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Monday 28 July 2025
Arizona Man Pleads Guilty to Money Laundering Charges Related to a $13M Ponzi SchemeRead the Press Release
An Arizona man pleaded guilty today to money laundering and conspiracy to obstruct justice for his role in a scheme to defraud investors.
According to court documents, Vincent Anthony Mazzotta Jr., 54, also known as Vincent Midnight, Delta Prime, and Director Vinchenzo, formerly of the Hollywood Hills area of Los Angeles but residing in Arizona, conspired with his co-defendant and others to defraud investors by falsely promising high-yield profits from investments in cryptocurrency markets using automated trading robots powered by artificial intelligence.
“Vincent Mazzotta defrauded investors in a sophisticated cryptocurrency scheme and then doubled down by using a fake government entity to further victimize those who had entrusted him with their money,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Combatting fraud in digital assets is critical to the Criminal Division’s efforts to vindicate victims’ interests and to keep bad actors out of the crypto markets. The Department and its law enforcement partners will aggressively pursue and hold accountable fraudsters who use the veneer of legitimacy and public trust to steal from investors.”
“New types of investments such as Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies may seem alluring, but they also carry the risk of criminals using their relative novelty to prey on victims,” said U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli for the Central District of California. “I encourage investors to be skeptical when approached by anyone promising novel riches. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”
“The defendants in this case purported to be U.S. governmental entities to legitimize their scams, before ultimately attracting the scrutiny of actual federal authorities who were special agents from IRS Criminal Investigation,” said Special Agent in Charge Tyler Hatcher of the IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) Los Angeles Field Office. “Today’s admission of guilt is another example of our resolve and unique ability to unravel complex financial transactions regardless of how sophisticated the scheme may be.”
Mazzotta and his co-defendant, David Saffron, falsely promised victims short-term, high-yield returns from cryptocurrency trading if the victims invested with cryptocurrency investment companies Mind Capital, Cloud9Capital and others. They also created a fictitious government entity called the Federal Crypto Reserve (FCR) and further victimized the investors by soliciting thousands of dollars to hire the FCR to “investigate” Mind Capital, Cloud9Capital and other crypto-investment firms that had disappeared with the victims’ investments. Mazzotta and Saffron defrauded victims of more than $13 million.
According to court documents, Mazzotta also conspired with others to obstruct justice. Specifically, Mazzotta worked with other co-conspirators after Saffron’s initial arrest to conceal and destroy evidence at Saffron’s apartment, including an iPad and the contents of a personal safe. Mazzotta also conspired to falsify the records of his business, Runway Beauty Inc., to conceal his involvement in the investment fraud scheme from a federal grand jury.
Mazzotta pleaded guilty to one count of money laundering and one count of conspiracy to obstruct justice. He faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison on the money laundering count and a maximum penalty of five years in prison on the conspiracy to obstruct justice count. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
IRS-CI is investigating the case.
Trial Attorneys Theodore Kneller and Siji Moore of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney James Hughes for the Central District of California are prosecuting the case.
If you believe you are a victim in this case, please contact the Fraud Section’s Victim Witness Unit toll-free at (888) 549-3945 or by email at [email protected]. To learn more about victims’ rights, please visit www.justice.gov/criminal/criminal-vns/victim-rights-derechos-de-las-v-ctimas.
Arizona Man Pleads Guilty to Money Laundering Charges Related to Ponzi Scheme that Resulted in $13 Million in Investor LossesRead the Press Release
LOS ANGELES – An Arizona man pleaded guilty today to money laundering and conspiracy to obstruct justice for his role in a scheme to defraud investors.
Vincent Anthony Mazzotta Jr., 54, a.k.a. “Vincent Midnight”, “Delta Prime,” and “Director Vinchenzo,” formerly of Hollywood Hills but currently residing in Arizona, conspired with his co-defendant and others to defraud investors by falsely promising high-yield profits from investments in cryptocurrency markets using automated trading robots powered by artificial intelligence, according to court documents.
Mazzotta pleaded guilty to one count of money laundering and one count of conspiracy to obstruct justice.
United States District Judge Dale S. Fischer scheduled a December 15 sentencing hearing, at which time Mazzotta will face a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison on the money laundering count and a maximum penalty of five years in federal prison on the conspiracy to obstruct justice count.
“New types of investments such as Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies may seem alluring, but they also carry the risk of criminals using their relative novelty to prey on victims,” said United States Attorney Bill Essayli. “I encourage investors to be skeptical when approached by anyone promising novel riches. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”
“Vincent Mazzotta defrauded investors in a sophisticated cryptocurrency scheme and then doubled down by using a fake government entity to further victimize those who had entrusted him with their money,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Combatting fraud in digital assets is critical to the Criminal Division’s efforts to vindicate victims’ interests and to keep bad actors out of the crypto markets. The Department and its law enforcement partners will aggressively pursue and hold accountable fraudsters who use the veneer of legitimacy and public trust to steal from investors.”
“The defendants in this case purported to be U.S. governmental entities to legitimize their scams, before ultimately attracting the scrutiny of actual federal authorities who were special agents from IRS Criminal Investigation,” said Special Agent in Charge Tyler Hatcher of the IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) Los Angeles Field Office. “Today’s admission of guilt is another example of our resolve and unique ability to unravel complex financial transactions regardless of how sophisticated the scheme may be.”
Mazzotta and his co-defendant, David Saffron, falsely promised victims short-term, high-yield returns from cryptocurrency trading if the victims invested with cryptocurrency investment companies Mind Capital, Cloud9Capital and others. They also created a fictitious government entity called the Federal Crypto Reserve (FCR) and further victimized the investors by soliciting thousands of dollars to hire the FCR to “investigate” Mind Capital, Cloud9Capital and other crypto-investment firms that had disappeared with the victims’ investments. Mazzotta and Saffron defrauded victims of more than $13 million.
According to court documents, Mazzotta also conspired with others to obstruct justice. Specifically, Mazzotta worked with other co-conspirators after Saffron’s initial arrest to conceal and destroy evidence at Saffron’s apartment, including an iPad and the contents of a personal safe. Mazzotta also conspired to falsify the records of his business, Runway Beauty Inc., to conceal his involvement in the investment fraud scheme from a federal grand jury.
IRS Criminal Investigation is investigating this matter.
Assistant United States Attorney James C. Hughes of the Major Frauds Section and Justice Department Trial Attorneys Theodore Kneller and Siji Moore of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section are prosecuting this case.
Armed Drug Trafficker Sentenced to Federal Prison for Narcotics and Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
GAINESVILLE, FLORIDA – Eric Shirone Thompson, 47, of Gainesville, Florida was sentenced to 168 months in federal prison after previously pleading guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine, fentanyl, and marijuana, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “My office is dedicated to making our community the safest place to live and raise children. Today’s sentence is another achievement in furtherance of that objective. But we will not stop here. We will continue to aggressively prosecute armed drug traffickers like Mr. Thompson who present a danger to the health and safety of our community until all drug trafficking organizations in our community are dismantled and eliminated.”
According to court documents, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Thompson’s residence, where they found Thompson attempting to flush fentanyl down a toilet. During a search of the residence, law enforcement also located two loaded firearms and drug paraphernalia consistent with drug dealing, including baggies and cooking utensils with cocaine residue. Additional investigation revealed that Thompson conspired with other individuals to possess and distribute cocaine, marijuana, and “molly” in the Northern District of Florida.
The conviction and sentence were the result of a joint investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Gainesville Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Adam Hapner.
“This joint investigation involving state and federal law enforcement agencies shows how integral partnerships are in the fight against drug traffickers,” said Drug Enforcement Administration Miami Field Division Special Agent in Charge Deanne L. Reuter. “We each bring specific skills to the investigation, and this leads to more success. These communities will benefit greatly from this drug trafficker being off the streets.”
“This case and subsequent federal prosecution sends a clear message: we will not tolerate drug trafficking in our community. We remain committed to working with our federal partners to hold offenders accountable and protect the safety of our residents,” said Chief Moya of the Gainesville Police Department.
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 available 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.
Armed Drug Dealer Sentenced to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
GAINESVILLE, FLORIDA – Isaih Malik Cox, a/k/a “Glizzy,” 27, of Gainesville, Florida was sentenced to 90 months in federal prison after previously pleading guilty to possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance, and carrying a firearm in relation to a drug-trafficking offense. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “The defendant’s conviction and sentence is the result of excellent work by local and federal law enforcement and my office. In collaboration with our partners in and around the Northern District of Florida, we will continue to aggressively prosecute armed drug traffickers like the defendant who present a danger to the health and safety of our community until all drug trafficking organizations in our community are dismantled and eliminated.”
“We are committed to holding criminals accountable in close coordination with our federal partners. Our community will continue to stand strong against drug dealers who carry firearms and threaten the safety of our neighborhoods,” said Chief Nelson Moya, Gainesville Police Department.
According to court documents, while traveling in a vehicle in Gainesville, Florida, the defendant possessed a loaded pistol with an extended magazine and approximately 54 grams of a controlled substance commonly known as “molly,” which he intended to distribute. Prior to getting in the vehicle, the defendant was seen leaving an apartment where he had an AR-15 style pistol loaded with 32 rounds of ammunition.
The conviction and sentence were the result of a joint investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Gainesville Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Adam Hapner.
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 available 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.
Friday 25 July 2025
Vehicle Theft Investigation Leads to 33-Year Federal Prison Sentence for Production of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
An Arlington resident was sentenced to 405 months in federal prison for Production of Child Pornography and Illegal Possession of a Machinegun, announced Acting United States Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Nancy E. Larson.
Court documents revealed that in late September 2024, the Bedford Police Department began investigating a theft of a truck that belonged to a business in Bedford, Texas. A few days later, the Arlington Police Department recovered the vehicle and returned it to the owners. Multiple bags containing cell phones and illegal firearms that belonged to Carlos Isaac Barrientos were found in the vehicle. A forensic review of the devices by agents from the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms located images and videos of child pornography on the devices. Barrientos, 36, of Arlington, Texas, was arrested, charged, and subsequently pled guilty to production of child pornography and illegal possession of a machinegun on April 16, 2025. On July 24, 2025, Barrientos was sentenced to 405 months in federal prison by United States District Judge Reed O’Connor.
The investigation was conducted by the Arlington Police Department, Bedford Police Department, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms, and Department of Homeland Security. Assistant United States Attorney Allyson Monte prosecuted the case.
USP Lewisburg Inmate Charged with Possession of Child Porn and Possessing Contraband in PrisonRead the Press Release
WILLIAMSPORT - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Carl Jones, age 51, from Chester, PA, was charged on July 24, 2025, with possession of child pornography and for possessing contraband in prison.
According to Acting United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, the indictment charges that from February 24, 2025 to April 9, 2025, Jones possessed a cell phone containing images of a minor, including a minor under the age of 12, engaged in sexually explicit conduct, while he was an inmate at the Federal Correctional Institution Lewisburg (FCI Lewisburg), Lewisburg, Pennsylvania,
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Robin Zenzinger is prosecuting the case.
The maximum penalty under federal law for the offense is 20 years and a fine. A sentence for this offense must also include a period of supervised release of 5 years up to life following imprisonment. A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
Indictments are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc.
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U.S. Enforces Fugitive's Appearance Bond by Selling Greenwich Mansion for $7.35 MillionRead the Press Release
BOSTON – United States Attorney Leah B. Foley announced today that her office enforced the appearance bond for fugitive defendant Iftikar Ahmed by selling his Greenwich, Conn., mansion for $7.35 million.
In April 2015, Ahmed was charged with one count of securities fraud. He was released from pre-trial custody subject to conditions, including that he and his wife, as sureties, sign a $9 million appearance bond secured by their Greenwich, Conn., residence, which they did. At some time in May 2015, Ahmed violated his conditions of release by fleeing to India and has remained at-large ever since.
“There are serious consequences for evading justice,” said U.S. Attorney Foley. “An appearance bond is not simply a procedural formality; its purpose is to deter defendants from violating conditions of their release and ensure they appear in court to face their charges. Those who contemplate fleeing should know that my office will doggedly seek to find them and enforce their bond obligations.”
In May 2019, the government commenced proceedings to enforce Ahmed’s appearance bond. After the bond was declared forfeited, default judgment was entered and was affirmed on appeal. A petition for remission was denied and, pursuant to appearance bond documents signed by Ahmed and his wife, the Court tendered the deed to the United States and ownership was transferred. Pursuant to a court order, the United States Attorney’s Office listed the property for sale and on July 15, 2025, the house sale closed at a price of $7.35 million.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley made the announcement today. The bond forfeiture action was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Carol E. Head, Chief of the Asset Recovery Unit. Valuable assistance was provided by the United States Marshals Service in the Districts of Massachusetts and Connecticut.
U.S. District Court in Chicago Approves the Appointment of Andrew S. Boutros as United States Attorney for the Northern District of IllinoisRead the Press Release
CHICAGO — The U.S. District Court in Chicago has approved the appointment of Andrew S. Boutros as the United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois.
U.S. Attorney Boutros has been serving in the position of United States Attorney since April 7, 2025, pursuant to a 120-day appointment by Attorney General Pamela Bondi. The order to approve the appointment beyond Aug. 5, 2025, was entered on Thursday by U.S. District Chief Judge Virginia M. Kendall after the full Court met in executive session.
“I am deeply grateful that two branches of our government have agreed upon my appointment,” said U.S. Attorney Boutros. “President Donald J. Trump, acting through Attorney General Pamela Bondi, appointed me as the U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois on April 7, 2025. Then the full U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois met in executive session on July 21, 2025, and, pursuant to Title 28, United States Code, Section 546(d), approved my appointment as U.S. Attorney effective Aug. 5, 2025. I am thankful to President Trump and Attorney General Bondi, as well as Chief Judge Kendall and the U.S. District Court judges of the Northern District of Illinois for their confidence in me. It is an honor of a lifetime to have the trust and support of both the Executive (Article II) and Judicial (Article III) branches of our constitutional government. As the son of Coptic Christian parents who immigrated from Egypt to this great land, it is incredibly special to be the first person of any color to assume the role of Chicago U.S. Attorney in the 170-year history of this extraordinary and esteemed Office. The strong support I’ve received from so many different communities has been heartwarming and profoundly touching. I am energized to tackle the enormous challenges that our district faces and to do so by calling balls and strikes in the proudest ways of this incredibly storied Office. I am grateful for the extraordinary talent, work ethic, and warm reception I have received from the Office and its exceptional attorneys and staff. I look forward to working with them for years to come, along with our various law enforcement partner agencies and leaders. The Chicago U.S. Attorney’s Office has always been one of the crown jewels of the Department of Justice, and I intend to carry forward that tradition under my leadership.”
As an Assistant U.S. Attorney from 2008 to 2015, U.S. Attorney Boutros investigated and prosecuted hundreds of cases, many of which involved matters of national and international significance. Among the types of matters he handled, U.S. Attorney Boutros investigated and prosecuted drug trafficking organizations, street gangs, violent criminals, illegal immigrants with criminal records of violence, and money launderers, as well as fraud and white collar crimes. U.S. Attorney Boutros worked closely with law enforcement partners in the FBI, DEA, ATF, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Homeland Security Investigations, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, IRS, Secret Service, and the U.S. Marshals Service, among other law enforcement partners, as well as with various DOJ components and U.S. Attorney’s Offices across the country--and in some cases, law enforcement authorities throughout the world. U.S. Attorney Boutros’s notable convictions included the world’s largest online drug trafficker on the dark web, one of the country’s “Top Ten Most Wanted” mortgage fraud defendants, and the owner of a Chicago hospital who thwarted collection of more than $188 million in civil judgments. U.S. Attorney Boutros also successfully prosecuted a series of cases involving unprecedented criminal violations of international trade, customs, and anti-dumping laws, which have been described as the largest of their kind ever prosecuted in the country.
U.S. Attorney Boutros received numerous awards and accolades for his work as a federal prosecutor. The Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association selected him as the National Prosecutor of the Year, presenting him with the National Prosecutorial Award. The American Bar Association honored U.S. Attorney Boutros with the Criminal Justice Section’s Norm Maleng Minister of Justice Award for best exemplifying the prosecutor’s duty to seek justice. U.S. Attorney Boutros also received honors from the FBI, U.S. Department of Homeland Security, and U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
From 2015 until his appointment as United States Attorney, U.S. Attorney Boutros worked in private law practice in Chicago, holding various leadership roles. For 15 consecutive years, U.S. Attorney Boutros has taught an advanced criminal law course at the University of Chicago Law School. While practicing law full time, Mr. Boutros has also written and spoken extensively on criminal law and criminal law adjacent topics, including publishing two books, authoring nearly 160 articles and book chapters, and presenting at 90 speaking engagements.
U.S. Attorney Boutros earned a bachelor’s degree, In-Honors summa cum laude, from Virginia Tech, and his law degree from the University of Virginia School of Law. He clerked for the Honorable Eugene E. Siler, Jr. of the United States Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit.
U.S. Attorney’s Office Ramps up Prosecution of Illegal Re-Entry into the United States Following DeportationRead the Press Release
SAN JOSE – In the latest example of federal prosecutors’ increased focus on defendants alleged to have been found in the United States following removal, a federal grand jury yesterday returned an indictment charging Jesus Alexis Cervantes-Luna, aka “Sinaloa,” with one count of illegal reentry following removal from the United States and multiple counts of drug and firearms offenses.
Cervantes-Luna, 29, a Mexican national, was initially charged by complaint on July 8, 2025. The eight-count indictment filed on July 24, 2025, charges Cervantes-Luna with one count of possession with intent to distribute 400 grams and more of fentanyl; two counts of possession with intent to distribute 40 grams and more of fentanyl; two counts of possession with intent to distribute five grams and more of methamphetamine; one count of unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition as a felon; one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking; and one count of illegal reentry following removal.
According to the complaint, in February 2025, law enforcement responded to a hit-and-run collision in Salinas, Calif., involving a grey GMC SUV registered to an individual at an address in Soledad, Calif. While heading to the Soledad address, law enforcement observed a grey GMC SUV matching the description of the hit-and-run vehicle parked at a nearby gas station and made contact with the alleged driver, Cervantes-Luna. During a search of the GMC, law enforcement allegedly found a backpack with suspected narcotics, two boxes of 9mm ammunition, clear plastic baggies, shaved keys, and a glass pipe.
The complaint further describes that, on March 25, 2025, based on an outstanding warrant, law enforcement attempted to conduct a traffic stop of a van that Cervantes-Luna was driving. When officers exited their patrol car, the van accelerated at a high rate of speed and led officers on a 23.5-mile pursuit from Soledad to Paicines, Calif. Officers were unable to locate Cervantes-Luna, but found a black backpack that they had previously seen Cervantes-Luna hold. Inside the backpack, officers allegedly located approximately 17 net grams of suspected methamphetamine, a baggie of suspected fentanyl pills weighing approximately 51.4 net grams, a baggie of suspected fentanyl powder weighing approximately 59.7 net grams and a digital scale.
On March 31, 2025, law enforcement arrested Cervantes-Luna for an outstanding warrant while he was driving a Jeep in Monterey County. During a search incident to arrest, officers allegedly found a semiautomatic firearm in Cervantes-Luna’s waistband, and also located on his person a black satchel containing approximately 37 net grams of suspected methamphetamine and approximately 75.2 net grams of suspected fentanyl.
On April 2, 2025, law enforcement executed a search warrant in King City, Calif., during which they located an Audi that allegedly belonged to Cervantes-Luna. Inside the Audi, officers allegedly found a white compressed brick of suspected fentanyl with a net weight of 624.8 grams.
As charged in the indictment, Cervantes-Luna was previously deported and removed from the United States on or about September 2023.
Cervantes-Luna was previously arrested on the complaint on July 14, 2025, in Monterey, Calif., and made his initial appearance that same day. He is scheduled to be arraigned on the indictment on July 28, 2025.
United States Attorney Craig H. Missakian and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Acting Special Agent in Charge Jeffrey Brannigan made the announcement.
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Since January 2025, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of California has significantly increased the number of such prosecutions and has publicly filed criminal charges against over a dozen defendants alleged to have been found in the United States following removal. Many of the charged defendants were previously convicted of felony offenses prior to their removal from the United States, including, for example:
- Juan Jose Vazquez Hernandez, 34, a Mexican national, was convicted of and has been sentenced for illegal reentry following removal, in violation of 8 U.S.C. §§ 1326(a) and (b)(1). Vazquez Hernandez was previously convicted of possessing an assault weapon. He has been deported or removed from the United States on at least nine occasions since 2010.
Jose and Jonathan Erazo: Jose Erazo, 36, and Jonathan Erazo, 33, Honduran nationals, were charged with illegal reentry into the United States following deportation, in violation of 8 U.S.C. §§ 1326(a) and (b)(1) and 8 U.S.C. § 1326(a), respectively. Both defendants were previously ordered removed from the United States.
On June 20, 2025, Jose Erazo pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute 40 grams and more of fentanyl, possession with intent to distribute 50 grams and more of methamphetamine, and illegal reentry following removal. According to the plea agreement, in May 2024, Jose Erazo was found with fentanyl, heroin, methamphetamine, and cocaine. Law enforcement also found an industrial press, cutting agents, large amounts of currency, and packaging materials at his residence and stash house.
Jonathan Erazo also pleaded guilty on June 20, 2025, to possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, and illegal reentry following removal. According to the plea agreement, in May 2024, Jonathan Erazo was found with fentanyl, methamphetamine, cocaine base, and heroin that he intended to distribute.
- Wilson Acosta-Zuniga: 53, a Honduran national, was charged with being found in the United States following deportation, in violation of 8 U.S.C. §§ 1326(a) and (b)(1), and possession with intent to distribute and distribution of methamphetamine, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1) and (b)(1)(C). He pleaded guilty to both counts of the information on July 7, 2025. According to the plea agreement, Acosta-Zuniga was removed from the United States in 2011, following a felony illegal reentry conviction in 2009. On or about April 28, 2025, Acosta-Zuniga was arrested for selling methamphetamine near 9th and Mission Streets in San Francisco. Law enforcement found methamphetamine, cocaine base, heroin, and cocaine in Acosta-Zuniga’s possession.
- Augustin Luna-Gasca, 41, a Mexican national, was charged with illegal reentry into the United States following deportation, in violation of 8 U.S.C. §§ 1326(a) and (b)(2). According to the criminal complaint, Luna-Gasca was deported from the United States on two prior occasions in March 2022 and June 2019. Luna-Gasca has a prior felony conviction for lewd and lascivious acts with a child under 14.
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).
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A criminal complaint or indictment merely alleges that crimes have been committed, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. If convicted, defendants who were removed after a prior felony conviction face a maximum sentence of ten years in prison, and defendants removed after a prior aggravated felony conviction face a maximum of 20 years in prison. Any sentence following conviction would be imposed by the court after consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and the federal statute governing the imposition of a sentence, 18 U.S.C. § 3553.
The prosecutions are the result of investigations by HSI, DEA, ICE ERO, and FBI.
U.S. Attorney’s Office Filed 76 Border-Related Cases This WeekRead the Press Release
SAN DIEGO – Federal prosecutors in the Southern District of California filed 76 border-related cases this week, including charges of assault on a federal officer, 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 July 20, Adrian Arturo VILLAR-Chavez (VILLAR), was arrested and charged with Importation of a Controlled Substance. According to a complaint, VILLAR applied for entry through Andrade, California Port of Entry driving a black Mercedes. Upon inspection of the vehicle, Customs and Border Protection officers found 75.38kg (166.18 pounds) of methamphetamine concealed in the vehicle.
- On July 24, Juan Roberto CRUZ-Quinonez, a Guatemalan national, was arrested and charged with Transportation of Illegal Aliens. According to a complaint, U.S. Border Patrol Agents were conducting a pro-active patrol of State Route 94 when they observed a suspicious vehicle driving eastbound. Following a traffic stop on the suspicious vehicle, U.S. Border Patrol Agents identified the driver of the vehicle as CRUZ, who was attempting to transport two illegal aliens within the United States for financial gains.
- On July 24, Alberto LOPEZ-Salazar, a Mexican national, was arrested and charged with Attempted Entry after Deportation. According to a complaint, LOPEZ was attempting to enter the U.S. at the San Ysidro Port of Entry by hiding under a blanket in the rear of a vehicle. LOPEZ was discovered by Customs and Border Protection officers after the officers noticed two adult males hiding in the rear of the vehicle. The defendant has a criminal history in the U.S. and had previously been deported to Mexico twice, the most recent deportation being in June 2025.
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 is one of those cases:
- On July 25, 2025, Perla IBARRA Rodriguez, a Mexican national who is a permanent resident of the United States, was sentenced to 27 months in custody for smuggling more than 20 pounds of fentanyl into the United States. While on bond in this case, IBARRA was charged in San Bernardino County in a separate incident for possessing methamphetamine for sale, transporting methamphetamine, and willfully causing or permitting any child to suffer.
Pursuant to the Department’s Operation Take Back America priorities, federal law enforcement has focused immigration prosecutions on undocumented aliens who are engaged in criminal activity in the U.S., including those who commit drug and firearms crimes, who have serious criminal records, or who have active warrants for their arrest. Federal authorities have also been prioritizing investigations and prosecutions against drug, firearm, and human smugglers and those who endanger and threaten the safety of our communities and the law enforcement officers who protect the community.
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 Charges Man with Felony Possession of a Dangerous Weapon During Standoff in Federal Courthouse in Downtown ChicagoRead the Press Release
CHICAGO — The U.S. Attorney’s Office has charged a man with feloniously possessing a dangerous weapon during a standoff in the federal courthouse in downtown Chicago earlier this week.
MARIO SANTOYO, 38, of Chicago, was charged with possession of a dangerous weapon in a federal facility with intent to use the weapon in the commission of a crime, according to a criminal complaint filed today in U.S. District Court in Chicago. The charge is punishable by up to five years in federal prison. Santoyo made an initial appearance in federal court this afternoon and was ordered to remain detained in federal custody. A detention hearing was set for July 31, 2025, at 11:30 a.m., before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daniel P. McLaughlin.
The complaint alleges that Santoyo entered the Dirksen Federal Building, 219 S. Dearborn St. in Chicago, at 10:27 a.m. on Tuesday and asked to speak with the FBI about “gangsters” or “gangbangers” who were trying to kill him. After a Court Security Officer advised Santoyo that the FBI does not have an office in the Dirksen Building and that he could not remain in the building if he had no other business there, Santoyo put a knife to his throat and threatened to hurt himself, the complaint states. Law enforcement attempted to get Santoyo to drop the knife, but he refused, the complaint states. An hours-long standoff ensued, with Santoyo remaining in the lobby of the building with the knife to his throat and carrying a dark bag the contents of which were unknown. Santoyo’s conduct prevented individuals from entering or exiting the Dirksen Building.
Approximately nine and a half hours after the standoff began, and after the federal building had been evacuated throughout the day—causing enormous disruption to the business of the federal courthouse, including criminal and civil trials, hearings, and other proceedings—law enforcement used non-lethal force and took Santoyo into custody at 7:55 p.m. He was transported to a Chicago hospital for treatment.
The complaint was announced by Andrew S. Boutros, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, LaDon A. Reynolds, United States Marshal for the Northern District of Illinois, and Douglas S. DePodesta, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago Field Office of the FBI. Valuable assistance was provided by the Chicago Police Department, Chicago Fire Department, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Federal Protective Service. The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Anthony Chmura.
“As I have said before, under my leadership, there will be zero tolerance for violence against federal officials or violence against the important work of the federal government as it is conducted in the Northern District of Illinois,” said U.S. Attorney Boutros. “The defendant’s actions impeded the due administration of justice in the largest federal courthouse in the country both by square footage as well as number of federal judges, as it houses the United States Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit, the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Northern District of Illinois, and the offices of various governmental agencies. The Court Security Officers, Deputy U.S. Marshals, and FBI Special Agents who bravely resolved the situation and took Santoyo into custody deserve our utmost respect and appreciation.”
“The defendant created a dangerous situation for himself, law enforcement, and the thousands of federal employees and members of the public inside the Dirksen Building,” said Marshal Reynolds. “The standoff in this case was peacefully resolved thanks to the courage and professionalism of the law enforcement officers from the U.S. Marshals Service and FBI. I am deeply appreciative of this U.S. Attorney’s strong partnership with the U.S. Marshals Service and for his strong leadership in choosing to bring a felony charge to hold the defendant accountable for his intolerable actions.”
“Federal agents courageously put their lives on the line every day to keep our communities safe from harm," said FBI SAC DePodesta. “I remain grateful that this situation resolved without incident, thanks to the heroic efforts of law enforcement professionals, and in particular, the U.S. Marshals Service and the FBI's SWAT and Crisis Negotiations Teams. The dedicated agents who comprise these highly trained teams ensure that when dangerous situations occur, everyone affected has the best probability of returning home safely.”
The public is reminded that a complaint is not evidence of guilt. The defendant is presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial at which the government has the burden of proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
santoyo_complaint.pdfU.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 July 25, 2025, the United States Attorney’s Office brought the following criminal charges in New Mexico:
- 40 individuals were charged this week with Illegal Reentry After Deportation (8 U.S.C. 1326)
- 4 individuals were charged this week with Alien Smuggling (8 U.S.C. 1324)
- 37 individuals were charged this week with Illegal Entry (8 U.S.C. 1325)
- 35 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 robbery, alien smuggling, DUI, assault, and illegal reentry.
In one significant case, Jose Luis Ramirez-Montoya, a Mexican national illegally in the U.S., was charged with providing a false statement to a firearms dealer by falsely claiming on an ATF form that he was a U.S. citizen. At the time of the false statement, Ramirez-Montoya was attempting to purchase a firearm from a pawn shop in Deming, NM. The sale was denied, and HSI agents located Ramirez-Montoya at a residence in Deming, NM where he was arrested.
Protecting law enforcement officers is a key part of border security. During this time period, two Guatemalan nationals were charged with assault of a federal officer. On July 17, 2025, a group was spotted crossing the border in Santa Teresa, New Mexico. When a Border Patrol agent arrived at the location, the group was spotted hiding in some brush. When the agent attempted to apprehend one of the subjects, Sarbelio Garcia-Ramo, “threw elbows” and was able to break free for a short time. The agent then attempted to arrest Juan Gutierrez-Gutierrez who began wrestling with the agent. As the agent was wrestling with Gutierrez-Gutierrez, Garcia-Ramo approached them and grabbed the agent by her duty belt and started to pull her away. A second agent arrived, and both defendants were subsequently subdued and arrested.
From the beginning of Fiscal Year 2025 through June 2025, 50 El Paso Sector Border Patrol Agents have been assaulted, following 103 assaults in Fiscal Year 2024. U.S. Border Patrol is collaborating closely with the FBI and the U.S. Attorney's Office to ensure that those who assault federal officers are brought to justice. This interagency cooperation is crucial in protecting the men and women who serve on the frontlines of our nation's border security efforts and in deterring future attacks on law enforcement personnel.
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.
Two Staffers at Ontario Surgery Center Charged in Federal Complaint Alleging They Assaulted and Interfered with ICE InvestigationRead the Press Release
RIVERSIDE, California – Two staff members at a surgery center in San Bernardino County have been charged via a federal criminal complaint alleging they assaulted and interfered with United States immigration officers attempting to lawfully detain an illegal alien, the Justice Department announced today.
Jose de Jesus Ortega, 38, of Highland, was arrested this morning and is expected to make his initial appearance this afternoon in U.S. District Court in Riverside.
Law enforcement is looking for Danielle Nadine Davila, 33, of Corona.
Ortega and Davila are charged with assaulting a federal officer and conspiracy to prevent by force and intimidation a federal officer from discharging his duties.
“This story is another example of a false narrative echoed in the media in furtherance of an agenda to delegitimize federal agents,” said United States Attorney Bill Essayli. “The illegal alien arrested inside the surgery center was not a patient. He ran inside for cover and these defendants attempted to block his apprehension by assaulting our agents. It doesn’t matter who you are or where you work, if you assault our agents or otherwise interfere with our operations, you will be arrested and charged with a federal crime.”
According to an affidavit filed Thursday with the complaint, on July 8, two U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers conducted roving immigration-related operations as part of their duties in Ontario. The officers wore government-issued equipment, including law enforcement vests, and were in an unmarked government-operated vehicle.
The officers were following a truck with three adult men when the truck made a quick turn into the parking lot of a surgery center in Ontario. Officers approached the men after the men had exited the truck, and two of the men ran away. One of the fleeing men – an illegal alien from Honduras – was partially detained near the surgery center’s front entrance before he resisted and pulled away, causing both him and the ICE officer to fall to the ground. Shortly afterward, a medical staffer helped the alien off the ground and helped pull him away from the officer. The alien proceeded inside the surgery center and was pursued by the ICE officer, who eventually stopped him.
Ortega and Davila, both dressed in medical scrubs, impeded and interfered with the arrest – Davila by wedging herself in between the officer and the alien, pushing the officer, and shouting, “Let him go!” and “Get out!”; Ortega by grabbing the officer’s arm and then his vest.
The officer called for assistance and another ICE officer arrived on scene and saw multiple staff members grabbing the first officer. The officers eventually detained and handcuffed the alien, then exited the surgery center with him.
A criminal complaint contains allegations. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
If convicted, the defendants would face a statutory maximum sentence of eight years in federal prison on the assault count and up to six years in federal prison on the conspiracy count.
Homeland Security Investigations is investigating this matter.
Assistant United States Attorney Cory Burleson of the Riverside Branch Office is prosecuting this case.
Two New Orleans Men Plead Guilty to Multiple Drug and Gun OffensesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that HENRY MITCHELL (“MITCHELL”), age 35, and JAYLAN WASHINGTON (“WASHINGTON”), age 30, both residents of New Orleans, were sentenced on July 22, 2025, by United States District Judge Greg G. Guidry pursuant to their pleas of guilty to federal drug and gun charges. Listed below are the charges to which each Defendant pled guilty, and the sentence received:
CHARGE
DEFENDANT
SENTENCE
Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with Intent to Distribute marihuana, Fentanyl, tapentadol and tramadol (21 U.S.C. § 846)MITCHELL151 months, 3 years of supervised releasePossession With Intent to Distribute marihuana, Fentanyl, tapentadol and tramadol (21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1) & (b)(1)(C))MITCHELL151 months, 3 years of supervised releaseFelon in Possession of a Firearm (18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(1))MITCHELL151 months, 3 years of supervised releasePossession of a Machine Gun (18 U.S.C. § Section 922(o))MITCHELL120 months, 3 years of supervised releasePossession of a Machine Gun (18 U.S.C. § 922(o))MITCHELL120 months, 3 years of supervised releaseConspiracy to Distribute and Possess with Intent to Distribute marihuana, Fentanyl, tapentadol and tramadol (21 U.S.C. § 846)WASHINGTON120 months, 3 years of supervised releasePossession with Intent to Distribute marihuana, and tapentadol (21 U.S.C. § 841(a)(1) and (b)(1)(C)WASHINGTON120 months, 3 years of supervised releaseFelon in Possession of a Firearm (18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(1))WASHINGTON120 months, 3 years of supervised releasePossession of a Machine Gun (18 U.S.C. § 922(o))WASHINGTON120 months, 3 years of supervised releaseAll sentences were ordered to run concurrently with each other. Judge Guidry also ordered MITCHELL to pay $500.00 in mandatory special assessment fees and ordered WASHINGTON to pay $400 in mandatory special assessment fees.
Court documents reflect that MITCHELL and WASHINGTON were openly selling various controlled substance in the Plum Orchard Neighborhood of New Orleans. Federal Bureau of Investigation Violent Crime Task Force Officers (TFO) observed this activity after receiving multiple citizen complaints. The TFOs notified New Orleans Police Department Officers who surrounded the area and arrested MITCHELL and WASHINGTON. A search of their vehicles revealed both controlled substances and firearms. Officers also recovered “Glock switches” that convert semiautomatic weapons into fully automatic ones. These switches are considered machineguns under federal law. Additionally, both MITCHELL and WASHINGTON have several prior felony convictions including ones for violation of drug and firearm laws.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
The case was investigated by Federal Bureau of Investigation Violent Crime Task Force, and the New Orleans Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Mark A. Miller of the Narcotics Unit is assigned the prosecution.
Tulsan Sentenced to 30 Years After Taking Sexually Explicit Images of an 8-Year-OldRead the Press Release
TULSA, Okla. – A Tulsa man was sentenced today for Production of Child Pornography, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson.
U.S. District Judge John F. Heil, III, sentenced Gregory Miller, 56, to 360 months imprisonment, followed by lifetime supervised release, ordered to pay a $15,000 fine, and not to have any contact with the victim. Upon his release, Miller will also be required to register as a sex offender.
In February 2024, law enforcement conducted a search warrant on Miller’s home and seized various electronic devices. A search of those devices revealed images and videos of a minor child, known to Miller, posed in a sexually explicit way. The investigation revealed that the images and videos were taken at Miller’s residence. At the time the photos were taken, the minor child was only 8 years old.
Miller will remain in custody pending transfer to the U.S. Bureau of Prisons.
Homeland Security Investigations and the Tulsa Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ashley Robert and Christopher J. Nassar prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC.
Three Juveniles Charged in December 2024 Capitol Hill Robbery SpreeRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Rashad Ervin (17), Markell Butler (16), and Dereon Butler (17), all of Washington, D.C., were arrested and charged by complaint as adults under Title 16 with multiple counts of armed robbery and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence for a robbery spree in the Capitol Hill neighborhood, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro.
According to the government’s evidence, in the early-morning hours of December 2, 2024, the defendants utilized a stolen gray Kia Sorento and a stolen red Lexus sedan to locate and target commuting pedestrians in the Capitol Hill neighborhood. In all, they approached ten different unsuspecting pedestrians across numerous locations, brandished a firearm (or imitation thereof) at them, and robbed them of their wallets, purses, cellphones, and other personal belongings. They then fled each scene before the police could arrive.
Rashad Ervin was arrested on May 13, 2025; Markell Butler was arrested on June 23, 2025; and Dereon Butler was arrested on July 22, 2025 in Superior Court. They are all in custody.
Joining in the announcement was Chief Pamela Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD).
This case is being investigated by the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Levy.
A complaint is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Tennessee Man Sentenced to 11 Years in Federal Prison for Methamphetamine TraffickingRead the Press Release
Paducah, KY – A Henry County, Tennessee man was sentenced on July 21, 2025, to 11 years in federal prison for possessing 500 grams or more of methamphetamine with the intent to distribute it.
U.S. Attorney Kyle G. Bumgarner of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Jim Scott of the DEA Louisville Field Division, Sheriff Nicky Knight of the Calloway County Sheriff’s Office, Sheriff Matt Hilbrecht of the Marshall County Sheriff’s Office, and Commissioner Phillip Burnett, Jr. of the Kentucky State Police made the announcement.
Trey Cowans, 30 years old, admitted in a plea agreement that on April 17, 2024, agents arranged to purchase 2 pounds of methamphetamine from him using a confidential source. Cowans was apprehended when he arrived at the pre-determined location for the purpose of engaging in drug distribution and found to be in possession of 2 pounds of methamphetamine. Through a separate search of a location in Tennessee, Cowans was also found to be in possession of 20.7 pounds of methamphetamine. Based on this conduct and his criminal history, the Court imposed a sentence of 11 years in federal prison followed by 5 years of supervised release.
There is no parole in the federal system.
“Cowans was a significant drug distributor in the Calloway County area that is now off the streets because of first-class law enforcement efforts of the DEA, Calloway County Sheriff’s Office, Marshall County Sheriff’s Office, and Kentucky State Police Drug Enforcement and Special Investigations,” said U.S. Attorney Kyle Bumgarner. “This prosecution is yet another example of the strong work that can be done when federal, state, and local partners join forces for a common good.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Leigh Ann Dycus, of the U.S. Attorney’s Paducah Branch Office, prosecuted the case.
This conviction is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
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TSA Employee Charged with Attempted Production of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – A Columbia Mo., man employed by the TSA appeared in Federal Court today after being charged by complaint with attempted production of child pornography.
Daniel P. Meenehan, 64, was charged by complaint with attempted production of child pornography on July 24, 2025.
The investigation began on Oct. 29, 2024, when HSI agents in St. Louis, Missouri received information from the Miller County, Missouri Sheriff’s Office regarding a report of a minor victim sending nude photographs to an adult male in exchange for money. The investigation shows the defendant made over 41 transactions to the minor victims in exchange for nude images for a period of one year.
The charges contained in the complaint are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.
Under federal statutes, if convicted, Meenehan faces a federal prison sentence of up to 30 years to be served without parole. The maximum statutory sentence is provided by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ashley Turner. It was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security Investigations, Boone County Sheriff’s Office, and the Miller County Sheriff’s Office.
Project Safe Childhood
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc . For more information about Internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab "resources."
Tickfaw Man Sentenced to 60 Months in Federal Prison for Distribution of Cocaine and FentanylRead the Press Release
Acting United States Attorney Ellison C. Travis announced that U.S. Chief Judge Shelly D. Dick sentenced Randevois Ingram, age 28, of Tickfaw Louisiana, to 60 months imprisonment in federal prison following his conviction for distribution of cocaine and fentanyl. The Court further sentenced Ingram to serve four years of supervised release following his term of imprisonment.
According to admissions made as part of his guilty plea, between May 2, 2024, and June 27, 2024, Ingram distributed controlled substances containing cocaine and fentanyl to a confidential source working under the direction of the Drug Enforcement Administration and Department of Homeland Security - Homeland Security Investigations.
This investigation was led by the Drug Enforcement Administration, United States Department of Homeland Security - Homeland Security Investigations, and Livingston Parish Sheriff’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Paul L. Pugliese.
The case was investigated under the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF). OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. For more information about Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces, please visit Justice.gov/OCDETF.
Tallahassee Man Sentenced for Multiple Federal Child Exploitation CrimesRead the Press Release
TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – Danny Reams, Jr., 32, of Tallahassee, Florida was sentenced to 168 months in prison and a lifetime of supervised release after previously pleading guilty to attempted enticement of a minor as well as receipt and distribution of child pornography. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
U.S. Attorney Heekin said: There is no greater charge than the protection of our children, and I am deeply appreciative of the excellent work of our state and federal law enforcement partners to target those who attempt to prey upon our kids. This sentence is yet another example of the unwavering commitment of my office to protect our most vulnerable from the predations of sex offenders, and should serve as a warning to others who seek to target our children. We will continue to work tirelessly with our law enforcement partners to aggressively investigate and prosecute those who engage in such heinous conduct.”
According to court records, the Defendant distributed an image of child pornography in June 2024 through a social media application. He then received child pornography in a second social media application in August 2024. Finally, in September 2024, the Defendant solicited sex from an undercover officer who was pretending to be a 14-year-old child. The defendant was arrested upon his arrival at a predetermined meeting location.
“HSI is committed to working with our state, local, and federal law enforcement partners to ensure the safety of children throughout North Florida,” said Homeland Security Investigations Tallahassee Assistant Special Agent in Charge Nicholas Ingegno. “Sexual predators, like Reams, should know that HSI is unwavering in our dedication to finding you and holding you accountable.”
Leon County Sheriff Walt McNeil said: “We at the Leon County Sheriff’s Office are unwavering in our commitment to protect our children from those who seek to exploit them. I commend our investigators, along with our federal partners, for their relentless work in uncovering and stopping these repugnant crimes.”
This conviction was the result of an investigation by the U.S. Customs and Immigration Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations and the Leon County Sheriff’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Eric W. Welch.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice and led by the U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Divisions Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), it marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
Statement from U.S. Attorney David Toepfer on the Death of Police Officer Phillip WagnerRead the Press Release
CLEVELAND - U.S. Attorney David M. Toepfer made the following statement regarding the death of Lorain Police Officer Phillip Wagner.
"With sorrowful hearts, we offer our sincerest condolences to the family of Officer Phillip Wagner, his friends, and his fellow officers with the Lorain Police Department. Officer Wagner’s tragic loss is a painful reminder of the dangers our law enforcement officers face in service to keep our communities safe. There are no words to express the depths of pain in losing such a young life to a senseless act of violence. We have lost a protector of our community who dedicated his career to ensuring that others can live in safety. We will forever be grateful to Officer Wagner for his bravery and sacrifice in service of others.
We also ask everyone to continue to keep Officers Peter Gale and Brent Payne in their thoughts and prayers as they recover not only physically from this brutal attack, but also from the immense pain of losing their friend and colleague."
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Southern District of Texas charges 204 this week alone in relation to border enforcement effortsRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – A total of 201 new cases have been filed related to immigration and border security from July 18-24, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Among those are 87 people who face charges of illegally reentering the country. The majority have prior felony convictions for narcotics, violent crime, prior immigration crimes and more. A total of 98 people are charged with illegally entering the country, while 11 cases allege various instances of human smuggling with the remainder involving other immigration crimes and assault of officers.
Some of those facing new criminal charges are five Mexican nationals, all of whom have previous felony convictions, according to their charges. One is Cristian Jesus Rodriguez-Cuarenta who allegedly has a prior conviction for conspiracy to transport an illegal alien and had just been removed in January. Four others – Juan Manuel Perez-Tamez, Ramiro Rodriguez-Esquivel, Jose Martinez-Lemus and Hector Esael Gonzalez-Garcia – are also alleged to be convicted felons of crimes including drug trafficking, multiple driving while intoxicated instances or illegal reentry. Despite their previous removals on varying dates between 2019 - 2022, authorities allegedly discovered all five men in the Edinburg area without any authorization to be in the United States. They face up to 20 years in federal prison, if convicted.
Also in the McAllen area this week, a suspicious vehicle led to the arrest of three, two of whom are Mexican nationals, and the discovery of nearly three dozen illegal aliens. They are now charged with human smuggling after authorities discovered 24 illegal aliens hidden in a tractor trailer at a Border Patrol (BP) checkpoint, which included defendant Elbis Lisandro Moreno Uruqia. Joe Michael Cruz and Uruqia allegedly transported the aliens from Mission to Hebbronville. According to the charges, Uruqia and Cruz smuggled 18 aliens two weeks earlier. A related search at a Mission residence led to the arrest of Jesus Felipe Hernandez Rangel and the discovery of 10 additional illegal aliens, according to the complaint. If convicted, each faces up to 10 years in federal prison.
In addition to the new cases, Laredo resident Juan Francisco Reyna was ordered to federal prison. He led a multi-year human smuggling operation that used social media, inclement weather and the Covid-19 pandemic to transport over 100 illegal aliens, including minors, across the United States. Reyna coordinated the scheme through Facebook, paid drivers to monitor checkpoints and scheduled crossings during storms to avoid detection. Authorities linked him to stash houses in Laredo and San Antonio where they seized over $56,000 in U.S. currency and ammunition. He received a sentence of 63 months.
“Over the past six months, the Department of Justice has made securing our national border the number one priority, and the Southern District is putting that promise into action,” said Ganjei. “Human smugglers may have had an easy time over the past few years, but those days are over. If you engage in these crimes, if you break our nation’s immigration laws, you will be caught and you will be punished. Simple as that.”
An armed cartel carjacker was also sentenced this week. Mexican national Johnathan Mata-Espinoza received 108 months for two counts of armed carjacking. On July 27, 2023, he threatened two adults and a child, stealing their vehicle after they refused to give him a ride to the bus station, saying, “You better take me because if not, I will kill you all.” Authorities later linked him to a second armed encounter that same night, during which he threatened another victim and displayed a concealed firearm.
In Corpus Christi, a 40-year-old Mexican national illegally living in Houston pleaded guilty to leading a human smuggling organization and unlawfully reentering the United States. Edgar-Ruiz-Briones coordinated transportation of illegal aliens crossing the southern border, recruited drivers from as far as Kansas and managing over 100 smuggling trips into the United States over an 18-month period. He handled payments from aliens and paid drivers to move them from stash houses to destinations across the country. Ruiz-Briones, who had previously been removed multiple times, now faces up to 30 years in federal prison.
Jose Pascual Soliz received a sentence of 240 months in federal prison after admitting to recruiting Clara Miranda Aleman and others as well as coordinating the transportation of methamphetamine hidden in a vehicle’s gas tank. Aleman helped smuggle the drugs into the United States as part of a Laredo-based trafficking operation tied to Cartel De Noreste. Authorities seized more than 11.85 kilograms of methamphetamine from the pair, noting it was part of a larger shipment. The court also found Soliz had multiple felony convictions, including one for narcotics trafficking. Aleman previously received a 41-month sentence.
A Corpus Christi jury also convicted a former Texas National Guard soldier of smuggling illegal aliens. Mario Sandoval coordinated smuggling trips in the Rio Grande Valley and sent text messages to a co-conspirator about law enforcement activity. The defense attempted to convince the jury no conspiracy existed, and his text messages were out of context. The jury did not believe those claims and found him guilty. He faces up to 10 years in federal prison.
In Houston, a 32-year-old Mexican national was ordered to serve 42 months after again illegally reentering the country. Juan Medina-Garcia has felony convictions for possession, aggravated assault and illegal reentry. He also has two prior removals from the United States. In handing down the sentence, the court noted the sentence should serve as a significant deterrence to prevent any future illegal reentries.
These cases were referred or supported by federal law enforcement partners, including Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) - Homeland Security Investigations, ICE - Enforcement and Removal Operations, BP, Drug Enforcement Administration, FBI, U.S. Marshals Service and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with additional assistance from state and local law enforcement partners.
The 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 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.
Under current leadership, public safety and a secure border are the top priorities for this district. 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 U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Texas remains one of the busiest in the nation. It represents 43 counties and more than nine million people covering 44,000 square miles. Assistant U.S. Attorneys from all seven divisions including Houston, Galveston, Victoria, Corpus Christi, Brownsville, McAllen and Laredo work directly with our law enforcement partners on the federal, state and local levels to prosecute the suspected offenders of these and other federal crimes.
An indictment or criminal complaint is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.
South Georgia Drug Trafficking Organization Defendants Found Guilty at TrialRead the Press Release
VALDOSTA, Ga. – Three co-conspirators involved in an armed drug trafficking organization (DTO) based out of Cook County, Georgia, were found guilty at trial this week of federal drug and weapons charges, the second federal trial of members of this criminal organization.
Calvin James Smith, Jr., 36, of Tifton, Georgia, was found guilty of one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances, one count of distribution of methamphetamine and one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. Smith faces a maximum of life in prison.
Eddie Lee Hardley, 36, of Adel, was found guilty of one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances. Hardley faces a maximum of life in prison.
Yardley Payne, 57, of Adel, Georgia, was found guilty of one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and one count of possession of a firearm by a drug user. Payne faces a maximum of 15 years in prison per count.
The trial began on Monday, July 14, and concluded on Thursday, July 24. Senior U.S. District Judge W. Louis Sands is presiding over the case. Sentencing dates will be determined by the Court. There is no parole in the federal system.
“This case highlights the commitment of our law enforcement partners alongside our office to combat armed drug trafficking organizations and hold those connected to them accountable for their crimes,” said U.S. Attorney William R. “Will” Keyes. “We are thankful for the strength of the collaboration between federal, state and local law enforcement agencies in the Middle District of Georgia as we work together to make the communities we serve safer for everyone.”
“The success of this large-scale investigation and the arrests of these drug dealers demonstrates the FBI’s commitment to fighting the drug trafficking organizations responsible for driving addiction and destroying communities,” said FBI Atlanta Special Agent in Charge Paul Brown.
"Today’s verdict sends a clear message that criminal organizations operating in Georgia, especially those trafficking in dangerous drugs and using firearms to further their operations, will be held accountable,” said GBI Director Chris Hosey. “This conviction is a testament to the tireless work of our law enforcement partners, who have dedicated countless hours to ensuring that those who threaten our communities with violence and illegal substances will face justice.”
According to court documents and statements referenced in court, the FBI undertook a significant investigation beginning as early as December 2020 of an armed drug trafficking organization (DTO) centered in Adel. The DTO was led by co-conspirator Calvin James Smith, Sr., aka “Rollo,” 56, of Adel, Georgia, who, in January 2025, was found guilty at trial of all 23 counts charged in the 44-count indictment. For more information about that trial, please visit: https://www.justice.gov/usao-mdga/pr/guilty-verdict-cook-county-armed-drug-trafficking-conspiracy-trial. The investigation determined that Smith, Jr. (the son of Smith, Sr.), Hardley and Payne conspired with others to distribute large quantities of methamphetamine and crack cocaine, as well as marijuana, working with several associates of the DTO. Agents discovered 13 locations used by the DTO. Search warrants were executed at these locations on Nov. 10, 2022, and methamphetamine, cocaine, crack cocaine, fentanyl, marijuana and 15 handguns and rifles were seized. Agents recovered more than five kilograms of pure methamphetamine, more than ten pounds of marijuana and several hundred grams of crack cocaine and cocaine.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs) and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
This case was investigated by the FBI and the Georgia Bureau of Investigations (GBI), with assistance from the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Cook County Sheriff’s Office, the Lowndes County Sheriff’s Office, the Adel Police Department, the Hahira Police Department and the Moultrie Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Monica Daniels prosecuted the case for the Government with assistance from Criminal Chief Leah McEwen and Assistant U.S. Attorney Mike Morrison.
South Florida Telecom Company and its CEO Pay $128 Million and CEO is Sentenced to 5 Years for Massive Government Program FraudRead the Press Release
MIAMI –Issa Asad, 51, of Southwest Ranches, Florida, and Q Link Wireless LLC, of Dania Beach, Florida, were sentenced yesterday for conspiring to defraud and commit offenses against the United States in connection with a years-long scheme to steal over $100 million from a celebrated federal program providing discounted phone service to people in need. Asad, Q Link’s CEO, was also sentenced for laundering money from a separate scheme to defraud a different federal program meant to aid individuals and businesses hurt by the Covid-19 pandemic.
Asad and Q Link were each sentenced on Count 1 of an Information, which charged them with conspiring to commit wire fraud and to steal government money, and also with conspiring to defraud the United States, Asad was also sentenced on Count 2 of the Information, which charges him with money laundering.
Asad received a sentence of 60 months’ imprisonment. Q Link agreed to pay a forfeiture money judgment of over $109 million. Asad and Q Link also agreed to jointly paid $109,637,057 in restitution to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). Asad separately paid $1,758,339.25 in restitution to the United States Small Business Association, and paid a forfeiture judgment against him of $17,484,118.00. The paid financial penalties and restitution totaled over $128 million.
"Issa Asad and his company, Q Link Wireless, deliberately scammed two vital government programs aimed at supporting people and companies in economic distress, wrongfully diverting hundreds of millions of dollars for their personal benefit and gain, all while impeding the government's capacity to assist those who genuinely required the help," stated U.S. Attorney Hayden P. O’ Byrne for the Southern District of Florida. "These outcomes underscore our resolve to make sure that those who mastermind corporate fraud schemes face personal consequences.”
“IRS Criminal Investigation special agents are specially equipped to follow the complex financial trail left by criminals, and we are dedicated to holding those accountable for crimes committed,” said Executive Special Agent in Charge Kareem Carterof the Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI), Washington, D.C. Field Office. “This was a brazen scheme of staggering proportions. Mr. Asad prioritized his own greed, stealing $100 million from taxpayers. Today’s sentencing sends a clear message that our Global Illicit Financial Team and our law enforcement partners remain vigilant and will vigorously pursue those who attempt to enrich themselves through fraudulent means.”
“Q Link and Asad stole funds from a key FCC program meant to serve low-income households,” said Inspector General Fara Damelin of the FCC, Office of Inspector General (FCC-OIG). “This sentencing sends an important message that egregious criminal misconduct against FCC programs will not go unanswered. FCC OIG investigators and their law enforcement partners at DOJ, IRS, SIGPR, and USPIS, did an outstanding job on this investigation, and we thank FCC for its assistance. FCC OIG is dedicated to stopping waste, fraud, and abuse, and will continue to vigorously pursue investigations against wrongdoers who defraud FCC programs and victimize our most vulnerable populations.”
“Issa Asad used the cover of a legitimate business to line his pockets at the expense of taxpayers and vulnerable communities,” said Acting Inspector in Charge Bladismir Rojo of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), Miami Division. “Today’s sentencing reinforces our commitment to protecting our communities and government programs from abuse.”
According to court records, the case arose out of the Asad and Q Link’s scheme to defraud the FCC’s Lifeline program. Lifeline makes basic communications services more affordable for low-income consumers. It provides subscribers a deep discount on qualifying monthly cellphone service, broadband Internet service, or bundled voice-broadband packages purchased from participating telecommunications providers. The discount helps ensure that low-income consumers can afford 21st century connectivity services and the access they provide to jobs, healthcare, and educational resources.
Asad and Q Link agreed that they purposefully conspired to defraud this program. Specifically, beginning as early as 2012 and continuing through at least 2021, Q Link, directed by Asad, cheated the Lifeline program by making repeated false claims for reimbursement, taking and retaining Lifeline funds that it was not entitled to receive, providing false information about its Lifeline customers, and deceiving the FCC about its compliance with program rules. Asad directed these illegal activities and conspired with others to commit the fraud.
Among other things, according to court records, the Asad and Q Link engaged in multiple tricks designed to mislead the FCC about how many people were actually using Q Link’s Lifeline phones, and to prevent customers who did not want the phones from ending their relationship with Q Link (which would have prevented Q Link from billing the program for them). Asad and Q Link manufactured non-existent cellphone activity and engaged in coercive marketing techniques to get people to remain Q Link customers. On one occasion, for example, Asad and Q Link devised the following automated script to be played for Q Link customers: “Hello, your Medicaid, Food Stamp and Lifeline benefits are about to get cancelled. To avoid cancelation of these benefits, press 1 now to indicate that you wish to remain enrolled in these government programs. Press 2 if you wish to speak to a representative about your government benefits. To opt out of any future calls, press 3.” The Asad and Q Link used this false and threatening script to coerce customers into accepting Lifeline services. In another recorded call in which a similar script was deployed, a customer, who called to cancel due to a non-working cellphone, asked the Q Link customer service representative, “Do you want me to throw it in the garbage?” The representative instructed the customer to “Just make sure you continue to use the device at least once every 30 days.”
Upon learning that the FCC was investigating their Lifeline billing, Asad and Q Link created and provided false records to the FCC to conceal the scam and to continue collecting reimbursement. As part of this plan, Asad and Q Link, with the help of others, simply manufactured cellphone activity on behalf of Q Link customers who were not using their cellphones. At no point did Q Link amend past Lifeline claims for customers who were not using their cellphones or return any of the Lifeline payments. Asad and Q Link, together with their co-conspirators, caused a $109,637,057 loss to the FCC. Asad admitted that he sent over $50 million in Lifeline funds to bank accounts he and his family member controlled in Jordan.
Meanwhile, Asad defrauded another federal government program, the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), by making false statements about Q Link’s business. Congress created the PPP during the Covid-19 pandemic to authorize forgivable loans to small businesses for job retention and certain other expenses. Asad, in Q Link’s name, executed a fraudulent scheme to obtain, and keep, PPP proceeds. To further the scheme, Asad made false statements about Q Link’s business, including a false claim that Q Link’s Lifeline reimbursements substantially decreased because of the pandemic. Asad then, in 2021, engaged in an unlawful financial transaction involving approximately $389,000 of those proceeds. Asad spent PPP loan proceeds on a Land Rover payment, his personal Amex card, jewelry, and personal property taxes.
Resolution of this matter makes this the largest criminal matter involving the FCC and the largest criminal plea deal in the history of Southern District of Florida.
U.S. Attorney O’ Byrne, acting Inspector in Charge Rojo, Executive Special Agent in Charge Carter, and Inspector General Damelin, made the announcement.
The FCC-OIG, USPIS, IRS-CI’s Global Illicit Financial Team, and Special Inspector General for Pandemic Recovery (SIGPR), investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Elizabeth Young and John Shipley prosecuted the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joshua Pastor and Mitch Hyman are handling asset forfeiture.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Danielle Croke is handling restitution.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or at http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov, under case number 24-cr-20363.
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Somerset County Man Indicted for Receipt of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
WILLIAMSPORT - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Tyler Fuller, age 31, of Somerset County, PA, was indicted yesterday on charges of receipt and possession of child pornography.
According to Acting United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, the indictment alleges that Fuller received and possessed child pornography from August 2023 to January 2024, in Centre County.
The case was investigated by the State College Police Department, Ferguson Township Police Department, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General, and the Department of Homeland Security. Assistant United States Attorney Alisan V. Martin is prosecuting 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 individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc.
Indictments and Criminal Informations are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
The maximum penalty under federal law for these offenses is 20 years, with a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
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Six Massachusetts Men Arrested for Alleged Roles in Bank Fraud RingRead the Press Release
BOSTON – Six Massachusetts men have been charged and arrested in connection with a multi-million-dollar scheme to defraud banks in Massachusetts, Connecticut and Rhode Island.
The following individuals have been indicted on one count each of conspiracy to commit bank fraud, bank fraud and conspiracy to commit money laundering:- Phalentz Vernot, 24, of Waltham, who was also indicted on one count of aggravated identity theft;
- Selby Okai, 23, of Worcester;
- Yves Bissainthe, 23, of Randolph;
- Marvin Kimani, 24, of Lowell;
- Keith Wainaina, 23, of Lowell; and
- Victor Kolawole, 25, of Brockton.
All six defendants were arrested this morning and appeared in federal court in Boston.
According to the charging documents, from at least December 2022 through the present, the defendants allegedly obtained, without authorization, the names, dates of birth, Social Security numbers and bank account numbers of customers of various local banks; recruited individuals to pose as those customers; obtained fake identification documents with the victim customers’ names but the imposters’ photos; drove the imposters to banks in Massachusetts, Connecticut and Rhode Island, where the imposters presented the fake identification documents and withdrew large sums from the victim customers’ accounts in the form of Cashier’s checks; deposited those checks into bank accounts defendants and their co-conspirators controlled; and transferred the money to other bank accounts they controlled. The defendants allegedly recruited bank insiders to facilitate their scheme, including by providing them access to victim customers’ information and disabling account notifications that would have alerted customers to the unauthorized withdrawals.
The charges of bank fraud and conspiracy to commit bank fraud provide for a sentence of up to 30 years in prison, five years of supervised release and a fine of $1 million or twice the gross gain or loss, whichever is greater. The charge of conspiracy to commit money laundering provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of $500,000 or twice the amount of money involved in the laundering transactions, whichever is greater. The charge of aggravated identity theft carries a mandatory two-year prison sentence consecutive to any sentence received on the other charges. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Ted E. Docks, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division; and P.J. O’Brien, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, New Haven Division made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Connecticut State Police; Glocester (RI), Sutton, Concord (Mass.), Dracut, Westwood and Abington Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kristen Kearney of the Securities, Financial & Cyber Fraud Unit is prosecuting the case.
The details contained in the charging document are allegations. The defendant is presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in the court of law.Serial Cyberstalker Who Terrorized Women for 16 Years Sentenced to Nine Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Plymouth, Mass. man has been sentenced in federal court in Boston for cyberstalking more than a dozen Massachusetts women over a 16-year period. Beginning as early as 2008 and continuing into 2024, the defendant engaged in elaborate online harassment campaigns that targeted and tormented women he knew personally – including two who were minors when the conduct began. Among other things, the defendant hacked into victims’ personal accounts and used over 60 accounts across nearly 30 platforms to relentlessly impersonate, intimidate and abuse them – sharing thousands of fake sexually explicit images of the victims along with their personal information and urging others to contact, shame and sextort them.
James Florence Jr., 37, was sentenced on July 23, 2025, by U.S. District Court Judge Richard G. Stearns to nine years in prison and 10 years of supervised release. In April 2025, Florence pleaded guilty to seven counts of cyberstalking and one count of possession of child pornography. Florence was arrested and charged by criminal complaint in September 2024 and has remained in custody since.“This was not internet trolling. It was psychological torture – sustained, targeted, and deeply personal. For 16 years, this defendant tormented more than a dozen women who considered him a friend, a loved one or an ally and, at the stroke of a key, inflicted lasting harm that changed the way many of these women move through the world. And he did it all while hiding, cowardly, behind a keyboard. Now, he’ll face the consequences of that cruelty behind bars for the better part of the next decade,” said United States Attorney Leah B. Foley. “The courage of the victims in this case is extraordinary and it’s their strength that made justice possible here. Our office will continue to do everything in our power to unmask and hold predators like this accountable.”
“James Florence Jr. is a serial cyber stalker who led a double life, weaponizing modern technology to debase, destroy and traumatize more than a dozen women, many of whom were family and close friends, for over a decade. What he did was sickening, demented, and cruel, and he’ll now pay for it with his freedom,” said Ted E. Docks, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division. “Cyberstalking is a serious crime, and you can be sure the FBI will work to unmask and bring to justice anyone who uses today’s technology in such a despicable way.”
According to court filings, Florence targeted women he knew personally as well as acquaintances – stealing photos from their online accounts and digitally altering the images to make the victims appear nude or engaged in sexual acts. Florence would then post the doctored images publicly alongside the victims’ names, home addresses and other identifying details. For nearly all seven victims, Florence’s cyberstalking campaigns included:- Creating “imposter” social media accounts designed to appear as if they were operated by the victims themselves;
- Posting sexually explicit, AI-generated or photoshopped images of victims, often tagging the victims’ real accounts to maximize exposure;
- Publishing victims’ personal information, including driver’s license photos, home addresses and professional affiliations, with messages urging others to humiliate and expose them;
- Using hacked and compromised personal accounts to surveil victims and gain access to additional private content;
- Attempting to sell doctored nude images of one victim online; and
- Setting up notifications to monitor any changes to victims’ online biographies.
Florence often prompted strangers to contact the victims directly – with some unknown senders demanding that the victims produce real sexually explicit content under threat of distributing the doctored images to friends, family and professional contacts.
For one of the victims, Florence used the name, image and other personal identifying information to program at least three AI-driven chatbots to interact with strangers across multiple platforms in sexually explicit conversations and disclose how to contact or find the victim. For another victim, he created a false online persona describing her sexual preferences, fabricated stories about sex toys and equipment in her home and posted her home address inviting strangers to contact her for sex.
Florence also designed a collage of digitally altered images depicting one victim nude, which he posted to a website alongside her full personal information, encouraging viewers to “Post & Share Her Everywhere. Make The Whore Famous.”
Many of Florence’s victims continue to receive harassing and threatening messages from unknown individuals who encountered the content he created and distributed online.
Additionally, the following items were uncovered during a search of Florence’s residence in Plymouth in September 2024:
- Dozens of pairs of women’s underwear and socks stolen from his victims;
- A custom phone case featuring the image of one of the victims;
- At least 11 digital wallpapers of his victims stored on his phone;
- At least one photo of a victim taken when she was a minor; and
- 62 images and four videos of child sexual abuse material, depicting minor female victims between the ages of approximately eight and 15 years old.
Florence used his expertise to employ several techniques to hide his online identity and criminal activities. According to court filings, Florence was an Information Technology professional who had worked for 10 years at MIT Lincoln Laboratory and had a DoD “Secret” clearance. With this knowledge, he employed a variety of tactics to evade law enforcement – via VPN services, anonymous overseas “revenge porn” websites and encrypted foreign email providers that do not respond to U.S. legal process or retain identifying records.
If you or someone you know is a victim of cyberstalking, please visit: Office for Victims of Crime | What can I do if I am a victim of stalking?
U.S. Attorney Foley and FBI SAC Docks made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Norfolk and Plymouth Police Departments and the Plymouth Fire Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Luke A. Goldworm, Project Safe Childhood Coordinator and a member of the Major Crimes Unit, is prosecuting the case.San Diego Man Sentenced in D.C. to 108 Months in Prison for Distribution of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Eduardo Alberto Zelaya Vides, 31, of San Diego, California, was sentenced today in the District of Columbia to 108 months in prison in connection with repeatedly posting child sexual abuse materials to an online chatroom, with aggressively encouraging other group members to do the same, and possessing a collection of child pornography that numbered more than 2,000 digital files, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro.
Zelaya Vides pleaded guilty on February 7, 2025, before U.S. District Court Judge Beryl A. Howell, to one count of distribution of child pornography.
In addition to the 108-month prison term, Judge Howell ordered Zelaya Vides to serve 15 years of supervised release, to register as a sex offender, and to provide a total of $106,500 in restitution to the 14 children depicted in the child exploitation images that he distributed.
Joining in the announcement was FBI Assistant Director in Charge Steven J. Jensen of the Washington Field Office, which conducted the investigation.
According to court documents, Zelaya Vides joined an instant messaging group which existed as a chatroom for the purpose of discussing the sexual exploitation of children and sharing child pornography. To gain entry and remain in the group, members were required to actively post and share child sexual abuse content. Zelaya repeatedly shared child pornography videos in the group and encouraged other members to share materials they collected, repeatedly imploring the group to “post your sluts” and “post your young sluts.”
On May 10, 2024, law enforcement arrested Zelaya Vides. FBI agents executed a search warrant at the defendant’s home and recovered six digital devices, three of which contained more than 2,000 videos and images depicting the sexual abuse of children.
During his interview with investigators, Zelaya Vides admitted that he participated in the chatroom that began as a forum for discussion and exchange of pornography. He later admitted that he was aware that the pornographic images shared in the group depicted minors who were under 18-years-old. He further admitted that he uploaded images to the chatroom.
This case was investigated by the FBI Washington Field Office’s Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Karen L. Shinskie.
This case was brought as part of the Department of Justice's Project Safe Childhood initiative. In February 2006, the Attorney General created Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorney's Offices, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
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Sallisaw High School Coach Pleads Guilty to Receiving Child Sexual Exploitation MaterialRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Joshua Lee Bolin, age 26, of Sallisaw, Oklahoma, entered a guilty plea to a Superseding Indictment of one count of Receipt of Certain Material Involving the Sexual Exploitation of a Minor, punishable by five to twenty years in prison and a $250,000.00 fine.
The Superseding Indictment alleged that beginning in January 2024 and continuing until June 28, 2024, Bolin received visual depictions of a minor engaging in sexually explicit conduct.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Sallisaw Police Department.
The Honorable Gerald L. Jackson, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.
A U.S. District Court Judge will determine the sentence to be imposed after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Bolin was remanded into the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending sentencing.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jessie K. Pippin and Emily Wittlinger represented the United States.
Roanoke Rapids Man Sentenced in Large-Scale Drug and Gun CaseRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – Diandre Sherod Ireland, aka “Debo”, 35, was sentenced Wednesday to 13 years in prison for drug trafficking in Roanoke Rapids.
“This sentence reflects the serious threat posed by fentanyl traffickers who fuel addiction and violence in our communities,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Bubar. “We remain committed to working with our law enforcement partners to hold accountable those who profit from dealing this deadly poison.”
“This conviction is the culmination of hard work by the Halifax Narcotics and Gang Taskforce, a partnership between RRPD and the Halifax County Sheriff’s Office, as well as our federal law enforcement partners, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office. The dedication of each,” said Roanoke Rapids Police Chief Lawrence Wiggins.
“Over the past three years we have built an excellent relationship with our local, state and federal law enforcement partners. We have used this partnership to go after those who are terrorizing our community,” said Halifax County Sheriff Tyree Davis. “Drugs and gangs are a problem in Halifax County and a vast majority of our murders, violent crimes and non-violent crimes are directly related to drugs and gangs. In partnership with the Roanoke Rapids Police Department, our (HCSO & RRPD) Drug and Gang Task Force works tirelessly to ensure our communities are safer. Our agents will build strong, detailed cases. The Chief and I take a tough stance on drugs and gangs.”
According to court documents and other information presented in court, the Halifax Regional Drug and Gang Task Force began investigating Ireland in 2022 after sources identified him as a major drug supplier. Officers observed him making short visits to suspected drug houses in North Carolina and Virginia and interacting with known traffickers.
In February 2024, agents executed a search warrant at his home. When they arrived, law enforcement observed Ireland exit out the back door and toss two backpacks into the neighboring yard before returning inside. Inside the bags, investigators found more than 1,500 grams of cocaine and 300 grams of fentanyl. A search of Ireland’s home uncovered nearly 250 grams of marijuana, digital scales, more than $38,000 in cash, and four firearms – including two stolen handguns and a rifle with a high-capacity magazine.
Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge James C. Dever III. The Halifax County Sheriff’s Office, the Roanoke Rapids Police Department, and the ATF investigated the case and Assistant U.S. Attorney Julie A. Childress prosecuted the case.
Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 4:24-CR-00075.
Repeat offender convicted at trial of drug trafficking and firearms offensesRead the Press Release
Seattle – A Seattle man with prior convictions for robbery, burglary and indecent liberties with forcible compulsion for sexually assaulting a homeowner during the course of a residential burglary, was convicted late yesterday in U.S. District Court in Seattle of possession of fentanyl with intent to distribute and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Teal Luthy Miller. Anthony Raymond Dodd, 36, was convicted following a three-day jury trial. The jury deliberated about 6 hours before returning the guilty verdict. At a second proceeding, the jury convicted Dodd of being a felon in possession of a firearm. U.S. District Judge John H. Chun scheduled sentencing for October 20, 2025.
According to records filed in the case and testimony at trial, on February 22, 2024, Dodd was scheduled to meet with his community corrections officer in the SODO neighborhood of Seattle. Law enforcement had received a report that Dodd was armed and dealing fentanyl pills. Corrections officers followed Dodd in a car he was driving to the check-in meeting. The car was kept under surveillance while Dodd met with his corrections officer and failed to truthfully an
swer some questions about guns and drugs. When corrections officers searched the vehicle Dodd was driving, they found two bags of fentanyl pills in the center console, with a loaded handgun sitting on top of the pills. DNA consistent with Dodd’s DNA profile was found on the trigger of the gun and the magazine holding the bullets. When law enforcement searched Dodd’s apartment, they found $1,460 in cash and a few pills hidden in a heat vent. On Dodd’s phone was a request from someone asking for ‘blues’ – the street name for fentanyl pills.
In closing arguments Assistant United States Attorney Cecelia Gregson told the jury, Dodd “was the only person in that car, he was the last person in that car.”
Dodd’s defense tried to argue that the case was a ‘cautionary tale’ about borrowing the wrong car from a friend – a car Dodd claimed he did not know contained drugs and a loaded gun. Prosecutors say the case is something different, “This is a ‘cautionary tale’ about a defendant thinking he could commit crimes on the way to and from his Department of Corrections appointment.”
To limit what the jury knew of Dodd’s criminal history, Judge Chun held a second trial on whether Dodd illegally possessed the firearm since he is a convicted felon. Jurors briefly deliberated before returning that guilty verdict.
Possession of fentanyl with intent to distribute is punishable by a mandatory minimum 5 years imprisonment and a maximum penalty of 40 years. Possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime is punishable by a mandatory minimum 5 years in prison to run consecutive to any sentence imposed on the drug trafficking count. Unlawful Possession of a firearm is punishable by up to 15 years in prison.
The case was investigated by the Washington State Department of Corrections, the Seattle Police Department, and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Cecelia Gregson and Rachel Yemini.
Puerto Rico Man Indicted for Straw-Purchasing Dozens of Firearms on Behalf of OthersRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces the return by a grand jury of an indictment charging Esai Pastrana Cruz (30, Puerto Rico) with conspiring to make and making false statements to a firearms dealer. If convicted, Pastrana Cruz faces a maximum penalty of 5 years in federal prison on the conspiracy count and up to 10 years on each substantive count. The indictment also notifies Pastrana Cruz that the United States intends to forfeit all firearms and ammunition involved in or used in the violation.
According to the indictment, between June 29, 2019, and December 22, 2023, while living within the Middle District of Florida, Pastrana Cruz purchased dozens of firearms on behalf of his co-conspirators. While making the purchases, Pastrana Cruz falsely represented to federally licensed firearms dealers that he was the actual buyer or transferee of the firearms.
An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jeff Chang.
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).
Previously Convicted Murderer in Possession of a Glock Sentenced to 32 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Wendell Smith, 60, of the District of Columbia, was sentenced today to 32 months in federal prison for being a previously convicted felon in possession of a loaded Glock firearm when he was stopped by police for speeding on the Suitland Parkway, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro.
Smith pleaded guilty on April 18, 2025, to unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition by a felon. In addition to the 32-month prison sentence, U.S. District Court Judge Loren L. AliKhan ordered Smith to serve three years of supervised release
Joining in the announcement of Smith’s sentencing was Chief Jessica Taylor of the U.S. Park Police.
According to court documents, on Nov. 4, 2024, U.S. Park Police officers observed a black Mercedes speeding on the Suitland Parkway near Alabama Ave. SE, and attempted to conduct a traffic stop. After the sedan came to a halt, officers saw the driver reach to his right side.
Smith presented his driver’s license. Officers asked Smith to step out of the vehicle. A K-9 unit indicated the presence of controlled dangerous substances in the car.
Officers searched the car and, from a backpack on the passenger’s seat, recovered a Glock 27, .40 caliber pistol loaded with 13 rounds of ammunition. In another bag on the floor, officers discovered more than $78,000 in cash.
Smith previously was convicted of first degree murder while armed and other offenses in D.C. Superior Court and in February 1990 was sentenced to 20 years to life in prison.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Park Police. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas Strong.
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Osceola County Man Sentenced for Fentanyl DistributionRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida – U.S. District Judge Wendy W. Berger has sentenced Yo’Rel Le-Dari Pemberton (27, Osceola County) to 10 years and 5 months in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute and distribution of over 40 grams of fentanyl. Pemberton pled guilty on April 16, 2025.
According to court documents, on six occasions between July 6, 2023, and June 6, 2024, Pemberton sold pills containing fentanyl to an undercover officer. In total, Pemberton sold approximately 284 grams of fentanyl to the undercover officer.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and Osceola County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Adam Nate and Patrick Flanigan.
Northern Colorado Couple Pleads Guilty to Fentanyl Distribution Linked to Death of a MinorRead the Press Release
DENVER – The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado announces that Destiny Salazar, age 22, and Gabriel Orozco, age 23, both of Weld County, Colorado, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and to distribution of fentanyl.
According to the plea agreements, Salazar and Orozco used cellphones, Facebook, and email to sell fentanyl pills to a variety of customers. They referred to the pills as “blues," "30s," "percs," "perxs," and "yerks” on Facebook. They also used their various devices and accounts interchangeably, with Orozco sometimes responding for Salazar on her account.
The plea agreements further state that the defendants engaged in a series of transactions with an individual on July 24th, 2021, who purchased six pills in total from Salazar and Orozco. This individual shared the pills with a minor female, who died shortly thereafter as a result of fentanyl intoxication. Both defendants and the individual who purchased the pills were aware they contained fentanyl.
Salazar and Orozco continued to conspire and distribute fentanyl through at least March 2022, when they were arrested on burglary charges. At the time of their arrest, they possessed distribution quantities of fentanyl, according to the plea agreements.
United States District Court Senior Judge John L. Kane presided over the hearing.
Salazar will be sentenced on October 21st, 2025, and Orozco will be sentenced on October 23rd, 2025.
The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Greeley Police Department, Brighton Police Department, Weld County District Attorney's Office, and the Weld County Drug Task Force. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Brad Giles.
Case Number: 24-cr-310-JLK
Nine Indicted in Illegal Gambling Ring Worth over $9.5 MillionRead the Press Release
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – Nine individuals have been indicted by a federal grand jury for their alleged involvement in an illegal gambling conspiracy occurring at six locations in southwest Missouri. Each of the defendants face multiple charges in the 72-count indictment.
Rahulkumar D. Patel, 40, a citizen of India residing in the state of Washington, Manishkumar M. Patel, 44, a citizen of India residing in the state of Georgia, Mitulkumar M. Barot, 40, of Georgia, Sunilkumar N. Patel, 52, a citizen of India residing in the state of New York, Tushar R. Patel, 39, of Georgia, Azghar Ali, 51, of New York, Harshadkumar S. Chaudhari, 38, a citizen of India, residing in Colorado, Vipul A. Patel, 40, of Arkansas, and Mohammed Iphtekar Ali Ajgar, 50, of Georgia were each charged in a 72-count superseding indictment returned under seal by a federal grand jury in Springfield on May 14, 2025. The superseding indictment replaces an indictment returned against Rahulkumar D. Patel, on Dec. 10, 2024, and includes additional charges and defendants. The superseding indictment was unsealed and made public following the arrest of several defendants and in advance of certain defendants’ arraignments on July 23 and 24, 2025.
“Illegal gambling operations affect the citizens of the neighborhoods and communities where they are located as well as the local economy. We worked closely with our law enforcement partners to shut down this criminal conspiracy and bring those responsible to justice. This case is an example of what can be accomplished when law enforcement agencies work together to tackle organized criminal activity,” said Acting United States Attorney Jeff Ray.
“What began as a local investigation quickly expanded into a large, multi-jurisdictional case resulting in numerous indictments and a significant positive impact across our community,” Springfield Police Chief Paul Williams said. “We’re grateful for the strong partnerships we have with federal agencies that made it possible to build a case of this scale.”
“This wasn’t some low-level gambling scheme. It was an organized, multi-million-dollar criminal network that operated brazenly and believed it could stay one step ahead of law enforcement,” said ICE Homeland Security Investigations Kansas City Special Agent in Charge Mark Zito. “They were mistaken. Through precise coordination, relentless investigation, and cross-agency teamwork, we dismantled their operation piece by piece-locally and overseas. To those still involved in this kind of crime: we’re watching, we’re tracking, and we will shut you down.”
“Today’s charges reflect the dedication of law enforcement – especially in Springfield, Joplin, and across Southwest Missouri - to hold those who violate the law accountable. We especially thank and commend our law enforcement partners for their persistent and unwavering commitment to this case,” said Federal Bureau of Investigation Special Agent in Charge Stephen Cyrus.
The federal indictment charges all nine defendants with one count each of participating in a conspiracy to commit wire fraud, conspiracy to operate an illegal gambling business, and operating illegal gambling businesses from July 1, 2022, to May 13, 2025. In addition to the conspiracy counts, all nine defendants were charged with at least one count of wire fraud, and eight defendants were charged with conspiracy to commit money laundering.
The State of Missouri has established regulations controlling the operation of electronic gaming devices. Certain gambling devices and slot machines are prohibited by Missouri and Federal law.
According to the indictment, the defendants ran illegal gambling businesses under the guise of internet amusement arcade games, skill game arcades, and adult arcades.
Between April 24, 2023, and Aug. 28, 2023, Barot registered six businesses online with the Missouri Secretary of State: Big Win Arcade, LLC; Big Win Arcade 2023, LLC; Spin Hitters 1, LLC; Spin Hitters, LLC; Vegas City Arcade, LLC; and Vegas Arcade, LLC. The indictment alleges that the defendants then used these businesses to fraudulently apply for business license applications filed with the cities of Springfield, Joplin, and Branson West, and to obtain utilities contracts, lease agreements, and business incorporation documents filed with the State of Missouri.
The defendants hired local employees to work in their businesses, which operated contests of chance, gambling devices, and slot machines in violation of Missouri and Federal law. There were four locations that operated in Springfield: Big Win Arcade #1 at 1928 S. Glenstone Ave., Big Win Arcade #2 at 1135 E. Commercial St., Spin Hitters at 838-840 S. Glenstone Ave., and Vegas Arcade at 615 S. Scenic. They also opened Spin Zone at 2331 E. 7th St. in Joplin, Mo., and Vegas City Arcade at 16585 Missouri Highway 13, Branson West.
Rahulkumar D. Patel, Manishkumar M. Patel, Tushar R. Patel, Vipul A. Patel, and Ajgar participated in WhatsApp group chats where they communicated about the operation of the illegal gambling arcades from May 31, 2023, to March 11, 2024.
The indictment alleges that the defendants transported the proceeds from the illegal gambling locations to several states to promote the ongoing illegal activity. The defendants hid the proceeds of their gambling ring by depositing them in various personal bank accounts within the United States and the Republic of India. Over $9.5 million in US currency was laundered by this organization in a little over three years.
Rahulkumar D. Patel, Manishkumar M. Patel, Sunilkumar N. Patel, Tushar R. Patel, Barot, Ali, Chaudhari, and Ajgar are all charged with one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering, and at least one count of interstate travel in aid of racketeering. Rahulkumar D. Patel, Manishkumar M. Patel, Sunilkumar N. Patel, Tushar R. Patel, Barot, Ali, and Ajgar are all charged with money laundering. Rahulkumar D. Patel, Manishkumar M. Patel, and Ali are also charged with depositing or transferring more than $10,000 of funds derived from illegal gambling and wire fraud in a single transaction.
The charges contained in this indictment are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.
This case is the result of a lengthy investigation by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) involving the transnational organized crime group with ties to India. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Casey Clark who was significantly assisted by former Assistant U.S. Attorney Mike Oliver prior to his retirement in June of this year. It was investigated by the Springfield, Mo., Police Department, Homeland Security Investigations, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, IRS-Criminal Investigations, the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the Joplin, Mo., Police Department, the Kansas City, Mo., Police Department, the Missouri National Guard Counter Drug Unit, the Mid-States Organized Crime Information Center, the Greene County, Mo., Prosecuting Attorney, the Jasper County, Mo., Prosecuting Attorney, and the Johnson County, Mo., Prosecuting Attorney.
Operation Take Back America
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
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New York Man Pleads Guilty to Bank Fraud and Identity Theft in Connection with Stolen $810,000 Tax Refund CheckRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Yonkers, N.Y. man pleaded guilty yesterday in federal court in Boston in connection with a scheme to steal an $810,000 tax refund by impersonating a corporate executive in Connecticut.
Steven Ware, 64, pleaded guilty to one count of bank fraud and two counts of aggravated identity theft. U.S. Senior District Court Judge William G. Young scheduled sentencing for Oct. 8, 2025. Ware was arrested and charged by criminal complaint in September 2024 and subsequently indicted by a federal grand jury in October 2024.
In December 2023, Ware opened bank accounts in the name of a Connecticut investment company and one of its executives at a credit union in Tyngsborough, Mass. When opening the account, Ware identified himself as the executive – using the executive’s full name, date of birth, Social Security number and other documents.
Shortly after opening the account, Ware returned to the credit union pretending to be the executive and deposited a United States Treasury check payable to the company and the executive for $810,337.
Once the check cleared, a debit card was used to withdraw money from the account to buy goods at various retailers in New York, New Hampshire and Massachusetts. Ware returned to the Tyngsborough credit union several times over the following days and weeks pretending to be the executive and wired more than $634,000 of the stolen funds.
The charge of bank fraud provides for a sentence of up to 30 years in prison, five years of supervised release and a fine of up to $1 million. The charges of aggravated identity theft each provide for a mandatory two years in prison, in addition to any sentence imposed for bank fraud, one year of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Ted E. Docks, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division; Thomas Demeo, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, Boston Field Office; Ketty Larco-Ward, Inspector in Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service’s Boston Division; and Michael Carpenter, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration, OIG made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Tyngsborough Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kriss Basil of the Securities, Financial & Cyber Fraud Unit is prosecuting the case.
New Jersey Woman Sentenced in Connection with Scheme to Fraudulently Obtain Loans from Small Business AdministrationRead the Press Release
Baltimore, Maryland – U.S. District Judge Deborah K. Chasanow sentenced Jennifer Watkins, 48, of Marlton, New Jersey, to 36 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, in connection with her role as a co-conspirator in a multi-million-dollar bank fraud conspiracy. Watkins and her co-conspirators schemed to fraudulently obtain more than $35 million in Small Business Administration (SBA) loans from financial institutions that they used to purchase hotels. Judge Chasanow also ordered Watkins to pay restitution of $6,010,655.72.
Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the sentence with Special Agent in Charge Robert Manchak, Federal Housing Finance Agency Office of Inspector General (FHFA-OIG), and Special Agent in Charge Jeffrey D. Pittano, Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Office of Inspector General (FDIC-OIG) – Mid-Atlantic Region.
According to the factual stipulations in the guilty pleas of Watkins, and co-conspirators Mehul Ramesh Khatiwala, aka “Mike Khatiwala,” 43, of Voorhees, New Jersey, and Rajendra G. Parikh, 64, of Monroe, New Jersey, Khatiwala was the owner and managing member of Delaware Hotel Group LLC (DHG), and an operator of GMK Consulting LLC (GMK) and KPG Hotel Mgmt. LLC (KPG). These LLCs were hotel management and loan broker companies located in Mount Laurel, New Jersey. Watkins served as a project coordinator for DHG and managing member of Forza Consulting LLC (Forza), a hotel consulting and loan broker company located in Marlton, New Jersey. Parikh was an owner of KPG. Co-defendant Rebecca Marie Cohn a/k/a Rebecca Marie Stanton, 38, was a settlement and title processor for Residential Title & Escrow Company, a real estate title company located in Owings Mills, Maryland, that offered escrow and loan-settlement services.
The guilty pleas outline how from August 2018 through February 2020, Khatiwala, Parikh, and Watkins conspired to obtain loan proceeds to buy and sell hotels in connection with a hotel flipping scheme. “Flipping” is a real estate investment strategy that involves purchasing property to hold for a short period before selling it to make a quick profit. During the SBA-loan application process, the co-conspirators made and caused others to make material misrepresentations and omissions to financial institutions regarding the sellers’ identity, familial relationships between parties, and the nature and amount of the equity injected by the borrowers. The defendants sought loans through the SBA’s Section 7(a) Program, which guaranteed and insured approximately 75-85 percent of these loans, and required that the small business owner/borrower invest a certain amount of their own money into the business to qualify for the loan.
In their guilty pleas, Khatiwala and Parikh admitted that they acted as managers or supervisors in connection with the scheme. Additionally, Khatiwala, Parikh, and Watkins admitted that they created shell companies using co-conspirators as straw owners of the entities. These straw owners had no actual ownership interest in the entities as Khatiwala and Parikh were the true owners. The straw owners signed purchase contracts, operating agreements, and related documents to buy hotel properties in the name of the shell companies.
Co-conspirators then created a second company to purchase the hotels from the shell companies at substantially higher prices. After the co-conspirators formed the companies to control both sides of the flip transaction, they solicited banks for small-business loans to finance the buying company’s purchase of the hotel from the straw companies. The co-conspirators helped the buying companies qualify for the loans by falsely representing investors’ equity injections to the banks, among other materially false statements, misrepresentations, and omissions. The financial institutions extending the loans relied on the false statements and misrepresentations.
U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the FHFA-OIG and FDIC-OIG for their work in the investigation. Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Harry M. Gruber, Evelyn L. Cusson, and Ari D. Evans, who are prosecuting the federal case, and recognized Paralegal Specialist Joanna B.N. Huber, who provided legal support for the case.
For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to report fraud, visit justice.gov/usao-md and justice.gov/usao-md/community-outreach.
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Monterey Man Charged with Production of Child Sexual Abuse Materials and Other Child Exploitation OffensesRead the Press Release
SAN JOSE – A federal grand jury has indicted Samuel Rios on seven counts of child exploitation and child pornography offenses.
Rios, 29, of Monterey, was initially charged by complaint on July 8, 2025, and was indicted yesterday on two counts of coercion and enticement of a minor, three counts production of child pornography, one count of distribution of child pornography, and one count of possession of child pornography.
According to the complaint and indictment, Rios allegedly used the social media platform Snapchat to persuade, induce, entice, and coerce two different minor victims (Victim-1 and Victim-3) in Monterey County to engage in sexually explicit activity from July 24, 2023, through March 5, 2024, and from May 9, 2024, through May 10, 2024.
The indictment also alleges that Rios produced child sexual abuse materials with minor victims in the Northern District of California in 2023 and 2024, and further possessed and distributed child sexual abuse materials.
In May 2024, on behalf of an anonymous client, a therapist reported the possible sexual assault of a child by a male alleged to be Rios.
United States Attorney Craig H. Missakian and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Acting Special Agent in Charge Jeffrey Brannigan made the announcement.
Rios has been in federal custody since July 16, 2025. He is next scheduled to appear in federal court on July 28, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. for a detention hearing before U.S. Magistrate Judge Virginia K. DeMarchi.
An indictment merely alleges that crimes have been committed, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. If convicted, Rios faces a maximum sentence of life in prison and a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison for each count of coercion and enticement of a minor in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 2422(b); a maximum sentence of 30 years in prison and a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years in prison for each count of production of child pornography in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 2251(a); a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in prison for the count of distribution of child pornography in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 2252(a)(2) and (b)(1); and a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison for the count of possession of child pornography in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 2252(a)(4)(B) and (b)(2). Any sentence following conviction would be imposed by the court after consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and the federal statute governing the imposition of a sentence, 18 U.S.C. § 3553.
Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Johnny Ellis James Jr. is prosecuting the case with the assistance of Natachiana Burney. The prosecution is the result of an investigation by HSI, the Monterey Police Department, and the Monterey County District Attorney’s Office.
Anyone who believes they are the victim of a crime perpetrated by Rios or has information relevant to this case can report it by contacting HSI at [email protected] or (877) 477-4847.
Mobile Woman Sentenced to Two Years in Prison for Tax FraudRead the Press Release
MOBILE, AL – Carrie Mae Jones of Mobile, Alabama, was sentenced to serve two years in federal prison for filing fraudulent tax returns.
According to court documents, Jones operated Agee’s Outreach Tax Service and Royalty Queen Tax Service in Mobile where she acted as a “ghost preparer” of at least 34 false or fraudulent tax returns between 2019 and 2022. Judge Terry F. Moorer sentenced Jones to two years’ imprisonment and ordered her to pay $419,452 in restitution. At the conclusion of her sentence, Jones will serve one year of supervised release.
“Carrie Jones represents many of the unethical tax preparers we advise filers to avoid by doing research on the business before using their services,” said Demetrius Hardeman, Special Agent in Charge, IRS Criminal Investigation, Atlanta Field Office. “Not signing tax returns is just one of several indicators that someone is dealing with a ghost preparer. The sentencing of Jones sends a message that unethical return preparers will be held accountable for their criminal activity.”
U.S. Attorney Sean P. Costello of the Southern District of Alabama made the announcement.
IRS Criminal Investigations investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kasee Heisterhagen prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States.
Middleburg Man Sentenced to Prison for Possession with Intent to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
WILLIAMSPORT-The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Jeffrey Snyder, age 47, of Middleburg, was sentenced yesterday to 188 months in prison by Chief United States District Judge Matthew W. Brann for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
According to Acting United States Attorney John Gurganus, Snyder led Pennsylvania State Police officers on a 90-mile-an-hour chase through Union and Snyder counties on April 8, 2024. When Snyder was finally arrested, he possessed approximately 376 grams of methamphetamine, $1,390.40 in cash, was driving a stolen vehicle, and had a loaded, stolen revolver in the driver’s side door. Snyder previously pleaded guilty on March 6, 2025.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Robin Zenzinger prosecuted the case.
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Mexican National Sentenced for Illegal Reentry after DeportationRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Camela C. Theeler has sentenced a Mexican man convicted of Illegal Reentry after Deportation. The sentencing took place on July 23, 2025.
Francisco Jimenez-Grijalva, 31, was sentenced to time served and ordered to be removed from the United States.
Jimenez-Grijalva was indicted for Illegal Reentry after Deportation by a federal grand jury in May 2025. He pleaded guilty on June 6, 2025.
Jimenez-Grijalva, a non-citizen of the United States and a Mexican national, was deported from the United States to Mexico in 2015 and was found back in the United States in May 2025. He was arrested for DUI in Pennington County. After the arrest, it was discovered Jimenez-Grijalva had been deported from the United States on three separate occasions. Reentering the United States after deportation is a felony.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
This case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Schroeder prosecuted the case.
Jimenez-Grijalva was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Mexican National Arrested Thursday in Waco for Failing to Possess RegistrationRead the Press Release
WACO, Texas – A Mexican national was arrested in Waco Thursday for failure to possess registration documents.
According to court documents, Noe Fermin Guerrero-Mendieta, 33, was allegedly located on July 24 by the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Waco Fugitive Operations team without his required certificate of alien registration or alien registration receipt card. Upon his original apprehension by immigration authorities, Guerrero-Mendieta was granted an immigration bond and released from immigration custody. By federal law, he was required to, at all times, carry with him and have in his personal possession any certificate of alien registration or alien registration receipt card.
Guerrero-Mendieta was charged with one count of failure to possess a registration form and made his initial appearance in federal court Friday afternoon. If convicted, he faces up to 30 days in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
U.S. Attorney Justin R. Simmons for the Western District of Texas made the announcement.
ICE is investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Frazier 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 (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Mexican Man Pleads Guilty to Illegal ReentryRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Mexican man pleaded guilty yesterday to illegally reentering the United States after deportation.
Ausencio Flores Salazar, 34, pleaded guilty to one count of unlawful reentry of a deported alien. U.S. District Court Judge Margaret R. Guzman scheduled sentencing for Aug. 27, 2025. Flores Salazar was indicted by a federal grand jury in June 2025.
Flores Salazar was deported to Mexico in 2019. Sometime after his removal, Flores Salazar unlawfully reentered the United States and was encountered in Shrewsbury on or about May 12, 2025.
The charge of unlawful reentry of a deported alien provides for a sentence of up to two years in prison, one year of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. The defendant is subject to deportation upon completion of any sentence imposed. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Patricia H. Hyde, Field Office Director of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations in Boston made the announcement.
Malden Man Sentenced for Drug Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Malden man was sentenced yesterday in federal court in Boston for his role in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, fentanyl and cocaine.
Logan Pierre, a/k/a “LO,” 33, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Brian E. Murphy to 10 years in prison and five years of supervised release. In March 2025, Pierre pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 500 grams and more of methamphetamine, 40 grams and more of fentanyl and cocaine.
Logan Pierre was charged along with his brother and co-defendant, Isaiah Pierre in June 2024. Isaiah Pierre fled apprehension and remains a fugitive.
In the fall of 2023, an investigation began into drug trafficking activities conducted by Logan and, allegedly, Isaiah Pierre. The investigation revealed that the Pierre brothers were allegedly actively selling methamphetamine in the greater Boston area. Between October 2023 and May 2024, Logan Pierre and, allegedly, Isaiah Pierre sold or arranged the sale of a pound methamphetamine on at least five separate controlled purchases. During a search of Logan Pierre’s apartment, an additional 1000g of methamphetamine, fentanyl and cocaine was recovered.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Ted E. Docks, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division; Malden Police Chief Glenn Cronin; and Interim Revere Police Chief Maria Lavita made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney John T. Dawley of the Organized Crime & Gang Unit prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce gun violence and other violent crime, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit https://www.justice.gov/PSN.
Major Methamphetamine and Fentanyl Supplier Sentenced to 145 MonthsRead the Press Release
ABINGDON, Va. – A major supplier of methamphetamine and fentanyl, who conspired with others to traffic over 20 kilograms of methamphetamine and fentanyl into Southwest Virginia, was sentenced yesterday to 145 months in federal prison.
Andora Lee Smith, 62, of Whitesburg, Kentucky, previously pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine and one count of distribution of 50 grams or more of methamphetamine.
Smith conspired with others, including Eric Coffey, Daniel Hafemeister, Michael Hicks, Cody Rose, and Ashley Beverly Jr., to distribute large amounts of methamphetamine and fentanyl in Southwest Virginia.
Most of Smith’s distributions took place at her Kentucky residence, where she kept multiple pounds of methamphetamine and fentanyl and distributed ounce-plus quantities at a time to her customers. Smith also delivered drugs to Virginia and routinely traveled to Louisville, Kentucky, to obtain quantities of xylazine and fentanyl (“black”) for distribution.
Smith worked as a teacher at Norton Elementary School and John I. Burton High School in Norton, Virginia, for 15 years prior to committing her crimes.
C. Todd Gilbert, United States Attorney for the Western District of Virginia, and Anthony A. Spotswood, Special Agent in Charge of the Washington Field Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives made the announcement.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), Southwest Drug Task Force, Kentucky State Police, and Wise County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lena Busscher prosecuted the case for the United States.
Madisonville Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison for Methamphetamine TraffickingRead the Press Release
Paducah, KY – A Madisonville, Kentucky man was sentenced on July 22, 2025, to 10 years in federal prison for possessing over 50 grams of methamphetamine with the intent to distribute it.
U.S. Attorney Kyle G. Bumgarner of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Jim Scott of the DEA Louisville Field Division, and Chief Steve Bryan of the Madisonville Police Department made the announcement.
Michael Skinner, 65, admitted in his plea agreement that he was stopped by law enforcement on August 3, 2024, based on excessive window tinting. A K-9 subsequently alerted to the presence of narcotics coming from the vehicle, resulting in the discovery of 80.77 grams of methamphetamine hidden under the hood of the vehicle. Skinner admitted to distributing methamphetamine and to frequent prior drug distribution. As a result of his conduct and his criminal history, the Court imposed a sentence of 10 years in federal prison followed by 5 years of supervised release.
There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was investigated by the DEA Paducah Post of Duty and the Madisonville Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Leigh Ann Dycus, of the U.S. Attorney’s Paducah Branch Office, prosecuted the case.
This conviction is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
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Longtime Gang Member Sentenced for Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A member of the violent Boston-based gang H-Block has been sentenced in federal court in Boston on drug conspiracy charges.
Jason Bly, 44, of Quincy, was sentenced on July 23, 2024 by U.S. District Court Judge Myong J. Joun to two years in prison and three years of supervised release. In February 2025, Bly pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine and one count of possession with intent to distribute cocaine.
According to the charging documents, the H-Block street gang is one of the most feared and influential city-wide gangs in Boston. Originally formed in the 1980s as the Humboldt Raiders in the Roxbury section of Boston, the gang re-emerged in the 2000s as H-Block. Current members of H-Block have a history of violent confrontation with law enforcement, including an incident in 2015 when a member shot a Boston Police officer at point blank range without warning or provocation.
Bly was one of 10 H-Block gang members and associates charged in August 2024 following a multi-year investigation of H-Block beginning in 2021 in response to an uptick in gang-related drug trafficking, shootings and violence. According to court documents, over 500 grams of cocaine, cocaine base (crack cocaine) and fentanyl, as well as over 20,000 doses of drug-laced paper were seized during the investigation.
The investigation identified Bly as a longtime H-Block gang member and a supplier of wholesale quantities of cocaine for distribution. During this investigation, Bly supplied co-defendant and fellow H-Block gang member Avery Lewis with a quarter kilogram of cocaine.
According to court documents, Bly’s criminal history includes a 2016 conviction of attempted assault and battery with a firearm and possession of a firearm without a permit during an incident where he fired several rounds from a firearm in H-Block territory. He also has a 2024 conviction for assault and battery with a dangerous weapon during incident in which he threw a cup of hot coffee in another man’s face during an argument for which he was on probation at the time of his arrest in this case.
Lewis was sentenced to 46 months in prison in June 2025.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Jarod A. Forget, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Field Division; Special Agent in Charge Randy Maloney of the U.S. Secret Service Boston Field Office; Ted E. Docks, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division; Jonathan Mellone, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General, Northeast Region; and Boston Police Commissioner Michael Cox made the announcement. The investigation was supported by the Massachusetts State Police; Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office; Massachusetts Department of Corrections; and the Braintree, Quincy, Randolph and Watertown Police Departments. Assistant United States Attorney John T. Dawley of the Organized Crime & Gang Unit and Jeremy Franker of the Justice Department’s Violent Crime & Racketeering Section prosecuted the case.The case was investigated under the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF). OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. For more information about Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces, please visit Justice.gov/OCDETF.
The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The remaining defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
La Nueva Familia Michoacana Drug Cartel Member Sentenced to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
ATLANTA - Pablo Tabares-Martinez, 50, a member of the La Nueva Familia Michoacana drug cartel who was arrested in Guatemala and extradited to the United States, will serve a ten-year prison sentence following his conviction for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
“The successful extradition and prosecution of Tabares-Martinez reflect my office’s commitment to eliminating dangerous cartels that seek to introduce drugs into our community,” said U.S. Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg. “This case also sends a strong message to cartel members who transport deadly drugs destined for the Northern District of Georgia: we will find you and bring you here to face justice.”
“This investigation demonstrates DEA’s commitment to protecting our communities,” said Jae W. Chung, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Atlanta Division. “DEA remains focused on keeping America safe by removing dangerous drugs from our communities and bringing criminals to justice.”
“We will relentlessly pursue and dismantle cartels and criminal organizations that threaten our communities with deadly drugs,” said Steven N. Schrank, the Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in Georgia and Alabama. “The extradition and conviction of Pablo Tabares-Martinez, a key member of the La Nueva Familia Michoacana cartel, is a direct result of the unwavering dedication of HSI and our law enforcement partners to eradicate these dangerous criminal organizations from our society.”
According to U.S. Attorney Hertzberg, the charges, and other information presented in court: The La Nueva Familia Michoacana (LNFM) cartel is a violent Mexican cartel responsible for the annual transportation, importation, and distribution of approximately 12 tons of methamphetamine, 13 tons of opioids, including heroin and fentanyl, and 18 tons of cocaine in the United States. On November 16, 2021, Tabares-Martinez, who resided in Mexico and was a mid-level member of LNFM, orchestrated the sale of one kilogram of methamphetamine to an individual in the Atlanta area. After the transaction was complete, Tabares-Martinez contacted the purchaser to confirm the methamphetamine was high quality.
In 2022 and 2023, Tabares-Martinez and other LNFM members established a transportation route for 150 kilograms of cocaine from Colombia to Atlanta, Georgia. In March 2023, local law enforcement arrested Tabares-Martinez after he traveled to Guatemala to inspect the cocaine. In November 2023, Tabares-Martinez was extradited to the Northern District of Georgia, where he has remained in federal custody.
Earlier today, Chief United States District Judge Leigh Martin May sentenced Tabares-Martinez to ten years in prison to be followed by five years of supervised release. Tabares-Martinez was convicted on January 13, 2025, after he pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
This case is being investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Department of Homeland Security. Guatemalan law enforcement provided valuable assistance in the arrest of Tabares-Martinez.
Assistant United States Attorneys Bethany L. Rupert and Laurel B. Milam prosecuted the case.
This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Strike Force Initiative, which provides for the establishment of permanent multi-agency task force teams that work side-by-side in the same location. This co-located model enables agents from different agencies to collaborate on intelligence-driven, multi-jurisdictional operations to eliminate the most significant drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations.
The specific mission of the David G. Wilhelm Atlanta OCDETF Strike Force (Atlanta Strike Force) is to eliminate transnational organized crime syndicates and major drug trafficking and money laundering organizations in the Atlanta metropolitan area and the Northern District of Georgia. To accomplish this mission, the Atlanta Strike Force will target these organizations’ leaders, focusing on targets designated as Consolidated Priority Organization Targets, Regional Priority Organization Targets, and their associates. The Atlanta Strike Force is comprised of agents and officers from ATF, DEA, FBI, HSI, USMS, USPIS, and IRS, as well as numerous state and local agencies.
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 OCDETF and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
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.
Kansas City Man Charged in String of Bank Robberies Across Kansas CityRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – On July 16, 2025, Staci-Christopher Zjacku Cannon, 26, was charged with four counts of bank robbery and two counts of attempted bank robbery in a now-unsealed federal indictment filed in the U.S. District Court in Kansas City, Missouri.
The indictment alleges that between Feb. 6, 2024, and May 15, 2024, Cannon robbed, or attempted to rob, six different banks and credit unions across Kansas City, acquiring over $30,000 in the process.
Under federal statutes, each count of bank robbery, or attempted bank robbery, carries a maximum sentence of 20 years imprisonment 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.
The charges contained in this indictment are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey Q. McCarther. It was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Kansas City, Missouri Police Department.
Operation Take Back America
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).