khalwinder Singh Bhengura, is a 69-year-old citizen of India and lawful permanent resident since 2022, charged with voting by an alien in a federal election and false statement of citizenship in order to register to vote. Bhengura falsely claimed U.S. citizenship when registering to vote in January 2024 and again when applying for a Texas driver license later that year in August. He voted in the November 2024 general election and later admitted he knew he was not a citizen. He was arrested on Sept. 11.
- Celestin Katubadi, is a 20-year-old citizen of the Democratic Republic of Congo and lawful permanent resident, charged with voting by an alien in a federal election and false statement of citizenship in order to vote. Katubadi cast a provisional ballot in Tarrant County during the November 2024 general election after falsely claiming U.S. citizenship on an affidavit of provisional voter. Although his ballot was rejected, casting it was still unlawful Texas and federal law.
- Rocio Thrasher, is a 38-year-old Mexican citizen and lawful permanent resident since 2017, charged with voting by an alien in a federal election and false statement of citizenship in order to register to vote. According to the indictment, Thrasher allegedly falsely declared U.S. citizenship when registering in June 2024 and voted in the November 2024 general election. She later admitted knowing she was not a citizen.
- Moises Anwar Arellano‑Alba, is a 36-year-old illegal alien from Mexico ordered deported in July, charged with voting by an alien in a federal election and false statement of citizenship in order to register to vote. He allegedly falsely claimed U.S. citizenship when applying for a Texas driver license in 2023 and voted early in the 2024 general election in Dallas County despite being a non‑citizen and convicted felon. He admitted in immigration proceedings that he had voted. Arellano‑Alba was a fugitive until this morning when he surrendered himself to federal agents.
These are not isolated incidents in North Texas. On the same day these several noncitizens were indicted, Eliseo Morales-Tapia, an illegal alien from Mexico, was sentenced to 36 months in federal prison for aggravated identity theft, identity theft, voting by an alien in a federal election and false statements of citizenship.
HSI and FBI Dallas field offices conducted the investigations with assistance from the Election Integrity Unit of the Texas Office of the Attorney General and the Tarrant County District Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Capoccia from the Fort Worth Division is prosecution the case.
Indictments and complaints are allegations and defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
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FBI Seizes DDoS-for-Hire Domains as Part of Continuing District of Alaska Crackdown on ‘Booter’ and ‘Stresser’ DDoS ServicesRead the Press Release
ANCHORAGE, Alaska – The Justice Department today announced the court-authorized seizure of internet domains associated with one of the world’s longest running Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) for-hire services known as “NightmareStresser.”
Federal law enforcement has seized websites maintained by criminal service providers that allow paying customers to launch powerful DDoS attacks targeting victims in the District of Alaska and worldwide as part of coordinated actions to disrupt so called “Booter” or “Stresser” operators.
Booter services such as those named in this action allegedly facilitate attacks on a wide array of victims in the United States and abroad, including educational institutions, government agencies, gaming platforms and millions of people. In addition to affecting targeted victims, these attacks can significantly degrade internet services and can completely disrupt internet connections.
According to the seizure warrant affidavit, the NightmareStresser Booter service targeted in this operation was used to launch hundreds of thousands of actual or attempted DDoS attacks targeting victims worldwide since 2022.
This operation, in coordination with other international law enforcement actions, is intended to disrupt the infrastructure used by the NightmareStresser service to facilitate attacks on victims in the District of Alaska and across the United States.
In recent years, booter services have continued to proliferate as they offer a low barrier to entry for users looking to engage in cybercriminal activity. These types of DDoS attacks are so named because they result in the “booting” or dropping of the targeted computer from the internet. For additional information on booter and stresser services and the harm that they cause, please visit: https://www.fbi.gov/contact-us/field-offices/anchorage/fbi-intensify-efforts-to-combat-illegal-ddos-attacks.
The seizures announced today were performed by the FBI Anchorage Field Office in coordination with The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), Federal Policing Northwest Region.
These law enforcement actions were taken in conjunction with Operation PowerOFF, an ongoing, coordinated effort among international law enforcement agencies aimed at dismantling criminal DDoS-for-hire infrastructures worldwide, and holding accountable the administrators and users of these illegal services.
In previous law enforcement actions involving prosecutors and investigators in Anchorage and Los Angeles over the last eight years, the Justice Department charged twelve defendants who facilitated DDoS-for hire services and seized more than 100 internet domains associated with DDoS-for-hire services. The multi-prong investigation announced today builds on the success of the prior cases by targeting all known booter sites, shutting down as many as possible, and undertaking a public education campaign.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys for the District of Alaska Adam Alexander and Ainsley McNerney are prosecuting this matter.
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Dual Resident of California and Virginia Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy to Distribute Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
Scott Keith Baldwin Jr., 58, a dual resident of San Jose, California, and Reston, Virginia, pleaded guilty today to conspiracy to distribute child sexual abuse material (CSAM).
According to court documents, Baldwin Jr. was an active member of an invite-only online group on an encrypted messaging platform dedicated to sharing live links and files of CSAM. Around July 2024, following an online investigation into the group where law enforcement agents identified Baldwin as a member, agents executed a residential search warrant at Baldwin’s home in San Jose. A hard drive seized from this residence was found to contain images and videos from over 150 known child exploitation series, including images of prepubescent minors.
Baldwin pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute CSAM. Sentencing is set for Jan. 12, 2027. Baldwin faces a minimum penalty of five years in prison and a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; U.S. Attorney Craig H. Missakian for the Northern District of California; and FBI Assistant Director Heith Janke of the FBI’s Criminal Investigative Division made the announcement.
Trial Attorney Nadia Prinz of the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS) and Assistant U.S. Attorney Marissa Harris for the Northern District of California are prosecuting the case.
The FBI’s Child Exploitation Operational Unit investigated the case, with substantial assistance from both the FBI Washington, D.C. and San Francisco Field Offices.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the 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, visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Dual Resident of California and Virginia Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy to Distribute Child PornographyRead the Press Release
SAN JOSE- Today, Scott Keith Baldwin, Jr., a dual resident of San Jose, California and Reston, Virginia, pleaded guilty to Count One of an Information filed against him on February 3, 2026, charging him with conspiracy to distribute child pornography.
According to his plea agreement, Scott Keith Baldwin, Jr., 58, was an active member of an invite-only online group dedicated to sharing and/or posting live links, as well as saved files, containing child sexual abuse material. In July of 2024, following an online investigation into the group, law enforcement agents executed a residential search warrant at Baldwin’s home in San Jose. A hard drive seized from this residence was found to contain images and videos from over 150 known child exploitation series, including images and videos depicting the sexual abuse of prepubescent minors and toddlers.
United States Attorney Craig H. Missakian and FBI Special Agent in Charge Scott Schelble made the announcement.Baldwin is currently in federal custody. Baldwin’s sentencing hearing is scheduled for January 12, 2027, at 9:00 a.m., before U.S. District Judge Beth L. Freeman. Baldwin faces a mandatory minimum sentence of five years’ imprisonment and a maximum statutory sentence of 20 years’ imprisonment. He also faces a fine of up to $250,000, a special assessment of up to $35,000, and must pay restitution to his victims. Any sentence will be imposed by the court after consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and the federal statute governing the imposition of a sentence, 18 U.S.C. § 3553.
Trial Attorney Nadia Prinz of the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS) and Assistant U.S. Attorney Marissa Harris of the Northern District of California are prosecuting the case. The FBI’s Child Exploitation Operational Unit investigated the case, with substantial assistance from both the FBI Washington, DC and FBI San Francisco Field Offices.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the 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, visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Drug Trafficker Engaged in Armed Robbery Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Spokane, Washington — First Assistant United States Attorney Pete Serrano announced that on September 14, 2026, Jackson Wyatt Brown, age 40, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Rebecca Pennell to 120 months of incarceration to be followed by 5 years of supervised release stemming from his conviction for Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.
In May 2025, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Moses Lake Police Department were conducting a crime reduction emphasis in the Grant County, Washington, area. Brown was identified as a subject trafficking in both methamphetamine and fentanyl. Brown ultimately had sold a confidential informant and undercover agent quantities of each drug during recorded transactions. During an unrelated investigation into firearm trafficking in the Grant County area, Brown unexpectedly arrived at a co-conspirator’s residence with a firearm and robbed the confidential informant, who he said owed him a drug debt from several years prior. Law enforcement who had been conducting surveillance on the exterior of the residence attempted to conduct a traffic stop on Brown’s vehicle. While eluding law enforcement, Brown’s vehicle became disabled in a high sand mound and, after briefly physically resisting, Brown submitted to his arrest. A search warrant executed on his vehicle revealed approximately 1 pound of methamphetamine and a realistic firearm replica. Brown received enhancements to his sentencing range based upon his threats of violence and use of a firearm against the informant.
“This case underscores the serious danger posed by individuals who traffic in methamphetamine and fentanyl while engaging in violent and reckless criminal conduct. Brown put the community at significant risk, and I am grateful to our federal and state partners who were able to arrest Brown after he fled. The United States Attorney’s Office remains committed to holding those, like Brown, who endanger public safety accountable and to protecting our community from the harms associated with violent drug trafficking,” said Serrano.
“Today’s sentence is a measure of accountability for a defendant who chose to prey upon our community and use violence to advance his criminal objectives. There is simply no excuse for putting profit ahead of human life and public safety,” said ATF Seattle Field Division Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Blais. “Mr. Brown’s conduct was calculated, dangerous, and a grave threat to our Eastern Washington neighborhoods. If you choose violence, firearms, and sinister drugs as your path to profit, ATF and our law enforcement and prosecutorial partners will bring the full might of the justice system to your doorstep.”
“The Moses Lake Police Department extends our sincere appreciation to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives for its steadfast partnership and unwavering support,” stated Chief Sands. “The collaborative efforts between our agencies and our other federal partners, strengthen our ability to protect the public, enhance the effectiveness of complex investigations, and uphold the rule of law. We value this continued commitment to coordinated enforcement and look forward to advancing our shared mission through our enduring partnership.”
For additional information, please contact the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Washington.
2:25-CR-0095-RLP
Downtown L.A. Residents Arrested on Federal Complaint Alleging Possession of More Than 42 Kilograms of Fentanyl, Small Alligator in Stash HouseRead the Press Release
LOS ANGELES – A man and woman living in a luxury downtown Los Angeles apartment that law enforcement believes was a stash house have been arrested for allegedly possessing more than 42 kilograms of fentanyl, more than seven kilograms of cocaine, firearms, drug-making materials, and a small alligator, the Justice Department announced today.
Marvin Angelito, 27, and Susan Gonzalez, 26, were arrested on September 10 and are charged with possession with intent to distribute fentanyl.
Both defendants made their initial appearances on Monday in United States District Court in downtown Los Angeles. United States Magistrate Judge Karen L. Stevenson ordered Angelito detained and ordered Gonzalez released on $15,000 bond. Angelito’s arraignment is scheduled for October 2, and Gonzalez’s arraignment is scheduled for October 9. No pleas were taken on Monday.
According to an affidavit filed with the complaint, the apartment was a known drug trafficking location. On September 10, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Angelito and Gonzalez’s apartment. The search resulted in the seizure of approximately 42.6 kilograms (93.9 pounds) of fentanyl pills and powder, approximately one kilogram (2.2 pounds) of heroin, 7.2 kilograms (15.9 pounds) of cocaine, laboratory equipment such as beakers, mixers, stirrers, and torches, and a hydraulic press.
Law enforcement also seized an AR-15 rifle with ammunition located in a hallway closet, a gold-plated Desert Eagle .50-caliber pistol with ammunition located on the kitchen counter, a police radio, and a small alligator, which U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service agents seized.
A criminal complaint merely contains allegations. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
If convicted, the defendants would face a statutory maximum sentence of life in federal prison.
FBI New Haven Homeland Security Task Force, FBI Los Angeles Regional Narcotics Suppression Program, and the Drug Enforcement Administration are investigating this matter.
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.
Assistant United States Attorney Lloyd Masson of the General Crimes Section is prosecuting this case.
District of Oregon’s COVID Fraud Task Force Secures More Than $314 million in Restitution, Forfeitures, and Civil RecoveriesRead the Press Release
PORTLAND, Ore.— U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford is pleased to announce a series of criminal and civil enforcement actions to combat fraud involving federal pandemic relief funds. Since June 2026, the District of Oregon’s Covid Fraud Task Force has brought 12 enforcement actions involving more than $29 million in losses and thus far resulting in more than $8.6 million in recovery. Since 2020, the District’s COVID Fraud Task Force recovered more than $314 million and held fraudsters accountable through similar efforts.
The District’s COVID Fraud Task Force brings together investigators and Assistant U.S. Attorneys from a dozen agencies to combat fraud involving pandemic-relief programs in Oregon and across the country through an integrated, multi-agency approach that coordinates criminal prosecution, civil enforcement, and asset recovery. Its work has focused on schemes targeting the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), COVID-19 Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program, Restaurant Revitalization Fund (RRF), and other federal relief programs. This task force has set a national standard for combating pandemic-relief fraud.
“These criminals exploited pandemic programs meant to keep honest small businesses alive. By aggressively pursuing pandemic‑related fraud, we’re protecting the local businesses that follow the law, serve our communities, and drive our economy. Our small, dedicated multi‑agency team delivers an exceptional return for the American taxpayer—holding offenders accountable and recovering hundreds of millions in settlements, seizures, and restitution. And when possible, we work cooperatively with companies to return improperly obtained taxpayer funds. Fraud, waste, and abuse don’t stand a chance,” said Scott E. Bradford, U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.
“Intentional misrepresentation to gain access to SBA program funds intended for the nation’s small businesses is reprehensible,” said SBA Office of Inspector General’s Western Region Special Agent in Charge Timothy Larson. “Our Office will remain relentless in the pursuit of fraudsters who seek to exploit SBA’s vital economic programs. I want to thank the U.S. Attorney’s Office and our law enforcement partners for their dedication and commitment to seeing justice served.”
The following cases highlight the COVID Fraud Task Force’s work over the past few months:
U.S. v Benjamin Young, David Starling, and Adam Starling
On June 9, 2026, a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Benjamin Young and David Starling with one count of conspiracy to defraud the United States and Young with 12 counts of wire fraud. Adam Starling previously pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to defraud the United States.
The indictment alleges, and Adam Starling admitted in his plea agreement, that participants in the conspiracy fabricated employee and wage records to obtain Employee Retention Credits and Qualified Sick and Family Leave Credits. Co-conspirators listed relatives as employees of one another’s businesses even though those relatives performed little to no work. The purported employees included one co-conspirator’s two-year-old twins. The wages were reported and filed with the IRS, seeking over $3 million in COVID-19 related tax credits. The scheme also used fabricated IRS records to support PPP loan applications to the SBA that were later forgiven based on false information.
The indictment further alleges that Young fraudulently obtained approximately $1.6 million in PPP loan forgiveness in the name of a victim nonprofit organization and used fabricated records to obtain a $2.5 million SBA-guaranteed business loan. Young allegedly misappropriated the loan proceeds and used them to acquire real property. In November 2025, the United States seized properties owned by Young, including this one, that allegedly were purchased with proceeds of the schemes.
U.S. v Melissa Fireside
On September 1, 2026, a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Melissa Fireside, a former Clackamas County Commissioner, with two counts of wire fraud. According to the indictment, Fireside sought PPP and EIDL loans, totaling more than $300,000, for a business that did not exist in the name of an adult for whom she provided care. The applications included false statements about the non-existent business, including employees and gross revenues. Fireside also included fabricated supporting documentation including tax documents and bank records. Fireside diverted the PPP loan proceeds for personal use. Fireside has since fled the United States and is a fugitive from justice. Anyone with information is urged to contact the District of Oregon United State Marshals Service Office, the United State Marshals Service Communications Center at 1-800-336-0102, or submit a tip using USMS Tips.
U.S. v K’Lum Strickland
On September 1, 2025, a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging K’Lum Strickland with one count of wire fraud. According to the indictment, Strickland stole almost $70,000 through the PPP and EIDL programs. To obtain the loans, Strickland submitted applications with false information, including non-existent businesses, false gross revenues, and false IRS documents. Strickland spent all of the loan proceeds for personal expenses.
U.S. v Beniamin Lucescu
On September 11, 2026, a federal jury convicted Beniamin Lucescu of conspiracy, wire fraud, and money laundering for a scheme through which he defrauded the government out of approximately $487,000 in EIDL proceeds. As proven at trial, Lucescu claimed he was obtaining the loans for Rose City Senior Care, a home senior care business he operated with his wife. Lucescu falsely certified the proceeds would be used for business working capital and to address economic injury caused by the pandemic while he actually intended to, and did, use the funds to pay personal tax debt and make speculative cryptocurrency investments.
U.S. v Kenneth Burns
Kenneth Burns pleaded guilty to bank fraud for defrauding the government out of more than $230,000 in PPP loan proceeds. According to court documents, Burns submitted a loan application containing false information, including IRS documents and information about the business.
On July 7, 2026, Burns failed to appear for his scheduled sentencing hearing, and a bench warrant was issued for his arrest as a wanted fugitive from justice. Anyone with information is urged to contact the District of Oregon United State Marshals Service Office, the United State Marshals Service Communications Center at 1-800-336-0102, or submit a tip using USMS Tips.
U.S. v Joel Caswell
On August 21, 2026, Joel Caswell was sentenced to 42 months in federal prison for fraud, tax violations, and identity theft. He was also ordered to pay $1,198,799.83 in restitution to the government. According to court records, Caswell executed multiple fraud schemes that involved
submitting fabricated financial records to a bank, a private lender, and the SBA to secure loans. Caswell used the fraudulently obtained loans for personal expenses.
On September 1, 2026, another individual was charged for defrauding the SBA’s PPP and EIDL loan programs for over $760,000. This case remains under seal.
Emerald Green Lawn Service, Inc.
On July 6, 2026, Emerald Green Lawn Service, Inc., executed a False Claims Act Civil Settlement Agreement to repay $71,485.19 of EIDL loan proceeds for knowingly submitting false applications to obtain EIDL loans.
Ramzy Hattar; and Zedan Outdoors, LLC d/b/a Talyor’s Bar & Grill
On September 11, 2026, the United States filed a complaint against Ramzy Hattar and his associated business Zedan Outdoors, LLC, dba Taylor’s Bar & Grill for filing false claims in applications to obtain more than $350,000 in PPP and EIDL loans. According to the complaint, Taylor’s Bar & Grill was not operating at the time it obtained the loans. The complaint further alleges that Hattar misused the loan proceeds.
Microtec Inc., formerly known as Lucidyne Technologies, Inc.
On August 27, 2026, Microtec Inc., which was formerly known as Lucidyne Technologies, Inc. agreed to pay the United States $1,554,137 to resolve an investigation into whether Lucidyne Technologies improperly certified its eligibility for a PPP loan. Microtec Inc. cooperated upon being contacted and resolved the issue.
Additional Civil Case Pending Execution:
On September 4, 2026, the United States reached a False Claims Act Civil Settlement Agreement in a sealed qui tam action with a company that improperly obtained PPP loans, recovering approximately $1.6 million.
The COVID Fraud Task Force continues to pursue criminal and civil enforcement actions aggressively with forthcoming matters on the horizon.
Criminal Illegal Alien from Honduras, Previously Deported 7 Times, Sent to Federal Prison for Illegal ReentryRead the Press Release
Gainesville, Florida – Osman Antonio Guerrero-Torres, 47, of Honduras, was sentenced to 57 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to illegal reentry into the United States. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “Americans deserve to live in a country with secure borders and a government willing to enforce our laws to keep them safe. Fortunately, President Donald J. Trump and Attorney General Todd Blanche are committed to fulfilling both of those promises to our citizens, and my office will continue to aggressively prosecute these brazen violators of our nation’s immigration laws to keep our communities safe.”
Court documents reflect that the defendant, a citizen of Honduras, was removed from the United States on seven prior occasions. The defendant has one prior conviction for illegal reentry into the United States. Additionally, the defendant was previously convicted of Vehicular Assault, where an officer conducted a traffic stop, and the defendant tried to flee, and almost struck an officer. The defendant was also previously convicted of possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, obstructing a peace officer, criminal mischief, reckless endangerment, and possession of cocaine.
The case was investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations and the Gainesville Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Tyler Fleming prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
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 https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl.
Court Rejects Challenge to Army Corps Permit for Johnson Tract Mineral Exploration ProjectRead the Press Release
Yesterday, The U.S. District Court for the District of Alaska rejected a challenge to a Clean Water Act permit issued by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for the Johnson Tract mineral exploration project in South Central Alaska. The court granted summary judgment to the United States on every claim and left the permit in place. The permit allows JT Mining to build an access road and upgrade an existing airstrip serving an exploratory drilling site on private land the company owns inside Lake Clark National Park.
“This decision protects responsible mineral exploration on private land,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Adam Gustafson of the Justice Department’s Energy and Natural Resources Division (ENRD). “The court’s decision reaffirms that federal agencies are entitled to deference when they make scientific and predictive judgments, and it keeps an important Alaska project moving forward.”
The Johnson Tract is a 20,942-acre private inholding at the headwaters of the Johnson River. JT Mining applied for a Section 404 permit in 2023 to build access to an upland exploratory drilling site. The Corps solicited and reviewed public comment, consulted several Alaska Native Tribes, and issued the permit in September 2024. The permit authorizes the discharge of 67,800 cubic yards of general embankment fill and 5,200 cubic yards of surfacing material into 5.14 acres of waters of the United States to construct a 2.3-mile access road and to realign and expand the existing airstrip to 5,000 feet. Fill will be sourced locally from material sites located in uplands, avoiding wetland and stream fill.
Plaintiffs argued principally that the Corps violated Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act by defining the action area too narrowly and declining to consult with the National Marine Fisheries Service about the endangered Cook Inlet beluga whale. The whale’s designated critical habitat includes Tuxedni Bay, roughly ten miles east of the project area.
The court rejected that claim. It held the Corps reasonably defined the action area to reach the project footprint, a 300-foot buffer marking the outer limit of detectable noise disturbance, and three miles of downstream aquatic environment, and that the agency gave a reasoned explanation for those boundaries. The court noted that the permit authorizes the discharge of fill, not flights, and that it conveys no right to fly aircraft over Tuxedni Bay; air traffic over the national park is regulated by the National Park Service. The court further held the Corps acted reasonably in treating a future mine, and any flights a mine might generate, as speculative. Because no listed species or critical habitat is present in the action area, no consultation was required.
The court likewise upheld the Corps’ work under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and the Clean Water Act, rejecting arguments that the agency failed to verify the applicant’s acid rock drainage and metals leaching data and failed to resolve uncertainty about jurisdictional waters at the material sites. Quoting the Supreme Court’s decision in Seven County Infrastructure Coalition v. Eagle County, the court reiterated that “[t]he bedrock principle of judicial review in NEPA cases can be stated in a word: Deference.”
Trial attorneys from ENRD's Wildlife and Marine Resources Section, Natural Resources Section, and Environmental Defense Section handled this matter, with support from the U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Alaska.
Convicted Felon Guilty of Illegally Possessing Gun, Drugs in MaconRead the Press Release
MACON, Ga. – A federal jury convicted a Georgia man with a criminal history for illegally possessing a firearm and attempting to distribute methamphetamine and cocaine in Central Georgia resulting from a Project Safe Neighborhoods investigation.
“Armed repeat offenders who threaten public safety will be brought to justice in the Middle District of Georgia,” said U.S. Attorney William R. “Will” Keyes. “This case highlights the strong partnership between federal and local law enforcement to quickly apprehend and bring to justice convicted felons with guns who continually violate the law.”
“Repeat offenders who possess illegal drugs and firearms pose a serious threat to our communities,” said Michael J. Connolly, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Atlanta Field Division. “This conviction reflects the commitment of DEA and our law enforcement partners to work together, disrupt criminal activity, and ensure those who repeatedly break the law are held accountable.”
“This conviction sends a clear message that those who bring illegal drugs and firearms into our community will be held accountable. Every gun and quantity of dangerous drugs we remove from the streets represents an opportunity to prevent another crime, another tragedy, and another family from being harmed,” said Bibb County Sheriff David Davis. “I’m proud of the work of our Special Investigative Unit and grateful for the strong partnership we share with our federal and local law enforcement partners. By working together, we are not only enforcing the law—we are protecting lives and helping make our community safer for everyone.”
Jason Ronald Harvey, 53, of Laurens County, Georgia, was found guilty of one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, one count of possession with intent to distribute cocaine, one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Harvey faces a maximum of life in prison.
The trial began on Monday, September 14, and concluded on Tuesday, September 15, before U.S. District Judge Marc Treadwell in Macon. The Court will schedule the sentencing hearing for a later date. There is no parole in the federal system.
According to the filed indictment, court documents, and statements made in court, investigators received information from a confidential source on July 31, 2024, that Harvey was at the Super 8 Motel on Chambers Road in Macon, with methamphetamine, cocaine, and fentanyl. Harvey had outstanding arrest warrants for aggravated assault from Laurens County and for probation violation from Henry County.
A firearm and drugs seized in Case 5:25-cr-00046 in U.S. v. Harvey.
Agents with the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office, and the Laurens County Sheriff’s Office conducted surveillance and located Harvey at Walmart on Harrison Road in Macon. Investigators arrested Harvey as he exited the store and took him into custody. At his arrest, Harvey was in possession of methamphetamine, crack cocaine, and a handgun. Harvey has a prior felony drug conviction in Georgia; it is illegal for a convicted felon to possess a firearm.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. As a key component of Operation Take Back America, PSN serves a central role in the Department’s commitment to make our country safe. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities.
The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) Special Investigative Unit (SIU), and the Laurens County Sheriff’s Office (LCSO) investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Tyler Morris and Monica Brown are prosecuting the case for the Government.
Conscientious Objector Who Faked Vietnam Combat and Medals Pleads Guilty to Defrauding VARead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – An Independence, Mo. man, who defrauded the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) by claiming false combat service and medals, pleaded guilty in federal court.
James Lyon, 80, pleaded guilty to fraudulently obtaining $124,262 in disability‑related payments from the VA.
In connection with his guilty plea, Lyon admitted to repeatedly lying about his military service, including falsely claiming he earned prestigious combat decorations and submitting fraudulent documents to the VA. This plea is one of many federal fraud cases pursued under the leadership of President Donald Trump and through the establishment of the Task Force to Eliminate Fraud.
“Veterans’ benefits represent a sacred national promise that is rooted in our gratitude to the men and women who have sacrificed and served our country,” said R. Matthew Price, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Missouri. “When individuals fraudulently obtain these benefits for their own personal gain, they undermine the integrity of these vital programs and divert resources from the veterans who earned them and need them most. That is unacceptable. We will continue to vigorously prosecute those who seek to defraud programs intended to honor and support our nation’s veterans.”
“Engaging in stolen valor—whether it involves stealing a veteran’s identity or making false claims about military service and awards—not only undermines the sacrifices made by those who have genuinely served but also dishonors the veterans who have rightfully earned their benefits,” said Inspector General Cheryl L. Mason, Department of Veterans Affairs. “At VA OIG, we are deeply committed to holding these individuals accountable and will work closely with our partners at the Department of Justice to ensure they are prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. Protecting the honor and benefits of veterans remains a top priority for us.”
Lyon admitted that although he refused Marine Corps training in 1966 as a conscientious objector, he falsely claimed he had completed three separate periods of Marine Corps service, including combat during the Vietnam War. Lyon also admitted to falsely claiming high‑level combat awards, including the Bronze Star and Silver Star, despite never having served in combat.
Lyon further admitted to lying to the VA about being diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). Lyon used fabricated medical records to seek disability compensation based on that false diagnosis.
By lying about his service, claiming unearned combat decorations, and submitting false medical paperwork, Lyon received more than $124,000 to which he was not entitled.
Under federal statutes, Lyon is subject to a sentence of up to ten years in federal prison without parole. 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 United States Attorney James Kirkpatrick and was investigated by the Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General.
National Fraud Enforcement Division
On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division (“Fraud Division”). The Fraud Division is laser-focused on investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.
Chicago Man Who Smuggled Five Firearms into Mexico Sentenced to Three Years in Federal Prison; Two of the Firearms Were Allegedly Straw Purchased by Chicago Police OfficerRead the Press Release
CHICAGO — A Chicago man who smuggled five firearms and more than 1,700 rounds of ammunition into Mexico has been sentenced to three years in federal prison. Two of the smuggled firearms were allegedly “straw purchased” by a Chicago Police Officer.
In the fall of 2024, DIEGO VALDEZ and Chicago Police Officer KEVIN RODRIGUEZ schemed for Rodriguez to purchase an AR-15 style rifle on Valdez’s behalf from a firearms dealer in Indiana. A few days later, Rodriguez purchased a handgun for Valdez in Illinois. Valdez had identified which firearms he wanted and paid Rodriguez to buy them.
Valdez then smuggled the straw-purchased firearms and three other guns, along with the ammunition, into Mexico, with the intention of selling them on the streets. Mexican police stopped Valdez and others in December 2025 while they were traveling to the Mexican state of Michoacan.
Valdez, 26, of Chicago, pleaded guilty earlier this year to one count of unlawfully receiving a firearm. On Sept. 8, 2026, U.S. District Judge John J. Tharp, Jr. sentenced Valdez to three years in federal prison.
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 & Explosives.
The investigation was conducted in coordination with ATF’s Crime Gun Intelligence Center of Chicago. The CGIC is a centralized law enforcement partnership that focuses exclusively on investigating and prosecuting violent offenders who utilize firearms in commission of their crimes in Chicago and throughout northern Illinois. Every firearm-related case in Chicago is processed through the CGIC on a daily basis.
“Gun trafficking is a scourge on both our local community and the international community,” Assistant U.S. Attorney Elie Zenner argued in the government’s sentencing memorandum. “It is important to send a message to the individuals that might traffic guns to Mexico for money that there are serious consequences for doing so.”
Rodriguez, 29, of Chicago, has pleaded not guilty to conspiracy and firearm charges. A change-of-plea hearing has been scheduled for Oct. 27, 2026, at 10:00 a.m., before Judge Tharp.
Career offender sentenced to over 21 years in prison for federal drug and firearms crimesRead the Press Release
RICHMOND, Va. – A Petersburg man was sentenced today to 21 years and 10 months in prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
According to court documents, on Oct. 25, 2023, authorities searched the residences of Alonzo Lee Bonner Jr., 39, in Dinwiddie and Petersburg. When authorities ordered Bonner to exit his residence, Bonner refused, and a stand-off lasting approximately an hour ensued. During that stand-off, Bonner flushed several ounces of cocaine down his toilet.
At the Dinwiddie property, authorities searched both the residence and several vehicles owned and used by Bonner. Investigators recovered, among other things, $4,001, 348.3 grams of cannabis, 11.83 grams of cocaine, two handguns, a semiautomatic rifle, high-capacity magazines and ammunition, glass measuring devices containing cocaine residue, 101.82 grams of marijuana; and a digital scale.
At the Petersburg property, investigators recovered, among other things, 1,588.79 grams of marijuana, over a kilogram of crystal methamphetamine, 17.46 grams of cocaine, a handgun, and ammunition.
When Bonner was arrested on Jan. 3, 2024, in Chesterfield, authorities recovered $3,252, approximately 36 grams of cocaine, approximately 39 grams of marijuana, digital scales, and a spoon with cocaine residue.
Bonner was previously convicted of, among other offenses, being an accessory after the fact to a willful and deliberate murder, failure to appear, possession with intent to distribute marijuana, eluding police with endangerment, distribution of cocaine, possession of a schedule I or II controlled substance, resisting arrest, and possession of a firearm by a felon. As a convicted felon, Bonner cannot legally possess firearms or ammunition.
Theophani K. Stamos, First Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; Eric Weindorf, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations Washington, D.C.; and Shane Todd, Acting Special Agent in Charge for the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Washington Division, made the announcement after sentencing by Senior U.S. District Judge Robert E. Payne. The Chesterfield County Police Department assisted in the investigation.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Stephen W. Miller and Janet Jin Ah Lee prosecuted the case.
Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:26-cr-30.
Butler County Man Charged with Receiving a Firearm and Ammunition with Intent to Commit Terrorism on Behalf of ISISRead the Press Release
Jonathan Hunter Kramer, 21, a resident of Valencia, Pennsylvania, has been charged by federal criminal complaint with receiving a firearm and ammunition knowing or having reasonable cause to believe that the firearm and ammunition would be used to commit a felony or a federal crime of terrorism, including providing, attempting to provide, and conspiring to provide material support or resources to a designated Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO). FBI agents interdicted Kramer this weekend as he returned to a hotel in possession of three 30-round capacity rifle magazines and five boxes of rifle ammunition. The FBI then executed search warrants, seized a semiautomatic rifle and ammunition from his hotel room, and arrested him.
“As Americans observed the 25th anniversary of 9/11, our law enforcement partners were working to protect our country from the continued threat of terrorism,” said Attorney General Todd Blanche. “Their outstanding work thwarted this alleged attack before innocent lives could be lost. The Department of Justice will relentlessly pursue anyone who seeks to terrorize the American people and bring them to justice.”
“This FBI continues to move more effectively than we ever have stopping terrorists before they harm the American people,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “The subject in this case was allegedly plotting a violent attack in support of ISIS — engaging with ISIS propaganda online, building attack concepts, and repeatedly expressing extremist rhetoric — all while acquiring weapons believed to be in preparation of the attack. He has been charged with Receipt of a Firearm Knowing or Having Reasonable Cause to Believe that Such Firearm Will Be Used to Commit a Federal Crime of Terrorism. Once again, results like these are exactly why we made changes to this FBI and the way it runs – to save lives before would-be criminals can act. It’s why this FBI has disrupted 1,097 terrorists, 20% more the last 18 months before the Trump administration started — as well as executing 42% more Foreign Terrorist Organization-related arrests and dismantling 96% more FTO’s. Outstanding job by FBI Pittsburgh and our partners.”
“Kramer was taken into custody just as he appeared to be preparing for a mass shooting that could have taken many lives, having already secured a rifle and approximately 190 rounds of ammunition for what he called his ‘mission,’” said Assistant Attorney General for National Security John Eisenberg. “His apparent ISIS inspiration and escalation toward violence show how close this country came to a devastating attack. This arrest prevented what could have been a horrific tragedy.”
“As alleged in the complaint, Jonathan’s Kramer’s words and actions during recent months have been profoundly concerning,” said U.S. Attorney Troy Rivetti for the Western District of Pennsylvania. “We commend our partners at the FBI and other law enforcement agencies for the speed and precision with which they intervened and detained Kramer when it became clear that he was moving forward with his radical ideology and posed an increased, clear threat to our community. We will continue standing shoulder-to-shoulder with our law enforcement partners at all levels to preserve the safety of our communities from individuals seeking to inflict harm on behalf of Foreign Terrorist Organizations.”
“FBI Pittsburgh and our local, state, and federal partners continue to face an elevated threat environment across the region from a variety of terrorism actors,” said Special Agent in Charge Richard Evanchec of the FBI Pittsburgh Field Office. “An extremely alarming threat to our community exists when an individual reportedly pledges allegiance to a foreign terrorist organization, seeks to turn that ideology into action, and makes final preparations for an attack. FBI Pittsburgh and our partners will continue to move swiftly and decisively to counter any individual’s mobilization to violence in the name of a Foreign Terrorist Organization to ensure the safety of our community.”
According to the affidavit filed in support of the complaint, Kramer has been known to the FBI since an earlier investigation in 2023, which resulted in Kramer, then a minor, being charged and adjudicated delinquent by Pennsylvania state authorities for his role in a plot to commit a mass casualty incident and for possessing child sexual abuse material. On March 19, 2026, following Kramer’s release from a Pennsylvania juvenile detention facility, an anonymous individual made an online tip to the FBI reporting a return to troubling behavior by Kramer, including, among other activities, his ordering of “mysterious” packages and “talking to his friends from before” his juvenile adjudication. Subsequent investigation confirmed that Kramer had been using the online persona of “Hamza Al Rashid” who claimed affiliation with ISIS, offered to share explosive manuals with others, and expressed his intent to prepare for his “mission” and that he was just missing a “weapon.”
On Sept. 12, the FBI observed Kramer quickly depart his residence while carrying a bag and travel via rideshare to a retail store, where he purchased a disposable phone. After exiting the store, he met an individual in the parking lot and acquired a long black bag from the trunk of a vehicle. Kramer then traveled to a hotel in Cranberry Township, Pennsylvania, where he paid cash to book a room. Witnesses from both the store and hotel noted Kramer’s bag making a metallic clicking sound when he placed it down. After checking into his room, Kramer traveled to a sporting goods store and was observed by the FBI at the gun counter.
Upon returning to the hotel’s parking lot, FBI agents approached Kramer while he carried two bags containing the contents of his purchase from the sporting goods store. Kramer agreed to speak with the agents and placed the bags on the ground. The FBI then executed federal search warrants on Kramer’s person, hotel room, and residence. Agents seized a semiautomatic rifle, five rifle magazines (two loaded and the other three each offering a 30-round capacity), a rifle bipod and scope, a total of 190 rounds of rifle ammunition, an entrenchment tool, a prayer rug, pepper spray, and approximately 30 knives, along with a handwritten note stating “DoNt look For me[.] IDK what I did buT I cant live In constant Fear[.]” Read the full affidavit in support of the criminal complaint here.
Kramer made his initial appearance on Sept. 14. The United States has requested detention of the defendant and that he be held without bond pending trial, asserting that he is a danger to the community.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Brendan J. McKenna of the Western District of Pennsylvania and Trial Attorneys Andrew Briggs and Matthew Hracho of the Department of Justice’s National Security Division are prosecuting the case.
The FBI, with assistance from numerous state and local counterparts, conducted the investigation.
A criminal complaint is an accusation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Butler County Man Charged with Receiving a Firearm and Ammunition with Intent to Commit Terrorism on Behalf of ISISRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. – Jonathan Hunter Kramer, 21, a resident of Valencia, Pennsylvania, has been charged by federal criminal complaint with receiving a firearm and ammunition, knowing or having reasonable cause to believe that the firearm and ammunition would be used to commit a felony or a Federal crime of terrorism, including providing, attempting to provide, and conspiring to provide material support or resources to a designated Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO), United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today. Agents from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) interdicted Kramer this weekend as he returned to a hotel in possession of three 30-round capacity rifle magazines and five boxes of rifle ammunition. The FBI then executed search warrants, seized a semiautomatic rifle and ammunition from his hotel room, and arrested him.
“As Americans observed the 25th anniversary of 9/11, our law enforcement partners were working to protect our country from the continued threat of terrorism,” said Attorney General Todd Blanche. “Their outstanding work thwarted this alleged attack before innocent lives could be lost. The Department of Justice will relentlessly pursue anyone who seeks to terrorize the American people and bring them to justice.”
“As alleged in the complaint, Jonathan’s Kramer’s words and actions during recent months have been profoundly concerning,” said United States Attorney Troy Rivetti. “We commend our partners at the FBI and other law enforcement agencies for the speed and precision with which they intervened and detained Kramer when it became clear that he was moving forward with his radical ideology and posed an increased, clear threat to our community. We will continue standing shoulder-to-shoulder with our law enforcement partners at all levels to preserve the safety of our community from individuals seeking to inflict harm on behalf of Foreign Terrorist Organizations.”
“FBI Pittsburgh and our local, state, and federal partners continue to face an elevated threat environment across the region from a variety of terrorism actors,” said FBI Pittsburgh Special Agent in Charge Richard Evanchec. “An extremely alarming threat to our community exists when an individual reportedly pledges allegiance to a foreign terrorist organization, seeks to turn that ideology into action, and makes final preparations for an attack. FBI Pittsburgh and our partners will continue to move swiftly and decisively to counter any individual’s mobilization to violence in the name of a Foreign Terrorist Organization to ensure the safety of our community.”
According to the affidavit filed in support of the complaint, Kramer has been known to the FBI since an earlier investigation in 2023, which resulted in Kramer, then a minor, being charged and adjudicated delinquent by Pennsylvania state authorities for his role in a plot to commit a mass casualty incident and for possessing child sexual abuse material. On March 19, 2026, following Kramer’s release from a Pennsylvania juvenile detention facility, an anonymous individual made an online tip to the FBI reporting a return to troubling behavior by Kramer, including, among other activities, the defendant’s ordering of “mysterious” packages and “talking to his friends from before” his juvenile adjudication. Subsequent investigation confirmed that Kramer had been using the online persona of “Hamza Al Rashid” who claimed affiliation with ISIS, offered to share explosive manuals with others, and expressed his intent to prepare for his “mission” and that he was just missing a “weapon.”
On September 12, 2026, the FBI observed Kramer quickly depart his residence while carrying a bag, and travel via rideshare to a retail store, where he purchased a disposable phone. After exiting the store, he met an individual in the parking lot and acquired a long black bag from the trunk of a vehicle. Kramer then traveled to a hotel in Cranberry Township, Pennsylvania, where he paid cash to book a room. Witnesses from both the store and hotel noted Kramer’s bag making a metallic clicking sound when he placed it down. After checking into his room, Kramer traveled to a sporting goods store and was observed by the FBI at the gun counter.
Upon returning to the hotel’s parking lot, FBI agents approached Kramer while he carried two bags containing the contents of his purchase from the sporting goods store. Kramer agreed to speak with the agents and placed the bags on the ground. The FBI then executed federal search warrants upon Kramer’s person, hotel room, and residence. Agents seized a semiautomatic rifle, five rifle magazines (two loaded and the other three each offering a 30-round capacity), a rifle bipod and scope, a total of 190 rounds of rifle ammunition, an entrenchment tool, a prayer rug, pepper spray, and approximately 30 knives, along with a handwritten note stating “DoNt look For me[.] IDK what I did buT I cant live In constant Fear[.]” Read the full affidavit in support of the criminal complaint here.
“This FBI continues to move more effectively than we ever have stopping terrorists before they harm the American people,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “The subject in this case was allegedly plotting a violent attack in support of ISIS – engaging with ISIS propaganda online, building attack concepts, and repeatedly expressing extremist rhetoric – all while acquiring weapons believed to be in preparation of the attack. He has been charged with Receipt of a Firearm Knowing or Having Reasonable Cause to Believe that Such Firearm Will Be Used to Commit a Federal Crime of Terrorism. Once again, results like these are exactly why we made changes to this FBI and the way it runs – to save lives before would-be criminals can act. It’s why this FBI has disrupted 1,097 terrorists, 20% more the last 18 months before the Trump administration started – as well as executing 42% more Foreign Terrorist Organization-related arrests and dismantling 96% more FTOs. Outstanding job by FBI Pittsburgh and our partners.”
“Kramer was taken into custody just as he appeared to be preparing for a mass shooting that could have taken many lives, having already secured a rifle and approximately 190 rounds of ammunition for what he called his ‘mission,’” said Assistant Attorney General for National Security John Eisenberg. “His apparent ISIS inspiration and escalation toward violence show how close this country came to a devastating attack. This arrest prevented what could have been a horrific tragedy.”
The United States has requested detention of the defendant and that he be held without bond pending trial, asserting that he is a danger to the community. During his initial appearance on September 14, 2026, Kramer waived a detention hearing but requested a preliminary examination hearing on the complaint, which is scheduled for September 16, 2026.
Assistant United States Attorney Brendan J. McKenna of the Western District of Pennsylvania and Trial Attorneys Andrew Briggs and Matthew Hracho of the Department of Justice’s National Security Division are prosecuting this case on behalf of the United States.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, with assistance from numerous state and local counterparts, conducted the investigation leading to the criminal complaint.
A criminal complaint is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Bronx Man Sentenced to 25 Years in Prison for Sexually Assaulting Two Minors and Production and Possession of Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Jamie McDonald, announced today that JILDO ARMANDO MARIN was sentenced to 25 years in prison by U.S. District Judge John G. Koeltl for his sexual exploitation of two minor victims and possession of child sexual abuse material. MARIN previously pled guilty to two counts of sexual exploitation of a minor and one count of possession of child pornography.
“Today’s sentence reflects the Office’s unwavering commitment to protect children and prosecute those who prey on them,” said U.S. Attorney Jamie McDonald. “Our Office has held Jildo Armando Marin accountable for the profound and lasting harm he inflicted on these children. For nearly a decade, Marin sexually abused two minor victims, who were his own family members. He abused these children, and, when confronted with possible exposure, threatened his victims and forced them to maintain their silence. He compounded that abuse by creating and possessing a horrific collection of images and videos depicting the abuse of one of his victims, as well as showing the exploitation of other children. Marin will now deservedly spend lengthy time in prison.”
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in public court proceedings:
Beginning when Minor Victim-1, a female member of the defendant’s family, was approximately seven or eight years old and continuing until approximately January 2025, when Minor Victim-1 was approximately 13, MARIN sexually assaulted Minor Victim-1 on multiple occasions in the Bronx, New York, and during trips to Honduras. MARIN would lock the door, remove Minor Victim-1’s clothing, and photograph and record the abuse using his cellphone. MARIN touched Minor Victim-1’s vagina and buttocks with his hands, digitally penetrated her, and anally penetrated her with his penis on multiple occasions, including while she slept. In December 2024, MARIN used his cellphone to photograph Minor Victim-1’s genitals, and he subsequently transported that cellphone, and the images on it, out of the state of New York when he traveled abroad.
MARIN also repeatedly sexually assaulted a second minor victim, Minor Victim-2, a male member of the defendant’s family, over the course of approximately 10 years, beginning when Minor Victim-2 was approximately eight years old and continuing until Minor Victim-2 was approximately 18. On at least one occasion, MARIN checked whether Minor Victim-2 was asleep, carried him to another room, and anally penetrated him with his penis. When Minor Victim-2 attempted to disclose the abuse, MARIN told him that Child Protective Services could remove him from his home and that his mother could get in trouble.
On June 13, 2025, MARIN was stopped for a customs inspection at John F. Kennedy International Airport upon his return from an international trip. A search of his cellphone revealed sexually explicit images of Minor Victim-1. A subsequent forensic examination of MARIN’s cellphone revealed at least 85 sexually explicit images and videos of minors, including images depicting prepubescent children as young as approximately five years old subjected to sadistic sexual acts.
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In addition to the prison term, MARIN, 34, of the Bronx, New York, was sentenced to a 10-year term of supervised release.
Mr. McDonald praised the outstanding work of Homeland Security Investigations.
This case is being handled by the Office’s General Crimes Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorney Joe Zabel is in charge of the prosecution.
Boston Man Sentenced for Distributing Counterfeit Meth-Laced PillsRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Boston man was sentenced on Sept. 8, 2026 in federal court in Boston for felony narcotics charges.
Michael Lagasse, 45, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Myong J. Joun to time-served (approximately 10 months) followed by three years of supervised release. The government recommended a sentence of 40 months in prison. In July 2024, Lagasse pleaded guilty to six counts of distribution of methamphetamine.
On six occasions, between January and July 2021, Lagasse sold counterfeit Adderall pills to an undercover law enforcement officer. The pills were illegally manufactured and laced with methamphetamine. Combined, Lagasse sold approximately 2400 pills with a net weight of roughly 800 grams.United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Jarod A. Forget, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration in New England made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Tolkoff of the Criminal Division prosecuted the case.
Agents seize 18 kilograms of suspected cocaine and a large amount of currency during a significant law enforcement operation in LubbockRead the Press Release
LUBBOCK, Texas — United States Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Ryan Raybould announced today that Paul Rene Rocha, Jr., 36, of Lubbock, has been charged by criminal complaint with possession with intent to distribute cocaine following his arrest on Sept. 8, 2026.
“Drug traffickers present a direct and destabilizing threat to the safety and security of our neighborhoods,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan Raybould. “This activity fuels violence erodes community trust and endangers families across Lubbock. Protecting the public requires unified action, and this case reflects the critical importance of partnerships between federal, state and local law enforcement. Together, we will continue to aggressively pursue those who profit from harming our communities and ensure they are held fully accountable under federal law.”
According to the complaint, narcotics agents in Lubbock discovered that Rocha was allegedly a major drug trafficker in the area and identified a storage building he visited frequently. On Tuesday, Sept. 8, agents observed Rocha entering and leaving the unit. After watching him meet with another individual in what appeared to be a drug transaction, agents stopped that person and recovered several ounces of cocaine. They then obtained a search warrant for the storage building.
Inside, they located a firearm and approximately 18 kilograms of suspected cocaine:
Agents also obtained a warrant to search Rocha’s residence in Lubbock. Inside, they located another firearm and approximately $56,000 in currency hidden in an appliance.
The full seizure is depicted below:
Rocha is currently in custody and will make his initial appearance before a U.S. Magistrate Judge at a later date.
This investigation was carried out by the Caprock Division of the Texoma High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area and the Texas Anti-Gang initiatives with the collaboration of the Drug Enforcement Administration; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; Lubbock Police Department; Lubbock County Sherriff’s Office and Texas Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorneys from the Lubbock Division are prosecuting the case.
A complaint is merely an allegation and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Abbeville Man Sentenced to 30 Years for Production of Child Pornography; Broussard Man Sentenced to over 8 Years for Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
LAFAYETTE – On September 10, 2026, United States District Judge S. Maurice Hicks sentenced Christopher Michael Ahlers, 54, of Abbeville, to 360 months in federal prison, followed by 10 years of supervised release, after pleading guilty on May 11, 2026, to Production of Child Pornography. On the same day, Judge Hicks also sentenced Shannon David Miller, 52, of Broussard, to 97 months in federal prison, followed by 10 years of supervised release, after pleading guilty on May 13, 2026, to Possession of Child Pornography.
“Partnering with state and federal law enforcement to investigate and prosecute child sex predators is one of this Office’s most sacred and core missions,” said U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller. “There is sadly no undoing the harm that this vile conduct causes, and the cases we prosecute unfortunately reach as far as minor children’s homes and schools, with people they trust preying upon them. But the case against Mr. Ahlers shows the same thing as other recent cases we’ve prosecuted against teachers, parents, and pastors: we will never relent in our effort to remove these predators from our society, and we will find them no matter where they are.”
Ahlers
According to court documents, the investigation into Ahlers began on May 31, 2025, when deputies with the Vermilion Parish Sheriff’s Office (VPSO) were contacted by Ahlers’s wife, who had discovered a concealed recording device in the ceiling of a bathroom inside their residence. The device contained multiple recordings of her two minor children. Ahlers was arrested on June 4, 2025, on related state charges. After being released on bond, evidence showed Ahlers attempted to hide additional evidence by asking an acquaintance to hold an external hard drive for him. Instead, the acquaintance turned the device over to law enforcement at which time investigators discovered approximately 90 illicit videos involving one of Ahlers’s minor stepchildren. Investigators determined that Ahlers had retained these recordings for several years.
Miller
According to court documents, Miller became known to federal authorities in October 2025 when the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) issued a cybertip regarding the possible possession and distribution of illegal child‑exploitation material linked to a Google account. Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the Louisiana Bureau of Investigation (LBI) identified Miller as the user associated with the uploads. Investigators reviewed two videos referenced in the cybertip and discovered they contained illicit content. Agents then obtained a search warrant for Miller’s residence at which time multiple digital devices were seized. Forensic examiners identified more than 1,000 graphic videos involving prepubescent children. Miller admitted he had been accessing illegal content for approximately 20 years and possessed roughly 100 gigabytes of illicit video files stored on several devices.
U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.
HSI, LBI, and VPSO conducted the investigations. The cases are being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Craig Bordelon with assistance from Legal Assistant Tanya Broussard.
This case was prosecuted 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 the U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. Learn more at https://www.justice.gov/psc/about-project-safe-childhood.
You may find a copy of this press releases (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer, under Case Numbers 6:25 cr 00255 (Ahlers) and 6:25 cr 00317 (Miller).
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