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10 September 2026
Victorville Man Arrested on Federal Indictment Alleging He Paid People to Sign Ballot Petitions Using Stolen Voter IdentitiesRead the Press Release
RIVERSIDE, California – A San Bernardino County man was arrested today on a federal grand jury indictment charging him and two other defendants with paying people on Skid Row in downtown Los Angeles to sign petitions using stolen identities of registered voters to qualify initiatives on ballots in California elections.
James Brass, 47, a.k.a. “Lord,” of Victorville, was arrested this morning and is expected to make his initial appearance this afternoon in United States District Court in Riverside.
Also charged in the two-count indictment are two petition circulators who worked for Brass: Courtney Price, 49, of Jacksonville, Florida, and Jateisha Herron, 33, of Boron, California.
All three defendants are charged with one count of conspiracy to commit identity fraud in furtherance of a state felony. Brass and Price are charged with an additional count of identity fraud in furtherance of a state felony.
“These defendants are charged with using stolen identities of registered voters to manufacture signatures on ballot petitions used to shape California law,” said First Assistant United States Attorney Bill Essayli. “They allegedly used people, including members of Skid Row’s vulnerable homeless population, to try to cover up their tracks. The charged conduct undermines the confidence voters have in our election systems, and we will vigorously investigate and charge anyone involved.”
“It is imperative that Americans have confidence in our voting system and election infrastructure” said Patrick Grandy, the Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI’s Los Angeles Field Office. “The scheme outlined in today’s indictment sought to undermine an essential pillar of our democracy and cause an undue burden on taxpayers. We will remain vigilant in detecting those trying to weaken our political process and we will aggressively investigate any allegations of voter fraud or other election crimes.”
According to court documents, California’s constitution contains a process for direct democracy in which state voters can bypass the California State Legislature and enact laws or constitutional amendments directly through the ballot initiative process.
To qualify an initiative for inclusion on a ballot in 2026, an initiative’s proponent was required to submit 546,651 signatures to place a proposed statute on the ballot, and 874,641 signatures to place a proposed constitutional amendment on the ballot. An initiative’s proponent had up to 180 days to gather these signatures and needed to submit them no later than 130 days before the date of an election.
Given the large number of signatures required in such a short period of time, proponents of initiatives typically hired petition management companies to gather the signatures. These companies charge significant fees and set a price for each signature gathered, contracting with outside individuals to collect signatures.
According to the indictment that a federal grand jury returned on Wednesday, Brass managed a team of signature collectors and collected signatures himself while Price and Herron were signature collectors who worked for Brass. From February 2026 to August 2026, the defendants used a database to identify registered California voters. On Skid Row, Brass and Price handed out these voters’ stolen identities and paid petition signers to copy the voters’ personal information onto ballot initiative petitions and fraudulently sign the petitions in those voters’ names.
After the petitions were signed, Brass and Herron signed declarations at the bottom of the petitions, falsely declaring under penalty of perjury that they personally witnessed the named registered voters sign the petitions and that each signature was, to the best of their knowledge, “the genuine signature of the person whose name it purports to be.”
Brass and Herron then turned in the bogus petitions to several petition coordinators, knowing the false representations regarding the signatures’ authenticity would result in false and fraudulent signatures being counted in connection with the effort to place the initiative at issue on the ballot.
Brass further knew the false representations about the signatures’ authenticity would result in payments to him from a petition management company.
In total, Brass received approximately $41,600 from coordinators working with one such petition management company.
An indictment is merely an allegation. 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 five years in federal prison for each count.
The FBI is investigating this matter with assistance from special agents of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Central District of California.
Assistant United States Attorneys Nandor F.R. Kiss of the Public Corruption and Civil Rights Section and Michael G. Wheat of the Orange County Office are prosecuting this case.
Ukrainian National Sentenced to Four Years in Prison for Wire Fraud Conspiracy in Connection with Conti RansomwareRead the Press Release
Oleksii Oleksiyovych Lytvynenko, 44, a Ukrainian national, was sentenced today to four years in prison for conspiracy to commit wire fraud in connection with a conspiracy to deploy Conti, a ransomware variant that infected the computers of more than 1,000 victims worldwide.
According to court documents, Lytvynenko, formerly of Cork, Ireland, conspired with others to deploy Conti ransomware to extort victims and steal their data. From 2020 until 2022, Conti was used to attack computers and networks in 47 states, 31 foreign countries, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. The FBI estimates that, as of January 2022, there had been victim payouts associated with Conti ransomware exceeding $150,000,000.
“Today’s sentence reflects the seriousness of ransomware and the Department’s commitment to protecting America’s hospitals, schools, businesses, and local governments,” said Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “For years, the Conti ransomware group executed a sustained and sophisticated campaign that victimized hundreds of organizations across the United States and abroad, including critical infrastructure entities, causing losses in the millions of dollars. Lytvynenko joined that conspiracy as both an intruder and a developer — personally harming at least 12 companies, storing stolen data from victims, and helping build the malicious tools Conti used to extort and threaten communities. Even after the Conti conspiracy ended, he continued engaging in active ransomware operations until his arrest. Cybercriminals who build, deploy, or profit from malware like Conti — no matter where they operate — will face justice and meaningful consequences in U.S. courts.”
“Ransomware attacks like Conti cause real harm to businesses, institutions, and families here at home and around the world,” said U.S. Attorney Braden H. Boucek for the Middle District of Tennessee. “Today’s sentence demonstrates that cybercriminals cannot hide behind borders or a keyboard to escape justice. We are grateful to our law enforcement and international partners whose work made this result possible.”
“Lytvynenko and his co-conspirators used Conti ransomware to attack computers and networks in nearly every state, and today’s sentence reflects the gravity and extent of those crimes,” said Assistant Director Brett Leatherman of the FBI’s Cyber Division. “Ransomware criminals should know they are not anonymous and operating from overseas does not mean operating without consequences. The FBI and our partners will use every lawful tool to dismantle their infrastructure and bring them to justice.”
“Conti ransomware caused extraordinary harm, targeting victims across nearly every state and dozens of countries and disrupting critical operations for organizations across multiple industries,” said Assistant Director Brent Daniels of the U.S. Secret Service’s Office of Field Operations. “Today’s sentence is a measure of justice for the victims whose data, operations, and livelihoods were put at risk. It underscores the Secret Service’s commitment to pursuing ransomware actors and their networks wherever they operate and protecting the American people.”
Lytvynenko pleaded guilty to wire fraud conspiracy on June 10. Evidence recovered from Lytvynenko’s online accounts showed he possessed data stolen from eight U.S. victims and four overseas victims. Lytvynenko further admitted to joining a team run by a Conti conspirator during which time Lytvynenko was directed to work on coding a “loader,” which is typically a type of malware, or malicious software, that is used to load programs necessary to execute other malicious attacks. Forensic artifacts recovered at the time of his arrest in July 2023 in County Cork, Ireland, further demonstrated ongoing involvement in ransomware activity.
In September 2023, an indictment charging four other Conti conspirators was unsealed in the Middle District of Tennessee.
The FBI’s San Diego, Nashville, and El Paso Field Offices and the U.S. Secret Service are investigating the case. The Department of Homeland Security’s Homeland Security Investigations New York field office provided valuable assistance.
Trial Attorney Sonia V. Jimenez of the Criminal Division’s Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section (CCIPS) and Assistant U.S. Attorney Taylor Phillips for the Middle District of Tennessee are prosecuting the case. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs, and the Irish Department of Justice, Home Affairs, and Migration, the Irish Office of the Attorney General and the Garda National Cyber Crime Bureau provided valuable assistance to secure the arrest and extradition of Lytvynenko.
CCIPS investigates and prosecutes cybercrime and intellectual property (IP) crime in coordination with domestic and international law enforcement agencies, often with assistance from the private sector. Since 2020, CCIPS has secured the conviction of over 180 cyber and IP criminals, and court orders for the return of over $350 million in victim funds.
Ukrainian National Sentenced to Four Years in Prison for Wire Fraud Conspiracy in Connection with Conti RansomwareRead the Press Release
Oleksii Oleksiyovych Lytvynenko, 44, a Ukrainian national, was sentenced today to four years in prison for conspiracy to commit wire fraud in connection with a conspiracy to deploy Conti, a ransomware variant that infected the computers of more than 1,000 victims worldwide.
According to court documents, Lytvynenko, formerly of Cork, Ireland, conspired with others to deploy Conti ransomware to extort victims and steal their data. From 2020 until 2022, Conti was used to attack computers and networks in 47 states, 31 foreign countries, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. The FBI estimates that, as of January 2022, there had been victim payouts associated with Conti ransomware exceeding $150,000,000.
“Today’s sentence reflects the seriousness of ransomware and the Department’s commitment to protecting America’s hospitals, schools, businesses, and local governments,” said Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “For years, the Conti ransomware group executed a sustained and sophisticated campaign that victimized hundreds of organizations across the United States and abroad, including critical infrastructure entities, causing losses in the millions of dollars. Lytvynenko joined that conspiracy as both an intruder and a developer — personally harming at least 12 companies, storing stolen data from victims, and helping build the malicious tools Conti used to extort and threaten communities. Even after the Conti conspiracy ended, he continued engaging in active ransomware operations until his arrest. Cybercriminals who build, deploy, or profit from malware like Conti — no matter where they operate — will face justice and meaningful consequences in U.S. courts.”
“Ransomware attacks like Conti cause real harm to businesses, institutions, and families here at home and around the world,” said U.S. Attorney Braden H. Boucek for the Middle District of Tennessee. “Today’s sentence demonstrates that cybercriminals cannot hide behind borders or a keyboard to escape justice. We are grateful to our law enforcement and international partners whose work made this result possible.”
“Lytvynenko and his co-conspirators used Conti ransomware to attack computers and networks in nearly every state, and today’s sentence reflects the gravity and extent of those crimes,” said Assistant Director Brett Leatherman of the FBI’s Cyber Division. “Ransomware criminals should know they are not anonymous and operating from overseas does not mean operating without consequences. The FBI and our partners will use every lawful tool to dismantle their infrastructure and bring them to justice.”
“Conti ransomware caused extraordinary harm, targeting victims across nearly every state and dozens of countries and disrupting critical operations for organizations across multiple industries,” said Assistant Director Brent Daniels of the U.S. Secret Service’s Office of Field Operations. “Today’s sentence is a measure of justice for the victims whose data, operations, and livelihoods were put at risk. It underscores the Secret Service’s commitment to pursuing ransomware actors and their networks wherever they operate and protecting the American people.”
Lytvynenko pleaded guilty to wire fraud conspiracy on June 10. Evidence recovered from Lytvynenko’s online accounts showed he possessed data stolen from eight U.S. victims and four overseas victims. Lytvynenko further admitted to joining a team run by a Conti conspirator during which time Lytvynenko was directed to work on coding a “loader,” which is typically a type of malware, or malicious software, that is used to load programs necessary to execute other malicious attacks. Forensic artifacts recovered at the time of his arrest in July 2023 in County Cork, Ireland, further demonstrated ongoing involvement in ransomware activity.
In September 2023, an indictment charging four other Conti conspirators was unsealed in the Middle District of Tennessee.
The FBI’s San Diego, Nashville, and El Paso Field Offices and the U.S. Secret Service are investigating the case. The Department of Homeland Security’s Homeland Security Investigations New York field office provided valuable assistance.
Trial Attorney Sonia V. Jimenez of the Criminal Division’s Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section (CCIPS) and Assistant U.S. Attorney Taylor Phillips for the Middle District of Tennessee are prosecuting the case. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs, and the Irish Department of Justice, Home Affairs, and Migration, the Irish Office of the Attorney General and the Garda National Cyber Crime Bureau provided valuable assistance to secure the arrest and extradition of Lytvynenko.
CCIPS investigates and prosecutes cybercrime and intellectual property (IP) crime in coordination with domestic and international law enforcement agencies, often with assistance from the private sector. Since 2020, CCIPS has secured the conviction of over 180 cyber and IP criminals, and court orders for the return of over $350 million in victim funds.
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Two Men, including a Mexican National, Indicted for Drug Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
NEWARK, N.J. – Two men, including a Mexican national, were arraigned after being indicted for their roles in a drug trafficking conspiracy to transport a large quantity of cocaine into New Jersey, U.S. Attorney Robert Frazer announced.
Oscar Salvador Pelayo-Guzman, 55, a Mexican national, and most recently of Missouri, and Michael Brandon Araiza, 27, of California were charged in a one-count Indictment with conspiracy to distribute controlled substances. They were arraigned on September 10, 2026 before U.S. District Judge Jamel K. Semper in Newark federal court. Both entered pleas of not guilty.
Two other defendants charged in the drug distribution conspiracy, Jose Manuel Amaya Villarreal and Reymond Alex Avina Samaniego, both of California, previously entered guilty pleas before Judge Semper to separate Informations charging them with conspiracy to distribute controlled substances. Villarreal was sentenced to 57 months’ imprisonment on August 7, 2026; sentencing for Samaniego is scheduled for November 9, 2026.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
Pelayo-Guzman is associated with the Jalisco New Generation Cartel operating in Mexico and a principal member of a Kansas City-based drug trafficking organization involved in the international and interstate transportation and distribution of narcotics. Beginning in January 2025, Pelayo-Guzman, Araiza, Villarreal, and Samaniego conspired to transport large quantities of cocaine to New Jersey. Specifically, Pelayo-Guzman and Araiza traveled to New Jersey in April 2025 and arranged for a shipment of approximately 20 kilograms of cocaine to be delivered to Newark, New Jersey from California via a truck driven by Villarreal and Samaniego. After delivering the approximately 20 kilograms of cocaine in exchange for over $300,000 in cash, law enforcement officers arrested Villarreal and Samaniego. Pelayo-Guzman and Araiza were arrested shortly afterwards.
The charge in the Indictment carries a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years in prison, a maximum potential penalty of life in prison, and a fine of up to $10 million.
U.S. Attorney Frazer credited special agents with the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Towanda R. Thorne-James, with the investigation leading to the Indictment. He also thanked the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Michael S. McCarthy; IRS-Criminal Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Jenifer Piovesan in Newark; the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office, under the direction of Prosecutor Raymond S. Santiago; the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office, under the direction of Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer; the Asbury Park Police Department, under the direction of Police Director John B. Hayes; the Newark Department of Public Safety, Newark Police Division, under the direction of Public Safety Director Emanuel Miranda; the Middletown Police Department, under the direction of Chief of Police R. Craig Weber; the Lakewood Police Department, under the direction of Chief of Police Gregory H. Meyer; the Neptune Police Department, under the direction of Chief of Police Anthony Gualario; the Ocean Gate Police Department, under the direction of Chief Michael Kuchta; and the Spotswood Police Department, under the direction of Chief of Police Philip Corbisiero, for their assistance in the investigation.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan S. Garelick of the U.S. Attorney’s Office Criminal Division in Trenton.
The charges and allegations contained in the Indictment are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
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Defense counsel:
Oscar Salvador Pelayo-Guzman: Adalgiza A. Núñez, Esq.
Michael Brandon Araiza: Patrick J. Joyce, Esq.
Jose Manuel Amaya Villarreal: Perry Primavera, Esq.
Reymond Alex Avina Samaniego: Joseph D. Rotella, Esq.
guzmanetal.indictment.pdf samaniego.information.pdf villarreal.information.pdfThe Department of Justice Files Complaints Against Hawaii, DC, Arkansas, and Utah over Preferential Treatment for Illegal AliensRead the Press Release
Today, the Department of Justice filed its final four lawsuits against three states and the District of Columbia who seek to undermine federal law by placing illegal aliens over citizens in clear defiance of Congress’s commands. The Department filed complaints against Hawaii, the District of Columbia, Arkansas, and Utah, challenging their state laws that provide in-state tuition and financial assistance for illegal aliens.
Our filings hold that these laws unconstitutionally discriminate against U.S. citizens who are not afforded the same reduced tuition rates or scholarships, create incentives for illegal immigration, and reward illegal aliens with benefits that U.S. citizens are not eligible for, all in direct conflict with federal law. These final lawsuits come after the United States District Court for the District of Kansas ruled yesterday that Kansas’ state law allowing in-state tuition for illegal aliens is unconstitutional.
“No more placing illegal aliens over American citizens on this Department of Justice’s watch,” said Associate Attorney General Stanley E. Woodward, Jr. “We have now sued every state across our Nation that has a state law or regulation granting illegal aliens in-state tuition. We look forward to favorable court rulings and will continue to deliver on President Trump’s promise: illegal aliens will not receive benefits denied to American citizens.”
“This is a simple matter of federal law: colleges cannot provide benefits to illegal aliens that they do not provide to U.S. citizens,” said Assistant Attorney General Brett A. Shumate of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “This Department of Justice will not tolerate American students being treated like second-class citizens in their own country.”
In the complaints, the United States seeks to enjoin enforcement of Hawaii, DC, Arkansas, and Utah laws and regulations that require colleges and universities to provide in-state tuition rates for all aliens who maintain in-state residency, regardless of whether those aliens are lawfully present in the United States. Additionally, the complaint seeks to enjoin Hawaii, DC, Arkansas, and Utah from enforcing their state laws and regulations that afford financial assistance and scholarships to illegal aliens.
Today’s lawsuits bring the Department’s total to 25 lawsuits challenging in-state tuition for illegal aliens. Under the leadership of Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche, the Department’s efforts have already delivered wins for the American people, as six lawsuits in Texas, Kentucky, Oklahoma, Nebraska, Illinois, and Kansas have resulted favorable orders permanently enjoining and declaring unconstitutional similar laws that gave reduced tuition to illegal aliens, including an order from the Fifth Circuit.
Lawsuits against other states whose state laws similarly put illegal aliens ahead of U.S. citizens are pending across the across the country in Minnesota, Virginia, California, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Maryland, Colorado, New York, Connecticut, Vermont, Arizona, New Mexico, Oregon, and Washington.
Texas Woman Sentenced to 15 Months in Prison for Fraudulently Selling Thousands of Counterfeit Coupons Causing Losses to Retailers Across the United States in Excess of $17 MillionRead the Press Release
NEWARK, N.J. – A San Antonio, Texas woman received a 15-month prison sentence for her role in a conspiracy to distribute counterfeit coupons that were used at retail stores across the United States to procure more than $17 million in unauthorized discounts, U.S. Attorney Robert Frazer announced.
Janet Bernal, 49, of San Antonio, Texas, previously pled guilty before U.S. District Judge William Martini in Newark federal court to conspiracy to commit wire fraud. Judge Martini imposed the sentence on September 9, 2026.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
From June 2020 through August 2024, Bernal orchestrated a fraudulent scheme to produce and sell counterfeit coupons for use by purchasers at retail stores throughout the United States, including large pharmacies and grocery stores. In furtherance of her scheme, Bernal offered counterfeit coupons through a monthly fee-based subscription group that was available on a commonly-used Internet cloud-based messaging application. Members subscribed to the group, paid the monthly fee, and then had unlimited access to numerous types of counterfeit coupons that Bernal posted for download.
Members paid the monthly fee via mobile cash accounts that Bernal directly controlled. Over the span of the scheme, members downloaded thousands of counterfeit coupons and redeemed them at retail stores throughout New Jersey and elsewhere in the United States. In total, the loss to the retail stores and to the manufacturers whose products were purchased with the counterfeit coupons was in excess of $17 million.
In addition to the prison term, Judge Martini also sentenced Bernal to two years of supervised release, ordered her to forfeit $67,290.68, and ordered her to pay $17,865,614.70 in restitution.
U.S. Attorney Frazer credited special agents of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service in Newark, Philadelphia Division, under the direction of Inspector in Charge Christopher A. Nielsen, with the investigation.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron L. Webman, Deputy Chief of the Economic Crimes Unit.
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Defense counsel: Mary E. Warner, Hampton, New Jersey
St. Louis Felon Admits Being Caught in Stolen Car with Two ShotgunsRead the Press Release
ST. LOUIS – A convicted felon from St. Louis on Thursday admitted being caught in a stolen car with two shotguns.
Maurice Brown Jr., 27, pleaded guilty to one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. On April 12, 2026, St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department officers learned that a recently stolen Audi A4 was spotted driving in St. Louis. After following the car, Brown was seen by officers walking away from the car and a local resident identified him as the driver. Brown had an active warrant and was on probation at the time. When officers searched Brown, they found the keys to the car in his pocket. In the car, they found two shotguns. As a felon, Brown is barred from possessing firearms.
The St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Samuel Freedlund is prosecuting the case.
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.
St. Charles, Missouri Man Sentenced to 14 Years in Prison for Child Pornography CrimeRead the Press Release
ST. LOUIS – A man who possessed child sexual abuse material and uploaded it to Snapchat was sentenced Thursday to 14 years in prison followed by 20 years of supervised release.
Joshua J. Klenke, 21, of St. Charles, pleaded guilty in June in U.S. District Court in St. Louis to one count of receiving child pornography. He admitted uploading child sexual abuse material (CSAM) to Snapchat. After an investigation sparked by CyberTips from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, investigators found videos and pictures containing CSAM on Klenke’s phone, as well as a picture of him kissing a 4-year-old girl on the lips. Klenke, who worked for a cleaning company, encountered the girl in a client’s home.
The St. Charles County Police Department and the FBI investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jillian Anderson prosecuted 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 the Department of Justice Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who 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.
Southeast Missouri Man Who Victimized Children Sentenced to 40 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
CAPE GIRARDEAU – A Southeast Missouri man who recorded his sexual abuse of children was sentenced Thursday to 40 years in prison.
Lantz D. Crawford, 26, of Ripley County, near Doniphan, recorded his sexual abuse of five girls, ages 2, 4, 5, 6 and 6, between the summer of 2024 and late 2025. In December of 2025, the mother of the 4-year-old girl contacted the Ripley County Sheriff’s Office after her daughter reported the abuse. Crawford’s phone was seized and investigators found child sexual abuse material (CSAM) depicting young children.
“This is one of the worst cases involving crimes against children I’ve encountered in my 23 years with the FBI, period. The abhorrent sexual abuse inflicted on these five preschool-aged children is beyond the pale,” said Special Agent in Charge Chris Crocker of the FBI St. Louis Division. “Lantz Crawford deliberately positioned himself to gain access to vulnerable children. He exploited the trust of single mothers who believed he was offering a helping hand, volunteering to watch their children or drive them places, when in reality, he was creating opportunities to prey upon them.”
Crawford pleaded guilty in June in U.S. District Court in Cape Girardeau to five counts of production of child pornography.
The Ripley County Sheriff’s Office, the FBI and the Missouri State Highway Patrol investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Julie Hunter prosecuted 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 the Department of Justice Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who 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.
South Bend Man Sentenced to 98 Months in Prison for Controlled Substance OffenseRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Quintel Miller, 36 years old, of South Bend, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Cristal C. Brisco after pleading guilty to distribution of 50 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing methamphetamine, announced United States Attorney Adam L. Mildred.
Miller was sentenced to 98 months in prison followed by 4 years of supervised release.
“The Defendant distributed large amounts of dangerous drugs on the streets of our Indiana communities. The illicit drugs endangered hundreds of Hoosiers and made our neighborhoods less safe. The Defendant sold about 830 grams of methamphetamine to another person in exchange for money. Thanks to the strong partnerships and efforts of the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Indiana State Police, our streets are safer, and our communities are stronger,” said U.S. Attorney Adam Mildred.
“Today, many across America, including here in Indiana, continue to struggle with addiction to methamphetamine. People are suffering and families are hurting. There is no room in our communities for anyone who distributes methamphetamine, thus ruining lives, families, and dreams. The Drug Enforcement Administration, along with its law enforcement and prosecutorial partners, will never cease in holding drug dealers accountable. The arrest and prosecution of Mr. Miller serve as a fine example of public safety working closely and diligently to keep Indiana and its Hoosiers safe,” said Assistant Special Agent in Charge Chip Cooke.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Indiana State Police. The case was prosecuted by Appellate Chief Joseph P. Falvey and Assistant United States Attorney Luke N. Reilander.
Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is 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.
Sex Offender Living in Mayes and Tulsa Counties Sentenced for Failing to RegisterRead the Press Release
TULSA, Okla. – A man required to register as a sex offender was sentenced today for knowingly failing to register that he was living in Mayes and Tulsa Counties, announced U.S. Attorney Christopher J. Nassar.
U.S. District Judge John D. Russell sentenced James Robert Hurley, aka Daniel Gomes, 25, for Failure to Register as a Sex Offender. Hurley was ordered to serve 21 months' imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release. Upon release, he will be required to register as a sex offender.
According to court documents, Hurley was convicted in 2021 for soliciting sexually explicit images from a 12-year-old. As a result, Hurley was sentenced in tribal court to a three-year suspended sentence and ordered to register as a sex offender. Three months after receiving his sex offense conviction, Hurley was charged in state court for obstruction and public intoxication, and the tribal court filed a motion to revoke his suspended sentence. Hurley failed to appear in both cases, and warrants were issued for his arrest. He was eventually detained, and the tribal court revoked his suspended sentence and ordered Hurley to serve three years' imprisonment.
After being released from prison, Hurley knowingly failed to register as a sex offender. Court documents show that after being released from prison, Hurley married his spouse, claiming his name as Hurley. However, Hurley was born “Daniel Gomes” and has never legally changed his name. Hurley’s criminal history under the name “Gomes” includes convictions for third-degree burglary, carrying a weapon unlawfully, unauthorized use of a vehicle, second-degree burglary, obstructing an officer, and public intoxication in Oklahoma and joyriding in Tennessee. His spouse was granted an annulment because Hurley made false representations and deceived her.
Hurley is a citizen of the Cherokee Nation, and he will remain in custody pending transfer to the U.S. Bureau of Prisons.
The U.S. Marshals Service investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michele Hulgaard prosecuted the 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 CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, local, and tribal 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.
Seven, Including El Salvadoran National, Sentenced to Federal Prison for Armed Drug Trafficking Ring Crossing State LinesRead the Press Release
NEW ALBANY- Seven individuals have been sentenced to federal prison for their roles in an armed fentanyl and methamphetamine trafficking conspiracy that crossed state lines:
DefendantCharge(s)SentenceJose Buval, 35, SeymourPossession with intent to distribute methamphetamine (x2) & Possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking 19 years, 2 months’ imprisonment, 5 years of supervised releaseCesar Melendez-Martir, 27, El SalvadorPossession with intent to distribute methamphetamine & carrying a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime 15 years’ imprisonment, 5 years supervised releaseBrandon Bowman, 32, SeymourMaking a false statement during the purchase of a firearm & Distribution of 50 grams or more of methamphetamine10 years’ imprisonment, 5 years supervised releaseJames McMillian, 49, Columbus, INPossession with intent to distribute methamphetamine4 years’ imprisonment, 3 years of supervised releaseRobert Zambrano, 50, Columbus, INPossession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine5 years’ imprisonment, 3 years of supervised releaseJonathan Ojeda, 32, Columbus, INDistribution of 50 Grams or More of Methamphetamine10 years’ imprisonment, 5 years supervised release Jorge Santana-Martinez, 30, IndianapolisDistribution of 50 Grams or More of Methamphetamine13 years’ imprisonment, 5 years supervised releaseAccording to court documents, Jose Buval orchestrated the distribution of large quantities of methamphetamine and fentanyl throughout Indianapolis, southern Indiana, and Ohio. Buval directed the drug trafficking activities of his co-conspirators, supplying them with drugs and firearms.
On September 21, 2023, law enforcement observed Buval and several co-conspirators traveling in tandem from Indiana to the Dayton, Ohio, area. While in Dayton, Buval obtained more than 2,800 grams of methamphetamine. Co-conspirator Melendez-Martir took possession of the drugs. The Indiana State Police conducted a traffic stop on Melendez-Martir’s vehicle in Ripley County, Indiana, as he returned across state lines. Officers recovered approximately 2,854.7 grams of methamphetamine and the handgun Buval had provided to Melendez-Martir.
Over the course of the nearly three-year investigation, law enforcement seized 890 grams of cocaine, 12 kilograms of methamphetamine, 1 kilogram of fentanyl, $11,250 in drug proceeds, and 25 firearms.
At the time of the offenses, Melendez-Martir was unlawfully present in the United States and will be deported to El Salvador following completion of his prison sentence.
The Drug Enforcement Administration, Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, Homeland Security Investigations, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, United States Postal Inspection Service, Indiana State Police, Seymour Police Department, Jackson County Sheriff’s Department, Hamilton/Boone County Drug Task Force, Shelbyville Police Department and Joint Narcotics Enforcement Team, and the Ripley County Prosecuting Attorney investigated this case. The sentences were imposed by U.S. District Judges Tanya Walton Pratt, James P. Hanlon, and Jane Magnus-Stinson
“These sentences make clear that armed drug traffickers who flood our communities with methamphetamine and fentanyl will face serious federal consequences. Our office, along with our law enforcement partners, remains committed to stopping violent drug networks and protecting the people of Indiana,” said Tom Wheeler, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana.
“Armed drug trafficking networks that move fentanyl and methamphetamine across state lines put communities at serious risk,” said HSI Chicago Special Agent in Charge Matthew Scarpino. “HSI and our federal, state, and local partners worked across jurisdictions to disrupt this organization, seize deadly drugs and firearms, and support a prosecution that resulted in significant federal prison sentences. This outcome underscores our shared commitment to protecting the public and holding accountable those who fuel drug-related violence.”
“Fentanyl and methamphetamine leave a trail of broken families and damaged communities, but they also leave a trail of money,” said Robert J. Kuszynski, Acting Special Agent in Charge, IRS Criminal Investigation, Chicago Field Office. “Our special agents are uniquely trained to trace those proceeds and turn the money behind an illegal drug enterprise into evidence against the people profiting from it. We’re proud to stand alongside our federal, state and local partners to bring accountability to those who choose to make a living peddling poison in our communities.”
“This case was a success thanks to the partnership between the Department of Justice, the DEA, and local law enforcement Task Force Officers,” said Greg O’Brien, Chief of the Seymour Police Department. “Without these TFOs, small rural towns wouldn’t have the resources to carry out operations like this. We value and appreciate our ongoing collaboration with the Department of Justice.”
U.S. Attorney Wheeler thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Patrick Gibson, who prosecuted this case.
These prosecutions are 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. Crossroads HSTF comprises agents and officers from FBI, Homeland Security Investigations, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Drug Enforcement Administration, Internal Revenue Services, Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department, Indiana National Guard, Indiana State Police, HIDTA, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Office of Field Operations, Marion County Sheriff’s Office, and Plainfield Police Department, with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Indiana.
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Seminole Resident Pleads Guilty to Federal Firearm OffenseRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Dalton Dean Harjo, a/k/a Dolo, age 19, of Seminole, Oklahoma, entered a guilty plea to one count of Use, Carry and Brandish a Firearm During and In Relation to a Crime of Violence, punishable by no less than 7 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
The Indictment alleged that on April 8, 2026, Harjo knowingly used, carried, and brandished a .45 caliber semi-automatic pistol during and in relation to a crime of violence for which he may be prosecuted in a court of the United States, that is, Assault with a Dangerous Weapon with Intent to do Bodily Harm.
The crime occurred in Seminole County, within the boundaries of the Seminole Nation Reservation, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Seminole Police Department, and the Seminole Nation Lighthorse Police Department.
The Honorable Gerald L. Jackson, Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.
A U.S. District Court Judge will determine the sentence to be imposed after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Harjo will remain in the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending sentencing.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Edith A. Singer represented the United States.
Rumford Man Pleads Guilty to Illegally Possessing FirearmRead the Press Release
PORTLAND, Maine: A Rumford man pleaded guilty on September 9, 2026, in U.S. District Court in Portland to being a felon in possession of a firearm.
According to court records, in May 2025, the Lewiston Police Department received multiple reports of gunshots. Callers reported a male had been shooting a firearm and then entered a dark-colored vehicle parked on the street. Upon arrival, police encountered Troy Blanchard, 37, seated in the driver’s seat of a black vehicle. A standoff ensued with Blanchard ignoring police commands to exit the vehicle. Police were eventually able to remove Blanchard from the vehicle after firing pepper balls through the rear window. Police subsequently located a Kel-Tec .22 caliber pistol on the passenger seat next to Blanchard. At the time of his arrest, Blanchard was prohibited from possessing firearms due to multiple prior felony convictions.
Blanchard faces up to 15 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to three years of supervised release. He will be sentenced after the completion of a presentence investigative report by the U.S. Probation Office. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case with the assistance of the Lewiston Police Department.
Operation Take Back America: This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
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Repeat sex offender from Licking County sentenced to more than 19 years in federal prison for new child pornography crimesRead the Press Release
COLUMBUS, Ohio – A repeat sex offender was sentenced in federal court here today to 235 months in prison for receiving and possessing child pornography.
Christopher McInturf, 56, of Newark, Ohio, pleaded guilty to the crimes in February.
According to court documents, in February 2025, the Homeland Security Investigations Cyber Crime Center referred an investigative lead regarding McInturf using CashApp to pay for child pornography. Further investigation revealed that McInturf met an individual online who he believed to be in Paraguay. McInturf would pay the person typically $80 or $86 for bundles of child pornography.
In January 2025, McInturf messaged the individual asking for “something new? Rape is good. 10 to 15 yr…”
Investigators discovered child sexual abuse material of prepubescent female victims on McInturf’s digital devices. For example, one video was a 70-minute compilation of 55 children being sexually assaulted who were approximately two to 10 years old.
On a thumb drive, McInturf had an explicit photo of a minor previously identified as the victim in a case against the defendant in Licking County. McInturf was convicted in 2011 in Licking County of two counts of rape and two counts of sexual battery. He was sentenced to 10 years in prison in his local case.
McInturf was charged federally in February 2025.
Dominick S. Gerace II, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio, and HSI Detroit Acting Special Agent in Charge Jared Murphey, announced the sentence imposed today by U.S. District Judge Edmund A. Sargus, Jr. Assistant United States Attorney Tyler J. Aagard is representing the United States in 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. Attorney’s 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.
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Repeat Felon Sentenced to 10 Years in D.C. After Shooting Two Women in Separate Attacks Months ApartRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Joseph Knight, 32, a previously convicted felon residing in the District of Columbia, was sentenced today in U.S. District Court to 120 months in prison in connection with two separate shootings and his unlawful possession of firearms as a convicted felon, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro.
“Knowing full well he was barred from possessing a firearm, Joseph Knight shot one woman seven times and later shot another woman three times after pistol‑whipping her,” said U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro. “This defendant posed a grave danger to our community, and he is now headed where he belongs: prison.”
Knight pleaded guilty on April 8, 2026, before U.S. District Judge Rudolph Contreras to two counts of unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition by a previously convicted felon, one count of aggravated assault while armed, and one count of assault with a dangerous weapon. In addition to the 120-month prison sentence, Judge Contreras ordered Knight to serve 5 years of supervised release.
According to court documents, on Sept. 18, 2024, Knight went to the Anacostia Library in Southeast to charge his cellphone, then left the library and met with a woman, identified in court papers as S.F.
Knight gave S.F. $5 to buy a synthetic stimulant known as “boot.” A dispute arose between the two. Knight pulled out a pistol and shot S.F. seven times, hitting her in both legs and both hands. He then fled. Officers found S.F. suffering from multiple gunshot wounds on the sidewalk in the 1600 block of Marion Barry Ave. SE. Police collected seven spent 9mm shell casings from the ground.
On Sept. 25, 2024, Anacostia Library security called police after spotting Knight. An officer approached Knight and asked to speak with him. Knight ran off. As Knight fled police, he tossed a satchel containing a loaded 9mm Smith & Wesson M&P pistol under a car.
On Nov. 11, 2024, a woman identified in court papers as T.C. called 911 after Knight shot her three times. Officers responded to the scene, about a block and a half from the library, and learned the woman had engaged in an argument with Knight as she changed the locks on her front door. The dispute escalated and Knight pulled out a 9mm firearm and pistol-whipped T.C. in the head. He then shot her in her abdomen, ankle, and upper thigh.
On Nov. 15, 2024, Metropolitan Police Officers arrested Knight for the September 18 and November 11 shootings. During a police search, officers recovered a 9mm Canik METE MCS pistol from the waistband of Knight’s pants.
Knight has several prior felony convictions including a 2013 conviction for carrying a pistol outside a home or business and a 2016 conviction on four counts of robbery and one count of unlawful possession of a firearm.
The investigation was conducted by the Metropolitan Police Department with valuable assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives – Washington Field Division.
The matter was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jared English.
Still photo taken by police body-worn camera on Sept. 25, 2024, in front of the Anacostia Library.
The loaded 9mm Smith & Wesson M&P pistol found in Knight’s discarded satchel on Sept. 25, 2024.
The 9mm Canik METE MCS pistol used in the November 11, 2024, shooting.
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RAD Diversified REIT Co-Founders Indicted for Stealing Funds from Their Employees’ Benefit PlansRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces the unsealing of an indictment charging Brandon “Dutch” Mendenhall (47, Brandon, Florida) and Amy Marie Smith Vaughn (48, New Port Richey, Florida) with 10 counts of theft or embezzlement from employee benefit plans and five counts of theft or embezzlement in connection with health care. If convicted, Mendenhall and Vaughn each face a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison. The indictment also notifies Mendenhall and Vaughn that the United States intends to forfeit the proceeds traceable to the offenses.
According to the indictment, Mendenhall and Vaughn were the founders, registered agents, or officers of several entities, including RAD Diversified REIT, RADD Capital, The Seminar Solution, and DHI Holdings. The employees of these entities could participate in the companies’ 401(k) retirement plan and health insurance plan by having funds directly withheld from their paychecks. Beginning in the spring of 2024, Mendenhall and Vaughn stopped contributing the funds that were being withheld from their employees’ paychecks to the 401(k) plan. Then beginning in September of 2024, Mendenhall and Vaughn stopped contributing the funds being withheld from their employee’s paychecks to the company’s health insurance plan.
An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
This case was investigated by the Department of Labor – Employee Benefits Security Administration, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, and the Florida Office of Financial Regulation – Bureau of Financial Investigations. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Merrilyn Hoenemeyer.
Proposed $125M Settlement Agreement Provides Critical Work for Advancing the Lower Passaic River Superfund CleanupRead the Press Release
The Justice Department, on behalf of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), today lodged a proposed settlement agreement with Environmental Resource Holdings LLC (ERH) to perform critical work to support the cleanup of the Diamond Alkali Superfund site, including the lower 17 miles of the Passaic River. The work is estimated to cost $125 million and focuses on the next steps needed to get the in-river work started.
Under the proposed consent decree, ERH would construct an upland processing facility and several upland support facilities that would enable dredging and capping work in the Lower Passaic River. The construction would include a facility to handle sediment dredged from the river before it is sent for off-site disposal. The upland support facilities would provide land and infrastructure needed to support future in-river construction work. ERH would sample the lower 8.3 miles of the river to establish a baseline and reimburse EPA for future oversight costs related to this work.
“Over many decades, industrial activity contaminated the Lower Passaic River,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Adam Gustafson of the Justice Department’s Energy and Natural Resources Division (ENRD). “This settlement is a significant step toward cleaning up a site that has been a longstanding priority for EPA. We will continue to partner with EPA to promote public health by ensuring that responsible parties remediate Superfund sites.”
“The construction ordered in this consent decree is the next step in cleaning up the Lower Passaic River and finally remediating one of the oldest Superfund sites,” said Assistant Administrator for the Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance Jeffrey Hall. “This settlement demonstrates this Administration’s commitment to expediting work through cooperative engagement and well-tailored agreements.”
“This is a huge step in cleaning up one of New Jersey’s most complex Superfund sites,” said Regional Administrator Michael Martucci of EPA Region 2. “The work laid out in this proposed settlement gets shovels in the ground and lays the foundation for dredging and that brings us one important step closer to a cleaner and restored Passaic River.”
ERH is a potentially responsible party for the site and a corporate successor to Occidental Chemical Corporation and to Diamond Alkali Company/Diamond Shamrock Corporation, which owned and operated the former Diamond Alkali facility in Newark.
The proposed consent decree was filed in U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey and is subject to a 30-day comment period. The complaint and the proposed consent decree are available on the Justice Department’s website at www.justice.gov/enrd/consent-decrees.
Attorneys with ENRD’s Environmental Enforcement Section are handling this matter.
Prior sex offender going to prison on new child pornography chargeRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Andrew Yannello, 30, of Tonawanda, NY, who was convicted of possession of child pornography following a prior conviction under New York law relating to sexual abuse, was sentenced to serve 14 years in prison and 35 years supervised release by U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo.
In September 2014, Yannello was convicted of Attempted Sexual Abuse in the 1st Degree in New York State Court and sentenced to serve 10 years’ probation. In November 2017, following a probation violation, Yannello was sentenced to serve 1 1/3 to 3 years in prison. On August 23, 2024, investigators executed a search warrant at Yannello’s residence after it was discovered that he uploaded files of child pornography to Facebook and distributed the images to other Facebook users. During the search, a cell phone, laptop computer and desktop computer were seized, and all were found to contain images and videos of child pornography child pornography. Some of the images contained prepubescent minors as well as the sexual abuse of an infant or toddler, and depictions of violence.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron J. Mango. The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Allen D. Davis, II, the Town of Tonawanda Police Department, under the direction of Chief Corey Flatau, and the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Amie Feroleto.
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Philadelphia Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Key Role in Large-Scale Cargo TheftsRead the Press Release
PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney David Metcalf announced that Haneef Palmer, aka “Lew,” 33, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 121 months in prison, three years of supervised release, and $1,080,786.44 in restitution by United States District Chief Judge Wendy Beetlestone for his central role in a large-scale cargo theft conspiracy.
The defendant was charged by superseding indictment in December 2024 and pleaded guilty in March of this year to one count each of conspiracy, robbery interfering with interstate commerce (Hobbs Act robbery), possession of items from interstate shipment theft, theft of government money, and possession of stolen government money, and five counts of theft from an interstate shipment.
As detailed in court filings and statements, between January 1, 2023, and July 31, 2023, Palmer conspired with co-defendants to steal goods moving as parts of interstate shipments located on tractor trailers around Philadelphia.
While a trailer was unattended overnight, or while the driver was asleep, the members of the conspiracy participating in the theft would use bolt cutters and other tools to break into the trailer and steal the goods inside. The members of the conspiracy would then offer the goods for sale to local contacts.
Among other acts, Palmer admitted to participating in the robbery of a tractor trailer carrying commercial refrigerators on April 1, 2023, during which he and others attacked and injured the driver, and to participating in the theft of over $230,000 worth of U.S. dimes on April 13, 2023. The members of the conspiracy committed numerous other thefts, stealing goods with a total estimated value of more than $1.5 million from more than 10 victims.
This case was investigated by the FBI and the Philadelphia Police Department and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Alexander Bowerman and Christopher Diviny.
Philadelphia Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Key Role in Large-Scale Cargo TheftsRead the Press Release
PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney David Metcalf announced that Haneef Palmer, aka “Lew,” 33, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 121 months in prison, three years of supervised release, and $1,080,786.44 in restitution by United States District Chief Judge Wendy Beetlestone for his central role in a large-scale cargo theft conspiracy.
The defendant was charged by superseding indictment in December 2024 and pleaded guilty in March of this year to one count each of conspiracy, robbery interfering with interstate commerce (Hobbs Act robbery), possession of items from interstate shipment theft, theft of government money, and possession of stolen government money, and five counts of theft from an interstate shipment.
As detailed in court filings and statements, between January 1, 2023, and July 31, 2023, Palmer conspired with co-defendants to steal goods moving as parts of interstate shipments located on tractor trailers around Philadelphia.
While a trailer was unattended overnight, or while the driver was asleep, the members of the conspiracy participating in the theft would use bolt cutters and other tools to break into the trailer and steal the goods inside. The members of the conspiracy would then offer the goods for sale to local contacts.
Among other acts, Palmer admitted to participating in the robbery of a tractor trailer carrying commercial refrigerators on April 1, 2023, during which he and others attacked and injured the driver, and to participating in the theft of over $230,000 worth of U.S. dimes on April 13, 2023. The members of the conspiracy committed numerous other thefts, stealing goods with a total estimated value of more than $1.5 million from more than 10 victims.
This case was investigated by the FBI and the Philadelphia Police Department and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Alexander Bowerman and Christopher Diviny.
Peruvian national indicted for illegally votingRead the Press Release
WICHITA, KAN. – A federal grand jury in Wichita has returned an indictment charging a Peruvian national with multiple criminal offenses arising from allegedly voting in a federal election despite not being a United States citizen.
According to court documents, Mariana Alexandra Dewey, 24, of Wichita is charged with one count of false claim of citizenship, one count of false claim of United States citizenship in order to vote, one count of fraudulent election conduct, and one count of voting by an alien in a federal election.
In November 2024, Dewey allegedly falsely represented herself to be a U.S. citizen in order to register to vote in an election that included federal, state, and local offices. She is further accused of casting a ballot that included candidates for U.S. President, Vice President, Senate, and House of Representatives after falsely certifying that she was a U.S. citizen and eligible to vote.
“The Department of Justice remains committed to protecting election integrity and is actively investigating and prosecuting these cases,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan A. Kriegshauser. “With another election looming, the Department’s effort serves as a stark reminder to individuals who are not legally authorized to vote not to engage in this conduct. Should individuals be determined by a court of law to have illegally claimed U.S. citizenship and voted or attempted to vote in federal elections, they will face serious criminal consequences.”
Dewey is scheduled to make her initial court appearance on Monday, September 14, 2026 before a U.S. Magistrate Judge in the U.S. District Court for the District of Kansas.
Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) is investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Larry Fadler is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
###Pensacola Man Sentenced for Firearms OffenseRead the Press Release
Pensacola, Florida – Alaisjah Perkins, 23, of Pensacola, Florida, was sentenced to 20 months in federal prison for possessing unregistered firearms. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “Our state and federal law enforcement partners are committed to keeping our communities safe, and work hard every day to accomplish that mission, as evidenced by this investigation that led to our successful prosecution. Following the law is not optional, and my office stands ready to hold offenders accountable.”
Court documents reflect that the defendant used a 3D printer to print machine gun diversion devices for AR-15 rifles and then sold them online. The device inserts into an AR-15 rifle and converts it from semi-automatic to fully automatic. An undercover ATF officer purchased 12 conversion devices from the defendant on two occasions before obtaining a search warrant for his home, where they found the 3D printer, printing material, and 13 additional devices.
The case involved an investigation by the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Chris Patterson and Walter E. Narramore.
Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is 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 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.
Owner of Illicit Drug Website Charged with Trafficking DMT and MDMA Near D.C. College CampusRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON — Perry Young, owner and operator of the website “Forest Floor DC,” was charged in an indictment unsealed today for alleged drug trafficking operations involving illegal narcotics, including DMT, MDMA, marijuana, and hallucinogenic mushrooms, conducted near The Catholic University of America, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro.
“Today’s indictment underscores my office’s unwavering commitment to protecting the public from illegal drug trafficking operations that threaten the safety of our communities,” said U.S. Attorney Pirro. “The defendant built a sophisticated online distribution network that delivered illicit substances directly into our neighborhoods, including proximity to Catholic University. This conduct endangers students, families, and the broader community, and it will be met with decisive action.”
Young, of the District of Columbia, is charged with Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with Intent to Distribute Dimethyltryptamine, Distribution of Dimethyltryptamine and MDMA Within 1,000 Feet of a Private College, and Distribution and Possession with Intent to Distribute MDMA. The indictment also includes forfeiture allegations seeking the surrender of illicit proceeds. Young made his initial appearance today before District Court Judge Moxila A. Upadhyaya.
Young operated the website https://www.forestfloordc.com/, where customers could order Schedule I controlled substances, including marijuana, mushrooms, and dimethyltryptamine (DMT). Once an order was placed online, Young or an associate delivered the drugs in person.
During an undercover operation, law enforcement made several controlled drug purchases through the website, receiving in-person deliveries directly from Young and an associate. On one occasion, Young sold 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) to an undercover officer. The alleged drug sales occurred within 1,000 feet of The Catholic University of America.
Search warrants were executed this morning at Young’s residence and a storage unit. Law enforcement discovered one Glock 43 handgun with a drum-style magazine, a Glock 43 magazine loaded with ammunition, and assorted ammunition and firearm accessories. Law enforcement also seized approximately $250,000 in U.S. currency and $200,000 in jewelry from Young. The warrants resulted in the seizure of approximately 18 pounds of marijuana, 74 pounds of psilocybin mushrooms, 30 pounds of tetrahydrocannabinol “THC” and a large amount of packaging material and drug paraphernalia.
This investigation was led by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Washington Field Division High Intensity Drug Trafficking Task Force with valuable assistance from Homeland Security Investigations, Metro Transit Police and the United States Postal Inspection Service.
An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed a violation of criminal law and is not evidence of guilt. Every defendant is presumed innocent until, and unless, proven guilty.
forest_floor_dc_llc_indictment.pdfOregon Man Sentenced to 25 Years for Coercing a Minor to Engage in Sexual Activity and Production of Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – Aleksandr Golovchenko (50, Oregon) has been sentenced by U.S. District Judge John L. Badalamenti to 25 years in federal prison, followed by a lifetime of supervised release, for three counts of production of child sexual abuse material (CSAM) and two counts of coercion and enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity. U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement.
Golovchenko pleaded guilty on April 29, 2026.
According to court documents, in or around February 2025, Golovchenko met a 12-year-old female online. Between February and April 2025, Golovchenko persuaded, induced, enticed, and coerced the victim to engage in sexual activity over the social media application Snapchat. Golovchenko also employed, used, persuaded, induced, enticed, and coerced the victim to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing a visual depiction of that conduct.
This case was investigated by the FBI and the Sarasota Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Courtney Derry.
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 United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), 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.projectsafechildhood.gov.
Nationwide Alcohol Distributor Agrees to Pay over $12 Million to Resolve Federal Investigation into Bribery and False Invoicing PracticesRead the Press Release
SAN FRANCISCO - Southern Glazer’s Wine and Spirits, LLC (“Southern Glazer’s”), a nationwide alcohol distributor headquartered in Florida, has entered into a non-prosecution agreement with federal prosecutors, and agreed to make a monetary payment of $12.5 million and other remedies to resolve the investigation. The investigation involved Southern Glazer’s executives and employees funding and concealing improper payments and benefits to employees of alcohol retailers, including chain grocery stores in California and elsewhere.
In the agreement, Southern Glazer’s admitted to and acknowledged responsibility for the acts of individuals employed by the company, which included years of improper payments and benefits to various alcohol retailer employees in connection with the promotion, purchase, maintenance, and placement of certain alcohol products distributed by Southern Glazer’s, and the use of third-party vendors and false invoices generated to conceal the practice. Several Southern Glazer’s executives based in California, including several Vice Presidents, were directly involved in the conduct, which included substantial cash payments, prepaid gift cards, flights, golf trips, resort stays, and luxury goods, along with participation in the falsification of documents.
In addition to Southern Glazer’s monetary payment of $12.5 million to the United States, among other things, the company agreed to implement robust steps to enhance compliance with federal and state laws prohibiting bribery and other improper payments and also agreed to continue to cooperate with the government in connection with any criminal prosecutions related to the matter, including against current or former employees of the company.
One of government’s top jobs is to ensure a level playing field for American business. Southern Glazer’s employees tried to distort the wine and spirits market in California through bribes and other improper conduct and in the end it was the consumer that lost out,” said U.S. Attorney Craig Missakian. “Our office takes this kind of conduct seriously and we are committed to making sure everyone plays by the same rules, which will mean lower prices and more choices for the California consumer. By refusing to compete honestly, the company didn’t just harm its competitors and consumers — it struck at the heart of the American tradition of fair and open competition.”
“Today’s announcement of this agreement is a testament to IRS Criminal Investigation and our law enforcement partners commitment to holding accountable companies like Southern Glazer’s Wine and Spirits who engaged in dishonest business practices that circumvented trade practice regulations and internal controls,” said Kareem Carter, Executive Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation (CI), Washington, D.C. Field Office. “This investigation is an excellent example of the importance of law enforcement agencies working together to address complex illicit financial activity by holding those responsible to account for their actions.”
“TTB takes trade practice enforcement seriously to ensure that all industry members operate under the same rules and that law abiding businesses do not lose competitive ground because of the illegal actions of a few,” said Anthony P. Gledhill, Assistant Administrator, Field Operations, Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB). “This case serves as an important reminder that industry members are accountable not only for their own conduct, but also for the actions taken on their behalf by third party affiliates. Third parties, likewise, are responsible for any illegal activities they carry out on behalf of an industry member.”
The investigation was handled by the National Security, Cyber & Special Prosecutions Section of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of California. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Colin Sampson and Sailaja Paidipaty investigated the case with the assistance of Helen Yee and Maryam Beros. The prosecution is the result of a joint investigation by the Internal Revenue Service – CI and the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau with support from the Treasury Executive Office for Asset Forfeiture.
Southern Glazer’s NPA
Mexican National Sentenced to 2 Years in Federal Prison for Identity Theft and Passport FraudRead the Press Release
COLUMBIA, S.C. — Ricardo Gonzalez Bahena, 43, an illegal alien residing in Graniteville, has been sentenced to two years in federal prison for identity theft and passport fraud. Gonzalez Bahena, a Mexican national, will be deported after serving his sentence.
Evidence obtained in the investigation revealed that Gonzalez Bahena was working at the Savannah River Nuclear Site under a false identity. During his employment, he attempted to obtain an increased security clearance, but investigators discovered inconsistencies during the background investigation. Thereafter, they uncovered his scheme. On two separate occasions, he also attempted to apply for a U.S. passport in Augusta, Georgia using the same false identity. The stolen identity belonged to a vulnerable adult and American citizen in Puerto Rico who has never left Puerto Rico.
United States District Judge Sherri A. Lydon sentenced Gozalez Bahena to 24 months’ imprisonment, to be followed by a three-year term of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system. Bahena was also ordered to pay $35,695 in restitution to the victim.
This case was investigated by the Department of Energy and the U.S. Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service (DSS). Assistant U.S. Attorney Scott Matthews is prosecuting the case.###
Mexican National Sentenced to 15 Months in Prison for Illegal Reentry; Faces DeportationRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Victorino Javier Cruz-Lopez, age 40, of Mexico, was sentenced to 15 months in prison by United States District Judge Malachy E. Mannion for illegal reentry. Cruz-Lopez will be deported upon conclusion of his sentence.
According to United States Attorney Brian D. Miller, Cruz-Lopez was encountered in the United States in York County on April 16, 2026, after having previously been removed in 2013. Cruz-Lopez did not receive permission to reenter the United States, as required by law.
The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Removal Operations investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney Michael Scalera 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.
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Massachusetts Man Sentenced to Nearly Six Years for Trafficking MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
CONCORD – Matthew Schnell, 45, of Bellingham, Massachusetts was sentenced yesterday in federal court by U.S. District Court Judge Steven McAuliffe to 71 months imprisonment and three years of supervised release for trafficking large amounts of methamphetamine, U.S. Attorney Erin Creegan announces.
Schnell pleaded guilty in May 2025 to one count of conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance, specifically methamphetamine.
“This defendant helped run a major operation trafficking dangerous drugs out of central New Hampshire and will now be held accountable,” said U.S. Attorney Creegan. “Due to strong partnership with our state and local law enforcement counterparts, we were able to take down this methamphetamine distribution conspiracy. Our office will continue to pursue those who bring harm and destructive addiction to our communities.”
“Matthew Schnell is now behind bars for facilitating a substantial drug trafficking organization that pushed pounds of methamphetamine into New Hampshire, fueling addiction, violence, and instability in our neighborhoods,” said Ted E. Docks, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Boston Division. “Let this hefty sentence be a warning to others who think they can profit from flooding our streets with dangerous drugs and escape responsibility. The FBI and our partners will find you and ensure you are brought to justice.”
According to the court documents and statements made in court, in the fall of 2022, the FBI’s New Hampshire Major Offender Task Force, and the New Hampshire State Police (“NHSP”) began investigating a methamphetamine distribution conspiracy in New Hampshire. The investigation revealed that Schnell obtained methamphetamine from suppliers and then would provide methamphetamine to Thomas Conway for further distribution in New Hampshire. Phone calls and text messages intercepted during the investigation confirmed that the defendant worked as Conway’s primary supplier and business partner. For example, in one conversation, Schnell, Conway, and another co-conspirator discussed the need to need to restructure their drug trafficking organization to ensure a sufficient drug supply. In multiple other intercepted communications, Schnell discussed obtaining multiple pound quantities of methamphetamine for Conway. Law enforcement later seized drugs before they could be distributed.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation Major Offender Task Force in partnership with the New Hampshire State Police led the investigation. The Concord Police Department, Franklin Police Department, and New Hampton Police Department provided valuable assistance. Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew T. Hunter and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Heather Cherniske prosecuted the case.
This case is part of New Hampshire’s 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 U.S. 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 New Hampshire comprises agents and officers from FBI, HSI, IRS, DEA, ATF, USMS, and DSS with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of New Hampshire.
Maryland Felon Sentenced for Illegal Firearm PossessionRead the Press Release
Baltimore, Maryland – A Maryland man is headed to federal prison for firearm crimes.
U.S. District Judge Ellen L. Hollander sentenced Jerry Toliver, 37, of Rosedale, today, to five years in prison, followed by three years of supervised release, for possession with the intent to distribute controlled substances.
Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the sentence with Special Agent in Charge Charles Doerrer, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF); Chief Robert McCullough, Baltimore County Police Department (BCPD); and Commissioner Richard Worley, Baltimore Police Department (BPD).
According to court documents, on December 19, 2024, BPD officers arrived at a building to assist BCPD detectives with executing an arrest warrant on Toliver. The warrant was in connection with a November 2024 shooting.
BCPD detectives located Toliver sitting in the driver’s seat of a parked vehicle. Law enforcement ordered Toliver out of the vehicle and placed him under arrest. As law enforcement searched Toliver, officers discovered oxycodone, cocaine base, and cocaine on him.
After towing the vehicle to BCPD Headquarters, law enforcement uncovered a loaded handgun with seven live rounds of ammunition under the driver’s seat. Toliver is prohibited from possessing a firearm due to prior convictions. Additionally, investigators found $3,604.17, along with a large amount of Toliver’s clothing in the vehicle.
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.
U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the ATF, BCPD, and BPD for their work in the investigation. Ms. Hayes also thanked Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathleen Godwin who is prosecuting this federal case.
For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, visit justice.gov/usao-md.
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Manitowoc Sex Offender Sentenced to 15 Years in Federal Prison for Receiving Obscene Visual Depictions of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Brad D. Schimel, First Assistant United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on September 4, 2026, Senior United States District Judge William C. Griesbach sentenced Brandon M. Lemerond (Age 21) to 180 months’ imprisonment following his conviction for Receiving Obscene Visual Depictions of Child Pornography in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1466A(a)(1).
According to court documents and arguments presented in court, the Manitowoc Police Department received a referral from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children regarding images that were sent and received by a username associated with Lemerond. Further investigation revealed that Lemerond was engaging with underage victims via the internet and soliciting images of child sexual abuse material. Lemerond is a sex offender registrant in the State of Wisconsin based on a 2023 conviction in Manitowoc County for Possession of Child Pornography.
Judge Griesbach described Lemerond’s crime as an extremely serious offense. Judge Griesbach noted a strong need to protect the public and to deter Lemerond and others from engaging in similar criminal behavior in the future. Judge Griesbach determined that a sentence of 15 years (180 months) imprisonment was appropriate. Following his release from federal prison, Lemerond will serve 6 years on supervised release and will continue to be required to register as a sex offender under state and federal law.
“This defendant was on probation for prior state child pornography convictions for barely a year when these offenses occurred,” said First Assistant U.S. Attorney Brad Schimel. “He clearly cannot or will not control his abhorrent behavior. The only way to protect our children from this predator is to lock him up for a very long time. Thanks to the excellent work by our law enforcement and prosecution team, that mission is accomplished.”
“This sentence is an important outcome and shows the importance of holding repeat offenders accountable” stated Manitowoc Police Chief John Musial. “Our detectives conducted a thorough investigation and worked diligently to bring this offender to justice. The 180-month prison sentence will help protect our community from further harm. I’m proud of the work our detectives did and grateful for the strong partnership with the Department of Justice throughout this case."
This case was investigated by the Manitowoc Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Daniel R. Humble and Timothy W. Funnell.
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.
# # #
For further information contact:
Public Affairs Officer Steve Caballero
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Man Sentenced to 40 Years for Role in the Murders of a Couple and their Unborn Child During a Drug Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
SAN DIEGO – Benjamin Madrigal-Birrueta, a Mexican national in the country illegally who was living in Yakima, Washington, was sentenced in federal court today to 40 years in prison for his role in the murders of a man, his six-month pregnant wife and their unborn child during a drug-related dispute.
According to his plea agreement, Madrigal and co-conspirators fatally shot 44-year-old Cesar Murillo multiple times in the back of the head and torso on August 28, 2022, during an argument. The shooting took place at a remote ranch outside of Yakima, Washington. Madrigal’s co-conspirators then buried the victim’s body in a six-foot-deep grave under a gravel road near the ranch at Madrigal’s direction.
On September 2, 2022, Madrigal coaxed Murillo’s wife, Maira Sofia Hernandez, 33, to come to the ranch by claiming her husband was waiting for her there and wanted to see her. Hernandez did not know that only a few days earlier, Madrigal and his co-conspirators had shot, killed and buried her husband at the same ranch. Madrigal picked Hernandez up in Yakima and drove her 45 minutes into the mountains to the ranch.
When the visibly pregnant Hernandez arrived at the ranch, the defendant parked and they got out of his car. Soon thereafter, Madrigal’s co-conspirators shot her multiple times in the head and body. U.S. District Court Judge Dana M. Sabraw described Hernandez’s drive to the ranch as “a one-way ticket for her.” Madrigal’s co-conspirators then buried Hernandez in a separate deep grave under a gravel road near the ranch, again at Madrigal’s direction. The child died in utero when Hernandez was shot, killed and buried.
Madrigal also admitted in his plea agreement that the murders were committed while he was engaged in a drug trafficking conspiracy. Court testimony revealed that Murillo and Hernandez had worked with Madrigal in the drug trafficking organization but had just informed Madrigal that they planned to cooperate with law enforcement.
During the sentencing, the judge repeatedly described the murders as “horrific.” “So horrific that they demand a significant sentence.” Although the Court agreed that Madrigal had a “horrible childhood” and needed money to assist his sisters with migrating from Mexico to the United States, “the answer is not to do this.” Madrigal’s motivation to murder these victims was “wrong on every possible level.”
Madrigal had months to think about his actions, the Court stated, and yet he remained in the drug trafficking business. The Court added that Madrigal and his co-conspirators “executed” Murillo, Hernandez and the fetus, so he could “stay in control” and continue to run his drug business. And Madrigal clearly profited from his involvement in drug dealing, driving fancy cars, using drugs, and overseeing a ranch in Yakima with a virtual arsenal of weapons. The Court noted that the murders were particularly troubling because Madrigal was involved in killing cooperating witnesses. The Court concluded by noting, “It is very clear, the enormity of the stress and damage you have caused to the victims’ families.”
“While here illegally, Benjamin Madrigal-Birrueta chose a life of violence and greed,” said U.S. Attorney Adam Gordon, “The victims’ families deserved this strong measure of justice.”
“Today’s 40-year sentence holds Benjamin Madrigal-Birrueta accountable for the brutal murders of Cesar Murillo, Maira Hernandez, and their unborn child,” said Kevin Murphy, acting Special Agent in Charge of HSI San Diego. “This case reflects the extraordinary persistence of HSI special agents and our law enforcement partners to combat violent drug cartels, provide justice for victims and their families, and protect our communities.”
According to court filings, the investigation originated with the seizure of drugs from vehicles using San Diego area ports of entry between August and October of 2021. The organization built sophisticated compartments in high-end stolen vehicles to smuggle drugs through the ports of entry into the United States. Madrigal-Birrueta was a leader in the criminal enterprise. He coordinated the movements of the drug mules importing the drugs and worked to get the drugs up to Yakima for dispersal to other parts of the United States. Madrigal-Birrueta also coordinated the movement of hundreds of thousands of dollars in cash back to the drug trafficking organization in Mexico.
By August of 2022, the investigation led agents from San Diego up to Yakima. HSI Agents interviewed Murillo and Hernandez in August 2022. Within days of those interviews, Murillo and Hernandez were murdered and their bodies were buried in deep graves in the high desert. Court filings describe how these charges follow an exhaustive, year-long investigation that employed geophysicists, ground penetrating radar, aircraft, laser imaging, chemical testing of the soil, numerous cadaver dogs, and other law enforcement techniques to search for the victims’ remains. HSI Special Agents successfully recovered the remains on September 13, 2023, aided by a Washington State Police Crime Scene Investigations team.
During the investigation agents seized methamphetamine, cocaine, fentanyl, and multiple firearms — including a machine gun — from Madrigal’s drug trafficking organization.
This case is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF San Diego comprises agents and officers from FBI, Homeland Security Investigations, DEA, ATF, U.S. Marshals, Department of Defense, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Naval Criminal Investigative Service, IRS Criminal Investigation, U.S. Coast Guard, U.S. Customs and Border Protection and Interpol, with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of California.
DEFENDANT Case Number 23cr1684-DMS
Benjamin Madrigal-Birrueta Age: 25 Yakima, WA
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Count 4: Murder of Cesar Armando Murillo in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Conspiracy – Title 21, United States Code, Section 848(e)
Mandatory minimum sentence of 20 years and up to life, or death
Count 5: Murder of Maira Sophia Hernandez in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Conspiracy – Title 21, United States Code, Section 848(e)
Mandatory minimum sentence of 20 years and up to life, or death
Count 9: Causing the Death of a Child in Utero – Title 18, United States Code, Sections 1841 and 1111
Mandatory minimum sentence of 20 years and up to life, or death
INVESTIGATING AGENCIES
Homeland Security Investigations
Drug Enforcement Administration
Federal Bureau of Investigation
Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives
Washington State Police
California Highway Patrol
Yakima Police Department
Tulare County Sheriff’s Office
Visalia Police Department
Fresno Sheriff’s Office
Fresno Police Department
Leader of the Manchester N.H. Chapter of Trinitarios Sentenced to 10 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A member of the Manchester Chapter of the Trinitarios has been sentenced in federal court in Boston for racketeering charges, including his participation in the attempted murder of rival gang members.
Luis Jeffrey Santana, a/k/a “Sopita,” 28, was sentenced by U.S. Senior District Court Judge Nathaniel M. Gorton to 10 years in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release. After serving the prison sentence, Luis Enrique Santana will be deported to the Dominican Republic. In June 2026, Santana pleaded guilty to conspiracy to conduct enterprise affairs through a pattern of racketeering activity, more commonly referred to as RICO conspiracy. Luis Jeffrey Santana was arrested and charged in February 2025.
The Trinitarios is a violent criminal enterprise comprised of thousands of members across the United States. The Trinitarios adhere to a Magna Carta, employ an internal hierarchy to coordinate and execute violence, and undertake extensive efforts to maintain the secrecy of the organization and its members.
Luis Jeffrey Santana admitted to his participation in an August 2021 shooting outside of a department store in Salem, Mass. During this incident, Luis Jeffrey Santana and other Trinitarios members confronted two victims they believed to be rival gang members and engaged in a verbal altercation with them in the store. The Trinitarios and victims separated, exited the store and proceeded in different directions. The Trinitarios members, however, called for reinforcements who arrived shortly thereafter. The victims proceeded to their vehicle and as they turned out of the parking lot, a black sedan containing multiple Trinitarios pulled up and a shooter began firing multiple rounds at the victims. At the same time, a second vehicle pulled out and blocked traffic while the shooting took place.
Luis Jeffrey Santana was also one of the leaders who convened a gang meeting in Dec. 1, 2024. During the recorded meeting, the Trinitarios discussed the reorganization and restructuring of the Trinitarios chapters, including the need for members to pay dues and contribute to the gang’s operations. The leaders discussed the need to have money on hand to help members who commit shootings and to fund a war against rival gang members. They also discussed the potential violence that would be visited upon members who betray the gang.
During the plea hearing in June 2026, Luis Jeffrey Santana admitted to his membership in the gang. Photographs and videos recovered in the investigation showed Luis Jeffrey Santana wearing Trinitarios beaded necklaces, making Trinitarios gang signs with his hands and associating with other members and leaders.
In February 2025, federal racketeering charges were unsealed against 22 leaders and members of the Trinitarios. The charges were the result of a multijurisdictional investigation, which began in the aftermath of four murders as well as a series of attempted murders and shootings that took place in Lynn in 2023, allegedly committed by the Trinitarios criminal enterprise and its members. On June 9, 2026, additional federal racketeering and drug charges were unsealed charging 26 additional leaders, members and associates of the Lawrence, Haverhill and Boston Chapters of the gang. According to court documents, the Trinitarios have allegedly participated in five additional murders in Essex County since 2017, bringing the total of federally charged murders to 11, and the total number of federally charged defendants to 56.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Jeff Grimming, Acting Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in New England; Ted E. Docks, Special Agent in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division; Essex County District Attorney Paul F. Tucker; Massachusetts State Police Colonel Geoffrey D. Noble; Lawrence Police Chief Maurice Aguiler; Methuen Police Acting Chief Jamie Moore, and Lynn Police Chief Christopher P. Reddy made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Manchester, N.H. Police Department and the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of New Hampshire. Assistant U.S. Attorney Philip A. Mallard of the Organized Crime & Gang Unit is prosecuting the case.
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.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces and Project Safe Neighborhood.#
FIRST NAME
LAST NAME
DOCKET NO.
CASE STATUS
1
Ricardo
Bratini-Perez
24-CR-10310
Pleaded Guilty,
Sentenced to 120 Months
2
Rosnel
Polanco
24-CR-10263
Pleaded Guilty,
Awaiting Sentencing
3
Eric
Rosario
24-CR-10263
Pleaded Guilty,
Awaiting Sentencing
4
Robert
Santana
24-CR-10263
Pleaded Guilty,
Awaiting Sentencing
5
Yeferson
Vallecillo Cambar
24-CR-10335
Pending
6
Elvis
Trujillo
24-CR-10336
Pending
7
Abel
Severino-Reyes
24-CR-10373
Pleaded Guilty,
Awaiting Sentencing
8
Warly
Ruiz
24-CR-10380
Pleaded Guilty,
Awaiting Sentencing
9
David
Garcia
25-CR-10006
Pleaded Guilty,
Awaiting Sentencing
10
Tomy
Sanchez
25-CR-10007
Pleaded Guilty, Awaiting Sentencing
11
Carlos
Ramirez
25-CR-10008
Pleaded Guilty
12
Justin
Alba
25-CR-10058
Pending
13
Darwin
Batista
25-CR-10058
Pending
14
Janoy
Batista
25-CR-10058
Pending
15
Aaron
Diaz Liranzo
25-CR-10058
Pleaded Guilty,
Sentenced to 168 Months
16
Israel
Garcia-Vasquez
25-CR-10058
Pleaded Guilty, Awaiting Sentencing
17
James
Jimenez
25-CR-10058
Pleaded Guilty, Awaiting Sentencing
18
Ery
Jordani Rosario
25-CR-10058
Pending
19
Westyn
Lantigua
25-CR-10058
Pleaded Guilty, Awaiting Sentencing
20
Kelvin
Liranzo Roman
25-CR-10058
Pleaded Guilty, Awaiting Sentencing
21
Michael
Miliano
25-CR-10058
Pleaded Guilty,
Awaiting Sentencing
22
Enmanuel
Paula-Cabral
25-CR-10058
Pending
23
Luis Jeffrey
Santana
25-CR-10058
Pleaded Guilty,
Sentenced to 120 Months
24
Luis Enrique
Santana
25-CR-10058
Pleaded Guilty,
Sentenced to 136 Months
25
Angel
Santos
25-CR-10058
Pending
26
Wilving
Lopez
25-CR-10062
Pleaded Guilty,
Awaiting Sentencing
27
Leonardo
Espinoza
25-CR-10236
Pleaded Guilty,
Awaiting Sentencing
28
Isiah
Medina
25-CR-10302
Pending
29
Rodderrith
Peralta
25-CR-10302
Pending
30
Derek
Mercado
25-CR-10411
Pleaded Guilty,
Sentenced to 37 Months
31
Yordali
Yorro
25-CR-10058
Pending
32
James
Cabrera
25-CR-10058
Pending
33
Luis
Crispin
25-CR-10058
Pending
34
Angel
Castillo-Garcia
25-CR-10058
Fugitive
35
Osviallis
Serrano
25-CR-10058
Fugitive
36
Jervis
Almanzar
25-CR-10058
Pending
37
Enrique
Duran
25-CR-10058
Pending
38
Abigail
Arias
25-CR-10058
Pending
39
Justane
Garcia
25-CR-10058
Pending
40
Riky
Montilla
25-CR-10058
Pending
41
Jeremy
Felix
25-CR-10058
Pending
42
Jose
Martinez
25-CR-10058
Pending
43
Jayden
Muniz
25-CR-10058
Pending
44
Geovane
Fernandes
25-CR-10058
Pending
45
Jahir
Davila
25-CR-10058
Pending
46
Yanuel
Mejia
25-CR-10058
Pending
47
Luis
Fernandez Lopez
25-CR-10058
Pending
48
Victor
Diaz
25-CR-10058
Pending
49
Xavier
Puello
25-CR-10058
Pending
50
Joelfry
Cabrera
25-CR-10058
Pending
51
Richard
Pena
25-CR-10058
Pending
52
Hector
Mota
25-CR-10058
Pending
53
Jean
Delgado
25-CR-10058
Pending
54
Luis
Cabral
25-CR-10058
Pending
55
Yoldari
Tejeda Coronado
25-CR-10058
Pending
56
Martin
Taveras
25-CR-10058
Pending
Jury Finds District Man Guilty of 2022 Armed CarjackingRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Andrew Patrick, 38, of Washington, D.C., was convicted by a Superior Court jury yesterday of armed carjacking and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro.
The verdict follows a trial that occurred after the D.C. Court of Appeals reversed Patrick’s 2023 conviction for the same armed carjacking and remanded the case for a new trial. The Honorable Judge Judith Pipe scheduled sentencing for January 15, 2027, at 9:30 a.m.
According to the government’s evidence, on September 22, 2022, the victim took her 2005 blue Chevy Suburban to the Good Hope Road gas station in Washington, DC. The defendant, dressed in a black jacket with white stripes and a hoodie, approached the victim and demanded her car keys while holding her at gunpoint. Patrick pushed her up against her own vehicle, took her keys, and drove away in the victim’s car. Investigation by the Metropolitan Police Department resulted in the arrest of the defendant within hours of the carjacking. He has been in custody since that time.
In announcing the verdict, U.S. Attorney Pirro and Interim Chief Carroll commended the work of those who investigated the case from the Metropolitan Police Department.
The case is being prosecuted by U.S. Attorneys Gregory J. Evans and Monisha H. Rao.
2022 CF3 005665
Jury Finds D.C. Man Guilty of 2024 Stabbing DeathRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – David Key, 39, of Washington, D.C., was found guilty today in D.C. Superior Court, on charges stemming from the death of 33-year-old Devon Greenfield in Northeast, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro.
Key was found guilty of one count of first-degree murder while armed and one count of second- degree murder while armed. Superior Court Judge Neal Kravitz scheduled sentencing for November 20, 2026.
According to the government’s evidence, at approximately 7:04 p.m., on April 1, 2024, surveillance video captured Key and Mr. Greenfield, who knew each other, standing on the sidewalk in the 300 block of 61st Street NE. The defendant got in the victim’s face to yell at him and then slashed Mr. Greenfield in the face. As Mr. Greenfield lay dazed on the ground, Key ordered him to empty his pockets. When the victim did not comply, the defendant repeatedly stabbed the victim in the chest and back – including three stab wounds to the heart. After several minutes, Key walked off, and the victim collapsed dead on the curb of the street.
Key was stopped two days later on April 3, 2024, wearing the same gray coat, black backpack, and black shoes he was wearing in the homicide video. He also had a knife in his left pocket that was consistent with the type of knife used to inflict the decedent’s injuries. DNA evidence from the crime scene further linked Key to the offense.
Joining the announcement was Interim Chief Jeffery Carroll of the Metropolitan Police Department.
This case was investigated by the Metropolitan Police Department.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Emily Clarke and Joshua Hall.
2024 CF1 006346
Jamaican National Sentenced to Eight Years for Role in Sweepstakes Fraud Targeting Older AmericansRead the Press Release
United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Jamie McDonald, announced that JORDAN TROUGHT was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Vincent Briccetti to eight years in prison for his role as a high-ranking member of an international fraud ring that stole more than $9 million from more than 200 elderly victims in the United States via sweepstakes scams. TROUGHT was arrested in Jamaica on August 28, 2025, and subsequently extradited to the United States on October 22, 2025. In June 2026, he pled guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge Judith C. McCarthy to conspiracy to commit wire fraud, mail fraud, and bank fraud.
“This sentence reflects the seriousness of schemes that deliberately target elderly victims and strip them of their financial security,” said U.S. Attorney Jamie McDonald. “Jordan Trought defrauded hundreds of elderly victims out of millions of dollars, taking advantage of their age to rob them of their hard-earned life savings. In doing so, he and his co-conspirators imposed devastating financial consequences on their victims.”
According to the Superseding Indictment, plea agreement, and statements made in public filings and in public court proceedings:
From at least 2015 through at least 2025, TROUGHT and others engaged in a fraud scheme perpetrated against elderly victims (the “Elder Fraud Scheme”), through which TROUGHT and his co-conspirators defrauded more than 200 elderly victims of more than $9 million. Victims of the Elder Fraud Scheme typically received an unsolicited phone call or text from an individual using a common name—e.g., “David Miller”—claiming they had won a life-changing amount of money and a luxury car from a well-known marketing and sweepstakes company, but needed to pay taxes or fees to addresses and accounts specified by the caller before receiving the prize. The caller then remained in contact with the victims and, after the victims made their initial payments as directed, informed the victims that additional payments were required to receive their purported winnings. Victims were instructed to send money by mailing checks, money orders, and cash, as well as by wire, Zelle, and Venmo transfer, to addresses and accounts identified by the caller. TROUGHT and his co-conspirators also gained control of some victims’ bank accounts, which they used to transfer money out of and through those accounts. Victims’ funds were ultimately transferred to associates of TROUGHT and his co-conspirators, as well as to an automobile business operated by TROUGHT in Jamaica.
TROUGHT, a citizen of Jamaica, operated the Elder Fraud Scheme from Jamaica, alongside co-conspirators based in both Jamaica and the United States. TROUGHT joined the fraud ring in or around March 2021 and became one of its leaders. TROUGHT is being held responsible for more than $6 million stolen from more than 100 victims from March 2021 through TROUGHT’s arrest in August 2025.
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In addition to the prison term, TROUGHT, 31, was sentenced to three years of supervised release and ordered to pay forfeiture of $6,166,227.00.
Mr. McDonald praised the outstanding investigative work of the Special Agents of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York and the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation. Mr. McDonald also thanked the U.S. Marshals Service, the U.S. Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs, and Jamaican authorities, including the Jamaican Constabulary Force, for their assistance in securing TROUGHT’s arrest and extradition.
This case is being handled by the Office’s White Plains Division. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Benjamin Levander, Margaret Vasu, and Ioannis Drivas are in charge of the prosecution.
Indian National Charged with Making False Claim of U.S. Citizenship to Vote in 2024 ElectionRead the Press Release
A federal grand jury in the District of Minnesota returned a two-count indictment today charging Mukeshkumar Somabhai Chaudhari, an Indian national, with knowingly making a false claim of United States citizenship in order to vote in the Nov. 5, 2024 general election.
According to the indictment, on or about Nov. 5, 2024, Chaudhari signed the voter signature certificate required by Minnesota law in order to vote in the general election. The certificate required him to swear or affirm that he was a citizen of the United States. The indictment alleges that Chaudhari was not a U.S. citizen and that he knowingly made the false citizenship statement in order to vote.
“The right to vote is a sacred privilege of American citizenship, and every lawful voter deserves an election system in which that right is protected,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “The Department will hold accountable those who knowingly make false claims of citizenship in order to vote. The integrity of our elections depends on ensuring that only eligible citizens cast ballots and that every lawful vote is counted.”
Chaudhari is charged with one count of false information in voting, in violation of 52 U.S.C. § 21144(b), incorporating 18 U.S.C. § 1015(f), and one count of making a false claim of citizenship in order to register to vote or vote, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1015(f). If convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison on each count. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Homeland Security Investigations is investigating the case, with assistance from the Fillmore County Sheriff’s Office.
Trial Attorneys Flavio Abreu and William Rubens of the Civil Rights Division’s Criminal Section are prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Indian Citizen in the United States on Student Visa Sentenced for Defrauding a Vietnam VeteranRead the Press Release
TULSA, Okla. – An Indian Citizen residing in the United States on a student visa was sentenced today after a jury convicted him of conspiring to defraud a Vietnam Veteran in April 2026, announced U.S. Attorney Christopher J. Nassar.
U.S. District Judge John D. Russell sentenced Venkateswara Chagamreddy, 37, living in San Antonio, Texas, to 30 months’ imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release. Chagamreddy was also ordered to pay $99,496 in restitution and is expected to face removal proceedings following his sentence.
“Elder fraud schemes are despicable, calculated attacks that prey on some of the most vulnerable and trusting members of our community. In this case, an Indian national in the United States on a student visa used fear to deceive and extort a Vietnam veteran who served our country,” said U.S. Attorney Christopher J. Nassar. “Because the victim came forward, and thanks to law enforcement’s coordinated, swift response and the efforts of AUSAs Charles Greenough and Augustus Forster, Chagamreddy was brought to justice. Our office remains committed to protecting older Americans from predatory fraud and ensuring foreign scammers who take advantage of their country’s immigration system are held fully accountable for their crimes.”
In August 2025, the elderly victim called a phone number that he believed was Microsoft support. While speaking with “Microsoft,” the victim was told that criminal activity had been detected on his computer and that information would be turned over to the federal government. Someone then contacted the victim and identified themselves as a federal officer, providing a false badge number.
The fake federal officer told the victim that his identity had been stolen and provided to criminals, which resulted in him being “investigated,” and that his identity was used to commit federal crimes. The elderly victim was transferred to the “Treasury Department” and told he needed to transfer his money into gold and that an “officer” would pick it up the following day. The elderly victim complied and provided photos of the gold. When the fake officer arrived, the victim handed over the package.
A few days later, the fake federal officer contacted the victim again and demanded more funds. The victim contacted a family member, who explained that he was being scammed and contacted the Delaware County Sheriff’s Office. With the victim's cooperation, deputies scheduled another pickup. When Chagamreddy arrived at the victim’s home at the scheduled time and date, he was arrested. Evidence presented to the jury showed that he had $500 in cash, a cell phone, and 23 ounces of gold in the vehicle.
An agent testified about the messaging found on Chagamreddy’s phone. The exhibits shown to the jury clearly show he worked with another individual to defraud numerous victims within 48 hours. The agent testified that Chagamreddy flew from Austin to North Carolina, where he picked up gold from an 87-year-old woman. Trial evidence showed that after delivering the gold to a different co-conspirator, Chagamreddy sent a photo of a dollar bill with “29 oz rec 3000 paid” written on it.
The messages indicate that the following day, Chagamreddy drove from Austin, Texas, to Andale, Kansas, starting at 1:21 am. Throughout the drive, Chagamreddy would provide status updates, including screenshots of his location and fuel levels, to the co-conspirator. Upon arrival, Chagamreddy booked a hotel room to rest for a few hours and then drove to the destination he had been directed to. The co-conspirator described the 75-year-old woman from whom Chagamreddy would be picking up gold. Chagamreddy then sent the co-conspirator a photo of a sealed box with a message that read, “23 Oz.”
After completing that trip, the agent testified that the messaging showed that Chagamreddy then drove to Delaware County, Oklahoma. The co-conspirator described the 79-year-old that he would be getting gold from and provided a photo of the victim, who was visibly wearing a Vietnam veteran shirt. The agent explained that the victim lived alone on a rural road and that Chagamreddy was actively providing photos, showing that he was lost. After finding the location, Chagamreddy provided one photo confirming that he arrived and was detained shortly after by Delaware County Sheriff’s deputies.
In 2025, the Department of Justice reported to Congress that it took more than 280 enforcement actions against more than 600 defendants, many of whom were in the United States illegally or were extradited to be prosecuted. Collectively, the defendants attempted to steal, or stole, over $2.3 billion from more than one million Americans. The Department pursued more than 40 types of elder fraud. Investment fraud ranked number one, with more than $1.8 billion in losses, followed by fraudulent tech support at $982 million.
The Elder Justice Initiative website provides several scenarios and red flags to help educate yourself and loved ones about the types of abuse, including financial exploitation.
Chagamreddy will remain in custody pending transfer to the U.S. Bureau of Prisons.
Delaware County Sheriff’s Office, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Oklahoma Attorney General’s Office investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Charles Greenough and Augustus Forster prosecuted the case.
To find help or report elder abuse, you can contact the National Elder Fraud Hotline
1-833-FRAUD-11 (833-372-8311) 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. EST, Monday – Friday. Elder Justice Neighborhood Resources for Oklahoma are available here.Illegal Alien Sentenced to Prison for Reentering the United States After Being Deported Three TimesRead the Press Release
An illegal alien who returned to the United States after being deported was sentenced yesterday to three months in federal prison.
Mario Noel Rodriguez Castillo, age 51, a citizen of Mexico illegally present in the United States and residing in Iowa City, Iowa, received the prison term after a June 30, 2026, guilty plea to one count of illegal reentry into the United States after having been deported.
At the guilty plea, Rodriguez Castillo admitted he had previously been deported from the United States and illegally reentered the United States without the permission of the United States government. Rodriguez Castillo was previously deported in 1996, 2002, and 2005. On May 21, 2026, immigration officials learned Rodriguez Castillo had illegally returned to the United States and found him at the Johnson County Jail following his arrest on state charges.
Rodriguez Castillo was previously convicted of drug trafficking charges in Utah in 1996 and 1997. In 1998 he was convicted of reentry of a deported alien in federal court in Utah. In 2003, he was convicted of deported alien found in the United States in federal court in California.
Rodriguez Castillo was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Chief Judge C.J. Williams. Rodriguez Castillo was sentenced to 94 days’ imprisonment. He must also serve a three-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
Rodriguez Castillo is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be turned over to immigration officials.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony Morfitt and investigated by the Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 26-cr-44.
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Illegal Alien Pleads Guilty to Drug Trafficking and Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Brazilian national unlawfully residing in Peabody, Mass., who served as a “general” in Primeiro Comando da Capital (PCC), a violent transnational criminal organization based in Brazil, has pleaded guilty to multiple drug trafficking and firearm charges. PCC is one of the largest cocaine distributors in the world and is responsible for acts of violence and firearms trafficking.
Adinazio Vinicius Soares Dias-Barbosa, a/k/a “Panda,” 30, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute controlled substances, being an alien in possession of firearms and ammunition and engaging in the business of dealing in firearms without a license. U.S. Senior District Judge William G. Young scheduled sentencing for Dec. 3, 2026. The defendant was previously charged by criminal complaint on July 30, 2025.
Dias-Barbosa supplied fentanyl and cocaine to a drug trafficking network operating on the North Shore of Massachusetts. During the investigation, a search of Dias-Barbosa’s cell phone revealed numerous messages and photographs detailing his drug trafficking activities.
On July 1, 2025, as part of the investigation, Dias-Barbosa was stopped on Interstate 95 in South Carolina. Dias-Barbosa consented to a search of his vehicle but fled on foot across the interstate just before the search began. He was apprehended in the grassy median. During a subsequent search of the vehicle, nine rifles and ammunition were seized from the floor of the rear passenger compartment. Dias-Barbosa admitted that he had purchased the firearms in South Carolina and was transporting them to a broker in Miami, who would arrange for the rifles to be transported to Brazil through Paraguay.
The charge of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute controlled substances provides for a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, at least three years and up to a lifetime of supervised release and a fine of $1 million. The charges of unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition by an alien and engaging in the business of dealing in firearms without a license each provide for a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Ted E. Docks, Special Agent in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division; Jarod A. Forget, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Field Division; Nathan Hebert, Special Agent in Charge of the Diplomatic Security Service, Boston Division; and Jack D. Buckley, Chief of Medford Police Department made the announcement. Valuable assistance was provided by the Everett, Framingham, Myrtle Beach (S.C.) and Yemassee (S.C.) Police Departments; Massachusetts Department of Correction; Massachusetts Army National Guard – Counterdrug Office; and the New England High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA). Assistant U.S. Attorney Philip C. Cheng of the Organized Crime & Gang Unit is prosecuting the case.
This case was investigated and prosecuted by the Boston Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) as part of Operation Take Back America. HSTFs, which were established by President Trump in Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion, are joint operations led by the Department of Justice and the Department of Homeland Security. Operation Take Back America is a nationwide federal initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations, and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces and Project Safe Neighborhood.
Honolulu Man Involved in Trans-Pacific Drug Trafficking Organization Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison in Homeland Security Task Force InvestigationRead the Press Release
HONOLULU – United States Attorney Ken Sorenson announced that Kennard Hinano Boyd Kekona, 58, of Honolulu, Hawaii, was sentenced yesterday in federal court by Senior United States District Judge Leslie E. Kobayashi to 120 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release after pleading guilty to conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, fentanyl, and carfentanil, and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and carfentanil. Kekona has been detained since his initial arrest in April 2024.
According to court records, Kekona was part of a conspiracy that was acquiring controlled substances through the U.S. mail and was engaged in the distribution of methamphetamine, fentanyl, and carfentanil on Oahu and elsewhere. Kekona was held responsible for 2 kilograms of fentanyl and over 900 grams of methamphetamine.
Carfentanil is used as a tranquilizing agent for elephants and other large mammals. Carfentanil is approximately 100 times more potent than fentanyl, which can be lethal at the 2-milligram range, depending on route of administration and other factors.
Kekona is one of eleven defendants charged in three separate indictments for crimes related to the operation of a trans-Pacific drug trafficking network, ten of whom have pled guilty with one remaining awaiting trial. The investigation yielded seizures of more than 150 pounds of methamphetamine, several kilograms of fentanyl and carfentanil, eight firearms, ammunition, and over $150,000 in cash.
Kekona is the seventh defendant of eleven to be sentenced. Those charged in his and other related indictments have been sentenced as follows:
- On April 30, 2025, Shawn Pauahi Santana was sentenced to 240 months’ imprisonment and 5 years’ supervised release after pleading guilty to conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and to distributing methamphetamine.
- On December 10, 2025, Faith Michelle Nelson was sentenced to 151 months’ imprisonment and 5 years’ supervised release after pleading guilty to possessing with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
- On December 16, 2025, Francis Anthony Abergas, Jr. was sentenced to 210 months’ imprisonment and 5 years’ supervised release after pleading guilty to possessing with intent to distribute methamphetamine and possessing a firearm and ammunition after having been previously convicted of a felony.
- On January 8, 2026, Trish Leila Henderson was sentenced to 36 months’ imprisonment and 5 years’ supervised release after pleading guilty to possessing with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
- On January 12, 2026, Travis Kalani Hong-Ah Nee was sentenced to 78 months’ imprisonment and 5 years’ supervised release after pleading guilty to conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute carfentanil and possessing with intent to distribute carfentanil and possessing ammunition after having been previously convicted of a felony.
- On January 29, 2026, Leonard Gutierrez was sentenced to 340 months’ imprisonment and 5 years’ supervised release after pleading guilty to conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, fentanyl, and carfentanil, nine counts of distribution of methamphetamine, and possession of firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with assistance from the Honolulu, Kauai, and Maui Police Departments, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Margaret C. Nammar is prosecuting the case.
This prosecution is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF Hawaii comprises agents and officers from ICE-HSI, FBI, ATF, CBP, CGIS, DCIS, DEA, DSS, IRS-CI, NCIS, USMS, USPIS, and HHIDTA, with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Hawaii.
Honduran National Sentenced for Possessing Firearm While Unlawfully in the United StatesRead the Press Release
TULSA, Okla. – A Honduran national was sentenced in federal court after he unlawfully possessed a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Christopher J. Nassar.
U.S. District Judge John D. Russell sentenced Osman Andres Figueroa Enamorado, 31, for Alien Unlawfully in the United States in Possession of a Firearm. Figueroa Enamorado was ordered to serve 10 months’ imprisonment, followed by one year of supervised release. Upon release, he is expected to face removal proceedings.
According to court documents, Figueroa Enamorado was pulled over in September 2025 at the Tulsa International Airport for driving the wrong way. When officers stopped the vehicle, Figueroa Enamorado did not have a valid driver’s license or auto insurance. During the traffic stop, Figueroa Enamorado kept moving his hands around after being asked to stop and was removed from the vehicle. Officers asked Figueroa Enamorado if he had any weapons, and he claimed he did not. Officers found a loaded firearm in Figueroa Enamorado pants.
In March 2024, court documents show that U.S. Customs and Border Protection found Figueroa Enamorado unlawfully present in the United States. He was issued a Notice to Appear and failed to appear.
Figueroa Enamorado will remain in custody pending transfer to the U.S. Bureau of Prisons.
Homeland Security Investigations and the Tulsa Airport Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen Flynn prosecuted the case.
Honduran Illegal Alien Sentenced to More Than Six Decades in Federal Prison for Child Sexual Exploitation CrimesRead the Press Release
Baltimore, Maryland – A federal judge sentenced a Honduran illegal alien, unlawfully residing in the United States, to prison, today, for child sex-abuse crimes.
U.S. District Judge Richard D. Bennett sentenced Jose Adan Lopez-Guevara, 38, to 65 years in federal prison, followed by 30 years of supervised release, for sexually exploiting children and possessing child sexual abuse material (CSAM). In April 2026, a federal jury convicted Lopez-Guevara of 14 counts of sexually exploiting a child and one count of possessing child sexual abuse material.
Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the sentence with Special Agent in Charge Akil Baldwin, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) – Maryland; Colonel Michael A. Jackson, Superintendent, Maryland State Police (MSP); Chief Robert McCullough, Baltimore County Police Department (BCPD); and State’s Attorney Tara H. Jackson, Prince George’s County State’s Attorney’s Office (PGCSAO).
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, between 2015 and 2024, Lopez-Guevara sexually abused three minors, ranging from 2 to 11 years old at the time of the abuse. Lopez-Guevara, who lived in Laurel and Baltimore, produced images and videos of himself and the victims engaged in sexually explicit conduct, many of which were found on the dark web.
In December 2024, HSI initiated an investigation after its investigators in Portland, Maine, observed previously unseen child sexual abuse videos on the internet. After identifying Minor Victim 1 in the videos, and determining that he lived in Maryland, investigators quickly referred the matter to HSI Maryland.
HSI then executed several search warrants in Maryland and discovered Lopez-Guevara in possession of two phones. Investigators forensically examined the phones and discovered additional images of Lopez-Guevara sexually abusing Minor Victim 1, along with depictions of Lopez-Guevara exploiting Minor Victim 2 and Minor Victim 3. Additionally, investigators found hundreds of CSAM images and videos on the phone associated with an encrypted messaging application.
This case is part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit justice.gov/psc. For more information about Internet safety education, please visit justice.gov/psc and click on the “Resources” tab on the left of the page.
Know2Protect is a Department of Homeland Security national public awareness campaign to educate and empower children, teens, parents, trusted adults and policymakers to prevent and combat online child sexual exploitation and abuse; explain how to report online enticement and victimization; and offer resources for victims and survivors and their supporters. Learn more about Know2Protect at www.dhs.gov/know2protect.
U.S. Attorney Hayes commended HSI, MSP, BCPD, PGCSAO, for their work in the investigation, along with the Center for Hope, for its valuable assistance. Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Paul E. Budlow and Victoria Liu who prosecuted the case.
For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, visit justice.gov/usao-md.
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Hawaii Couple Sentenced to Prison for Roles in Nationwide Tax Refund Fraud ConspiracyRead the Press Release
A Hawaii husband and wife were sentenced yesterday to 16 months and 24 months in prison, respectively, for their roles in a nationwide tax fraud scheme that involved deceiving the IRS into issuing a nearly $200,000 tax refund and then using shell bank accounts and frivolous legal filings to prevent the government from getting it back.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, from approximately February 2015 through November 2018, Beverly Braumuller-Hawver and Scott Hawver, of Ewa Beach, Hawaii, engaged in a fraudulent tax refund scheme by paying a promoter a series of fees in exchange for fraudulent tax paperwork. Armed with those materials, the Hawvers filed an amended 2014 tax return attaching a fabricated IRS Form 1099-MISC — a document that falsely claimed a mortgage company had paid Hawver $749,163 in income and withheld $424,163 of that amount in federal taxes. The fictitious withholding claim prompted the IRS to issue the Hawvers a tax refund for $192,845 that they were not entitled to receive.
The Hawvers moved quickly to put the money out of the government’s reach. They deposited the U.S. Treasury check into a newly opened bank account. Within days, they transferred $170,000 into a separate account held in the name of BeverlyB Music LLC, an unrelated music business the Hawvers operated. On that same day, the Hawvers paid co-conspirators more than $70,000 from the BeverlyB Music account for their roles in the scheme. Braumuller-Hawver later wired $22,000 from that account to a jeweler to purchase gold and silver coins. When the IRS began seeking to recover the fraudulent refund, the Hawvers did not simply ignore the notices. Instead, they sent scripted, frivolous correspondence to the IRS, filed a petition in U.S. Tax Court to thwart collection and participated as plaintiffs in multiple frivolous civil RICO lawsuits against IRS employees who were doing their jobs.
In March 2026, a federal jury convicted Braumuller-Hawver and Hawver of conspiring to defraud the IRS. The jury also convicted Braumuller-Hawver of filing a false tax return and money laundering.
In addition to the term of imprisonment, Chief District Judge Derrick K. Watson ordered Beverly Braumuller-Hawver and Scott Hawver to jointly and severally pay $182,438.37 to the United States in restitution.
Along with the Hawvers, the Department of Justice has prosecuted a number of other defendants involved in a nationwide tax fraud scheme that drew in more than 200 participants across at least 19 states. In 2022, the main promoters of the scheme were sentenced to 11 years in prison, more than 8 years in prison, and 51 months in prison. In Hawaii, the scheme was organized and led by Rosemarie Lastimado-Dradi, who marketed the operation as the “Escrow Trust Refund” program, recruited clients (including the Hawvers) and directed her cut of their fraudulent refunds — between 25 and 40 percent — into accounts held in the name of fictitious business entities and purported trusts. In January 2026, Lastimado-Dradi was sentenced to a total of 9 years in prison. Other Hawaii participants in the scheme have also received significant sentences, including Elvah Miranda (48 months in prison), Marciaminajuanequita Dumlao (33 months in prison), Daniel Miranda (30 months in prison), Brigida Chock (27 months in prison) and Lazerrick Lawrence (20 months in prison).
Assistant Attorney General Colin M. McDonald of the Justice Department’s National Fraud Enforcement Division and U.S. Attorney Kenneth M. Sorenson for the District of Hawaii made the announcement
IRS Criminal Investigation investigated the case.
Trial Attorney Megan L. Jones and former trial attorney Sarah A. Kiewlicz of the National Fraud Enforcement Division’s Tax Section prosecuted the case.
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.
Hartford Drug Trafficker Sentenced to 7 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JOSE BARET, 35, of Hartford, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Kari A. Dooley to 84 months of imprisonment and four years of supervised release for trafficking narcotics.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in March and April 2024, law enforcement made two controlled purchases of fentanyl from Baret. Baret was arrested on state charges on April 10, 2024. On that date, investigators searched Baret’s vehicle, his Goodrich Street residence, a hotel room he used in Windsor, and a storage facility he rented in Hartford, and seized approximately 364 grams of fentanyl, 82 grams of methamphetamine, 272 grams of crack cocaine, 407 grams of powder cocaine, seven oxycodone pills, narcotics processing and packaging materials, two handguns, firearm magazines and ammunition, and $4,511 in cash.
On February 4, 2026, Baret pleaded guilty in federal court to possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine, 40 grams or more of fentanyl, 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, and heroin. He has been detained since May 23, 2024, when he was arrested in Lebanon, New Hampshire, on separate charges.
Baret has forfeited the seized firearms, cash, and his Honda Ridgeline SUV.
This matter was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Hartford Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Geoffrey M. Stone.
Guatemalan National Sentenced for Unlawful ReentryRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Guatemalan national who was unlawfully residing in Hudson, Mass. was sentenced in federal court in Boston for unlawfully reentering the United States after deportation.
Edwin Hernandez-Orellana, 33, was sentenced by U.S. Senior District Court Judge Allison D. Burroughs to time served, approximately 16 months. The defendant is now subject to deportation proceedings. Previously, Hernandez-Orellana pled guilty to one count of unlawful reentry of a deported alien. According to court records, Hernandez-Orellana had been in custody since his arrest on May 14, 2025. Hernandez-Orellana was indicted by a federal grand jury in June of 2025.
According to the charging documents, Hernandez-Orellana was found in the United States on May 14, 2025, after previously having been removed from the United States on or about May 21, 2014.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and David T. Wesling, Acting Field Office Director, Boston, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Julissa Walsh and Mark Grady of the Major Crimes Unit prosecuted the case.
Gallup Man Pleads Guilty to Charges in Fatal ShootingRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Gallup man pleaded guilty to federal charges for fatally shooting an 18-year-old man and wounding a 16-year-old girl at a Church Rock residence in April 2025.
According to court records, in the early morning hours of April 6, 2025, a shooting occurred at a Church Rock, New Mexico residence. A resident of the home awoke to gunshots and, along with a second resident, entered 16-year-old Jane Doe’s bedroom, where the residents discovered 18-year-old John Doe deceased on the floor, Jane Doe suffering from multiple gunshot wounds, and the suspect, Mario Israel Barraza, 19.
According to court records, at approximately 3:30 a.m., Barraza arrived at Jane Doe’s residence and approached Jane Doe’s bedroom window. Barraza knew the window was sometimes left unlocked because he had previously entered the home through the window when visiting Jane Doe at night. When Barraza opened the window, he encountered John Doe, whom he had never met.
The two began fighting through the window, and during the altercation a handgun was introduced. Barraza gained possession of the handgun and fired at least 11 gunshots into the bedroom. Most of the shots struck John Doe; Jane Doe, who was directly behind John Doe, was also hit by gunfire.
Barraza fled the scene immediately after the shooting, drove home, and disposed of the handgun in an open field. He later provided his attorneys with the location of the handgun.
Jane Doe and John Doe are enrolled members of the Navajo Nation. Barraza is not an enrolled member of any federally recognized Tribe.
Barraza pleaded guilty to second-degree murder and assault with a dangerous weapon. At sentencing, he faces up to life in prison.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Special Agent in Charge Justin A. Garris of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office made the announcement today.
The Gallup Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Ramah-Navajo Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Zachary C. Jones is prosecuting the case.
Former U.S. Army Soldier Sentenced to Life in Prison for Physically and Sexually Assaulting Two Minors While Serving AbroadRead the Press Release
Adam Schlueter, 40, of Atlanta, was sentenced today to life in prison and lifetime supervised release for physically and sexually assaulting two minors under the age of 10.
According to evidence presented at trial, Schlueter was stationed in Grafenwöhr, Germany, while a member of the Army from 2009 until 2013. While there, he physically, emotionally, and sexually abused two minor victims. During trial testimony, both minors described being choked and beaten by Schlueter, among others form of egregious physical abuse. One minor described, at age eight, being pushed through a second-story window and dangled above the ground. Schlueter sexually assaulted both minors when they were under the age of 10. Schlueter also employed threats to prevent his victims and other witnesses from disclosing the abuse to authorities, going so far as to threaten to kill one witness. A federal jury in the Northern District of Georgia convicted Schlueter on April 20.
“Adam Schlueter betrayed the honor and duty that comes with serving in the U.S. military,” said Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Department of Justice’s Criminal Division. “There is nothing honorable about subjecting the most vulnerable in our community to violence and sexual exploitation. We are grateful for the strength and courage of the survivors in this case who came forward to end this man’s reign of terror.”
“Through his years of sickening abuse, Schlueter betrayed the uniform of the U.S. Army and inflicted unimaginable harm on defenseless children,” said U.S. Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg for the Northern District of Georgia. “Today’s sentence underscores that we always stand ready — even years later and on the other side of an ocean — to vindicate the victims of such crimes and ensure justice is served.”
“Schlueter’s horrific abuse inflicted lasting trauma on children who should have been protected from harm,” said Special Agent in Charge Marlo Graham of the FBI Atlanta Field Office. “The FBI will continue to pursue those who prey upon children and hold them accountable for their crimes, no matter how much time has passed. We hope today’s sentence brings a measure of justice to the victims and reinforces that we will never stop fighting to protect children.”
The FBI Atlanta Field Office investigated the case.
Trial Attorney McKenzie Hightower of the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS) and Assistant U.S. Attorney Leanne Marek for the Northern District of Georgia are prosecuting the case. CEOS Trial Attorney Kaylynn Foulon and Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew LaGrone for the Northern District of Georgia provided valuable assistance.
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 Justice Department. 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 www.justice.gov/psc.
Former Treasurer for Orange County High School Football Booster Club Arrested for Allegedly Siphoning over $400K to Pay Her Delinquent MortgageRead the Press Release
SANTA ANA, California – An Orange County woman was arrested today on a federal indictment charging her with defrauding a nonprofit created to financially support a high school football team, an organization for which she served as treasurer, out of more than $400,000, in part, to pay the delinquent balance on her home’s mortgage.
Julie Hanway Molina, 56, was arrested today at her home in Aliso Viejo. She is expected to make her initial appearance and be arraigned later today in United States District Court in Santa Ana.
Molina is charged with four counts of wire fraud.
According to the indictment that a federal grand jury returned on September 2, from 2023 to November 2025, Molina executed a scheme to defraud the nonprofit organization. Without the nonprofit’s knowledge or authorization, she diverted funds from the group’s bank account for her own personal expenses, including the mortgage on her home and to pay off her credit card bills.
In June 2023, Molina wired approximately $131,523 from the nonprofit’s bank account in Laguna Hills through Federal Reserve facilities in New Jersey and Texas to an account in Santa Ana to pay the delinquent balance on the mortgage on her personal residence.
To conceal these unauthorized payments, Molina sent numerous emails to the nonprofit’s board members attaching false treasurer reports that failed to disclose her misappropriation of funds.
In total, Molina misappropriated approximately $411,761 that belonged to the nonprofit organization.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
If convicted, Molina would face a statutory maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison for each count.
The FBI is investigating this matter.
Chief Assistant United States Attorney and Chief of the Criminal Division Jennifer L. Waier is prosecuting this case.
Former Soldier Sentenced to Life in Federal Prison for Physically and Sexually Assaulting Minors While Serving AbroadRead the Press Release
ATLANTA – Adam Schlueter, a former enlisted member of the United States Army, was sentenced today to life in federal prison for physically and sexually assaulting two minors under the age of ten, following his conviction at trial.
“Through his years of sickening abuse, Schlueter betrayed the uniform of the United States Army and inflicted unimaginable harm on defenseless children,” said U.S. Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg, “Today’s sentence underscores that we always stand ready—even years later and on the other side of an ocean—to vindicate the victims of such crimes and ensure justice is served.”
“Adam Schlueter betrayed the honor and duty that comes with serving in the U.S. military,” said Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Department of Justice’s Criminal Division. “There is nothing honorable about subjecting the most vulnerable in our community to violence and sexual exploitation. We are grateful for the strength and courage of the survivors in this case who came forward to end this man’s reign of terror.”
“Schlueter’s horrific abuse inflicted lasting trauma on children who should have been protected from harm,” said Marlo Graham, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta. “The FBI will continue to pursue those who prey upon children and hold them accountable for their crimes, no matter how much time has passed. We hope today’s sentence brings a measure of justice to the victims and reinforces that we will never stop fighting to protect children.”
According to U.S. Attorney Hertzberg, the charges, and other information presented in court: From 2009 until 2013, while stationed in Grafenwöhr, Germany, Schlueter physically, emotionally, and sexually abused two minor victims. Schlueter choked and physically beat both minors repeatedly. When one victim was just eight years old, Schlueter pushed her through a second-story window and let her dangle dangerously above the ground. Schlueter sexually assaulted both children when they were under the age of 10. Schlueter used threats of pain and death to dissuade his victims and witnesses from disclosing the abuse to authorities.
In 2014, after discovering Schlueter’s physical abuse of the children, the U.S. Army discharged Schlueter under Other Than Honorable conditions. In 2021, the Army’s Criminal Investigations Division learned that Schlueter had also sexually assaulted the child. In 2023, a grand jury returned an indictment against Schlueter pursuant to the Military Extraterritorial Jurisdiction Act (“MEJA”), which is a federal statute that allows the government to prosecute former servicemembers who committed certain crimes outside the United States while serving in the Armed Forces.
Today, Adam Schlueter, 40, of Atlanta, Georgia, was sentenced to life in prison. On April 17, 2026, a jury convicted Schlueter of two counts of aggravated sexual abuse of a child and two counts of assault resulting in serious bodily injury.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with valuable assistance provided by the Department of the Army – Criminal Investigations Division.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Leanne Marek and Matthew R. LaGrone, former Assistant U.S. Attorney Annalise Peters, and Trial Attorney McKenzie Hightower of the Department of Justice’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS) prosecuted the case. CEOS Trial Attorney Kaylynn Foulon provided valuable assistance in the investigation.
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 www.justice.gov/psc.
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.