Latest Records
Newest first across public DOJ and U.S. Attorney press releases.
22 September 2025
Justice Department Expands Tribal Access Program to Improve the Exchange of Critical Data with Federally Recognized TribesRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON — The Justice Department has selected six federally recognized Tribes to participate in the continued expansion of the Tribal Access Program for National Crime Information (TAP), a program that provides Tribal governments with means to access, enter, and exchange data with national crime information systems, including those maintained by the FBI Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) Division.
The announcement follows trips by senior Justice Department officials to Tribal Nations this year to hear from Tribal and federal law enforcement officials and Tribal leaders about the public safety challenges faced by Tribal communities.
“Criminals should have no doubt: Indian Country will not be a refuge for lawlessness,” said Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche. “The Tribal Access Program gives Tribal law enforcement real-time access to crime data, arming them with the information necessary to identify criminals, track down predators, and deliver justice for victims. The Department stands shoulder-to-shoulder with Tribal officers to restore law and order to Indian Country, and those who target the vulnerable in Tribal communities will be found, prosecuted, and held accountable.”
With this expansion, TAP now supports 154 Tribes and more than 460 Tribal government agencies.
“TAP has been very helpful in our process for hiring Tribal Police Officers,” said Pueblo of Santa Clara Chief of Police Mitchell Maestas. “We have utilized its ability for fingerprint submissions and the results are provided very quickly. This is a tremendous help in completing the applications and getting them sent off and accurately returned in minutes instead of waiting for days or weeks for a return.”
TAP provides training as well as software and biometric/biographic kiosk workstations to process fingerprints, take mugshots, and submit information to FBI CJIS systems.
The Justice Department began TAP in 2015 in response to concerns raised by Tribal leaders about the need to have direct access to federal systems. Using TAP, Tribes have shared information about missing persons; registered convicted sex offenders; entered domestic violence orders of protection for nationwide enforcement; entered orders that prevent dangerous prohibited persons from obtaining firearms; run criminal histories; identified and arrested fugitives; entered bookings and convictions; and completed fingerprint-based record checks for non-criminal justice purposes such as screening employees or volunteers who work with children.
The following additional Tribes have been selected for participation in TAP:
- Alabama-Coushatta Tribe of Texas
- Cayuga Nation (New York)
- Duckwater Shoshone Tribe
- Pueblo of Zia
- Seneca-Cayuga Nation (Oklahoma)
- Southern Ute Indian Tribe
TAP is managed by the Justice Department’s Office of the Chief Information Officer and the Office of Tribal Justice. It is funded by the Office of Sex Offender Sentencing, Monitoring, Apprehending, Registering, and Tracking (SMART), the Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS), the Office for Victims of Crime (OVC), and the Office on Violence Against Women (OVW).
For more information on TAP, visit www.justice.gov/tribal/tribal-access-program-tap.
Justice Department Announces Settlement with Kansas City Kansas Community College to Enforce the Employment Rights of ServicememberRead the Press Release
The Justice Department announced it has reached a settlement with the Kansas City Kansas Community College (KCKCC) to enforce the rights guaranteed to Kansas Army National Guard Major Stephen W. Terry by the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act of 1994 (USERRA).
The settlement agreement resolves Major Terry’s claim that KCKCC violated USERRA when it terminated Major Terry’s employment as the Dean of Enrollment Management and Student Services at KCKCC following his return from military service. It includes the payment of lost wages to Major Terry and a requirement that KCKCC provide training to KCKCC management and human resources staff regarding servicemembers’ rights and employers’ responsibilities under USERRA.
“When servicemembers leave their families and civilian jobs to serve our nation, USERRA protects them from discrimination and wrongful termination,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “The Department is committed to safeguarding servicemembers’ rights under USERRA to freely serve their country without fear of losing their civilian jobs.”
“As a Navy reservist myself, I know the cost imposed on servicemembers when they are called to leave their home and work to serve and protect this great country. I missed the birth of my youngest daughter while serving in Afghanistan” said U.S. Attorney Ryan A. Kriegshauser for the District of Kansas. “Now, it is my honor and our duty to make sure the employment rights of servicemembers are protected once they return home. My office will continue to vigorously defend the rights justly earned by those who serve our country, and we thank them for their service.”
USERRA protects the rights of uniformed servicemembers to reemployment in their civilian employment following absences due to military service obligations and provides that servicemembers shall not be discriminated against because of their military obligations. The Justice Department prioritizes the enforcement of servicemembers’ rights under USERRA. Additional information about USERRA can be found on the Justice Department’s website www.justice.gov/servicemembers as well as on the Department of Labor’s website at www.dol.gov/vets/programs/userra.
Jury Convicts St. Joseph Man of Drug & Money Laundering ConspiracyRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A St. Joseph, Mo., man has been convicted at trial of conspiracy to commit drug trafficking and money laundering.
Montrez Dixon, 32, was found guilty on Thursday, Sept. 18, 2025, of one count of conspiracy to distribute 400 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing fentanyl and one count of conspiracy to commit concealment money laundering.
Three co-defendants have already pleaded guilty in this case.
On July 29, 2020, law enforcement officers recovered a package shipped to Kansas City, Mo. from Arizona, which contained 4,715 fentanyl pills. The investigation revealed that Dixon distributed this package and other packages to the Western District of Missouri, containing thousands of fentanyl pills. On Nov. 30, 2022, law enforcement officers with the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration and the Internal Revenue Service executed a search warrant on Dixon’s residence in Los Angeles, Ca., where over 7,500 fentanyl pills and a firearm were recovered. Dixon fled to Fresno, Ca., where he was ultimately arrested by the U.S. Marshals Service.
Under federal statutes, Dixon is subject to a minimum sentence of 10 years imprisonment in federal prison without parole, up to a sentence of life in federal prison without parole. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.
Following the presentation of evidence, the jury in the U.S. District Court in Kansas City, Mo., deliberated for approximately three hours before returning guilty verdicts to U.S. District Judge Roseann A. Ketchmark, ending a trial that began Monday, Sept. 15.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Maureen A. Brackett and. John C. Constance. It was investigated by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Internal Revenue Services, Kansas City, Missouri, Police Department, Kansas City, Kansas Police Department, Buchanan County, Missouri Sheriff’s Office, St. Joseph, Missouri Police Department, Kansas City, Missouri Police Crime Laboratory, and DEA-North Central Laboratory.
Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force
This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
Iowa Farmer Pleads Guilty to Defrauding USDA Out of More than $1.5 Million in COVID-19 Pandemic Subsidies and StalkingRead the Press Release
An Iowa farmer who stole over $1.5 million in agricultural subsidies during the COVID-19 pandemic, stole multiple identities, and stalked a victim and witness in his case, pled guilty on September 19, 2025, in federal court in Sioux City.
Tanner James Seuntjens, age 32, from Danbury, Iowa, was convicted of one count of theft of government funds, one count of aggravated identity theft, one count of crop insurance fraud, and one count of stalking.
In a plea agreement, Seuntjens admitted that, between June 2020 and June 2021, he was a farmer who defrauded the United States Department of Agriculture (“USDA”) out of more than $1.5 million in Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (“CFAP”) grant moneys. Livestock producers qualified for CFAP subsidies on a per head basis that depended upon the producer’s self-certified livestock inventory. Seuntjens filed CFAP applications at three Iowa county USDA-Farm Service Agency (“FSA”) offices—in his own name and in the names of another individual and a limited liability company—that each falsely claimed ownership of thousands of swine. Seuntjens also admitted he later submitted false documents to USDA-FSA county commissioners who were attempting to verify the USDA payments during so-called “spot checks.”
Seuntjens admitted that, from March 2021 through April 2022, he defrauded a South Dakota bank. Seuntjens had borrowed funds from the bank as early as 2014 and pledged as collateral his accounts receivable, which included payments from the sales of grain and livestock. As a result, when Seuntjens sold grain and livestock at a cooperative and an auction, the bank required the cooperative and auction to issue two-party checks to Seuntjens and the bank. Seuntjens forged an authorized representative of the bank’s signature on two-party checks no less than 20 times and, as a result, deprived the bank of more than $400,000 of its collateral. Seuntjens spent the diverted funds on a combination of farming expenditures, a trip to Cocoa Beach and Disney World, transfers to family members, and large cash withdrawals.
Seuntjens admitted he committed crop insurance fraud in 2022 and 2023. Crop insurance is a federally subsidized program whereby farmers may receive payment from an authorized insurer in the event of adverse weather, fire, disease, and price declines. Seuntjens admitted he repeatedly underreported his crop yields during the 2022 and 2023 crop seasons, thereby receiving crop insurance funds to which he was not entitled.
Finally, Seuntjens admitted to stalking another person who was a victim and witness in the federal case. Specifically, Seuntjens admitted that there were federal and state court orders forbidding him from having any contact with the individual. In Auguust 2025, while on pretrial release in his federal criminal case, Seuntjens travelled to the person’s workplace in Nebraska and placed a tracking device on the person’s car. Seuntjens admitted he did so with the intent to harass and intimidate the witness and to place the person under surveillance.
Sentencing before United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand will be set after a presentence report is prepared. Seuntjens was taken into custody for pretrial release violations prior to his sentencing hearing and remains in custody of the United States Marshal pending sentencing. Seuntjens faces a mandatory minimum sentence of three years of imprisonment without the possibility of parole and could receive up to 42 years’ imprisonment without the possibility of parole and a $1.75 million fine. Seuntjens also may be ordered to serve up to 5 years of supervised release following his release from imprisonment.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Timothy L. Vavricek and was investigated by the United States Department of Agriculture, Office of Inspector General and Special Investigations Staff.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file numbers are 25-CR-4026 and 25-CR-4052.
Follow us on X @USAO_NDIA.
Inmate Sentenced to 108 Months’ Imprisonment for Violent Crimes Committed at the Metropolitan Detention Center in BrooklynRead the Press Release
Leury Mojica was sentenced today by United States District Judge Carol Bagley Amon in federal court in Brooklyn to 108 months’ imprisonment for assaulting a federal correction officer and attempting to murder a fellow inmate while the defendant was incarcerated at the Metropolitan Detention Center (MDC-Brooklyn). In April 2025, Mojica pleaded guilty to assaulting a federal officer. As part of his plea agreement, Mojica also admitted to attempting to murder a fellow inmate and agreed that the Court should consider this conduct in determining the sentence imposed.
Joseph Nocella, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, and Christopher G. Raia, Assistant Director in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, New York Field Office (FBI), announced the sentence.
“Today’s sentence makes clear that there are serious consequences for inmates who endanger the safety and security of the Metropolitan Detention Center by committing acts of violence against correction officers and other inmates,” stated United States Attorney Nocella. “Holding incarcerated individuals accountable for their conduct will deter other inmates from engaging in crimes and dangerous conduct in the jail.”
Mr. Nocella thanked the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York and the U.S. Bureau of Prisons for their assistance with the investigation.
“Leury Mojica physically restrained a fellow inmate to allow others to commence a brutal knife attack and continued his aggressive outbursts with an unprovoked assault against a correction officer. Mojica’s combative streak recklessly endangered the lives of other inmates and correction officers. May today’s sentencing deter any detainee from grossly violating law and order in our federal detention centers through violent misconduct,” stated FBI Assistant Director in Charge Raia.
According to court filings and statements made in court, in February 2022, Mojica was arraigned in the Southern District of New York and ordered detained at MDC-Brooklyn pending trial in connection with charges related to his participation in multiple robberies. On February 28, 2023, Mojica and five other inmates attempted to kill another inmate in a knife attack. Mojica actively participated in the attack, including by restraining the victim while another inmate stabbed him. As a result of the stabbing, the victim suffered lacerations to his forehead and nose, and puncture wounds to his face, neck, lower back, and arms. Subsequently, on August 24, 2024, while detained at MDC-Brooklyn, Mojica punched a federal correction officer in the face after the officer asked the defendant if he wanted fruit with his breakfast. The officer suffered a contusion to his face.
Assistant United States Attorney David Berman is in charge of the prosecution.
The Defendant:
LEURY MOJICA
Age: 22
Bronx, New YorkE.D.N.Y. Docket No. 25-CR-13 (CBA)
Huntington Woman Sentenced to Prison for Federal Drug CrimeRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Mikayla Lanay Johnson, 27, of Huntington, was sentenced today to one year and one day in prison, to be followed by four years of supervised release, for distribution of fentanyl and cocaine base, also known as “crack.”
According to court documents and statements made in court, on March 11, 2024, Johnson sold approximately 4 grams of crack and 4.5 grams of fentanyl to a confidential informant. Johnson admitted to the transaction, to arranging it beforehand, and to conducting it at her Huntington residence.
Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Cabell County Sheriff’s Office.
United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie Taylor prosecuted the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:24-cr-150.
###
Huntington Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Gun CrimeRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Kristopher D. Osborne, 47, of Huntington, pleaded guilty today to being a felon in possession of a firearm.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on February 27, 2025, a law enforcement officer encountered Osborne riding a bicycle in the area of Third Street in Huntington. As part of his guilty plea, Osborne admitted that he tried to flee when the officer attempted to make contact with him and wrecked the bicycle. Osborne further admitted that he told officers who approached him after the wreck that he had a firearm and that he was a felon. Officers seized a loaded Hi-Point model C9 9mm pistol from Osborne’s waistband.
Federal law prohibits a person with a prior felony conviction from possessing a firearm or ammunition. Osborne knew he was prohibited from possessing a firearm because of his prior felony convictions for grand larceny, attempted possession with intent to deliver methamphetamine, breaking and entering, and conspiracy to commit a felony in Raleigh County Circuit Court on August 30, 2022.
Osborne is scheduled to be sentenced on January 20, 2026, and faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison, up to three years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000.
Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Huntington Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Lesley C. Shamblin is prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (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 (OCDETF) and Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN).
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:25-cr-43.
###
High School Student Charged as an Adult in Shooting and Robbery of Off-Duty Firefighter on Capitol HillRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Marcellus Dyson, Jr., 17, of Suitland, Maryland, will be charged as an adult under Title 16 in the shooting of an off-duty firefighter late Saturday night in the Capitol Hill neighborhood of the District, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro.
Dyson faces charges of armed robbery, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, and aggravated assault while armed. Dyson is expected to have his initial appearance in D.C. Superior Court on Tuesday.
Joining in the announcement were FBI Assistant Director in Charge Darren B. Cox and Chief Pamela A. Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department.
According to court documents, the victim firefighter was off-duty and walking home from a party about 10:30 p.m. when he was approached by a male wearing a surgical mask at 8th and C Streets NE. The male pulled out a gun, pointed it at the firefighter and stated: “give me everything you got.” The firefighter handed over his cell phone. The male demanded that the firefighter unlock his phone and give him access to the phone’s Apple Pay app. When the firefighter was not immediately responsive to the male’s demands, the male pushed the barrel of the gun into the firefighter’s chest.
The firefighter grabbed the barrel of the gun. The two struggled. The male fired a shot into the firefighter’s chest. The bullet also struck the male shooter in the hand. The male began to scream as the firefighter and the gun fell to the ground. The suspect male began to run off, but then ran back towards the firefighter and the firearm. The firefighter picked up the gun first. He fired two shots at the male to prevent further attacks. The suspect male was last seen running northbound on 8th Street NE, and then eastbound on C Street, NE.
The victim firefighter removed his shirt to stanch the flow of blood and cried out for help. He dialed 911 but the call did not go through. A neighbor had arrived at the scene, saw the victim firefighter waiting for somebody to answer his 911 call, and noticed the firearm on the sidewalk.
The victim firefighter gave the neighbor the phone number to the firehouse where he worked nearby. Once someone answered, the victim firefighter told them he had just been shot and to send someone to help. Metropolitan Police officers arrived soon after. Emergency Medical Services medics transported the victim firefighter to a trauma center to be treated for his wounds.
Meanwhile, on the 400 block of 9th Street, a witness reported that she had heard a man screaming for help. An individual approached her, stated someone had tried to rob him, and that he had been shot in the hand. The witness began to guide the male to a nearby hospital. Responding police officers found the pair walking and detained the male.
Officers identified the male was identified as Marcellus Dyson, Jr., and arrested him for assault with intent to rob and transported him to Howard Hospital. While en route to the hospital, Dyson allegedly made a spontaneous utterance stating, “I’m sorry and I won’t do it again.” The statement was recorded on the body-worn camera of one of the officers.
This case is being investigated by the Metropolitan Police Department with assistance from the FBI Washington Field Office. It is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia.
These charges are merely allegations and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Garner Man Sentenced for Methamphetamine ConspiracyRead the Press Release
A man who conspired to distribute methamphetamine was sentenced on September 19, 2025, to 12 years in federal prison.
Andrew Frazee, 32, from Garner, Iowa, received the prison term after a May 1, 2025, guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute over a pound of methamphetamine.
At the plea and sentencing hearings, Frazee admitted that in November of 2024, he and others conspired to distribute over a pound of methamphetamine in and around Hancock County, Iowa. Evidence showed that, on November 19, 2024, law enforcement observed Frazee and his vehicle in a ditch in rural Hancock County. Upon contact with law enforcement, Frazee exhibited signs of impairment and deputies noted the smell of marijuana. A search of the vehicle was conducted where deputies found approximately 325 grams of methamphetamine, a smoking device, baggies, over $1,200 cash, a scale, and marijuana. Frazee admitted recently buying large quantities of methamphetamine and distributing to others.
Frazee was sentenced in Sioux City by United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand. Frazee was sentenced to 144 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a five-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
Frazee is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Patrick T. Greenwood and was investigated by the Hancock County Sheriff’s Office, and the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 25-CR-03003. Follow us on X @USAO_NDIA.
Fresno County Podiatrist and Sales Representative Plead Guilty to Conspiracy to Submit False Claims Related to Skin GraftsRead the Press Release
Felipe Ruiz, 51, of Fresno, and Jose Gabriel Aguirre, 52, of Clovis, pleaded guilty today to conspiracy to commit health care fraud, U.S. Attorney Eric Grant announced.
According to court documents, Ruiz was a podiatrist at West Coast Podiatry Inc. (WCP), a podiatric medical practice with locations in Fresno, Madera, and Stanislaus Counties. Aguirre was a sales representative that sold skin grafts to Ruiz and WCP.
Between June 2021 and January 2024, Ruiz purchased skin grafts from Aguirre and permitted Aguirre, who was not a licensed health care provider, to apply the skin grafts to Medicare and Medi-Cal beneficiaries.
Ruiz and Aguirre subsequently submitted claims to Medicare and Medi-Cal that falsely represented that Ruiz had applied the skin grafts to the beneficiaries, when Aguirre had actually rendered the services. As a result, Medicare and Medi-Cal paid Ruiz for the false claims. Ruiz then made payments to Aguirre.
This case is the product of an investigation by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brittany M. Gunter is prosecuting the case.
Ruiz and Aguirre are scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Jennifer L. Thurston on Jan. 20, 2026. Ruiz and Aguirre face a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. The actual sentence, however, will be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables.
Fresno County Man Sentenced to 12.5 Years in Prison for Attempted Coercion and Enticement of a MinorRead the Press Release
Michael Dickens, 59, of Clovis, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Jennifer L. Thurston to 12.5 years in prison, to be followed by 15 years of supervised release, for attempted coercion and enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity, U.S. Attorney Eric Grant announced.
According to court documents, between Oct. 21 and Oct. 30, 2020, Dickens used his cellphone and social media to communicate with a person he believed to be a 12-year-old minor, but who was in fact an undercover law enforcement officer. Dickens communicated his desire to engage in sexual activity with the minor, including by sending images and a video of his genitalia to the undercover officer. Dickens drove to an agreed-upon location to meet with the minor and was arrested by law enforcement.
This case was the product of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations and the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brittany M. Gunter and Arin C. Heinz 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 the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute those who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. Click on the “resources” tab for information about internet-safety education.
Four Norwalk Men Charged with Committing Kidnapping in BridgeportRead the Press Release
David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut; Joseph T. Corradino, State’s Attorney for the Bridgeport Judicial District; P.J. O’Brien, Special Agent in Charge of the New Haven Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation; Bryan DiGirolamo, Acting Special Agent in Charge, ATF Boston Field Division; Bridgeport Police Chief Roderick Porter; and Norwalk Police Chief James Walsh today announced that SAMUEL BRANCH, also known as “Sosa,” 27; GIOVANNI HUDSON, 34; DONTAE SCULLARK, 22; and WILLIAM HINTON, 22, all of Norwalk, have been federally charged for their alleged involvement in a kidnapping and carjacking in August 2023.
As alleged in the indictment, Branch, Hudson, Scullark, and Hinton conspired to kidnap a victim in Bridgeport. In the evening of August 2 and morning of August 3, 2023, the four defendants, traveling together in an SUV, surveilled the victim as he drove to a restaurant on Boston Avenue, parked his Mercedes Benz, and entered the restaurant. Hudson, in possession of a handgun with an extended magazine, then entered the back seat of the Mercedes Benz and laid in wait for the victim. When the victim entered his car, Hudson placed the gun to the victim’s head and instructed him to drive. Branch, Scullark, and Hinton followed in the SUV. After Hudson told the victim to pull over, at least one of the co-conspirators climbed into the Mercedes Benz and also threatened the victim at gunpoint. The co-conspirators stole cash, credit cards, jewelry, a cell phone, and other items from the victim and demanded that the victim provide access to his digital bank on his cell phone. They then let the victim out of the Mercedes Benz, took the vehicle, and drove it and the SUV away.
On September 4, 2025, a grand jury in Bridgeport returned a four-count indictment charging Branch, Hudson, Scullark, and Hinton with conspiracy to commit kidnapping, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of life. The indictment also charges Branch, Hudson, and Scullark with kidnapping, which carries a maximum term of imprisonment of life, and with carjacking, which carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 15 years. Hudson is also charged with carrying, using, and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, an offense that mandatory consecutive term of imprisonment of at least seven years.
Scullark and Hinton were arrested on September 5, 2025, and are currently detained. Branch and Hudson, who are currently in state custody, are scheduled to be arraigned today.
Branch is also charged in an unrelated indictment, returned in March 2025, with drug distribution and firearm possession offenses. He has been detained since September 2023.
U.S. Attorney Sullivan stressed that an indictment is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations, and each defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This matter is being investigated by the FBI’s Safe Streets and Violent Crimes Task Forces, ATF, the Bridgeport Police Department, and the Norwalk Police Department, with the assistance of the Connecticut Forensic Science Laboratory. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Patricia Stolfi Collins and Supervisory Assistant State’s Attorney Michael A. DeJoseph who is cross designated as a Special Assistant U.S. Attorney in this matter.
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 (OCDETF) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
Former Sanger Police Officer Sentenced to Five Consecutive Life Sentences for Sexually Assaulting Women While on DutyRead the Press Release
Former Sanger Police Department Officer J. DeShawn Torrence, 41, was sentenced today by visiting U.S. District Judge Todd W. Robinson, to five consecutive life sentences for sexually assaulting four women whom he encountered during the course of his official duties. After a two-and-a-half-week trial in January 2025, a federal jury in the Eastern District of California convicted Torrence of eight counts of deprivation of constitutional rights under color of law. The jury found that five of the counts involved kidnapping, aggravated sexual abuse, or attempted aggravated sexual abuse.
“The defendant’s conduct was premediated and depraved. He repeatedly abused his official authority to exploit women who expected the police to protect them,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “While no prison sentence can undo the extraordinary pain and suffering the defendant caused these women, today’s sentence of five consecutive life sentences holds the defendant accountable for his heinous conduct and sends a clear message that the Justice Department will aggressively prosecute those who violate the constitutional rights of the people they are sworn to protect.”
“I commend the court’s decision to impose life sentences on this former police officer, who betrayed the public’s trust and abused his authority to perpetrate heinous acts of sexual violence,” said U.S. Attorney Eric Grant. “This sentence sends a clear message: no one is above the law, and those who exploit their position to violate the civil rights of others will face the full force of justice. Our office stands with the victims and remains committed to protecting our communities from such egregious abuses of power.”
“We commend the courageous women who came forward, trusting law enforcement to ensure J.D. Torrence was held accountable for his crimes,” said Special Agent in Charge Sid Patel of the FBI Sacramento Field Office. “Their bravery has prevented this predator from harming anyone else. The FBI recognizes the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office for their unwavering partnership. Justice has been served, making our community safer.”
The evidence at trial proved that Torrence kidnapped a 21‑year-old woman who was walking to a store to buy groceries for her young children, drove her outside of town in his police car, and sexually assaulted her at an isolated dead end. As Torrence drove the woman away from town, he taunted her by saying, “no one is going to look for you.” After the assault, he warned that if she reported him, “no one’s going to believe you.”
Torrence forcibly raped a second victim, a 67‑year-old woman, after following her into her home during a DUI investigation. After the assault, Torrence frequently parked his police car in front of the woman’s home to stalk and intimidate her. On one of these occasions, Torrence cornered the woman behind her home and sexually assaulted her.
With a third victim, Torrence showed up at her door in his police uniform after midnight, entered her home, pinned her against the kitchen counter, and sexually assaulted her. Torrence showed up multiple times at the home of a fourth victim, a domestic violence victim, supposedly to investigate a prior domestic violence incident. During those follow up visits, Torrence forced the victim to expose sensitive parts of her body by falsely telling her that he had to “photograph” her injuries. On one occasion, Torrence trapped the woman in her bedroom and sexually assaulted her.
This case was the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with assistance from the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Karen Escobar for the Eastern District of California and Special Litigation Counsel Michael J. Songer of the Civil Rights Division’s Criminal Section prosecuted the case.
Former MBTA Transit Police Officer Sentenced for Aiding and Abetting the Filing of a False Report Related to Assault of Homeless Man at MBTA StationRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A former Sergeant with the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) Transit Police Department was sentenced today in federal court in Boston for aiding and abetting the filing of a false arrest report regarding another Transit Police Officer’s assault on a homeless man at the Ashmont MBTA Station.
David S. Finnerty, 49, of Rutland, Mass. was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge F. Dennis Saylor IV to two years’ probation, with a special condition that he complete 150 hours of community service, and was ordered to pay a $500 fine. The government recommended a sentence of two years in prison. In May 2025, Finnerty was convicted on one count of aiding and abetting the filing of a false report. In August 2023, Finnerty was indicted by a federal grand jury.
“By falsifying a police report to cover up an unconstitutional assault, Mr. Finnerty betrayed his badge, the victim he was sworn to protect, and the public’s trust. Instead of protecting a vulnerable man who had been abused, he tried to shield the officer who assaulted him,” said United States Attorney Leah B. Foley. “Our justice system depends on officers who follow the law, not those who violate it. Mr. Finnerty’s conviction affirms a simple truth: no one is above the law, and those who abuse their power will be held accountable.”
“As law enforcement officers, we must be held to the highest of ethical standards, and Sgt. Finnerty blatantly ignored those standards when he shirked his sworn duty and tried to cover up an unprovoked beating of a homeless man by one of his fellow officers,” said Ted E. Docks, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Boston Division. “What he did was a gross betrayal of trust.”
Finnerty was the Officer in Charge for the overnight shift on July 27, 2018, and the supervisor of Transit Police Officer Dorston Bartlett. At 1:47 a.m. on July 27, 2018, at the Ashmont MBTA station, Bartlett, while acting in his role as an officer, physically assaulted a homeless man without legal justification – striking the victim in the leg three times with a steel, expandable police baton. Only after the victim reported the assault to local police, did Bartlett arrest the victim.
During the booking process, the victim repeatedly told Finnerty about the assault, and shortly thereafter, Finnerty watched videos of the incident several times with two other transit police officers. Although the two other officers knew that Bartlett used excessive force on the victim upon watching the videos, Finnerty claimed that he did not see enough video to make that determination.
Instead of immediately reporting Bartlett for excessive force and releasing the victim, Finnerty began an hours-long attempt to help Bartlett falsify an arrest report designed to coverup Bartlett’s unconstitutional use of force.
First, Finnerty reviewed Bartlett’s initial draft of the report – which was clearly inconsistent with the radio calls and videos – and instead of telling Bartlett it was false, he told Bartlett to add more details. Then, when Bartlett’s revised draft did not include enough falsehoods to justify the assault, Finnerty fed Bartlett more lies to include in the report – doing so via their cell phones so that the calls would not be recorded. Finally, still not satisfied with Bartlett’s draft, Finnerty used his own computer to input changes to the report while referencing the Transit Police Department’s Use of Force Policy.
The changes Finnerty made to the arrest report elaborated on falsehoods contained in the original draft and added additional falsehoods designed to justify Bartlett’s use of baton strikes on the victim. The changes included the addition of facts that were obviously false based on the videos, including that the victim “jerked” his body, that he displayed “assaultive” and “resisting” behavior, that Bartlett “perceived a threat to [his] immediate safety” when he struck the victim with the baton and that Bartlett was trying to place the victim in custody at the station. Finnerty did not ask Bartlett whether the changes were true or accurate, because he knew they were lies.
Finnerty then gave his revised version of the report to Bartlett and closed the document on his computer without saving it – believing that there would be no digital trace of his crime.
U.S. Attorney Foley and FBI SAC Docks made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kristina E. Barclay and Julien M. Mundele prosecuted the case.
Former Jeffersonville Police Officer Sentenced to 15 Months for Making False Statements During Purchase of FirearmsRead the Press Release
NEW ALBANY - Todd Wilson, 52, of Charlestown, Indiana, has been sentenced to 15 months in federal prison, followed by one year of supervised release, after pleading guilty to making a false statement during the purchase of a firearm.
According to court documents, Todd Wilson was a sworn police officer with the Jeffersonville Police Department (“JPD”), where he also served as the department’s evidence custodian. In that role, Wilson was entrusted with the careful receipt, storage, tracking, and release of evidence and property collected during investigations.
From 2020 to 2021, Wilson abused his position by lying during the purchases of nine firearms on eight separate occasions from a federally licensed firearms dealer in Jeffersonville, Indiana.
Under ATF regulations, law enforcement officers may purchase firearms without completing ATF Form 4473 (Firearms Transaction Record), which is typically required for purchases from federal firearms licensees. To utilize this exemption, officers must submit a certification on agency letterhead, signed by an authorized official, affirming the firearm will be used for official police duties and that the officer has no convictions for misdemeanor crimes of domestic violence. Firearms dealers are required to retain these certifications in their permanent records.
Wilson purchased firearms through this program by submitting certifications on JPD letterhead in which he forged the signatures of the authorized official. Contrary to his claims on the certifications, Wilson intended to use the firearms for personal use, not his official duties, or to transfer or resell the firearms to third parties.
Wilson gifted two Glock 48 9mm pistols and a Glock 43x 9mm pistol to two individuals and sold a fourth firearm to another individual for $400. eTracing was conducted on the firearms, which showed only the JPD, not Wilson or any of the other owners.
“The power entrusted to police officers demands an unwavering commitment to truth. When that trust is broken through deliberate dishonesty, it undermines the very foundation of justice and the safety of our communities. This offense wasn’t a momentary lapse, but a grave betrayal by someone sworn to uphold the truth,” said Tom Wheeler, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “ATF Forms serve the critical purpose of ensuring law enforcement can trace crime guns. We remain committed to working with our federal partners to hold accountable those who misuse their authority.”
“Lying to obtain a firearm is a serious crime, and wearing a badge does not place anyone above the law,” said FBI Indianapolis Special Agent in Charge Timothy J. O’Malley. “This sentence underscores that when law enforcement officers choose to break the law and mislead the system, they will be held fully accountable. The officer’s own department initiated the investigation, reflecting its commitment to justice and the rule of law.”
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Jeffersonville Police Department investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Tanya Walton Pratt.
U.S. Attorney Wheeler thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Meredith Wood, who prosecuted this case.
###
Former Director of Boston Nonprofit Pleads Guilty to Fraud ChargesRead the Press Release
BOSTON – The founder and former Chief Executive Officer of the local nonprofit Violence in Boston (VIB) pleaded guilty today in federal court in Boston to making misrepresentations in order to obtain thousands of dollars in donations to non-profit Violence in Boston (VIB) that she then diverted to pay for personal expenses, defrauding the City of Boston out of COVID-19 relief funds and rental assistance money, defrauding the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office out of Community Reinvestment Grant funds, filing false tax return for two years, and failing to file tax returns for two years.
Monica Cannon-Grant, 44, of Taunton, pleaded guilty to 18 counts: three counts of wire fraud conspiracy; 10 counts of wire fraud; one count of mail fraud, and two counts each of filing false tax returns and failing to file tax returns. U.S. District Court Judge Angel Kelley scheduled sentencing for Jan. 29, 2026. In March 2023, Cannon-Grant was charged along with her co-conspirator and husband Clark Grant in a 27-count superseding indictment. Clark Grant’s charges were dismissed in May 2023 due to his death. Cannon-Grant and Clark Grant had previously been charged in an 18-count indictment in March 2022.
Cannon-Grant was the founder and CEO of VIB, an anti-violence nonprofit formally established in 2017, the stated purpose of which was to reduce violence, raise social awareness and aid community causes in Greater Boston, among other purposes.
“Monica Cannon-Grant repeatedly scammed multiple public financial programs and stole money donated by members of the public who believed their donations would aid in reducing violence and promote social awareness. Instead, Cannon-Grant used donations to satisfy her own greed, while falsely portraying herself as a legitimate nonprofit organizer. She betrayed the trust of everyone who donated and the public who supported her fraudulent charity,” said United States Attorney Leah B. Foley. “Today’s plea demonstrates once again that no one is above the rule of law.”
“Today’s guilty plea underscores our commitment to investigating and holding accountable anyone who commits fraud. Ms. Cannon-Grant defrauded several state programs and exploited her position in the community to line her own pockets,” said Ketty Larco-Ward, Inspector in Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service’s Boston Division. “This investigation showcases the results that postal inspectors strive to achieve in collaboration with our law enforcement partners. The successful resolution through a plea is a result of the strong investigative work, dedication and partnership of postal inspectors and the U.S. Attorney’s Office. I commend the relentless work and commitment to ensuring justice was achieved by all those involved.”
“Monica Cannon-Grant illegally enriched herself as part of a scheme that fraudulently diverted vital taxpayer resources away from those in need of unemployment insurance benefits during the COVID-19 pandemic,” stated Jonathan R. Mellone, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Northeast Region, U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General. “Protecting the integrity of the unemployment insurance program remains one of our highest priorities, and we will continue to work closely with the U.S. Attorney’s Office and our other law enforcement partners to protect the integrity of U.S. Department of Labor programs and operations.”
As she admitted at today’s plea hearing, from 2017 through at least 2020, Cannon-Grant represented herself as an uncompensated VIB director to donors and other charitable institutions when, in reality, she and her late husband agreed to utilize their control over VIB’s accounts and funds to pay for personal expenditures by diverting VIB funds to themselves through cash withdrawals, cashed checks, wire transfers to personal bank accounts and debit purchases.
Over the course of the conspiracy, Cannon-Grant diverted thousands of dollars in donor money earmarked for VIB for her own personal use. She also applied for or certified the applications for grants offered by public and private entities that included materially false representations. For example, Cannon-Grant conspired to use VIB to defraud the Boston Resiliency Fund, a charitable fund established by the City of Boston to provide aid to Boston residents during the COVID-19 pandemic. After receiving approximately $53,977 in pandemic relief funds, Cannon-Grant withdrew approximately $30,000 in cash from the VIB bank account, made deposits of $5,200 and $1,000 into her personal checking account, and made payments on her personal auto loan and car insurance policy. Cannon-Grant did not disclose any of these personal expenses to BRF and, instead, falsely reported to BRF that all of its grant funds had been appropriately expended.
In addition, Cannon-Grant conspired to defraud Boston’s Office of Housing Stability by concealing thousands of dollars of household income in order to obtain $12,600 in rental assistance from the City of Boston. Instead of truthfully reporting accurate information about the family’s earnings and benefits, Cannon-Grant and her late husband misrepresented their actual household income to obtain rent relief funds that were intended to aid Boston residents who were facing housing insecurity.
Cannon-Grant and her late husband also conspired to defraud the Massachusetts Department of Unemployment Assistance by submitting a fraudulent applications for pandemic unemployment assistance and certifying on a weekly basis that they were not working and did not receive over $89 in income during the prior week. In addition, Cannon-Grant filed false tax returns for 2017 and 2018 and failed to file tax returns for 2019 and 2020, omitting tens of thousands of dollars in income that Cannon-Grant received in salary from VIB and through work as a consultant.
The charges of wire fraud conspiracy, wire fraud, and mail fraud each provide for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, up to three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. The charge of filing false tax returns provides for a sentence of up to three years in prison, one year of supervised release and a fine of up to $100,000. The charge of failure to file a tax return provides for a sentence of up to one year of prison, one year of supervised release and a fine of up to $25,000. 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.
U.S. Attorney Foley; USPIS-IC Larco-Ward; DOL-IG SAC Mellone; Thomas Demeo, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, Boston Field Office; Matthew M. Modafferi, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General; and Massachusetts Inspector General Jeffrey Shapiro made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Adam Deitch and Dustin Chao of the Public Corruption Unit are prosecuting the case.
On May 17, 2021, the Attorney General established the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force to marshal the resources of the Department of Justice in partnership with agencies across government to enhance efforts to combat and prevent pandemic-related fraud. The Task Force bolsters efforts to investigate and prosecute the most culpable domestic and international criminal actors and assists agencies tasked with administering relief programs to prevent fraud by, among other methods, augmenting and incorporating existing coordination mechanisms, identifying resources and techniques to uncover fraudulent actors and their schemes, and sharing and harnessing information and insights gained from prior enforcement efforts. For more information on the Department’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus.
Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
Former California Police Officer Sentenced to Five Consecutive Life Sentences for Sexually Assaulting Four Women He Encountered While on DutyRead the Press Release
J. DeShawn Torrence, 41, a former Sanger, California, police officer, was sentenced today to five consecutive life sentences for sexually assaulting four women whom he encountered during the course of his official duties. After a two-and-a-half-week trial in January 2025, a federal jury in the Eastern District of California convicted Torrence of eight counts of deprivation of constitutional rights under color of law. The jury found that five of the counts involved kidnapping, aggravated sexual abuse, or attempted aggravated sexual abuse.
“The defendant’s conduct was premediated and depraved. He repeatedly abused his official authority to exploit women who expected the police to protect them,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “While no prison sentence can undo the extraordinary pain and suffering the defendant caused these women, today’s sentence of five consecutive life sentences holds the defendant accountable for his heinous conduct and sends a clear message that the Justice Department will aggressively prosecute those who violate the constitutional rights of the people they are sworn to protect.”
“I commend the court’s decision to impose life sentences on this former police officer, who betrayed the public’s trust and abused his authority to perpetrate heinous acts of sexual violence,” said U.S. Attorney Eric Grant for the Eastern District of California. “This sentence sends a clear message: no one is above the law, and those who exploit their position to violate the civil rights of others will face the full force of justice. Our office stands with the victims and remains committed to protecting our communities from such egregious abuses of power.”
“We commend the courageous women who came forward, trusting law enforcement to ensure J.D. Torrence was held accountable for his crimes,” said Special Agent in Charge Sid Patel of the FBI Sacramento Field Office. “Their bravery has prevented this predator from harming anyone else. The FBI recognizes the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office for their unwavering partnership. Justice has been served, making our community safer.”
The evidence at trial proved that Torrence kidnapped a 21-year-old woman who was walking to a store to buy groceries for her young children, drove her outside of town in his police car, and sexually assaulted her at an isolated dead end. As Torrence drove the woman away from town, he taunted her by saying “no one is going to look for you.” After the assault, he warned that if she reported him, “no one’s going to believe you.”
Torrence forcibly raped a second victim, a 67-year-old woman, after following her into her home during a DUI investigation. After the assault, Torrence frequently parked his police car in front of the woman’s home to stalk and intimidate her. On one of these occasions, Torrence cornered the woman behind her home and sexually assaulted her.
With a third victim, Torrence showed up at her door in his police uniform after midnight, entered her home, pinned her against the kitchen counter, and sexually assaulted her. Torrence showed up multiple times at the home of a fourth victim, a domestic violence victim, supposedly to investigate a prior domestic violence incident. During those follow up visits, Torrence forced the victim to expose sensitive parts of her body by falsely telling her that he had to “photograph” her injuries. On one occasion, Torrence trapped the woman in her bedroom and sexually assaulted her.
The FBI Sacramento Field Office investigated the case, with assistance from the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office.
This case was prosecuted by Special Litigation Counsel Michael J. Songer of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Karen Escobar for the Eastern District of California.
Five Mexican Nationals Face Federal Charges Following Seizure of over a Thousand Pounds of MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
Atlanta – Wilber Castellanos Villazana, Yamilet Calixto Sotelo, Jorge Lorenzo Manzanarez, Esteban Jacobo-Suarez, and Damien Gomez-Guijarro, four of whom are illegal aliens from Mexico, appeared in federal court on charges of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, following the combined seizure of more than 1,000 pounds of methamphetamine last week from an apartment complex and single-family residence in unincorporated DeKalb County. DEA identified one of the primary traffickers as allegedly working on behalf of the violent Cartel de Jalisco Nueva Generación (“CJNG”).
“Within just a few days, undercover investigations in the metro Atlanta area led to the seizure of more than half a ton of methamphetamine, the arrests of four illegal aliens allegedly responsible for distributing those deadly drugs, and the disruption of two drug trafficking rings,” said U.S. Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg. “My office will continue to proudly partner with federal, state, and local crimefighters to protect the public and eliminate the scourge of drug trafficking.”
“The CJNG cartel is a significant threat to public safety, public health, and the national security of the United States,” said Robert J. Murphy, Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Atlanta Division. “DEA will target every level of their supply chain to disrupt and destroy their networks.”
According to U.S. Attorney Hertzberg, the charges, and other information presented in court:
On September 15, 2025, Wilber Castellanos Villazana allegedly sold one kilogram of methamphetamine to a DEA undercover agent at an apartment complex in DeKalb County. Law enforcement thereafter saw Castellanos Villazana allegedly sell additional narcotics to two other people from an Acura vehicle.
The next day, agents observed Castellanos Villazana, Jorge Lorenzo Manzanarez, and Yamilet Calixto Sotelo leave an apartment at the complex, pull a collapsible wagon to a parked Acura, and move two large black trash bags from the wagon into the Acura. Law enforcement arrested the defendants and searched the car and apartment. Agents found approximately 22 kilograms of methamphetamine in the car trunk and approximately 309 kilograms of methamphetamine in the apartment.
One day later, on September 17, 2025, Esteban Jacobo-Suarez and Damien Gomez-Guijarro allegedly sold a kilogram of methamphetamine to an undercover agent at a gas station on the outskirts of Stone Mountain, Ga. After this transaction, agents followed Jacobo-Suarez and Gomez-Guijarro to a nearby residence.
The next day, after DEA scheduled a second undercover drug purchase, agents observed Jacobo-Suarez and Gomez-Guijarro leave the residence and place a black trash bag in the backseat of a car. A DeKalb County police officer stopped that car after Jacobo-Suarez and Gomez-Guijarro arrived at the designated meeting spot for the drug buy. Subsequent searches allegedly revealed 10 kilograms of methamphetamine in the car and approximately 131 kilograms of methamphetamine, one firearm, and approximately $12,000 cash in the residence.
On September 19, 2025, Wilber Castellanos Villazana, 38, Yamilet Calixto Sotelo 22, Jorge Lorenzo Manzanarez, 35, Esteban Jacobo-Suarez, 44, and Damien Gomez-Guijarro, 32, who are all citizens of Mexico, were charged with possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine in federal criminal complaints. Castallanos Villazana, Calixto Sotelo, Lorenzo Manzanarez, and Jacobo-Suarez are illegal aliens. Jacobo-Suarez was previously deported from the United States twice.
Members of the public are reminded that the criminal complaints only contain charges. The defendants are presumed innocent of the charges, and it will be the government’s burden to prove the defendants’ guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.
These cases are being investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and Atlanta-Carolinas High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA) program, with valuable assistance provided by Homeland Security Investigations, the DeKalb County Police Department, and the Gwinnett County Sheriff’s Office.
Assistant United States Attorney Michael Herskowitz is prosecuting the cases.
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 Neighborhoods.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office in Atlanta recommends parents and children learn about the dangers of drugs at the following web site: www.justthinktwice.gov.
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.
Federal Investigators Seek Public’s Help in Identifying Possible Victims of Charleston County MagistrateRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, S.C. — Investigators with Homeland Security Investigations and the U.S. Attorney’s Office are seeking the public’s help to identify possible victims in an ongoing child sexual exploitation investigation involving Charleston County magistrate James Gosnell.
If your child, or a child you know, was ever alone with, or held by James Gosnell, please notify the Homeland Security Investigations’ tip line listed below:
Email: [email protected]
Federal Charges Filed Against Suspect in KXTV/ABC 10 ShootingRead the Press Release
The Federal Bureau of Investigation arrested Anibal Hernandez Santana, 63, of Sacramento, over the weekend, and a three-count amended criminal complaint was filed against him on Monday morning, charging him with possessing a firearm within a school zone, discharging a firearm within a school zone, and interfering with a radio communication station, U.S. Attorney Eric Grant announced.
According to court documents, on Friday, Sept. 19, 2025, Hernandez Santana fired one shot towards, and three shots into, the KXTV/ABC 10 station on Broadway in Sacramento. While standing on the sidewalk around the block from the station, in front of 2555 3rd Street, Hernandez Santana fired the first shot into the air in the direction of the station. He then drove to the front of the station and fired three shots directly into the building’s lobby. A KXTV/ABC 10 employee was inside the lobby at the time, although no one was injured. The location from where Hernandez Santana discharged the first shot was within a school zone.
Law enforcement executed a search of Hernandez Santana’s person, home, and vehicle. There was a weekly planner attached to the refrigerator in his home. Under “Friday,” there was a handwritten note that stated, “Do the Next Scary Thing.” Law enforcement also found in his car a handwritten note that read, “For hiding Epstein & ignoring red flags. Do not support Patel, Bongino, & AG Pam Bondi. They’re next. – C.K. from above.”
The Sacramento Police Department initially arrested Hernandez Santana on Friday evening, but Hernandez Santana was released on bail the next day. The FBI arrested him hours later. Hernandez Santana is scheduled to make his initial appearance on the amended criminal complaint on Monday, Sept. 22, 2025, at 2:00 p.m.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elliot Wong is prosecuting the case.
If convicted, Hernandez Santana faces a maximum statutory penalty of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine for possessing and discharging a firearm within a school zone, and a maximum of one year in prison and a $10,000 fine for interfering with a radio communication station. Any sentence, however, would be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables. The charges are only allegations; the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Dominican National Admits to Role in KidnappingRead the Press Release
NEWARK, N.J. – A citizen of the Dominican Republic admitted his role in a Paterson, New Jersey, kidnapping, Acting U.S. Attorney and Special Attorney Alina Habba announced.
Joel Ramon Garcia, 33, pleaded guilty on September 9, before U.S. District Judge William J. Martini in Newark federal court to an Indictment charging him with kidnapping. The sentencing date is scheduled for January 20, 2026.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
On or about November 15, 2023, Garcia and another individual kidnapped two victims at gun point in Paterson, New Jersey, and then drove the victims to Massachusetts, where they held the victims for ransom. Shortly after the kidnapping or about November 15, 2023, the kidnappers contacted the father of one of the victims and threatened that the victim’s fingers would be cut off if the ransom was not paid. The kidnappers ultimately released the victims on or about November 17, 2023.
The charge of kidnapping carries a maximum penalty of life in prison and a maximum fine of $250,000.
Acting U.S. Attorney and Special Attorney Habba credited members of the FBI’s New Jersey field office, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Stefanie Roddy, with the investigation leading to the charges. She also thanked members of the FBI’s Boston field office under the leadership of Special Agent in Charge Ted Docks, the Paterson Police Department, under the leadership of Officer in Charge Patrick Murray, members of the Passaic County Sheriff’s Office, under the leadership of Sheriff Thomas Adamo, members of the Clifton Police Department, under the leadership of Police Chief Thomas Rinaldi, members of the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office, under the leadership of Prosecutor Mark Musella, and members of the Cedar Grove Police Department, under the leadership of Police Chief Francis Pumphrey with their help in the investigation.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys John Maloy of the Organized Crime and Gangs Unit and Carolyn Silane, Deputy Chief of the Economic Crimes Unit in Newark.
###
Defense counsel: Michael Rubas, Esq.
garcia.indictment.pdfDistrict Jury Finds Recently Released Felon Guilty of Drug Trafficking and Firearm PossessionRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Deshawn Raphael Loggins, 24, a previously convicted felon on federal supervised release who resides in Capitol Heights, MD, was found guilty on Thursday, September 18, in U.S. District Court of narcotics and firearms charges, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro.
Following a four-day trial, a federal jury deliberated for over a day and found Loggins, also known as “Dae Dae,” guilty of unlawful possession with intent to distribute 28 grams or more of crack cocaine, of unlawful possession with intent to distribute oxycodone, and of unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon.
Judge Dabney L. Friedrich scheduled sentencing for Jan. 13, 2026.
According to court documents, on June 6, 2024, officers with the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) were called to a building on the 100 block of Atlantic Street SE, in response to ongoing complaints.
Officers entered the vestibule and observed four individuals, including Loggins, seated around in a circle in the hallway. At the foot of Loggins’ chair was a bottle of promethazine-codeine in a woman’s name and a black drawstring bag. Immediately to Loggins’ left was a clear bag containing three grams of a substance that field tested positive for crack cocaine. Loose cash was strewn on a flight of stairs. Through the open door of a nearby apartment, officers observed in plain view suspected crack cocaine, blue zips in clear plastic bags, additional U.S. currency, and a digital scale.
Officers placed Loggins under arrest and escorted him outside where he was searched. From Loggins’ pockets, officers recovered $1,689 in cash and a key fob to a rented Dodge Charger. The Dodge Charger was parked nearby. After a trained MPD drug canine sniffed the vehicle, officers conducted a search of the car. In the center console, they found a firearm with an extended magazine, a plastic bag containing 50 grams of crack cocaine, and 177 oxycodone pills of assorted types.
Loggins has a prior felony conviction for drug trafficking, was recently released, and was on federal supervised release at the time he committed in the instant offense. In October 2022, Loggins was sentenced to 42 months’ imprisonment after pleading guilty in U.S. District Court to one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute a mixture and substance containing cocaine base. As part of that plea, Loggins admitted that he was responsible for selling between 28 grams and 112 grams of a mixture and substance containing cocaine base.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations’ (HSI) Washington, D.C. field office, with assistance from the Metropolitan Police Department. In addition, valuable assistance was provided by Customs and Border Protection, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Iris Y. McCranie and Michael L. Barclay of the Violent Crime and Narcotics Trafficking (VCNT) section.
24cr505
Defendants Sentenced to Federal Prison for Stealing Mail and Committing Bank FraudRead the Press Release
AUGUSTA, GA: Two Richmond County men were sentenced to federal prison for using a United States Postal Service key to steal mail, commit bank fraud, and aggravated identity theft.
Cameron Martinas Curry, 22, and Quavaun Enreco Rhodes, 22, both of Augusta, were sentenced to 120 months in prison respectively, along with substantial financial penalties and supervised release each upon completion of the prison term. U.S. District Court Judge Dudley H. Bowen Jr. ordered Curry to pay a $2,000 fine, $400 in special assessments, and to serve five years of supervised release upon completion of his prison term. Judge Bowen also ordered Rhodes to pay a $2,000 fine, $400 in special assessments, and to serve five years of supervised release upon completion of his prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
As described in court documents and at sentencing, the Defendants obtained a U.S. Postal Service collection key and used that key to steal mail, including business checks, from collection boxes in the Augusta, Georgia area. The Defendants then altered the business checks, deposited the altered checks into the bank accounts of co-conspirators, and withdrew the money. The money was withdrawn and stolen before the banks realized the checks were fraudulent. The Defendants tried to steal more than $550,000 through his fraudulent scheme.
“There were hundreds of citizens of this District who were victimized by these two Defendants. The U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to protecting and defending the nation’s mail system from illegal use and aggressively pursuing those who would commit fraud in this district. With the collaborative efforts of our law enforcement partners, fraudsters who use the mail to steal will be brought to justice,” said U.S. Attorney Heap.
“Stealing from the U.S. Mail and defrauding financial institutions are serious crimes that erode public trust,” said Paul Brown, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta. “The FBI and our partners will continue to investigate and hold accountable those who abuse federal systems and victimize our communities for personal gain.”
“I am very grateful for our partnership with the U.S. Department of Justice, Southern District of Georgia. These individuals defrauded multiple citizens and businesses in our community, and that is simply unacceptable. Working together, we will continue to protect our residents and businesses from fraud, theft, and other crimes that undermine trust and financial security,” said Richmond County Sheriff Eugene Brantley.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the FBI and prosecuted for the United States by First Assistant United States Attorney David H. Estes and Assistant United States Attorney Patricia Rhodes.
For any questions, please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Office at (912) 652-4422.
Coalport Woman Sentenced for Role in Methamphetamine Trafficking OrganizationRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A former resident of Coalport, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to time served of approximately six months of imprisonment, to be followed by three years of supervised release, on her conviction of violating federal narcotics laws related to a six-month Title III wiretap investigation into drug trafficking in and around Blair, Cambria, Centre, and Clearfield counties, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
United States District Judge Stephanie L. Haines imposed the sentence on Lesley Wilt, 39.
According to information presented to the Court, Wilt was a participant in a conspiracy to distribute large quantities of methamphetamine to various individuals throughout the Western District of Pennsylvania. Specifically, Wilt assisted Jason Lynn, an Altoona-based narcotics distributor, in redistributing the drugs to others after Lynn obtained the narcotics from a New York-based supplier. Lynn is currently awaiting sentencing.
Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan D. Lusty prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Drug Enforcement Administration, United States Postal Service–Office of Inspector General, United States Postal Inspection Service, Homeland Security Investigations, Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and Pennsylvania State Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Wilt.
This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
Chairman of the Board of Puerto Rican Bank Pleads Guilty to Multimillion-Dollar Wire Fraud Conspiracy That Led to Bank’s CollapseRead the Press Release
The chairman of the board of Nodus International Bank (Nodus), a Puerto Rican international banking entity, pleaded guilty today for his role in leading a scheme to fraudulently obtain more than $13.6 million from Nodus, which ultimately led to the bank’s failure in 2023.
“The defendant abused his position as Chairman of the board of directors to fraudulently divert funds from the bank that he had been entrusted to run, resulting in the bank’s collapse,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “The Criminal Division is committed to investigating and prosecuting white-collar fraudsters, no matter how lofty their position, to ensure their crimes do not pay.”
“Banks hold a sacred trust — the savings, investments, and livelihoods of the communities they serve," said U.S. Attorney Jason A. Reding Quiñones for the Southern District of Florida. "Ramirez abused that trust, siphoning millions for personal gain and leaving behind collapse and loss. The Southern District of Florida will hold corporate leaders accountable when they turn financial institutions into vehicles of fraud. Our Office will continue to protect investors, safeguard the integrity of the banking system, and defend the rule of law.”
“The Chairman’s fraud brought down more than a bank — it undermined public trust," said Special Agent in Charge Emmanuel Gomez of Internal Revenue Service's Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) Miami. "IRS Criminal Investigation will continue to use our financial expertise to protect the integrity of the U.S. financial system."
According to court documents, Juan Francisco Ramirez, 60, of Miami, Florida, conspired with others to siphon money from Nodus. Ramirez and a co-conspirator concealed from other Nodus board members and executives, and the bank’s regulator — the Office of the Commissioner of Financial Institutions of Puerto Rico (OCIF) — that certain investments or loans were for the benefit of Ramirez and a co-conspirator, in violation of Puerto Rican law and Nodus policy regarding insider transactions.
From 2017 to 2023, Ramirez conspired with others to invest more than $11 million of Nodus’s funds in a Miami-based lender so that it could loan those funds to Ramirez and a co-conspirator for their own benefit. Ramirez and his co-conspirators knew that these transactions were illegal and took steps to conceal their prohibited nature by having the bank make sham investments in the lending entity.
Further, between January 2018 and September 2021, Ramirez and a co-conspirator fraudulently induced Nodus’s board and comptroller to agree to, or facilitate, the purchase of at least 47 promissory notes totaling approximately $25.3 million from Miami-based finance company that Ramirez and the co-conspirator jointly owned. These promissory notes purported to fund loans to legitimate individuals or businesses, but in fact Ramirez and a co-conspirator used the loan proceeds for their own benefit, including to make personal investments in third-party companies, pay personal mortgages, or cover personal credit card expenses.
In early March 2023, OCIF notified Nodus of its intention to place the Bank into liquidation, and later that month Nodus agreed to enter into a voluntary liquidation. On April 28, 2023, knowing that the liquidation process would commence imminently and without authorization from OCIF, Ramirez and a co-conspirator caused Nodus to purchase from their Miami-based finance company a loan portfolio totaling approximately $26 million. Most of these loans were delinquent, nonperforming, and otherwise uncollateralized. Ramirez and a co-conspirator caused Nodus to accept the loan portfolio as payment of their Miami-based finance company’s debt arising from the 47 promissory notes that Nodus had purchased during 2018 to 2021. This resulted in a direct benefit to the finance company (and Ramirez and his co-conspirator) by relieving the finance company of its debt to the bank.
As part of his plea agreement, Ramirez agreed to forfeiture in the amount of at least $13.6 million, which represents the value of the proceeds he derived from the conspiracy.
Ramirez pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud. He is scheduled to be sentenced on a later date and faces a maximum penalty of up to 20 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) investigated the case.
Trial Attorneys Javier Urbina and Samir Paul of the Criminal Division’s Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section (MLARS), Bank Integrity Unit, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Felipe Plechac-Diaz for the Southern District of Florida are prosecuting the case.
Cedar Rapids Man Who Sold Fentanyl Near Elementary School Sent to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
A man who distributed fentanyl near a school was sentenced today to more than 11 years in federal prison. D’quon Morrow, age 27, from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, received the prison term after a March 28, 2025 guilty plea to one count of distribution of at least 40 grams of fentanyl near a protected location.
Evidence in a plea agreement and at sentencing showed that between February 2024 and July 2024, in Cedar Rapids, Morrow agreed with others to distribute fentanyl and cocaine. In March 2024, he distributed 6.50 grams of fentanyl and fluorofentanyl to another person. In April 2024, he sold a firearm to another person. At the time, Morrow had a felony conviction for eluding. In May 2024, he distributed 20.75 grams of fentanyl to another person. In June 2024, he distributed 48.60 grams of fentanyl to another person near Madison Elementary School in Cedar Rapids. In July 2024, law enforcement searched Morrow’s residence and recovered two firearms, ammunition, and over 1,000 fentanyl pills.
Morrow was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Chief Judge C.J. Williams. Morrow was sentenced to 135 months’ imprisonment and must also serve an eight-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system. Morrow is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Devra T. Hake and investigated as part of the Northern Iowa Heroin Initiative and the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) program of the United States Department of Justice through a cooperative effort of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Cedar Rapids Police Department, the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, and the Iowa Division of Intelligence and Fusion Center.
This case is also 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.
This case is also 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).
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 25-CR-4.
Follow us on X @USAO_NDIA.
Convicted Felon Pleads Guilty to Drug and Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – Ramon Velazquez Rodas, 46, of Tallahassee, Florida, pleaded guilty in federal court to possession with intent to distribute controlled substances and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. The plea was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “This case demonstrates the value of close collaboration between our local and federal law enforcement officers to target, investigate, and arrest the criminals flooding our streets with deadly drugs. My office remains committed to backing up the hard work of our law enforcement partners with aggressive prosecutions to keep our communities safe.”
Court documents reflect that in August 2022, as part of an ongoing drug investigation targeting multiple individuals, law enforcement executed a search warrant at a residence where Velazquez Rodas was found in Tallahassee, Florida. In a bedroom where Velazquez Rodas and another occupant were found, officers located methamphetamine and fentanyl, a stolen handgun, $2,900, and other items indicative of drug distribution. Velazquez Rodas is a convicted felon, who has previously been convicted of numerous felony offenses, including Burglary of a Dwelling, Burglary of an Unoccupied Dwelling, Possession of Burglary Tools, Dealing in Stolen Property, and Possession of Controlled Substances.
Velazquez Rodas faces up to life imprisonment.
The case involved a joint investigation by the Tallahassee Police Department, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Eric K. Mountin.
Sentencing is scheduled for December 4, 2025, at 2:00 pm at the United States Courthouse in Tallahassee before United States District Mark Walker.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America (https://www.justice.gov/dag/media/1393746/dl?inline ) a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
Bristol Man Pleads Guilty to Failing to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
ABINGDON, Va. – A Bristol, Virginia man, who spent two years on the run as a fugitive in Mexico before being arrested in March, pled guilty today to failing to register as a convicted sex offender.
Corey Richard Parton, 36, pled guilty today to failing to register and update a registration under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act (“SORNA”) and failing to provide information required by SORNA relating to intended travel in foreign commerce.
According to court documents, in December 2018 Parton was convicted in Russell County, Virginia for proposing a sex act by a communications system and soliciting child pornography, both felonies. Based on these convictions, Parton was a sex offender who was required to register under SORNA. Records indicate that Parton completed his initial registration as a sex offender with the Commonwealth of Virginia on April 16, 2019. Parton was required to re-register every 90 days.
On August 8, 2023, the Virginia State Police (“VSP”) began an investigation into Parton’s SORNA registration information. The VSP investigation determined that Parton had failed to update his home address, vehicle registration information, place of employment, and use of social media - which he was prohibited from using - and place of employment. As a result, re-registration forms were sent to Parton with instructions for Parton to update this information.
However, these forms were never returned.
As a result, Parton was charged with three SORNA violations in Bristol, Virginia General District Court and subsequently arrested on August 16, 2023, and given a bond. Through further investigation, law enforcement discovered that, following his release, Parton had traveled to Galveston, Texas where he boarded a cruise ship that stopped in Cancun, Mexico. Parton got off the cruise ship in Cancun and never boarded the ship when it left port.
Authorities located Parton living at the Ocean Dream Hotel in Coco Bongo Beach, Cancun, Mexico living under the name Dominque Garcia. He was arrested on May 25, 2025.
Robert N. Tracci, Acting United States Attorney for the Western District of Virginia and Colonel Matthew D. Hanley, Superintendent of Virginia State Police, made the announcement.
The United States Marshals Service and the Virginia State Police are investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Danielle Stone is prosecuting the case.
Bergen County Company Settles Matter Alleging Receipt of Improper CARES Act LoansRead the Press Release
Newark, N.J. – A manufacturer and supplier of concrete formwork, shoring and temporary scaffolding systems based in Fair Lawn, New Jersey entered into a settlement agreement with the United States resolving allegations that the company violated the False Claims Act by taking a Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan to which it was not entitled, Acting U.S. Attorney and Special Attorney Alina Habba announced.
According to the allegations in the complaint and the contentions of the United States in the settlement agreement:
In January 2021, Ulma Form Works, Inc. (Ulma) applied for and received a $2 million PPP loan. Under the eligibility rules in effect at that time, businesses with more than 300 employees were not eligible for PPP loans. Applicants were instructed that the 300-employee limit was inclusive of the applicant’s affiliates, including affiliates whose employees were based outside of the United States. In its loan application, Ulma certified that it was eligible for the loan and that it employed no more than 300 employees. However, Ulma was not eligible for its loan because, inclusive of its affiliates and their foreign employees, it had more than 300 employees. After receiving the PPP loan, Ulma sought and received forgiveness of the total amount of the loan, plus interest that had accrued.
Ulma fully cooperated in the investigation and resolution of this matter. In accordance with the terms of the settlement agreement, Ulma will pay the United States $2,902,795. The settlement resolves a lawsuit filed under the whistleblower provision of the False Claims Act, which permits private parties, called relators, to file suit on behalf of the United States for false claims and share in a portion of the government’s recovery. In this matter, the relator is receiving $290,279 as the share.
Acting U.S. Attorney and Special Attorney Habba credited the special agents from the Small Business Administration, Office of the Inspector General under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Amaleka McCall-Brathwaite, Eastern Regional Office, and the SBA’s Office of General Counsel for their assistance in this matter.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney David V. Simunovich of the Health Care Fraud and Opioid Enforcement Unit in Newark.
Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
The qui tam case is captioned United States ex rel. Verity Investigations, LLC v. Ulma Form Works, Inc., 25-890 (D.N.J.).
###
Counsel for Ulma Form Works, Inc.: Mark A. Rush, Esq., Pittsburgh, PA
Counsel for Relator Verity Investigations, LLC: Steven M. Shepard, Esq., New York, NY
ulma.agreement.pdfActing U.S. Attorney Ellison Leads Multi-Agency Discussion on Public Safety Challenges in Española and Rio Arriba CountyRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE –Last week, Acting U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison convened a meeting with federal, tribal, and local law enforcement leaders to address violent crime and drug trafficking in Española and Rio Arriba County.
The meeting brought together representatives from the U.S. Attorney’s Office, FBI, DEA, ATF, and Homeland Security Investigations, alongside Española Police Chief Mizel Garcia, Rio Arriba County Sheriff Lorenzo Aguilar, Santa Clara Police Chief Mitchell Maestas and Pueblo of Pojoaque Police Chief Freddie Trujillo.
(Left to right) Española PD Chief Mizel Garcia, Pueblo of Pojoaque PD Chief Freddie Trujillo, Pueblo of Pojoaque PD Major Nathan Barton, Santa Clara PD Chief Mitchell Maestas, Rio Arriba County Sheriff Lorenzo AguilarEllison opened the session by describing the region as “ground zero” for violent crime and overdose deaths in New Mexico. He emphasized the need for strong partnerships, an increased federal presence on the ground, and coordinated action plans. While acknowledging that federal partners cannot solve the problem alone, he underscored that federal law enforcement can lead a sustained effort. He closed his remarks with a clear warning: offenders will face prosecution and significant federal prison time.
(Right to left) DEA ASAC Jeffrey Armijo, FBI ASAC Philip Russell, U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison, ATF ASAC Sarah Mauricio, HSI SAC J.T. StevensLocal and tribal law enforcement leaders offered detailed assessments of the challenges and progress in their communities. Española Police Chief Mizel Garcia described intensified collaboration among agencies and identified Mexican cartels as the number one public safety threat. Pueblo of Pojoaque Police Chief Freddie Trujillo highlighted the success of license plate reader technology and joint operations at Buffalo Thunder Resort that produced successful prosecutions through the U.S. Attorney’s Office. Santa Clara Pueblo Police Chief Mitchell Maestas noted how technology offsets staffing shortages and praised state efforts to close loopholes that once allowed non-Indians to commit crimes on tribal lands without consequence. Rio Arriba County Sheriff Lorenzo Aguilar emphasized that cartels operate with organization and discipline, urging federal partners to provide matching levels of resources, intelligence, and data. He also outlined the state’s work to deputize tribal officers to make arrests against non-Indians.
In direct response, Ellison announced expanded federal priorities. The U.S. Attorney’s Office will now consider accepting all provable firearm cases, stressing that “felon in possession” charges carry powerful penalties for repeat offenders. His office will also consider taking all A- and B-level drug cases, as well as every provable fentanyl trafficking case brought forward.
(Right to left) FBI ASAC Philip Russell, U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison, ATF ASAC Sarah MauricioFederal agency leaders reinforced their commitment to addressing public safety threats. Homeland Security Investigations Special Agent in Charge J.T. Stevens echoed concerns about cartel communications and pledged close cooperation with local authorities, stressing that true success is measured in safer streets, not statistics. ATF Assistant Special Agent in Charge Sarah Mauricio outlined support ranging from an explosives-sniffing K9 to eTrace, NIBIN, and advanced training opportunities. FBI Assistant Special Agent in Charge Philip Russell emphasized a “whole of government” approach with seamless interagency coordination. DEA Assistant Special Agent in Charge Jeffrey Armijo pledged more training for local officers to strengthen federal case-building and offered to provide additional license plate readers.
Officials sit at a long table with the U.S. flag, surrounded by attendees.Representatives from the U.S. Attorney’s Office also described internal strategies to support this effort. Supervisory AUSA Samuel Hurtado (Violent and General Crimes) pledged responsiveness and highlighted the ability to pursue cases the state cannot. Deputy Supervisory AUSA Paul Mysliwiec (Violent and General Crimes) offered guidance to local and tribal law enforcement regarding the types of cases that they should push to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for federal prosecution. Supervisory AUSA Matthew McGinley (Indian Country Crimes) announced an increased focus on drug trafficking in Indian Country and an expanded tribal liaison program, supported by victim-witness specialists. Deputy Supervisory AUSA Lou Mattei (Narcotics and Organized Crime) encouraged early engagement with federal agencies, stressing that even low-level drug crimes can expose broader cartel operations.
(Left to right) Supervisory AUSA Samuel Hurtado, Deputy Supervisory AUSA Paul Mysliwiec, Supervisory AUSA Matthew McGinley, Deputy Supervisory AUSA Lou MatteiSheriff Aguilar closed the discussion by emphasizing that criminals do not recognize jurisdictional boundaries and law enforcement cannot afford to either. Leaders concluded the meeting with a unified message: Only a coordinated, multi-pronged strategy, backed by federal resources, tough prosecution, and close collaboration, can improve public safety in Española and Rio Arriba County.
A group of 21 people, including police officers and officials, pose on the steps of a gazebo with a red roof
19 September 2025
York County Man Sentenced to 14 Years in Federal Prison for Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
COLUMBIA, S.C. — Eric Michael Deon Brown, 37, of York County, has been sentenced to 14 years in federal prison for conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute 400 grams of fentanyl.
The investigation revealed that Brown was responsible for selling drugs that were obtained from other members of a drug conspiracy operating out of Rock Hill. Agents learned the group obtained cocaine, crystal methamphetamine, and pills that resembled 30 mg Oxycodone tablets, also known in the generic form as Roxicodone. The pills were produced by members of the conspiracy with fentanyl at various locations in the Rock Hill and Charlotte region. Brown was supplied with fentanyl and fentanyl laced pills.
United States District Mary Geiger Lewis sentenced Brown to 168 months imprisonment, to be followed by a five-year term of supervision. There is no parole in the federal system.
This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
This case was investigated by the FBI Columbia Field Office, York County Multi-Jurisdictional Drug Enforcement Unit, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Drug Enforcement Administration, Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, Rock Hill Police Department, York County Sheriff’s Office, the Richland County Sheriff’s Department, and the South Carolina Department of Corrections. Assistant U.S. Attorney William K. Witherspoon is prosecuting the case.
###
Western District of Texas U.S. Attorney’s Office Adds Nearly 300 New Immigration CasesRead the Press Release
SAN ANTONIO – United States Attorney Justin R. Simmons for the Western District of Texas announced today that federal prosecutors in the district filed 294 new immigration and immigration-related criminal cases from Sept. 12 through 18.
Among the new cases, Mexican national Ramiro Barrera-Gonzalez was charged in San Antonio with assault on a federal officer after he was initially arrested for illegal entry by an alien. A criminal complaint alleges that while he was in U.S. Border Patrol custody on Sept. 11, Barrera-Gonzalez ingested bleach and was transported to a San Antonio hospital for medical treatment. Two days later, as a Border Patrol agent escorted Barrera-Gonzalez to a hospital restroom, Barrera-Gonzalez allegedly lunged toward the agent’s holstered firearm. An altercation ensued, causing both the Barrera-Gonzalez and the agent to fall to the ground and resulting in an injury to the agent’s forearm.
Two U.S. citizens were arrested on Sept. 12 when they approached a Del Rio Border Patrol checkpoint and allegedly drove away at a high rate of speed after refusing to open the trunk of their vehicle and failing to pull over for secondary inspection. A criminal complaint alleges that Border Patrol agents caught up in a pursuit and observed the driver, Andre Limon Criston Austin, pull over before the car’s trunk opened and two females were seen attempting to climb out. As the agents approached, Austin allegedly accelerated again, causing the trunk to close with the females still inside. Austin’s vehicle allegedly stopped again, and one female exited the trunk before he accelerated another time, causing the second female to fall out of the vehicle. Both females were found to be in the U.S. illegally. Austin and a female passenger in his vehicle, Paris Engjqulique Walpool, were eventually taken into custody. Further investigation revealed that Austin and Walpool allegedly co-conspired with other facilitators after accepting a job in a Facebook group to “move” things in Eagle Pass for $2,500. Austin and Walpool are both charged with bringing in and harboring certain aliens.
Another U.S. citizen was charged in a separate incident for allegedly conspiring to transport two illegal aliens further into the United States. Sebastian Medina-Carrillo was arrested near Carrizo Springs on Sept. 11 when U.S. Border Patrol agents conducted a traffic stop on and allegedly observed physical abnormalities in an external fuel tank of his vehicle. An immigration vehicle inspection allegedly revealed two illegal aliens concealed inside the fuel tank. A criminal complaint alleges Medina-Carrillo was transporting the two aliens to Dilley and would be paid $1,000.
Three individuals, including two male illegal aliens and a female with a Permanent Resident Alien Card, were arrested by U.S. Border Patrol agents after allegedly using two vehicles in an attempt to pick up and transport six illegal aliens who had crossed the border fence more than seven miles east of the Fort Hancock Port of Entry. The two vehicles were allegedly seen speeding away from where the illegal aliens had been observed. USBP agents initiated traffic stops, arresting Juan Pedro Zamarron-Navarrete, a Mexican national, who was identified as the driver of one vehicle. The alleged driver of the second vehicle, Ayde Castaneda-Rivera, and her passenger Oscar Chapa-Gomez, who was confirmed to be an illegal alien, were also arrested. Further investigation revealed that Zamarron-Navarrete had illegally re-entered the U.S. on Sept. 2, after serving six months in jail for an alien smuggling conviction and being removed to Mexico. The investigation also revealed that Castaneda-Rivera and Chapa-Gomez allegedly served as lookouts for Zamarron-Navarrete, who decided to leave the pick-up location when he saw USBP arriving.
On Monday, USBP agents in El Paso responded to a vehicle suspected of picking up seven illegal aliens who had just crossed into the U.S. A criminal complaint alleges that the agents observed an empty driver’s seat when they located the vehicle, and they found the seven aliens, including two unaccompanied illegal aliens, attempting to hide inside the vehicle. The driver, identified as U.S. citizen Miguel Arturo Corral, was allegedly located attempting to conceal himself in a nearby cotton field and was arrested on a human smuggling charge. Corral’s criminal history includes several prior convictions, including racing on the highway, driving with an invalid license, evading arrest, and two DWIs.
U.S. citizen Lucio David Rivera-Esparza was also arrested and charged with human smuggling in El Paso. USBP agents arrested two illegal aliens on Sept. 11 and noticed that one of the aliens possessed a cell phone that continuously received calls from a number originating in Mexico. A criminal complaint alleges that the cell phone led agents to a pick-up location where they met Rivera-Esparza, who had coordinated to transport illegal aliens further into the United States. Agents searched Rivera-Esparza’s vehicle and allegedly discovered a loaded handgun and an unknown amount of money in the center console. Agents also seized an additional $1,921 that Rivera-Esparza allegedly obtained by smuggling and transporting illegal aliens. Rivera-Esparza was convicted in April 2024 for a state charge of smuggling of persons and sentenced to five years in jail.
In Austin, Honduran national Jose Orellana Espana was taken into ICE custody after being encountered at the Travis County Jail. He had been arrested and charged with assault causing bodily injury to a family member and unlawful restraint. Espana was previously convicted in 2017 of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and unlawful restraint.
Ricardo Quiroz-Rincon, a Mexican national, was also encountered at the Travis County Jail where he had been charged with assault causing bodily injury. Quiroz-Rincon has been previously removed from the U.S. five times since 2009. He’s been twice convicted for improper entry by an alien, with three additional convictions for illegal re-entry.
These cases were referred or supported by federal law enforcement partners, including ICE, U.S. Border Patrol, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the FBI, the U.S. Marshals Service (USMS), and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), with additional assistance from state and local law enforcement partners.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Texas comprises 68 counties located in the central and western areas of Texas, encompasses nearly 93,000 square miles and an estimated population of 7.6 million people. The district includes three of the five largest cities in Texas—San Antonio, Austin and El Paso—and shares 660 miles of common border with the Republic of Mexico.
These cases are 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).
Indictments and criminal complaints are merely allegations and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
###
West Virginia Man Sentenced for Federal Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Nelson Cortes, age 50, of Beverly, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 65 months in federal prison for the distribution of methamphetamine. Cortes was selling methamphetamine, sometimes from his home, in Randolph County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen Warner prosecuted the cases on behalf of the government.
Investigative agencies include the Mountain Region Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the Upshur County Sheriff’s Office; and the Buckhannon Police Department.
Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
U.S. Attorney’s Office Filed 102 Border-Related Cases This WeekRead the Press Release
SAN DIEGO – Federal prosecutors in the Southern District of California filed 102 border-related cases this week, including charges of bringing in aliens for financial gain, reentering the U.S. after deportation, and importation of controlled substances.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of California is the fourth-busiest federal district, largely due to a high volume of border-related crimes. This district, encompassing San Diego and Imperial counties, shares a 140-mile border with Mexico. It includes the San Ysidro Port of Entry, the world’s busiest land border crossing, connecting San Diego (America’s eighth largest city) and Tijuana (Mexico’s second largest city).
In addition to reactive border-related crimes, the Southern District of California also prosecutes a significant number of proactive cases related to terrorism, organized crime, drugs, white-collar fraud, violent crime, cybercrime, human trafficking and national security. Recent developments in those and other significant areas of prosecution can be found here.
A sample of border-related arrests this week:
- On September 18, Ruben Castaneda, a United States citizen, was arrested and charged with Importation of a Controlled Substance. According to a complaint, Customs and Border Protection officers found 15 pounds of methamphetamine concealed in the spare tire well of Castaneda’s vehicle when he applied for entry into the U.S. at the San Ysidro Port of Entry.
- On September 18, Efrain Viveros Otero, a citizen of Mexico, was arrested and charged with Deported Alien Found in the United States. According to a complaint, Viveros was intercepted by a Border Patrol agent while hiding near a bush about 1.5 miles east of the Otay Mesa Port of Entry, a half mile north of the U.S.-Mexico border. He had been previously deported in January through San Ysidro.
Also recently, a number of defendants with criminal records were convicted by a jury or sentenced for border-related crimes such as illegally re-entering the U.S. after previous deportation. Here are a few of those cases:
- On September 18, Edgar Ramirez-Guzman, a Mexican national who was previously convicted twice for Inflicting Corporal Injury on Spouse (2013 and 2023) and being a Convicted Felon in Possession of a Firearm (2020), was sentenced in federal court to 12 months and 1 day of custody for attempting to enter the United States again after deportation.
- On September 19, Manuel Francisco Gallegos-Felix, a Mexican national who was previously convicted of conspiracy to possess narcotics with intent to distribute and found with 11 firearms (including a fully automatic machine gun located in his bedroom), was sentenced in federal court to 10 months in custody for again entering the U.S. illegally.
- On September 19, Andrew Aquarious Thomas, a United States citizen, was sentenced in federal court to 15 months in custody for importing 33 kilograms of methamphetamine into the United States from Mexico.
- On September 19, Erik Adrian Serveriano-Torres, a Mexican citizen who has seven prior immigration crimes, was sentenced in federal court to 19 months in custody for again entering the United States illegally.
- On September 19, Francisco Marvel Melchor Rosales, a Mexican national who was previously convicted of felony importation of methamphetamine in 2014, was sentenced to 140 days in custody for again entering the U.S. illegally.
The immigration cases were referred or supported by federal law enforcement partners, including Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations (ICE ERO), Customs and Border Protection, U.S. Border Patrol, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the U.S. Marshals Service (USMS), and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), with the support and assistance of state and local law enforcement partners.
Indictments and criminal complaints are merely allegations and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of New Mexico Weekly Immigration and Border Crimes ReportRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – Today, the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico announced its immigration enforcement statistics for this week. These cases are prosecuted in partnership with the El Paso Sector of the U.S. Border Patrol, along with Homeland Security Investigations El Paso, and assistance from other federal, state, and county agencies.
In the one-week period ending September 19, 2025, the United States Attorney’s Office brought the following criminal charges in New Mexico:
- 65 individuals were charged this week with Illegal Reentry After Deportation (8 U.S.C. 1326)
- 8 individuals were charged this week with Alien Smuggling (8 U.S.C. 1324)
- 44 individuals were charged this week with Illegal Entry (8 U.S.C. 1325)
- 84 individuals were charged this week with Illegal Entry (8 U.S.C. 1325), violation of a military security regulation (50 U.S.C. 797) and Entering Military, Naval, or Coast Guard Property (18 U.S.C. 1382), arising from the newly established National Defense Area in New Mexico.
Many of the defendants charged pursuant to 18 U.S.C. 1326 had prior criminal convictions for illegal reentry, theft, robbery, and possession of counterfeit identification.
These cases are 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.
These statistics represent prosecutions by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico only. The numbers do not include individuals apprehended by immigration enforcement officials and subjected solely to administrative process.
Under current leadership, public safety and a secure border are the top priorities for the District of New Mexico. Enhanced enforcement both at the border and in the interior of the district have yielded aliens engaged in unlawful activity or with serious criminal history, including human trafficking, sexual assault and violence against children.
The District of New Mexico consists of 33 counties and shares 180 miles of international border with Mexico. Assistant U.S. Attorneys from Albuquerque and Las Cruces work directly with our federal, state and local law enforcement partners to prosecute immigration-related and other federal offenses.
U.S. Attorney Tom Albus Welcomes New Citizens at the Old Courthouse in St LouisRead the Press Release
ST. LOUIS – U.S. Attorney Tom Albus on Friday welcomed 29 new citizens from 19 different countries at a naturalization ceremony at the historic Old Courthouse in St. Louis.
Rachel MarshallAt the ceremonies, which are held dozens of time a year in and around St. Louis, new citizens take their oath and receive their Certificate of Citizenship. The U.S. attorney or an assistant U.S. attorney acts as the naturalization examiner.
For more information about becoming a citizen, contact U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services at www.uscis.gov. For information about the ceremonies, click here.
Two New Caney individuals charged for firebombing Buddhist templeRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – Two Montgomery County residents have been indicted in connection with the November 2023 firebombing of the Huyen Trang Buddhist Meditation Center, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Austin Willard Tanton, 28, and Kayla Lynn Thompson, 31, have been charged with conspiracy to commit malicious use of explosive materials and using explosive materials in the commission of a felony. Tanton is also charged with possession of an unregistered destructive device.
They are expected to make their initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Yvonne Ho at 2 p.m.
“The use of firebombs to attack a place of worship is a direct threat to the safety and peace of our community,” said Ganjei. “No one should fear being attacked in their house of worship. The Southern District will continue working with our law enforcement partners to hold accountable those who seek to spread fear and violence through acts of hate or intimidation.”
According to the charges, on Nov. 5, 2023, Tanton allegedly threw a crude incendiary device, known as a Molotov cocktail, through a window of the temple, igniting a fire that damaged a rug and flooring inside the building.
Monks who had been asleep in the temple awoke and quickly extinguished the fire, which caused smoke damage and forced the temple to close temporarily, according to the charges. The indictment alleges that four individuals, including the center’s head nun, were inside.
According to the charges, surveillance video captured a vehicle stopping near the property gate late at night. After the vehicle left, a man allegedly approached the building, broke a window screen, ignited a gasoline-filled jar and threw it inside before fleeing on foot.
The charges alleged the authorities later identified Tanton as the suspect and Thompson as the driver of the vehicle. The two allegedly conspired together, along with others, to carry out the attack on the Buddhist worship center.
“On Nov. 5, 2023, Austin Tanton and Kayla Thompson allegedly conspired to burn down the Huyen Trang Temple in New Caney, TX,” said FBI Houston Special Agent in Charge Douglas Williams. “Their purported actions intimidated a peaceful community, shattered the safety of a neighborhood, and struck at the heart of American religious freedom. For nearly two years, dedicated FBI Houston investigators worked jointly with the Montgomery County Fire Marshal’s Office and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Houston to bring justice in this case. The arrests of Tanton and Thompson make clear that the right to practice one’s faith without fear is a cornerstone of our democracy and will be fiercely defended by the FBI.”
“The deliberate use of firebombs to target a house of worship is both a violent crime and a direct attack on the sense of safety in our community,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Michael Weddel. “ATF remains committed to working alongside our federal, state and local partners to investigate and bring to justice anyone who seeks to spread fear and destruction through explosives and fire.”
If convicted, they both face up to 20 years in federal prison and a maximum $250,000 fine for conspiracy to commit malicious use of explosive materials and use of explosive materials in commission of a felony. Tanton could also face an additional 10 years, served consecutively, and up to a $10,000 fine if convicted of possessing an unregistered destructive device.
The FBI and ATF conducted the investigation with the significant assistance of Montgomery County Fire Marshal’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jennifer Weinhold and Anthony Franklyn are prosecuting the case.
An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.
Two Chinese Chemical Company Executives Sentenced to 25 and 15 Years in Prison, Respectively, for Fentanyl Precursor Importation and Money Laundering OffensesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Jay Clayton, and Administrator of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (“DEA”), Terrance C. Cole, announced that QINGZHOU WANG, a/k/a “Bruce,” and YIYI CHEN, a/k/a “Chiron,” were sentenced to 25 and 15 years in prison, respectively, for fentanyl precursor importation and money laundering offenses. WANG and CHEN, both nationals of China, were found guilty on February 3, 2025, following a two-week jury trial before U.S. District Judge Paul G. Gardephe, who imposed the sentences. WANG, who was also convicted of importing a methamphetamine precursor, was sentenced today, September 18, 2025, and CHEN was sentenced on August 22, 2025.
“American families are burying loved ones because of fentanyl and individuals like Qingzhou Wang and Yiyi Chen who unlawfully market and supply the ingredients to make it,” said U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton. “There is no place to hide for those who callously fuel the fentanyl epidemic, and these sentences—which were only possible because of the extraordinary efforts of the career prosecutors in this Office and our partners at the DEA and abroad—prove it.”
“These executives turned a Chinese chemical company into a pipeline of poison, shipping hundreds of kilos of fentanyl-related precursors into the United States, disguising them as everyday goods, and cashing in through cryptocurrency,” said DEA Administrator Terrance Cole. “Americans were dying, but they kept selling. Thanks to DEA and our global partners, they now face justice, and this case sends a clear message: anyone, anywhere in the world who profits from American deaths will be found and held accountable."
As reflected in the Indictment, public filings, and the evidence presented at trial:
AMARVEL BIOTECH was a chemical manufacturer based in the city of Wuhan, in Hubei province, China, that exported vast quantities of the precursor chemicals used to manufacture fentanyl and its analogues.
During this investigation, AMARVEL BIOTECH and its principal executive, WANG, its marketing manager, CHEN, and a sales representative, FNU LNU, a/k/a “Er Yang,” a/k/a “Anita” (“YANG”), shipped more than 200 kilograms of precursor chemicals used to make fentanyl and its analogues from China to the U.S. They shipped the precursors to the U.S. after being told that the chemicals would be used to produce fentanyl in New York, and then they agreed to supply multi-ton shipments of fentanyl precursors despite being told that Americans had died after consuming fentanyl made from the chemicals that the defendants had sold. In exchange, AMARVEL BIOTECH received tens of thousands of dollars in payment in cryptocurrency.
In or about November 2022, YANG began negotiating the sale of fentanyl and methamphetamine precursors to a DEA confidential source (“CS-1”) posing as a fentanyl trafficker in Mexico with operations in the U.S. AMARVEL BIOTECH thereafter shipped from China to New York approximately 999.7 grams of the fentanyl precursor 1-boc-4-AP, approximately 1,002.6 grams of the fentanyl precursor 1-boc-4-piperidone, and approximately 893.6 grams of the methamphetamine precursor methylamine.
In or about March 2023, WANG and CHEN traveled from China to Bangkok, Thailand, to meet with an individual whom CS-1 represented was CS-1’s boss but who was in fact another DEA confidential source (“CS-2”). During the meeting, WANG and CHEN discussed AMARVEL BIOTECH’s ability to supply ton-quantities of fentanyl precursors to New York for CS-1 and CS-2’s fentanyl manufacturing operation. After CS-2 stated that CS-2 wanted a different formula for manufacturing fentanyl and that several of CS-2’s American customers had purportedly died, WANG and CHEN advised they had “a lot of customers in America and Mexico” who could provide technical assistance with fentanyl production.
After the March 2023 meeting in Bangkok, AMARVEL BIOTECH, WANG, CHEN, and YANG agreed to sell CS-1 and CS-2 approximately 210 kilograms of fentanyl precursors, again in exchange for payment in cryptocurrency. During an April 10, 2023, video call with WANG and CHEN, CS-2 stated that the approximately 210 kilograms of fentanyl precursors would be used to manufacture approximately 50 to 55 kilograms of fentanyl—an amount that, as noted above, could contain approximately 25 million deadly doses.
In or about May 2023, AMARVEL BIOTECH, WANG, CHEN, and YANG sent to the U.S. the shipment ordered by CS-1 and CS-2. On or about May 5, 2023, the DEA retrieved the precursor shipment from a warehouse near Los Angeles, California. Lab testing confirmed the presence of a precursor chemical for a fentanyl analogue. In an encrypted messaging group chat with CS-1, CS-2, WANG, and CHEN, YANG explained that “New York, the United States, has been strict in checking the precursors of the ‘final product’ some time ago, so for the sake of safety, this time it is sent to California.”
In or about June 2023, WANG and CHEN traveled from China to Fiji to meet again with CS-2. During the meeting, WANG and CHEN discussed with CS-2 a multi-ton order of fentanyl precursor chemicals. WANG and CHEN also discussed the need to take additional measures to protect themselves from detection and interdiction of their shipments “because recently American government . . . seized some Mexican group and they followed the routes to China,” where the U.S. Government found “our competitor in China”—an apparent reference to fentanyl-related charges filed in the Southern District of New York and announced in April 2023 against, among others, leadership of the Sinaloa Cartel and certain China-based precursor chemical company executives.
AMARVEL BIOTECH openly advertised online its sale of precursor chemicals for use in manufacturing fentanyl. Through its website and a host of other storefront sites, AMARVEL BIOTECH targeted precursor chemical customers in Mexico, where drug cartels operate clandestine laboratories and distribute finished fentanyl into and throughout the U.S., including by advertising fentanyl precursors as a “Mexico hot sale,” guaranteeing “100% stealth shipping” abroad, and posting to its websites documentation of AMARVEL BIOTECH shipping chemicals to Culiacan, the home city of the Sinaloa Cartel, one of the dominant drug trafficking organizations in the Western Hemisphere and which is largely responsible for the massive influx of fentanyl into the U.S. in recent years.
AMARVEL BIOTECH also endeavored to thwart law enforcement interdiction of its precursor chemical shipments. AMARVEL BIOTECH advertised online the business’s ability to use deceptive packaging—such as packaging indicating the contents are dog food, nuts, or motor oil—to ensure “safe” delivery of the illicit contents of such shipments. During this investigation, law enforcement seized approximately $900,000 in cryptocurrency from accounts tied to AMARVEL BIOTECH and domain names for 12 websites tied to AMARVEL BIOTECH.
* * *
In addition to their respective prison terms, WANG, 37, and CHEN, 33, both of China, were each sentenced to three years of supervised release. WANG was ordered to forfeit $67,168.25, and CHEN was ordered to forfeit internet domain names for 12 websites previously seized by law enforcement.
Mr. Clayton praised the outstanding efforts of the DEA’s Special Operations Division Bilateral Investigations Unit. Mr. Clayton also thanked the DEA Bangkok Country Office, DEA Wellington Country Office, DEA Beijing Country Office, DEA Honolulu District Office, DEA New York Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Strike Force, DEA Riverside District Office, DEA Special Testing Laboratory, the DEA Southwest Laboratory, the Office of International Affairs of the Department of Justice’s Criminal Division, the Royal Thai Police Narcotics Suppression Bureau, the Fiji Police Force Narcotic Bureau, the Fiji Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Hawaii for their assistance.
This case is being handled by the Office’s National Security and International Narcotics Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Alexander Li and Kevin Sullivan are in charge of the prosecution, with assistance from Paralegal Specialist Sabrina Jim Munoz.
Three-Time Convicted Felon Faces Federal Charges after Purple Fentanyl and Numerous Weapons SeizedRead the Press Release
Atlanta – Dontrell Lamar Brown, a three-time convicted felon, was arraigned in federal court earlier today on charges related to his alleged distribution of large amounts of “purple” fentanyl and possession of numerous firearms in his Midtown Atlanta condominium. Brown’s girlfriend, Karleah Edwards, also faces charges for allegedly moving the fentanyl out of Brown’s condominium to conceal it from law enforcement.
“Despite three prior drug felony convictions, Brown allegedly continued his criminal activities by distributing fentanyl and illegally possessing numerous weapons to protect his drugs and money,” said U.S. Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg. “Due to strong law enforcement partnerships, Brown now faces serious federal drug and weapons charges, and his lethal fentanyl and weapons cache are off of the street.”
“This case exemplifies the importance of collaboration among law enforcement agencies,” said ATF Acting Assistant Special Agent in Charge Brian “Chris” Johnson. “By working together, we can effectively combat the threats posed by drug traffickers and keep our neighborhoods safe from violence and illegal firearms.”
According to U.S. Attorney Hertzberg, the charges, and other information presented in court: On June 19, 2025, Brown was arrested on outstanding warrants after he fled from a traffic stop in DeKalb County. While in the DeKalb County Jail, Brown allegedly made recorded jail calls instructing Edwards, in coded language, to remove drugs from his midtown condominium and give them to another individual. Using a ruse concocted by Brown, Edwards allegedly gained access to the condominium and removed a briefcase containing over eight pounds of fentanyl. The DeKalb County Police Department later recovered this “purple” fentanyl at a residence in Stone Mountain. On June 24, 2025, law enforcement executed a search warrant on Brown’s condominium and seized six firearms scattered throughout the residence, including a rifle with a large capacity magazine, over $30,000 in cash, a wrapper containing purple residue, a kilogram press, and a money counter.
Brown has three prior felony convictions from the Gwinnett County Superior Court, including sale of methamphetamine and cocaine, in 2015; possession of cocaine, in 2017; and possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute, possession of a firearm during commission of a felony, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and theft by receiving stolen property, in 2023.
Dontrell Lamar Brown, 32, of Atlanta, Georgia, was indicted by a federal grand jury on September 9, 2025, on charges of conspiracy and possession with the intent to distribute fentanyl, possession of firearms by a convicted felon, and possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. The indictment also charges Karleah Edwards, 26, of Scottdale, Georgia, with conspiracy and possession with the intent to distribute fentanyl.
Members of the public are reminded that the indictment only contains charges. The defendants are presumed innocent of the charges, and it will be the government’s burden to prove the defendants’ guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.
This case is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the DeKalb County Police Department’s HIDTA, Narcotics, and Gang Units. Valuable assistance has been provided by the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office and the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office.
Assistant United States Attorney Michael Herskowitz is prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations, and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces and Project Safe Neighborhood.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office in Atlanta recommends parents and children learn about the dangers of drugs at the following web site: www.justthinktwice.gov.
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.
Three Mexican Nationals Arrested for Conspiracy to Distribute 133.5 Pounds of MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
PHOENIX, Ariz. – On September 17, Mariano Gomez Padilla, 28, Eduardo Garcia Lopez, 21, and Abel Martinez Valenzuela, 25, all Mexican nationals living in Arizona, were charged by federal criminal complaint with Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.
According to the complaint, on September 17, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) East Valley Drug Enforcement Task Force agents established surveillance at an apartment complex in Glendale, Arizona, in anticipation of an expected methamphetamine drug purchase. From the complex, agents followed Gomez Padilla and Garcia Lopez as they drove in tandem to another location in Glendale.
During the drive, agents attempted to stop the suspects’ vehicles, but both drivers failed to yield. Instead, Garcia Lopez exited his vehicle and fled but was apprehended after a short foot pursuit. Gomez Padilla also failed to yield to law enforcement and instead rammed his vehicle into one of the agent’s cars as well as two other vehicles parked on the street, causing significant damage. Shortly thereafter, Gomez Padilla and Martinez Valenzuela, who was riding as a passenger in Gomez Padilla’s vehicle, were also apprehended after trying to flee on foot.
Agents searched the vehicles and seized approximately 61.75 pounds of methamphetamine from the car that Garcia Lopez had been driving. Agents also searched a nearby Ford F-250 associated with the investigation and seized an additional 71.75 pounds of methamphetamine, which was packed identically to the drugs found in Garcia Lopez’s car.
Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute 500 grams or More of Methamphetamine carries a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years up to life in prison and a fine of up to $10,000,000.
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).
The Drug Enforcement Administration Phoenix East Valley Drug Enforcement Task Force HIDTA and the Mesa Police Department conducted the investigation in this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Stuart Zander, District of Arizona, Phoenix, is handling the prosecution.
A criminal complaint is a formal accusation of criminal conduct. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
CASE NUMBER: 25-MJ-8495-PHX-JZB
RELEASE NUMBER: 2025-153_Gomez Padilla, et al# # #
For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on Twitter @USAO_AZ for the latest news.Three Members of MS-13 Convicted of Two Murders and Multiple Attempted MurdersRead the Press Release
U.S. vs. Wilson Arturo Constanza-Galdomez, Edis Omar Valenzuela-Rodriguez, and Jonathan Pesquera-Puerto, Defendants, No. 1:22-cr-00409-SAG, filed 05/08/25Baltimore, Maryland – Today, a federal jury convicted three men, Wilson Arturo Constanza-Galdomez, also known as Humilde and Marco Saravia, 26, of El Salvador, Edis Omar Valenzuela-Rodriguez, also known as Little Felon, 24, of Honduras, and Jonathan Pesquera-Puerto, also known as Truney, 24, of Honduras; for conspiracy to participate in a racketeering enterprise involving murders, and attempted murders, as well as murder in aid of racketeering.
Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the convictions with Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti, Justice Department, Criminal Division, and Assistant Director Jose A. Perez, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) – Criminal Investigative Division.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, the defendants were members and associates of La Mara Salvatrucha, commonly known as MS-13, a transnational criminal organization composed primarily of immigrants or descendants of immigrants from Central America, with members operating in the State of Maryland, including in Baltimore City and Baltimore County, and throughout the United States. In Maryland and elsewhere, MS-13 members are organized in “cliques,” smaller groups that operate in a specific city or region. The defendants, as members and associates of MS-13, were required to commit acts of violence to increase their status and rank within the gang. One of the principal rules of MS-13 is that its members must attack and kill rivals, known as “chavalas,” whenever possible. In Baltimore City and Baltimore County, MS-13 maintained a rivalry with the 18th Street Gang, among others.
“The MS-13 gang continues to show a total disregard for human life,” Hayes said. “These defendants’ commitment to carrying out multiple vicious attacks and murders, including the killing a 16-year-old girl, is unconscionable. Members of this ruthless, international gang thrive on murdering and terrorizing others, and in this case, did so to advance their standing within this lawless organization. We, along with our law-enforcement partners, are committed to relentlessly pursuing and prosecuting those who commit these despicable crimes and dismantling the violent criminal organizations that terrorize our communities.”
“Over the course of a few short months, these defendants – seeking to be promoted within the ranks of the designated foreign terrorist organization MS-13 – spread fear through the streets of Baltimore by committing brutal and heinous acts, including the murder of two young women,” Galeotti said. “Today’s verdict demonstrates the Department of Justice’s unwavering commitment to prosecuting MS-13 members to the fullest extent of the law in order to eradicate the transnational street gang, obtain a measure of justice for their victims, and restore the safety and security of our communities.”
“The defendants convicted today engaged in excessive and brutal violence as members of MS-13, a transnational criminal organization that routinely shows contempt for the rule of law,” Perez said. “We are proud of the work that has taken these individuals off the streets so that they can no longer harm the community of the greater Baltimore area, and we will continue our nationwide efforts in thwarting MS-13.”
Constanza-Galdomez and Pesquera-Puerto were members or associates of the Carlington Locos Salvatrucha (CALS) clique, and Valenzuela-Rodriguez was a member of the Huntington Criminales Locos Salvatrucha (HCLS) clique. From June 2019 through at least October 2021, the defendants participated in the racketeering activities of MS-13, including two murders, four attempted murders, and witness tampering.
On April 25, 2020, Constanza-Galdomez, Valenzuela-Rodriguez, and other members and associates of MS-13 conspired to assault a man whom they suspected was a rival gang member. That same day, they allegedly assaulted the victim in Baltimore by striking him with machetes multiple times, causing injuries to the victim’s face and arm.
On May 29, 2020, Constanza-Galdomez, Valenzuela-Rodriguez, Pesquera-Puerto, and other members and associates of MS-13 lured Gabriela Gonzalez-Ardon, a 16-year-old girl whom they suspected of associating with rival gang members, to an area near Loch Raven Reservoir in Cockeysville, Maryland. There the defendants and other members and associates of MS-13 struck her with a machete and stabbed her multiple times, murdering her. After the murder, members and associates of MS-13 reported the murder to MS-13 leadership to get credit for participating in the murder and to increase their status within MS-13.
On June 5, 2020, Constanza-Galdomez, Valenzuela-Rodriguez, and other MS-13 members and associates lured Michelle Tenezaca, whom they suspected was a rival gang member that cooperated with law enforcement, to an area near the CSX Bayview Train Yard in Baltimore, Maryland. There the gang stabbed her 143 times, killing her and leaving her body near the train tracks. After the murder, members and associates of MS-13 reported the murder to MS-13 leadership to get credit for participating in the murder and to increase their status within MS-13.
In June 2020, Constanza-Galdomez, Valenzuela-Rodriguez, and other members and associates of MS-13, conspired to murder a man who had disputes with the gang. Therefore, on June 6, 2020, Constanza-Galdomez, Valenzuela-Rodriguez, and other MS-13 members and associates confronted the man and his girlfriend, the sister of one of the homicide victims, at a library in Baltimore, Maryland. Constanza-Galdomez, Valenzuela-Rodriguez, and other members and associates of MS-13 then ordered younger members of the gang to take the woman to an area near the train tracks where Michelle Tenezaca was killed. The younger members of the gang then stabbed the woman over 70 times. Constanza-Galdomez, Valenzuela-Rodriguez, and other members and associates of MS-13 then forced the male, at knifepoint to go to Dundalk, Maryland, to murder him. The defendants then attempted to murder the man by stabbing him multiple times with knives. Both victims survived the attacks.
Constanza-Galdomez was convicted of conspiracy to participate in a racketeering enterprise and two counts of murder in aid of racketeering. He faces a mandatory minimum penalty of life in prison. Valenzuela-Rodriguez was convicted of conspiracy to participate in a racketeering enterprise and two counts of murder in aid of racketeering. He faces a mandatory minimum penalty of life in prison. Pesquera-Puerto was convicted of conspiracy to participate in a racketeering enterprise and one count of murder in aid of racketeering. He faces a mandatory minimum penalty of life in prison. A federal district court judge determines sentencing after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the FBI, Homeland Security Investigations, United States Marshal’s Service, Baltimore County Police Department, and Baltimore City Police Department for their work in the investigation, along with the offices of Ivan J. Bates, Baltimore City State’s Attorney, and Scott Shellenberger, Baltimore County State’s Attorney, for their valuable assistance with this case. Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney James Wallner, U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland, and Trial Attorneys Grace Bowen and Chrisopher Taylor, Justice Department – Violent Crime and Racketeering Section, who are prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN).
Anyone with information about MS-13 is encouraged to provide their tips to law enforcement. The FBI and HSI both have nationwide tiplines that you can call to report what you know. You can reach the FBI at 1-866-STP-MS13 (1-866-787-6713), or call HSI at 1-866-DHS-2-ICE.
For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, please visit justice.gov/usao-md and justice.gov/usao-md/community-outreach.
# # #
Three Members of MS-13 Convicted of Two Murders and Multiple Attempted MurdersRead the Press Release
CORRECTION: an earlier version incorrectly mentioned drug trafficking offenses
Today, a federal jury in Maryland convicted three men, Wilson Arturo Constanza-Galdomez, also known as Humilde and Marco Saravia, 26, of El Salvador, Edis Omar Valenzuela-Rodriguez, also known as Little Felon, 24, of Honduras, and Jonathan Pesquera-Puerto, also known as Truney, 24, of Honduras; for conspiracy to participate in a racketeering enterprise involving murders, attempted murders, as well as murder in aid of racketeering.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, the defendants were members and associates of La Mara Salvatrucha, commonly known as MS-13, a transnational criminal organization composed primarily of immigrants or descendants of immigrants from Central America, with members operating in the State of Maryland, including in Baltimore City and Baltimore County, and throughout the United States. In Maryland and elsewhere, MS-13 members are organized in “cliques,” smaller groups that operate in a specific city or region. The defendants, as members and associates of MS-13, were required to commit acts of violence to increase their status and rank within the gang. One of the principal rules of MS-13 is that its members must attack and kill rivals, known as “chavalas,” whenever possible. In Baltimore City and Baltimore County, MS-13 maintained a rivalry with the 18th Street Gang, among others.
“Over the course of a few short months, these defendants – seeking to be promoted within the ranks of the designated foreign terrorist organization MS-13 – spread fear through the streets of Baltimore by committing brutal and heinous acts, including the murder of two young women,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Today’s verdict demonstrates the Department of Justice’s unwavering commitment to prosecuting MS-13 members to the fullest extent of the law in order to eradicate the transnational street gang, obtain a measure of justice for their victims, and restore the safety and security of our communities.”
“The MS-13 gang continues to show a total disregard for human life,” said U.S. Attorney Kelly O. Hayes for the District of Maryland. “These defendants’ commitment to carrying out multiple vicious attacks and murders, including the killing a 16-year-old girl, is unconscionable. Members of this ruthless, international gang thrive on murdering and terrorizing others, and in this case, did so to advance their standing within this lawless organization. We, along with our law-enforcement partners, are committed to relentlessly pursuing and prosecuting those who commit these despicable crimes and dismantling the violent criminal organizations that terrorize our communities.”
“The defendants convicted today engaged in excessive and brutal violence as members of MS-13, a transnational criminal organization that routinely shows contempt for the rule of law,” said Assistant Director Jose A. Perez of the FBI’s Criminal Investigative Division. “We are proud of the work that has taken these individuals off the streets so that they can no longer harm the community of the greater Baltimore area, and we will continue our nationwide efforts in thwarting MS-13.”
Constanza-Galdomez and Pesquera-Puerto were members or associates of the Carlington Locos Salvatrucha (CALS) clique, and Valenzuela-Rodriguez was a member of the Huntington Criminales Locos Salvatrucha (HCLS) clique. From June 2019 through at least October 2021, the defendants participated in the racketeering activities of MS-13, including two murders, four attempted murders, and witness tampering.
On April 25, 2020, Constanza-Galdomez, Valenzuela-Rodriguez, and other members and associates of MS-13 conspired to assault a man whom they suspected was a rival gang member. That same day, they allegedly assaulted the victim in Baltimore by striking him with machetes multiple times, causing injuries to the victim’s face and arm.
On May 29, 2020, Constanza-Galdomez, Valenzuela-Rodriguez, Pesquera-Puerto, and other members and associates of MS-13 lured Gabriela Gonzalez-Ardon, a 16-year-old girl whom they suspected of associating with rival gang members, to an area near Loch Raven Reservoir in Cockeysville, Maryland. There the defendants and other members and associates of MS-13 struck her with a machete and stabbed her multiple times, murdering her. After the murder, members and associates of MS-13 reported the murder to MS-13 leadership to get credit for participating in the murder and to increase their status within MS-13.
On June 5, 2020, Constanza-Galdomez, Valenzuela-Rodriguez, and other MS-13 members and associates lured Michelle Tenezaca, whom they suspected was a rival gang member that cooperated with law enforcement, to an area near the CSX Bayview Train Yard in Baltimore, Maryland. There the gang stabbed her 143 times, killing her and leaving her body near the train tracks. After the murder, members and associates of MS-13 reported the murder to MS-13 leadership to get credit for participating in the murder and to increase their status within MS-13.
Photograph of MS-13 graffiti near the CSX Bayview Train Yard in Baltimore, MarylandIn June 2020, Constanza-Galdomez, Valenzuela-Rodriguez, and other members and associates of MS-13, conspired to murder a man who had disputes with the gang. Therefore, on June 6, 2020, Constanza-Galdomez, Valenzuela-Rodriguez, and other MS-13 members and associates confronted the man and his girlfriend, the sister of one of the homicide victims, at a library in Baltimore, Maryland. Constanza-Galdomez, Valenzuela-Rodriguez, and other members and associates of MS-13 then ordered younger members of the gang to take the woman to an area near the train tracks where Michelle Tenezaca was killed. The younger members of the gang then stabbed the woman over 70 times. Constanza-Galdomez, Valenzuela-Rodriguez, and other members and associates of MS-13 then forced the male, at knifepoint to go to Dundalk, Maryland to murder him. The defendants then attempted to murder the man by stabbing him multiple times with knives. Both victims survived the attacks.
Constanza-Galdomez was convicted of conspiracy to participate in a racketeering enterprise and two counts of murder in aid of racketeering. He faces a mandatory minimum penalty of life in prison. Valenzuela-Rodriguez was convicted of conspiracy to participate in a racketeering enterprise and two counts of murder in aid of racketeering. He faces a mandatory minimum penalty of life in prison. Pesquera-Puerto was convicted of conspiracy to participate in a racketeering enterprise and one count of murder in aid of racketeering. He faces a mandatory minimum penalty of life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division and U.S. Attorney Kelly O. Hayes made the announcement, and also thank Baltimore City State’s Attorney Ivan J. Bates and Baltimore County State’s Attorney Scott Shellenberger for their offices’ assistance in the case.
The FBI, Homeland Security Investigations, the Baltimore County Police Department, the Baltimore City Police Department, and the U.S. Marshals Service investigated the case.
Trial Attorneys Grace Bowen and Chrisopher Taylor of the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney James Wallner for the District of Maryland are prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN).
Anyone with information about MS-13 is encouraged to provide their tips to law enforcement. The FBI and HSI both have nationwide tiplines that you can call to report what you know. You can reach the FBI at 1-866-STP-MS13 (1-866-787-6713), or call HSI at 1-866-DHS-2-ICE.
Texarkana Man Sentenced to 14 Years in Federal Prison for Methamphetamine TraffickingRead the Press Release
TEXARKANA – A Texarkana man was sentenced on September 17, 2025, to 168 months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, for possessing over a kilogram of pure methamphetamine with intent to distribute. The Honorable Chief Judge Susan O. Hickey presided over the sentencing hearing in the United States District Court at Texarkana.
According to court records, on March 26, 2024, Miller County Sheriff’s Office investigators executed a search warrant at the Texarkana, Arkansas, residence of Christopher D. Nard, age 40, also known as “Killa Chris.” Inside Nard’s residence, investigators found and seized approximately 2.3 pounds of methamphetamine, a loaded firearm, and a large amount of cash. Following Miranda warnings, Nard admitted he had been trafficking pound quantities of the drug weekly for some time.
U.S. Attorney David Clay Fowlkes made the announcement.
The Miller County Sheriff’s Office and the FBI investigated the case,
Assistant U.S. Attorney Graham Jones prosecuted the case.
Related court documents may be found on the Public Access to Electronic Records website at www.pacer.gov.
St. Augustine Man Pleads Guilty to Tax FraudRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces that Robert George Morgen, Jr. has pleaded guilty to willfully making a false tax return. Morgen faces up to three years in federal prison. He has also agreed to pay $280,910 in restitution to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). His sentencing date has not yet been set.
According to court documents, in March 2019, Morgen submitted a false tax return for the 2017 tax year. Morgen knew that when he signed his tax return that his gross receipts and income were higher than reported. Due to multiple years of false reporting, Morgen owes the IRS $280,910 in back taxes.
This case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney John Cannizzaro.
Six-Time Deported Guatemalan National Indicted for Illegal Reentry into the United StatesRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces the return of an indictment charging Jose Godinez-Mendoza (39, Guatemala) with illegal reentry into the United States by a previously deported alien. If convicted, Godinez-Mendoza faces up to two years in federal prison and subsequent deportation and removal from the United States.
According to court documents, Godinez-Mendoza was previously removed from the United States on six separate occasions from December 29, 2011, through his most recent deportation on December 28, 2018. Godinez-Mendoza has never applied to U.S. immigration authorities for permission to lawfully reenter the United States.
On September 7, 2025, Godinez-Mendoza was found voluntarily back in the United States in the St. Augustine area, where he was encountered during a traffic stop by a deputy with the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office. On September 11, 2025, he was arrested by federal agents and detained pending trial in this case.
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 Homeland Security Investigations and the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney D. Rodney Brown.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the United States Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect communities from the perpetrators of violent crime and human trafficking.
Sex Offender Sentenced to Ten Years for Possession of Child Sex Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge Thomas P. Barber has sentenced Michael Alan Schumaker (57, Port Richey) to 10 years in federal prison for possession of child sex abuse material (CSAM). Schumaker pleaded guilty on May 16, 2025.
According to court documents, in 2021, law enforcement received a cyber tip about a user uploading images of CSAM to a social media platform. The investigation led to Schumaker, a registered sexual offender. Law enforcement located more than 25 images and 23 videos of CSAM on Schumaker’s cellphone. Schumaker admitted to viewing the CSAM.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Courtney Derry.
This is another case brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify, rescue, and seek justice for child victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Savannah Man Sentenced for Possession of a MachinegunRead the Press Release
Savannah man sentenced to 37 months imprisonment for the illegal possession of a machinegun
SAVANNAH, GA: Javon Edwards (31) of Savannah, Georgia, pled guilty to the Illegal Possession of a Machinegun in April 2025.
On September 11, 2025, Edwards was brought before Chief Judge R. Stan Baker for the United States District Court for the Southern District of Georgia for sentencing. Edwards was sentenced to 37 months imprisonment followed by 3 years of supervised release.
“Sadly, we have seen an unfortunate uptick in criminals possessing illegal conversion devices that transform semi-automatic pistols into fully automatic weapons of war. We will continue to work with our state and federal partners to apprehend these criminals and ensure they are brought to justice,” stated Margaret Heap, United States Attorney.
"The illegal possession of machineguns is not just a violation of the law; it endangers our communities, and we will continue to pursue those who threaten public safety,” said ATF Acting Assistant Special Agent Robert Davis.
This investigation took place under the umbrella of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Neighborhoods (“PSN”), a program that has been successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer.
The case was being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives along with the Savannah Police Department. The case is being prosecuted for the United States by Special Assistant United States Attorney Makeia R. Jonese.
Rockford Man Sentenced to over a Year in Prison for Straw Purchasing FirearmsRead the Press Release
ROCKFORD — A Rockford man was sentenced yesterday to thirteen months in federal prison for straw purchasing three firearms.
JAMARIUS HOLMAN, 25, pleaded guilty earlier this year to one count of knowingly providing a false and fictitious written statement to a federally licensed dealer of firearms, misrepresenting that he was the actual buyer of the firearms, when, in fact, he knew he was not the actual buyer.
Holman admitted that in May of 2023, he purchased three firearms in two separate transactions for an individual who was legally prohibited from owning a firearm and did not have a valid Firearm Owners Identification. Holman falsely completed firearms transaction records indicating that he was the actual transferee/buyer of the firearms.
Holman was sentenced on Thursday by U.S. District Judge Iain D. Johnston in federal court in Rockford.
The sentence was announced by Andrew S. Boutros, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois; and Christopher Amon, Special Agent-in-Charge of ATF’s Chicago Field Division.
Holding illegal firearm possessors accountable through federal prosecution is a centerpiece of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). In the Northern District of Illinois, the U.S. Attorney’s Office and law enforcement partners have deployed the PSN program to tackle a broad range of violent crime issues facing the district, particularly firearm offenses. The government was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert S. Ladd.
Ponte Vedra Man Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy to Traffic Firearms and Controlled SubstancesRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces that Braden Huston Hobbs (27, Ponte Vedra) has pleaded guilty to conspiracy to traffic firearms, making a materially false statement to a licensed firearms dealer, and conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, including 500 grams or more of cocaine. Hobbs faces up to 15 years in federal prison for the conspiracy offense, up to 10 years’ imprisonment for the false statement offense, and a minimum of 5 years, up to 40 years, in federal prison for the drug offense. His sentencing hearing has not yet been scheduled.
According to court documents and court proceedings, law enforcement began investigating Hobbs after learning that several firearms purchased by him were recovered during unrelated law enforcement investigations. These firearms were recovered in the homes of drug distributors and a convicted felon. Additionally, during a series of controlled purchases conducted in the summer of 2024, agents purchased 11 firearms from two co-conspirators, Alton Wayne Cope III and Jayden Lance Cope, who were also prosecuted. Hobbs was the original purchaser of multiple firearms purchased from the Copes. Cellphone records later showed that Jayden Cope regularly purchased firearms from Hobbs.
Further investigation revealed that between March 2022 and June 2024, Hobbs had purchased at least 120 firearms from three different federally licensed firearms dealers in Jacksonville, with 67 of those firearms being purchased between January and June 2024. Hobbs then sold those firearms to others. On multiple occasions, Hobbs advertised firearms for sale to potential customers before acquiring the firearms from the federally licensed firearms dealer.
Customers typically paid Hobbs in cash or traded drugs in exchange for the firearms. Hobbs was aware that some of his customers intended to resell the firearms, were drug users, or were drug distributors. Hobbs also asked his co-conspirators to assist him in finding buyers for the firearms and the co-conspirators advertised Hobbs’s firearms for sale. Hobbs told people that he “deal[s]” in firearms. Although he engaged in the business of dealing firearms, Hobbs was not a federally licensed firearms dealer, as required by federal law.
When Hobbs purchased the firearms from the federally licensed firearms dealers, he indicated on the required ATF Form 4473 that he was the actual buyer or transferee of the firearms. In addition, Hobbs indicated that he was not a user of or addicted to controlled substances. Both statements were false as Hobbs intended to sell the firearms and therefore was not the actual buyer or transferee of them. Further, he was a habitual user of controlled substances.
In addition, Hobbs distributed controlled substances, including over 500 grams of cocaine and Adderall. Hobbs routinely advertised controlled substances for sale and coordinated narcotics transactions. Hobbs often sold the controlled substances to the same individuals to whom he was selling firearms. On June 26, 2024, Hobbs was arrested by the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office for driving under the influence and trafficking in cocaine. During a search of Hobbs’s car, officers seized more than 200 grams of cocaine and 17 grams of Adderall, as well as various items used to package and distribute controlled substances.
In related court proceedings, Alton Wayne Cope III was sentenced to 4 years and 3 months in federal prison for possessing a firearm as a convicted felon and conspiring to deal firearms without a license. Jayden Lance Cope has pleaded guilty to conspiring to deal firearms without a license. His sentencing hearing is scheduled for October 2025.
This case is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation, the United States Secret Service, the North Florida HIDTA Tri-County Narcotics Task Force with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office, and the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Elisibeth Adams.
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 Project Safe Neighborhoods.
Pinedale Man Sentenced for Violent Knife AttackRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Pinedale man was sentenced to 37 months in prison for slashing a man’s throat during a confrontation.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court documents, on February 17, 2025, Laberto Curley, 25, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, used a knife to slash John Doe’s throat during a physical altercation, resulting in serious bodily injury. Fortunately, others nearby were able to intervene, disarming Curley and tending to John Doe’s injuries while Curley fled the scene.
Upon his release from prison, Curley will be subject to three years of supervised release.
Acting U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Philip Russell, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Gallup Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Police Department and Navajo Department of Criminal Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jesse Pecoraro prosecuted the case.