Latest Records
Newest first across public DOJ and U.S. Attorney press releases.
27 August 2025
Honduran man sentenced for illegal reentryRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS – A Honduran man who was in the United States illegally was sentenced today to three months in prison, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Nahun Esau Suazo-Varela, 48, pleaded guilty in June 2025 to illegal reentry.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided.
The government alleged in court documents that on May 22, 2025, law enforcement identified a vehicle in Havre, Montana registered to an individual who had overstayed the terms of admission into the United States. Law enforcement conducted a traffic stop and identified the defendant, Nahun Esau Suazo-Varela, as the passenger in the vehicle. He presented his Honduran passport and acknowledged he had no immigration documents allowing him to legally be in the United States. Suazo-Varela was transported to the Havre Border Patrol Station, where he acknowledged he had illegally crossed into the United States after his deportation near McAllen, Texas, in October 2010.
Between 2006 and 2010, Suazo-Varela had numerous law enforcement contacts in Ohio for traffic-related offenses. He was ordered removed from the United States on September 30, 2010.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case. The investigation was conducted by the United States Border Patrol and Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
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).
XXX
Holland Man Sentenced to 25 Years for Sexual Exploitation of a ChildRead the Press Release
GRAND RAPIDS – United States Attorney for the Western District of Michigan Timothy VerHey announced that Darian Howard, 25, of Holland, was sentenced to 25 years in prison after pleading guilty to sexual exploitation of a child.
“My office takes very seriously its obligation to protect vulnerable victims, and children this young are among the most vulnerable,” said U.S. Attorney VerHey. “Child exploitation is one of the most troubling crimes we prosecute and we work diligently to secure justice and appropriate sentences for predators.”
In November 2024, a woman called 911 after learning that Howard had taken sexually explicit photographs of her three-year-old daughter. A police investigation revealed that Howard had taken sexually explicit images of two three-year-old girls, including a video that depicted him sexually assaulting one of the minor girls. Howard was charged with three counts of sexual exploitation of a child and pleaded guilty to one of the counts in May 2025.
“One of the Holland Department of Public Safety’s primary goals is to make the Holland Community safe from criminal activity,” said Kris Haglund, Captain of Criminal Investigations for Holland Department of Public Safety. “By partnering with the FBI and Children’s Advocacy Center we are pleased with the conclusion of this case. Without these partnerships, this case would not have had the result it did. We hope that the families who were impacted by this incident can have a sense of closure because of this prosecution.”
“The indictment of Darian Howard reaffirms the FBI’s commitment to pursuing justice against those alleged to exploit the most vulnerable members in our community,” said Reuben Coleman, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Detroit Field Office. “The alleged actions are disturbing and will not be tolerated. I want to thank the dedicated members of our FBI Grand Rapids Resident Agency, including the West Michigan-based Child Exploitation Task Force (WEBCHEX), Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office and the Holland Police Department for their diligent work. The FBI will remain steadfast in pursuing those who target our children and work to hold alleged predators accountable under federal law.”
The Holland Department of Public Safety, Ottawa County Sherriff’s Office, and Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated this case, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Doaa Al-Howaishy prosecuted it.
This case is part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, county prosecutor’s offices, the Internet Crimes Against Children task force (ICAC), federal, state, tribal, and local law enforcement are working closely together to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children. The partners in Project Safe Childhood work to educate local communities about the dangers of online child exploitation, and to teach children how to protect themselves. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov. Individuals with information or concerns about possible child exploitation should contact local law enforcement officials.
Helena man sentenced to over 10 years in prison on drug chargesRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS – A Helena man who trafficked methamphetamine and fentanyl was sentenced today to 148 months in prison to be followed by 5 years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
David Alan Moorse, 39, pleaded guilty in April 2025 to possession with intent to distribute controlled substances.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided.
The government alleged in court documents that law enforcement received information David Moorse was distributing fentanyl powder in Montana. Moorse told one source he had a good hook up in Helena and sent pictures of a brick of fentanyl powder.
On January 9, 2025, Moorse was located at a casino in Helena, Montana, and arrested for a state probation violation warrant. He had 94 grams of methamphetamine, 106 grams of fentanyl pills and 25 grams of fentanyl powder in his vehicle. Moorse admitted in an interview that he sold one to ten fentanyl pills a day to make a little money to buy a few grams of meth for personal use. Moorse denied distributing a large quantity of drugs despite the quantity located in the car. Law enforcement obtained a search warrant for Moorse’s phone and found messages related to distribution of methamphetamine and fentanyl.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case. The investigation was conducted by the FBI’s Montana Regional Violent Crime Task Force.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.
XXX
Hays woman pleads guilty to strangulationRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS – A Hays woman who strangled another woman on the Fort Belknap Indian Reservation admitted to charges today, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
The defendant, Rochelle Lynn Jones, 37, pleaded guilty to one count of strangulation. Jones faces 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and 3 years of supervised release.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided and will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing is set for December 17, 2025. Jones remains detained pending further proceedings.
The government alleged in court documents that on June 10, 2024, Jones and Jane Doe consumed alcohol and got into an argument. Jones choked Jane Doe and Jane Doe said she could not breathe and lost consciousness momentarily. Two witnesses observed the strangulation and intervened to stop the assault. The witnesses contacted the police for help.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kelsey Hendricks prosecuted the case. The FBI and Fort Belknap Law Enforcement Services conducted the investigation.
XXX
Great Falls man convicted of illegal possession of guns and ammunitionRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS – A Great Falls man who possessed guns and ammunition illegally was found guilty by a federal jury today, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Following a one-and-a-half-day trial, Ian Allister Tomlinson, 45, was found guilty of one count of felon in possession of firearms and ammunition. Tomlinson faces 15 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and 3 years of supervised release.
Chief U.S. District Brian M. Morris presided and will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing was set for December 17, 2025, in Great Falls. Tomlinson will remain released on conditions pending further proceedings.
The government alleged in court documents and at trial that Tomlinson was convicted in the District Court for the First Judicial District of the State of Idaho of felony possession of a controlled substance. On July 9, 2024, Tomlinson appeared in person and was sentenced to a minimum fixed and determinate period of custody of one year followed by an indeterminate period of custody of up to one year, for a total unified sentence not to exceed two years. The Court suspended the sentence for two years and placed Tomlinson on probation for a period of two years. That same day, Tomlinson signed an acceptance of probation statement, acknowledging he understood the conditions of his probation. Thereafter, Tomlinson’s supervision was transferred to the State of Montana Probation and Parole.
In August 2024, Tomlinson signed an acknowledgement that his right to possess or own firearms or ammunition was suspended while on supervision. Specifically, he signed a Firearms and Voting Regulations form which states:
I further understand that my right to possess or own firearms or ammunition is suspended while under supervision. Federal law prohibits a convicted felon from possessing or receive firearms or ammunition [Title 18, United States Code Section 922(g)(1)] Therefore, I understand I could be prosecuted for violation Federal law. I also understand that I could be punished for violating my conditions of supervision AND federally prosecuted.The next day, Tomlinson signed his conditions of probation and parole. Condition 15 states: “Weapons: I will not use, own, possess, transfer, or be in control of any firearms, ammunition (including black powder), or weapons.”
On October 4, 2024, a witness contacted the Probation and Parole Office and reported that Tomlinson had a gun safe with several guns inside it a local storage unit. Probation and Parole officers located Tomlinson at his place of employment. He provided the combination to the gun safe and admitted he had several firearms in the safe as well as some of his personal paperwork.
Probation and Parole officers located five rifles, six pistols, miscellaneous ammunition, Tomlinson’s passport, and other paperwork belonging to him inside the safe. They also recovered surveillance footage from the storage facility showing Tomlinson accessed the storage unit a few days prior to the search.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey Starnes prosecuted the case. The investigation was conducted by State of Montana Probation and Parole Office with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Cascade County Sheriff’s Office.
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).
XXX
Gorham Man Receives 22-Year Sentence for Using Handgun While Robbing Waterboro Bank Last SummerRead the Press Release
PORTLAND, Maine: A Gorham man was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Portland for robbing a bank, brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence, and possessing a firearm as a prohibited person.
U.S. District Judge Nancy Torresen sentenced Timothy Riley, 42, to 22 years in prison followed by five years of supervised release, and she ordered him to pay restitution to the victim bank. Riley pleaded guilty on March 17, 2025.
According to court records, in June 2024, Riley demanded money from a bank teller at a Waterboro bank while brandishing a Glock Model 19 handgun. Riley then fled the bank with money, leaving the scene on a dirt bike. Responding York County Sheriff’s Office deputies spotted the vehicle and followed Riley in pursuit until he headed off-road where law enforcement vehicles could no longer travel. During canine tracking, investigators recovered a handgun and dark-colored baseball cap consistent with items observed during the robbery. Once apprehended later that evening, Riley admitted to the robbery.
Riley’s criminal history includes past state convictions for burglary and robbery, and a federal conviction for interfering with commerce by robbery. His criminal history precludes him from possessing any firearms.
The FBI investigated the case, with the assistance of the York County Sheriff’s Office and the Buxton Police Department.
###
Gonzales Man Sentenced for Drug and Gun OffensesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that JULES GIBSON (“GIBSON”), age 40, formerly a resident of Gonzales, Louisiana, was sentenced to 120 months on August 12, 2025, before United States District Judge Susie Morgan after previously pled guilty to Conspiracy to Possess, with Intent to Distribute, and Distribute Cocaine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, 846; and Felon in Possession of a Firearm in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(1). He was sentenced to 120 months imprisonment on each charge. Judge Morgan ordered the sentences to run concurrently. He was also ordered to serve an eight-year term of supervised release upon his release from prison.
Documents filed in court reflect that a co-defendant, who also pled guilty, was arrested by Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office (JPSO) deputies. The deputies recovered, from his pick-up truck, several clear plastic bags containing cocaine and crack cocaine, a black digital scale, a Black Taurus PT 24/7 PRO Handgun and his cell phone. This cell phone was examined by JPSO experts, and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives agents. It revealed a significant amount of text messages, photographs and other information documenting his trafficking activities over an extended period of time, including the retail drug traffickers, such as GIBSON, that he was supplying. The records revealed both purchases and payments by GIBSON. GIBSON was later arrested by JPSO patrol officers in possession of a fully loaded Taurus PT140 PRO, .40 caliber pistol.
GIBSON had previously been convicted of a serious drug felony and was, therefore, subject to increased penalties
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 Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Mark A. Miller of the Narcotics Unit is assigned the prosecution.
Georgia man pleads guilty to his role in fraud conspiracyRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Ameer Clark, 34, of Atlanta, Georgia, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo to conspiracy to commit bank fraud, which carries a maximum of 30 years, and a $1,000,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Paul E. Bonanno and Sasha Mascarenhas, who are handling the case, stated that between January and September 2022, Clark, along with co-conspirators Lorenzo Jones, Quentavious Price, and Montez White, and others, conspired to defraud financial institutions. Members of the conspiracy would travel from Atlanta, Georgia, to the Western District of New York, and steal genuine checks from businesses. Using those checks, they would create fraudulent checks drawn on the bank accounts of the businesses. Members of the conspiracy then recruited individuals to cash the fraudulent checks, buy clothes for the individuals to make them appear to be construction workers or laborers, and then drive them to area financial institutions and direct them to cash the fraudulent checks. If the checks were successfully cashed, the individuals received a small payment. Specifically:
- in January 2022, Price, Jones, and two others flew from Atlanta to Buffalo and drove an individual to various KeyBank branches to cash or attempt to cash fraudulent checks drawn on the KeyBank accounts of a business based in Elma, NY, and a second business based in Tonawanda, NY.
- in March 2022, Price and two others came to Buffalo from Atlanta and drove three individuals to M&T Bank branches, Bank on Buffalo branches, and Evans Bank branches to cash, or attempt to cash, fraudulent checks drawn on the bank accounts of businesses based in Tonawanda, Clarence, NY, and Sanborn, NY.
- in September 2022, Clark, Price, Jones and White flew from Atlanta to Rochester, NY, and drove six individuals to M&T Bank branches, KeyBank branches, Northwest Bank branches, Bank on Buffalo branches, and Evans Bank branches, to cash or attempt to cash, fraudulent checks drawn on the bank accounts of two businesses based in Rochester, and one based in Alden, NY.
The total loss amount, including actual loss and intended loss, Is $64,979.67.
Co-conspirators Lorenzo Jones and Quentavious Price were previously convicted. Charges remain pending against Montez White.
The plea is the result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special-Agent-in-Charge Erin Keegan, and the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Amie P. Feroleto.
Sentencing is scheduled for January 5, 2026, before Judge Vilardo.
# # # #
Georgia Man Sentenced for Hate Crime Attack Against Letter CarrierRead the Press Release
MACON, Ga. – A Washington County, Georgia, man who made threats and racial slurs against a letter carrier and then six months later escalated his threats when he hit the letter carrier’s vehicle with a harrow attached to his tractor was sentenced to serve more than five years in prison for his crimes.
William Charles Franklin, 37, of Tennille, Georgia, was sentenced to serve 66 months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release and pay $5,101.74 in restitution by U.S. District Judge Marc Treadwell on Aug. 27. In March, Franklin was found guilty at trial of one count of obstruction of the mails, one count of assault upon a federal officer, one count of aggravated assault upon a federal officer and one count of retaliating against a witness. Additionally, Franklin was found guilty of a hate crime enhancement for each of the last three counts. There is no parole in the federal system.
“We will seek justice for victims of hate crimes,” said U.S. Attorney William R. “Will” Keyes. “Letter carriers, federal employees and all citizens have the right to live and work in peace and safety. I commend the Washington County Sheriff’s Office and the United States Postal Inspection Service for helping us hold the defendant accountable for assaulting a postal employee.”
“As Washington County Sheriff, I am proud that the diverse citizenry of Washington County works together for the good of our community. I am disappointed when I learn of criminal behavior motivated by racial animus,” said Washington County Sheriff Joel Cochran. “I hope this conviction and sentence sends a clear message that those who commit such crimes will be held accountable and such behavior will not be tolerated.”
“No one should ever have to endure hate-filled rants and violent attacks for simply doing their job,” said Rodney M. Hopkins, Inspector in Charge of the United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), Atlanta Division. “This was more than an attack on our letter carrier, it was an attack on the community we serve. The U.S. Postal inspection Service will go after anyone who uses intimidation to target our employees and make them feel the full weight of the law.”
According to court documents, evidence and statements referenced at trial, the USPIS received a complaint on June 11, 2024, and began an investigation into threats and obstruction made by Franklin to a U.S. Postal Service letter carrier serving the Washington County, Georgia, area. Under the advice of the supervisor, the letter carrier recorded the end of a confrontation between him and Franklin, arguing about moving the letter carrier’s vehicle. Franklin was recorded using racial slurs against the letter carrier and stated that his free speech was protected. The letter carrier was recorded stating that if he was off duty, such statements and threats would lead to a fight. Franklin responded that they could “square up” right then. The letter carrier said no because he would lose his job. Franklin can be heard getting agitated and aggressive with the letter carrier and issuing more salacious racist slurs about him and the community where he lives. The letter carrier told investigators that Franklin threatened to punch his face, run him over with Franklin’s tractor and had called someone else to come to the location to bring a rope so that Franklin could “drag” him away. A family member corroborated that Franklin called to request a rope.
On Dec. 3, 2024, the letter carrier’s vehicle was involved in a hit-and-run with a green tractor in Washington County. The letter carrier observed the tractor with a harrow attached come towards the USPS vehicle, and he pulled over to allow the tractor to pass. The harrow hit the letter carrier’s vehicle, destroyed a stop sign and fled the scene. Soon afterward, the Washington County Sheriff’s Office and the USPIS discovered a tractor matching the description in a nearby field, its engine still warm with fresh damage. The tractor was registered to Franklin. In addition, two witnesses reported seeing a vehicle registered to Franklin’s wife, come to the area at a high rate of speed immediately following the incident. Warrants for Franklin’s arrest and the seizure of his and his wife’s cell phones were issued on Dec. 5. After reviewing Franklin’s phone, agents found where Franklin had saved the letter carrier’s picture following the incident on June 11. They found additional evidence that supported the finding that Franklin’s crimes were motivated, at least in part, by the race and color of the letter carrier. Franklin was taken into custody on Dec. 6. At his arrest, agents found two AR-15 styled rifles inside his truck and Franklin was carrying a loaded pistol.
The case was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) and the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, with assistance from the GBI and the United States Marshals Service.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sonja Profit and Elizabeth Howard prosecuted the case for the Government.
George, Iowa, Man Sentenced to 130 Months in Federal Prison for Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
A man who conspired to distribute methamphetamine, distributed methamphetamine, and possessed with intent to distribute methamphetamine, was sentenced August 21, 2025, to more than 10 years in federal prison.
John Rothkehl, Jr., 40, from George, Iowa, received the prison term after an April 11, 2025, guilty plea.
Evidence at plea and sentencing hearings showed that from January 2022, through October 2024, Rothkehl and others conspired to distribute at least 150 grams of pure methamphetamine. In September 2024 Rothkehl distributed methamphetamine to an individual cooperating with law enforcement. In October 2024, law enforcement stopped a vehicle with Rothkehl as a passenger. A K-9 indicated the presence of controlled substances. A search of the vehicle revealed over 35 grams of pure methamphetamine in the backseat with Rothkehl. Rothkehl admitted he intended to distribute the methamphetamine to another person or persons. Rothkehl was arrested and admitted that he had a fentanyl pill hidden in his underwear. Evidence further showed that Rothkehl made trips to Spencer, Iowa, and South Sioux City, Nebraska, to obtain methamphetamine to further distribute in the George, Iowa, area.
Rothkehl was sentenced in Sioux City by United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand. Rothkehl was sentenced to 130 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a 5-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
Rothkehl is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was investigated by Tri-State Drug Task Force based in Sioux City, Iowa, that consists of law enforcement personnel from the Drug Enforcement Administration; Sioux City, Iowa, Police Department; Homeland Security Investigations; Woodbury County Sheriff’s Office; South Sioux City, Nebraska, Police Department; Nebraska State Patrol; Iowa National Guard; Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement; United States Marshals Service; South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation; and Woodbury County Attorney’s Office, and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Shawn Wehde and Kraig R. Hamit.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 24-4091. Follow us on X @USAO_NDIA.
Fredericktown Man Charged with Attempting to Purchase Firearm While Charged with FeloniesRead the Press Release
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Fredericktown, Mo., man was arraigned in federal court yesterday following an indictment by a federal grand jury for attempting to buy a firearm while he had pending felony charges.
William Bruce Branum, 64, was charged in a single count indictment returned by a federal grand jury on July 22, 2025. The indictment alleges that on April 26, 2025, Branum, submitted a false written statement to a Federal Firearms Licensee in Alton, Mo., in an attempt to acquire a firearm.
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.
Under federal statutes, Branum is subject to a sentence of up to 10 years in federal prison without parole. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Anthony M. Brown It was investigated by the United States Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.
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).
Franklin County Woman Admits Using Stolen Mail to Commit FraudRead the Press Release
ST. LOUIS – A woman from Franklin County, Missouri on Wednesday admitted using stolen mail to commit bank and check fraud.
Miranda Burgess, 30, pleaded guilty to all 13 counts that she faces: one count of aggravated identity theft, three counts of possession of stolen mail and nine counts of bank fraud.
As early as Feb. 1, 2022, Burgess obtained mail that had been stolen from a Missouri victim, including mail with information about the victim’s bank accounts. Burgess used that information to transfer funds from the victim’s bank to her own accounts with Acorns, Green Dot, M1 Finance, Square and Wave, her plea agreement says. Burgess initiated $76,270 in fraudulent electronic transfers, but $50,000 was later returned to the victim.
Burgess also deposited counterfeit checks bearing the victim’s name, forged electronic signature and account number, costing the victim $1,200
Burgess is scheduled to be sentenced on December 3. Bank fraud is punishable by up to 30 years in prison, a fine of up to $1 million or both prison and fine and possession of stolen mail matter carries a penalty of up to five years and a $250,000 fine. Aggravated identity theft is punishable by a mandatory two years in prison, consecutive to the prison sentence for all other charges.
She will also be ordered to repay the money.
The U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Arnold Police Department and the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Justin Ladendorf is prosecuting the case.
Former US Forest Service law enforcement officer sentenced for fraudRead the Press Release
MISSOULA – A Thompson Falls man who falsified time and attendance records was sentenced today to 5 years of probation, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said. He was also ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $13,923.77.
Nathan J. Snead, 48, pleaded guilty in April 2025 to theft of government money.
U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided.
The government alleged in court documents that Snead was required to work 40 hours of regular time per week, and he was compensated for administratively uncontrollable overtime, which is premium pay designed to compensate law enforcement officers (LEOs) for irregular and unscheduled overtime duty.
Snead documented his regular and overtime hours on his Time and Attendance Record for each pay period and signed the following certification: “I certify that the above information on hours worked, and leave used is true and accurate.” He also completed a record of overtime for each pay period in which he provided a case number and justification for the overtime and signed the following certification: “I certify that the official duties were performed as described above and were administratively uncontrollable.”
On May 2, 2023, based on information Snead was not working his claimed hours, agents installed a GPS tracker on his government-issued patrol vehicle to monitor his movements. The tracker data showed Snead’s patrol vehicle was stationary at his house during hours he claimed to be working.
On several occasions, Snead certified on his Time and Attendance Record he worked an 8-hour regular shift. However, his patrol vehicle remained stationary at his house for the entire 8 hours. Additionally, Snead claimed overtime hours when his patrol vehicle was stationary at his house for much of his regular shift and for the entire period of claimed overtime.
Agents also evaluated Snead’s law enforcement statistics from 2021 through 2023. His productivity levels, measured via incident reports and the issuance of violation notices, were much lower than other similarly situated LEOs.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Shannon Clarke prosecuted the case. The investigation was conducted by the U.S. Forest Service, Law Enforcement and Investigations, Office of Professional Responsibility.
XXX
Former Steuben County Sheriff’s deputy pleads guilty to child pornography chargesRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, NY—U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Stuart J. McHenry, 35, of Hornellsville, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Charles J. Siragusa to possession of child pornography involving a prepubescent minor, which carries a maximum of 20 years, and a fine of up to $250,000.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Katelyn M. Hartford, who is handling the case, stated that McHenry knowingly possessed digital images of child pornography. At least one of the images depicted prepubescent minors under 12-years-old. The investigation began when the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) received a CyberTip from the instant messaging application Kik, which stated that Kik user “acman990,” uploaded approximately 24 files of suspected child pornography. A review found that approximately 22 of the files constituted child pornography. Subsequent investigation traced the account to the defendant and revealed messages between the defendant and other users in which the defendant sought, received, and distributed child pornography. Some of the videos and images possessed by McHenry contained violent conduct, and one of the images depicted the sexual exploitation of an infant. At the time of the offense, McHenry was working as a deputy for Steuben County Sheriff’s Office.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Kevin Sucher, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Acting Special Agent-in-Charge Mark Grimm, and the Steuben County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Jim Allard.
Sentencing is scheduled for January 6, 2026, at 10 a.m. before Judge Siragusa.
# # # #
Former Silicon Valley CEO Charged with Fraud and Obstruction of JusticeRead the Press Release
A federal grand jury in the Northern District of California returned an indictment charging a Hawaii man with wire fraud, securities fraud, and obstruction in connection with a scheme to defraud investors of $170 million as the CEO and Founder of the social media company Get Together, a privately held social media startup known as “IRL”.
According to court documents, Abraham Shafi, 38, of Pepeekeo, Hawaii, allegedly committed fraud in connection with Get Together’s 2021 “Series C” funding round, which raised $170 million at a valuation of over $1 billion. In seeking investment, Shafi told potential investors that IRL was spending only $50,000 a month in paid advertising and that user signups “were not incentivized or paid.” However, Shafi had spent millions of dollars on paid advertising in the form of incentive advertising, a form of advertising in which users are provided a reward in a third-party app if they download IRL. In the lead up to Series C, Shafi asked his vendor for a “big burst” of ads for “a few days” to drive more installs of the IRL app. During the Series C process, investors specifically asked about paid advertising, and Shafi falsely responded that “[u]nlike other apps that spend aggressively to acquire new users, we spend very little.” Shafi concealed IRL’s spending on incentive ads by having them invoiced to a third-party firm, ensuring that the nature and amount of the expense did not appear on IRL’s ledger.
Shafi continued to conceal the amount that IRL was spending in incentive ads after the Series C closed, instructing an IRL employee to create false invoices that listed the ad spending as being related to infrastructure, or “infra costs,” and falsely telling his investors that the money spent on incentive ads had instead been used for other forms of advertising. When the SEC opened an investigation into IRL, Shafi restored his cell phone to a previously saved backup, resulting in the deletion of records, and instructed other IRL employees to lie about his involvement in the scheme.
Shafi is charged with wire fraud, securities fraud, and obstruction. If convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison on each count. A federal judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; U.S. Attorney Craig H. Missakian for the Northern District of California; and FBI Special Agent in Charge Sanjay Virmani of the FBI San Francisco Field Office made the announcement.
The FBI is investigating the case.
Acting Assistant Chief Attorney Laura Connelly of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sailaja Paidipaty and Evan Mateer for the Northern District of California are prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Former Silicon Valley CEO Charged with Fraud and Obstruction of JusticeRead the Press Release
SAN FRANCISCO — A federal grand jury returned an indictment charging a Hawaii man with wire fraud, securities fraud, and obstruction in connection with a scheme to defraud investors of $170 million as the CEO and Founder of the social media company Get Together, a privately held social media startup known as “IRL.”
According to court documents, Abraham Shafi, 38, of Pepeekeo, Hawaii, allegedly committed fraud in connection with Get Together’s 2021 “Series C” funding round, which raised $170 million at a valuation of over $1 billion. In seeking investment, Shafi told potential investors that IRL was spending only $50,000 a month in paid advertising and that user signups “were not incentivized or paid.” However, Shafi had spent millions of dollars on paid advertising in the form of incentive advertising, a type of advertising in which users are provided a reward in a third-party app if they download IRL. In the lead up to Series C, Shafi asked his vendor for a “big burst” of ads for “a few days” to drive more installs of the IRL app. During the Series C process, investors specifically asked about paid advertising, and Shafi falsely responded that “[u]nlike other apps that spend aggressively to acquire new users, we spend very little.” Shafi concealed IRL’s spending on incentive ads by having them invoiced to a third-party firm, ensuring that the nature and amount of the expense did not appear on IRL’s ledger.
Shafi continued to conceal the amount that IRL was spending in incentive ads after the Series C closed, instructing an IRL employee to create false invoices that listed the ad spending as being related to infrastructure, or “infra costs,” and falsely telling his investors that the money spent on incentive ads had instead been used for other forms of advertising. When the SEC opened an investigation into IRL, Shafi restored his cell phone to a previously saved backup, resulting in the deletion of records, and instructed other IRL employees to lie about his involvement in the scheme.
Shafi is charged with wire fraud, securities fraud, and obstruction. If convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison on each count. A federal judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
United States Attorney Craig H. Missakian, Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, and FBI Special Agent in Charge Sanjay Virmani made the announcement.
The FBI is investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sailaja Paidipaty and Evan Mateer for the Northern District of California and Acting Assistant Chief Attorney Laura Connelly of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section are prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Shafi Indictment
Former Border Patrol Agent Sentenced to a Year in Prison for Civil Rights ViolationsRead the Press Release
SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – Shane Millan, age 53, of Jefferson County New York, was sentenced today in federal court in Syracuse to 12 months in federal prison after previously pleading guilty to two misdemeanor counts of deprivation of rights under color of law. Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Vance Kuhner, Special Agent in Charge, New York Field Office, Office of Professional Responsibility, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, made the announcement.
Acting United States Attorney Sarcone stated: “Everybody deserves respect, and we will not tolerate the sexual exploitation of immigrants by members of law enforcement. Nobody is above the law.”
“U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) holds its employees to the highest standards of conduct and does not tolerate any employee who violates their oath or the rights of citizens and non-citizens,” said Special Agent in Charge Vance Kuhner. “The actions of this ex-U.S. Border Patrol agent are deeply troubling and do not reflect the values of the Border Patrol or CBP’s mission to protect the American people, safeguard our borders, and enhance the nation’s economic prosperity.”
In pleading guilty, Millan admitted that, while acting under color of law as a Border Patrol Agent, he willfully deprived multiple victims of their constitutional right to be free from unreasonable searches when, during virtual processing concerning their admission to the United States, he commanded the victims to expose their bare chests to him via webcam. Millan further admitted that he told these women that his requests were for legitimate searches incident to admission into the United States, but he knew his demands to see the victims’ breasts were for his own gratification.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection Office of Professional Responsibility Investigative Operations Directorate is investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael F. Perry and Michael D. Gadarian are prosecuting the case.
Federal Jury Convicts Former Kissimmee Police Officer for Receiving Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida – United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces that a federal jury has found Dariel Javier Quiles-Davila (27, Kissimmee) guilty of receiving child sexual abuse material. Quiles-Davila faces a minimum penalty of 5 years, up to 20 years, in federal prison. His sentencing hearing is scheduled for December 16, 2025.
According to the evidence presented at trial, Quiles-Davila was an officer with the Kissimmee Police Department in October 2023. At that time, Quiles-Davila met a child victim while on duty. After learning the child victim’s contact information, Quiles-Davila began to communicate directly with the child victim with his personal cellphone and over social media. He also sent the child victim money and solicited and received sexually explicit photographs and videos of the child victim.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office, and the Kissimmee Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael Sartoian.
This is another case 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.justice.gov/psc.
Federal Grand Jury Indicts Two Ontario Surgery Staffers for Assaulting and Interfering with Lawful ICE Detention of Illegal AlienRead the Press Release
RIVERSIDE, California – A federal grand jury today indicted two staff members at a surgery center in San Bernardino County, charging them with assaulting and interfering with United States immigration officers attempting to lawfully detain an illegal alien fleeing law enforcement last month.
Jose de Jesus Ortega, 38, of Highland, and Danielle Nadine Davila, 33, of Corona, are charged with one felony count of assaulting, resisting, and impeding a federal officer.
An October 6 trial date is scheduled in this case.
According to the superseding indictment and court documents previously filed in this case, 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.
An indictment 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.
Homeland Security Investigations is investigating this matter.
Assistant United States Attorney Cory L. Burleson of the Riverside Branch Office is prosecuting this case.
Fairbanks man indicted for distributing fentanyl resulting in a fatal overdoseRead the Press Release
FAIRBANKS, Alaska – A federal grand jury in Alaska returned an indictment last week charging a Fairbanks man with distributing fentanyl that resulted in a fatal overdose in March 2025.
According to court documents, on March 3, 2025, Jacob Peter, 25, allegedly distributed fentanyl to another person in Fairbanks. On March 4, 2025, the victim died of an apparent overdose.
Peter is charged with one count of distribution of fentanyl resulting in death. The defendant made his initial court appearance yesterday before U.S. Magistrate Judge Scott A. Oravec of the U.S. District Court for the District of Alaska. If convicted, he faces a mandatory minimum of 20 years in prison and up to life 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 Michael J. Heyman for the District of Alaska and Special Agent in Charge David Reames of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Seattle Division Office made the announcement.
The DEA Seattle Division Office and Anchorage District Office is investigating the case, with assistance from the Alaska State Troopers, as part of the Fairbanks Area Narcotics Team (FANT) High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) Task Force.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Carly Vosacek is prosecuting the case.
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 and drug trafficking. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
###
Evansville Trio Sentenced to Federal Prison for Meth Trafficking OperationRead the Press Release
EVANSVILLE- Three Evansville locals have been sentenced to federal prison for their roles in a methamphetamine trafficking operation.
Patrick L. Adams, 60, has been sentenced to 17 years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, after pleading guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
Jorden Ott, 36, was sentenced in March 2023 to 10 years, 10 months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, after pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute over 500 grams of methamphetamine.
Amanda Lamm, 35, was sentenced in January of this year, to five years, three months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, after pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute over 500 grams of methamphetamine.
According to court documents, Patrick Adams was the leader of a drug trafficking operation, selling methamphetamine to Ott for distribution. Lamm stored and transported the methamphetamine for distribution. Between January and April of 2021, the Adams drug trafficking organization distributed at least 4.5 kilograms of methamphetamine ice in Evansville.
In May of 2021, law enforcement agents executed a search warrant at Adams’ home and located 1,518 grams of methamphetamine hidden inside a roll of carpet and rubber-banded bundles of cash hidden in an air vent and the closet of a child’s bedroom.
Adams has a lengthy criminal history, including previous felony convictions for dealing cocaine and unlawful possession of a firearm by a serious violent felon.
“Drug traffickers like Patrick Adams and his co-conspirators fuel addiction and violence in our communities,” said Tom Wheeler, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “Thanks to the outstanding work of our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners, these defendants have been held accountable. This office will continue to pursue those who profit from spreading dangerous and highly addictive methamphetamine in Evansville and across Southern Indiana.”
The Drug Enforcement Administration and Evansville Police Department investigated this case, with valuable assistance provided by the Evansville Vanderburg County Drug Task Force. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Richard L. Young.
U.S. Attorney Wheeler thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren Wheatley, who prosecuted this case.
Drug Task Forces Making a Positive Impact in Communities Throughout the Northern District of West VirginiaRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard is applauding the great work of the drug task forces in the Northern District of West Virginia. The nine (9) drug task forces have seized more than 27 kilograms of fentanyl, 22 kilos of methamphetamine, and 13 kilograms of cocaine over the past year.
The drug task forces in the Northern District of West Virginia include: the Ohio Valley Drug Task Force, the Mon Metro Drug Task Force, the Eastern Panhandle Drug Task Force, the Hancock-Brooke-Weirton Drug Task Force, the Greater Harrison Drug Task Force, the Potomac Highlands Drug Task Force, the Mountain Region Drug Task Force, the Marshall County Drug Task Force, and the Three Rivers Drug Task Force. Eight of the drug task forces are funded by the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas initiative (HIDTA).
“Since taking office, President Trump has made it a priority to eliminate drug cartels, reduce violent crime and end illegal immigration. As part of Operation Take Back America, we, in law enforcement, have been tasked with surging all federal and local resources to combat those crimes,” stated Acting U.S. Attorney Bernard. “It is a moral imperative that we strive to enhance the quality of life in all communities caught in the crossfire. The results we have seen from the task forces within the NDWV prove those efforts have been effective.”
Bernard announced the task force results in Elkins, West Virginia where he was highlighting some of the recent cases investigated by the Potomac Highlands Drug Task Force. In one case, Daniela Marie Giancoli, 36, of Baltimore, Maryland, was sentenced to 150 months in federal prison for supplying fentanyl to dealers in West Virginia. Her co-defendant Michael Matthews, 36, also of Baltimore, was sentenced to 100 months in prison. Giancoli and Matthews worked together out of their Baltimore apartment to sell drugs to multiple dealers in Grant County, WV. Nearly 9,000 fentanyl pills, weighing more than two kilograms, were seized during the investigation.
In another case, Wesley Neal Carter, 35, of Moorefield, West Virginia, was sentenced to 240 months in prison for conspiring with others to sell methamphetamine. Carter was supplying large quantities of methamphetamine to dealers in Hardy County, WV. Investigators executed a search warrant on Carter’s home and adjacent property and seized nearly three pounds of crystal methamphetamine.
Those distributing drugs for Carter were also prosecuted, including William Flinn, 46, of Moorefield, West Virginia, who was sentenced to 195 months in prison; Christian Adam Fisher, 40, of Petersburg, West Virginia, who was sentenced to 144 months; Steven Ray Davy, Jr., age 38, who was sentenced to 14 years in federal prison; and Keisha Rae Ogline, 35, of Moorefield, West Virginia, who was sentenced to 168 months. Carter’s supplier, Carl Demetrio Valdez, 37, of Craigsville, Virginia, pled guilty to his role and is awaiting sentencing.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen Warner prosecuted the cases on behalf of the government.
Investigative agencies for the cases mentioned include the Potomac Highlands Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the Moorefield Police Department; FBI-Baltimore; the U.S. Marshals Service; the Virginia State Police; the RUSH Task Force (VA); and the Homeland Security Investigations-Harrisonburg (VA). The Potomac Highlands Drug Task Force consists of the FBI, West Virginia State Police, the Grant County Sheriff’s Office, the Hardy County Sheriff’s Office, the Mineral County Sheriff’s Office, the Hampshire County Sheriff’s Office, the Keyser Police Department, and the Drug Enforcement Administration.
This work 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. [use if applicable] Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) and Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN).
Denver Man Sentenced to Seven Years in Federal Prison for Sex Trafficking CrimesRead the Press Release
DENVER – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado announces that Walter Conwell, age 41, was sentenced to 84 months in federal prison followed by eight years of supervised release for two counts of interstate transportation of an individual for prostitution.
According to the plea agreement, Conwell recruited two victims to work for him as prostitutes and transported them between states. He advertised the victims on various websites and made numerous promises to each victim, to include providing housing, cars, health insurance, and clothing, which he never delivered. He coerced and harassed one of the victims, including withholding her money and property. The other victim was under 18 at the time of the crime. Conwell traveled to Texas and drove the underage victim to Colorado, where he engaged in sex acts with the victim prior to promoting the victim for prostitution.
“Federal prison is the appropriate place for a man who somehow convinced himself it was okay to take everything from these young women and sell them for sex,” said United States Attorney Peter McNeilly. “This case demonstrates our unwavering commitment to pursuing justice for survivors of human trafficking.”
“Like all sex traffickers, this man preyed on people who were vulnerable. The lack of respect he showed for basic human values is appalling,” said FBI Denver Special Agent in Charge Mark Michalek. “His survivors face a difficult recovery process, but they are now on that path and their abuser is in prison, where he belongs. Combatting human trafficking continues to be an FBI priority as we work to keep communities safe.”
Senior United States District Judge Christine M. Arguello presided over the sentencing on August 21, 2025. This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the prosecution was handled by Assistant United States Attorneys Melissa Hindman and Alecia L. Riewerts.
Case Number: 1:21-cr-00364-CMA
Deer Lodge man sentenced to prison on illegal firearm possessionRead the Press Release
MISSOULA – A Deer Lodge man who possessed a firearm illegally was sentenced today to 21 months in prison to be followed by 3 years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Christopher Allen Rochon, 42, pleaded guilty in April 2025 to prohibited person in possession of a firearm.
U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided.
The government alleged in court documents that on June 17, 2022, Rochon was convicted of criminal possession of dangerous drugs with intent to distribute in Powell County. He was sentenced to six years to the Montana Department of Corrections, with four of those years suspended.
On April 20, 2024, law enforcement officers stopped Rochon’s vehicle for a traffic infraction outside Anaconda. They conducted a probation search of the vehicle and found a backpack that contained a Hi-Point 9mm semi-automatic pistol and a 9mm box of ammunition with 45 rounds. Rochon admitted he had used the firearm previously.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian Lowney prosecuted the case. The investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Anaconda Police Department and State of Montana Probation and Parole Office.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.
XXX
Danville Woman Sentenced for Health Care FraudRead the Press Release
DANVILLE, Va. – A Danville, Virginia woman, who claimed to receive almost 10,000 hours of personal care services from her estranged husband but never actually received those services, resulting in a loss to Medicaid of over $116,000, was sentenced today to five years’ probation, 12 months of which must be served on home detention.
Jacquelyn Farrish, 62, pled guilty in February 2025 to one count of health care fraud. In addition to probation, Farrish was ordered to pay $116,536 in restitution to the Virginia Medicaid program and will be required to perform 200 hours of community service.
According to court documents, Farrish was married to A.L., a Medicaid recipient who was receiving Agency Directed Care Services. Until approximately 2017, Farrish and A.L. resided in Northern Virginia, at which time Farrish moved to Danville, Virginia, while A.L. continued living in Northern Virginia. A.L. later moved to Richmond, Virginia.
In October 2018, Farrish applied to receive services from the Consumer Directed Care Program. She listed A.L. as the paid personal card attendant who would be providing her with home health care and respite care services, even though A.L. did not live in Danville.
From October 2018 through February 2023, Farrish submitted and approved fraudulent timesheets, used A.L.’s personal information, and claimed A.L. provided services that were not rendered.
In total, Farrish claimed 9,819 hours of personal care attendant services that were not performed. As a result, the total loss to Medicaid was $116,536.
Robert N. Tracci, Acting United States Attorney for the Western District of Virginia, and Virginia Attorney General Jason Miyares made the announcement.
The Department of Health and Human Services- Office of the Inspector General and the Virginia Attorney General’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit are investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Charlene Day and Special Assistant United States Attorney and Assistant Attorney General Nicole Terry are prosecuting the case.
Dallas Man Pleads Guilty to Carjacking and Brandishing a FirearmRead the Press Release
A Dallas, Texas man pled guilty for his role in a carjacking and high-speed chase that took place in the Deep Ellum section of Dallas. Travion Amar Williams (22) appeared before United States Magistrate Judge David Horan on August 26, 2025, and entered a guilty plea to one count of carjacking and one count of brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence, announced Acting United States Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Nancy E. Larson.
During the rearraignment hearing, Williams admitted that on December 6, 2023, two people were walking to a 2020 Chevrolet Corvette (see image below) belonging to one of them, which was parked in a lot located across the street from a restaurant. Williams and two coconspirators were wearing masks and sitting in a car parked next to the victim’s Corvette.
As the victims approached the Corvette, Williams and one of his coconspirators, armed with handguns, exited their vehicle and approached both victims. They took by force the key to the Corvette, a bracelet, a cell phone, and a wallet. Williams and his coconspirator got into the Corvette with the stolen property and drove away.
Williams and his coconspirator then led police on a high-speed chase. Eventually, Williams and his coconspirator abandoned the stolen Corvette under a bridge overpass, fled on foot, jumped a fence, and entered an industrial park. While fleeing from the police on foot, Williams dropped a Glock, Model 19 Gen 5, 9mm Parabellum caliber pistol that he had in his possession during the carjacking. Williams was caught and arrested.
Sentencing is scheduled for January 14, 2026.
Dallas Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) investigated the case.
Defendant Sentenced to Federal Prison for Stealing Mail and Committing Bank FraudRead the Press Release
AUGUSTA, GA: A Richmond County man was sentenced to federal prison for using a United States Postal Service key to steal mail, commit bank fraud, and aggravated identity theft.
Earl Demetrius Overton, 32, of Augusta, Georgia, was sentenced to 84 months in prison after pleading guilty to bank fraud, aggravated identity theft, and possession of a firearm, said Margaret E. Heap, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Georgia. U.S. District Court Judge J. Randall Hall also ordered Overton to pay a $2,000 fine, $300 in special assessments, and to serve three years of supervised release upon completion of his prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
As described in court documents and at sentencing, Defendant obtained a U.S. Postal Service collection key and used that key to steal mail, including business checks, from collection boxes in the Augusta, Georgia area. Defendant then altered the business checks, deposited the altered checks into bank accounts, and withdrew the money. The money was withdrawn and stolen before the banks realized the checks were fraudulent. Defendant tried to steal more than $400,000 through his fraudulent scheme. Defendant, who was already a felon, was also caught with a firearm and a loaded 15-round magazine, along with the stolen bank checks, cash, financial documents, and debit cards.
“There were hundreds of citizens of this District who were victimized by the Defendant’s conduct. Our District is committed to protecting and defending the nation’s mail system from illegal use. With the collaborative efforts of our law enforcement partners, fraudsters who use the mail to steal will be brought to justice,” said U.S. Attorney Heap. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office will continue to safeguard the U.S. Mail.”
“The sentencing of this defendant sends a clear message to anyone who decides to exploit the mail system for their own personal profit,” said Rodney M. Hopkins, Inspector in Charge of the Atlanta Division. “The U.S. Postal Inspection Service will continue to work tirelessly to hold accountable those individuals who engage in fraudulent activity and demonstrate no regard for the financial impact that their crimes have on victims.”
“By using a U.S. Postal Service key to steal mail, forge checks, and commit identity theft, Overton jeopardized the safety and financial security of countless victims,” said Paul Brown, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta. “This sentence serves as a reminder that the FBI will not tolerate criminal conduct, particularly when it involves someone in a position of trust defrauding individuals and institutions using stolen government property.”
“We will not tolerate those who victimize our community through crimes like these. The citizens of Richmond County deserve to feel secure, and we will continue working closely with our federal partners to ensure that offenders are held fully accountable. We are grateful for the collaboration that brought justice in this case and for the support provided to those who suffered because of this individual’s actions.” – Sheriff Eugene Brantley
The case was investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the FBI and the Richmond County Sheriff’s office, and prosecuted for the United States by First Assistant United States Attorney David H. Estes.
D.C. Consultant Pleads Guilty to $1.5 Million Fraud of Covid-Era Loan ProgramRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Jennifer May, 43, of the District of Columbia, pleaded guilty today to her role in a scheme that defrauded $1,500,000 in Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) from the U.S. Government, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro.
May pleaded guilty to an Information charging her with one count of wire fraud before U.S. District Court Judge Christopher R. Cooper, who scheduled sentencing for December 9, 2025. Under the terms of the plea agreement, May must return the $1,500,000 to the United States.
According to court documents, May was founder and owner of Next Level Partners LLC, a consulting firm specializing in assisting campaigns with complying with campaign finance regulations and managing their accounts payable functions.
In October 2021, May applied for a second modification to an original EIDL application, requesting an additional $1,500,000 in EIDL funds for Next Level Partners.
The EIDL was a response to the COVID-19 pandemic in which the U.S. Small Business Administration offered small business owners low-interest, long-term loans. The funds were intended to be used for working capital to make regular payments for operating expenses, including payroll, rent/mortgage, utilities, and other ordinary business expenses, and to pay business debt.
May falsely certified on loan applications that she would use all loan proceeds only for business-related purposes. Instead, she misappropriated the funds to speculate on cryptocurrency and to pay for unrelated business ventures and other personal expenditures.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the IRS-CI. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Will Hart of the Fraud, Public Corruption, and Civil Rights Section.
25cr0211
Chicago Man Sentenced to 30 Months in Federal Prison for Escape from CustodyRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – A Chicago man was sentenced to 30 months in federal prison for Escape from Custody.
According to public court documents and evidence presented at sentencing, Terrance Martice Miller, 38, absented himself from a Residential Reentry Center (RRC) where he was ordered to reside after a supervised release violation. Miller left the facility and did not return. In May 2024, while on escape status from the RRC, Miller strangled an adult female victim until she could not breathe. Following a criminal charge due to the assault, Miller called the victim over 80 times attempting to her get her to drop the criminal charges.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by the United States Marshals Service.
Cedar Rapids Man Pleads Guilty to Methamphetamine-Related CrimeRead the Press Release
Cleveland Stephens, also known as “Schmitty,” age 63, from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, pled guilty today in federal court in Cedar Rapids to one count of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.
In a plea agreement, Stephens admitted that between August 2022 and June 2024, in the Northern District of Iowa, he agreed with another person to distribute at least 500 grams of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine, and at least 50 grams of actual (pure) methamphetamine.
Sentencing before United States District Court Chief Judge C.J. Williams will be set after a presentence report is prepared. Stephens remains in custody of the United States Marshal pending sentencing. Stephens faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years’ imprisonment and a possible maximum sentence of life imprisonment without the possibility of parole, a $250,000 fine, and a lifetime term of supervised release following any imprisonment.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Devra T. Hake and Dillan Edwards and investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Cedar Rapids Police Department, the Linn County Sheriff’s Office, and the Benton County Sheriff’s Office. This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 24-CR-92.
Follow us on X @USAO_NDIA.
Carrollton woman sentenced for federal drug trafficking conspiracyRead the Press Release
PLANO, Texas – A Carrollton woman has been sentenced to 20 years in federal prison for drug trafficking violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.
Jessica Marie Ruiz, 43, was convicted of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and was sentenced to 240 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Sean D. Jordan on August 27, 2025.
According to information presented in court, in 2021, Ruiz and her husband, Wesley Ruiz, were operating a methamphetamine trafficking organization while Wesley Ruiz was incarcerated for the murder of a Dallas police officer. Wesley Ruiz used a contraband cell phone to communicate with Jessica Ruiz and their Mexico-based methamphetamine source of supply to move 18-wheeler trucks hauling kilogram quantities of methamphetamine across the U.S.-Mexico border. Jessica Ruiz would then receive the drug shipments from truck drivers in North Texas and store the methamphetamine at her Carrollton residence before it was trafficked across the United States, including into the Texas Department of Criminal Justice for re-distribution within the prison.
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 North Texas Strike Force and U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Wes Wynne.
###
California Man Sentenced to 15 Months’ Imprisonment for Assaulting a Federal Officer by Putting Him in a Choke HoldRead the Press Release
SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – A California man convicted by a federal jury in April 2025 for assaulting a federal officer was sentenced today to 15 months’ imprisonment by Senior U.S. District Court Judge Ted Stewart. Gabriel Omar Gigena, 42, of Valley Springs, California, was also sentenced to three years of supervised release.
According to court documents and the evidence presented at trial, on May 4, 2024, two task force officers with the United States Marshal Service (USMS) were tasked with apprehending Gigena and safely securing his twin three-year-old daughters and keeping the public safe while at a park in Park City, Utah. However, security concerns hastened law enforcement’s approach, which resulted in officers charging at and tackling Gigena. During the tackle, one of the officers pushed Gigena’s hands away from the two young girls. As this officer and Gigena fell to the ground Gigena placed the officer in a choke hold and started to strangle him. See prior press release here: Federal Jury Convicts California Man of Assaulting a Federal Officer.
“Gigena is a danger to the public and to law enforcement across the country. The U.S. Attorney’s Office has zero tolerance to those who threaten public servants,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Felice John Viti of the District of Utah. “Gigena engaged in very serious and violent conduct against a law enforcement officer, and that is unacceptable. No one is above the law, and we will continue to aggressively prosecute crimes of this nature.”
“This case is a stark reminder of the dangers law enforcement faces every day in service to our community,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Albert Kelly of the Salt Lake City FBI. “Violence against civil servants will not be tolerated. The FBI is committed to ensuring justice is served.”
The case was investigated by the FBI Salt Lake City Field Office.
Assistant United States Attorneys Sam Pead and J. Drew Yeates of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah 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 violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.
Beckley Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug CrimeRead the Press Release
BECKLEY, W.Va. – Roger Lee Cousins, 50, of Beckley, pleaded guilty today to distribution of cocaine.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on November 8, 2024, Cousins sold approximately 14.66 grams of cocaine to a confidential informant in Beckley. As part of his guilty plea, Cousins admitted to the transaction, to also selling approximately 27.2 grams of fentanyl during the transaction, and to receiving a total of $3,140 for both controlled substances.
Cousins also admitted to additional criminal conduct. Cousins sold cocaine and fentanyl on October 21, 2024, cocaine on October 29, 2024, and fentanyl on December 6, 2024, each time to a confidential informant.
Cousins is scheduled to be sentenced on January 2, 2026, and faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, at least three years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $1 million.
Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Beckley/Raleigh County Drug and Violent Crime Unit, which consists of officers from the West Virginia State Police, the Raleigh County Sheriff’s Office, and the Beckley Police Department.
United States Magistrate Judge Omar J. Aboulhosn presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorneys Brian D. Parsons and Timothy D. Boggess and former Assistant United States Attorney Andrew D. Isabell have prosecuted the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 5:25-cr-42.
###
Assistant Professor Admits Embezzling from Washington UniversityRead the Press Release
ST. LOUIS – An assistant professor of pathology and immunology at the Washington University School of Medicine on Wednesday admitted embezzling $412,000 from his employer.
Gary Grajales-Reyes, MD-PhD, who maintained an office and research laboratory at the School of Medicine (WashU Medicine), pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court to three counts of wire fraud.
The scheme involved Grajales-Reyes submitting false requisition requests to WashU Medicine for internal and external hard drives and graphics cards falsely claiming that the computer equipment was for his WashU Medicine research laboratory. Relying upon the false requisition requests, WashU Medicine purchased the requested computer equipment from its vendor, which then shipped the computer equipment directly to Grajales-Reyes’ research laboratory. WashU Medicine then paid for the computer equipment. After Grajales-Reyes received the falsely obtained computer equipment he sold the equipment by two different methods, without the knowledge or authority of WashU Medicine. He sold some of the computer equipment through his personal eBay site, and he also sold some of the computer equipment to an Amazon based third-party seller. He used the money obtained by selling the computer equipment for his own personal expenses unrelated to the work and operations of WashU Medicine, and without the knowledge or authority of WashU Medicine. Over the period of his scheme, Grajales-Reyes submitted 73 false requisition requests to WashU Medicine for internal and external hard drives and graphics cards, which included approximately 761 different computer parts. As a result of his scheme, WashU Medicine and Washington University paid approximately $412,163 for the computer parts, which Grajales-Reyes then sold for money which he used for his own personal expenses, unrelated to the work and operations of WashU Medicine. Federal law enforcement seized a substantial quantity of collectible trading cards from Grajales-Reyes’ laboratory. He had purchased the cards with some of the funds he obtained from selling the computer parts.
Grajales-Reyes is scheduled to be sentenced on December 4. Each count carries a potential penalty of up to 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, or both prison and a fine.
The FBI investigated the case, with the cooperation and assistance of Washington University. Assistant U.S. Attorney Hal Goldsmith is prosecuting the case.
26 August 2025
West Memphis Man with A Violent History Found Guilty of Unlawful Possession of MachinegunRead the Press Release
HELENA-WEST HELENA—A West Memphis man was convicted by a federal jury of one count of unlawful possession of a machinegun. Jonathan D. Ross, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, announced the guilty verdict recently handed down on August 22, 2025, after a five-day jury trial in Helena-West Helena.
Martinez Alexander, Jr., 19, was originally indicted by a federal grand jury on March 7, 2024, charging him with unlawful possession of a machinegun. The jury trial began on August 18, 2025, before United States District Judge Brian S. Miller. After four days of testimony, including testimony from victims of an earlier shooting, the jury deliberated approximately 30 minutes before returning a guilty verdict.
While Alexander does not have any previous felony convictions, the trial revealed he has a violent history. At trial, testimony showed that Alexander is a known member of the Foxwood gang in West Memphis. At the time of indictment, he had four pending felony cases, including charges stemming from two separate shootings.
The evidence presented at trial revealed that on December 15, 2023, Alexander and Jaylan Atkins, 21, also of West Memphis, were involved in a drive-by shooting where an adult male and a juvenile were shot multiple times. An arrest warrant for attempted capital murder was issued for Alexander and Atkins following the shooting.
On December 31, 2023, law enforcement officers from the West Memphis Police Department observed Alexander riding in a stolen Dodge Charger and initiated a traffic stop. The Charger fled, leading law enforcement officers on a high-speed chase through West Memphis. The chase continued for more than five minutes before law enforcement officers used a tactical maneuver to disable the vehicle by the railroad tracks off Missouri Street.
According to testimony at trial, Atkins and the front seat passenger immediately fled on foot, but law enforcement officers noticed movement in the backseat of the stolen vehicle and observed Alexander opening the back driver’s side door and tossing a tan 9mm Glock firearm with an extended magazine and a gold machinegun conversion device (MCD), which allowed the handgun to fire fully automatic. Alexander was arrested, along with Atkins, the driver of the stolen vehicle. Further investigation revealed that the tan 9mm Glock firearm and MCD found in the possession of Alexander on December 31, 2023, was the same firearm used in the drive-by shooting on December 15, 2023, and it was equipped with a MCD on that date as well.
On December 31, 2023, Atkins was found to be in possession of a Glock 22, .40 caliber handgun, also equipped with an MCD. Atkins pleaded guilty on February 5, 2025, to possessing the machinegun and is awaiting sentencing.
Alexander and Atkins each face a maximum sentence of 10 years in federal prison and not more than three years’ supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
The investigation was conducted by the ATF with assistance from the West Memphis Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Ashley Bowen and Bart Dickinson.
# # #
Additional information about the office of the
United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, is available online at
https://www.justice.gov/edar
X (formerly known as Twitter):
@USAO_EDAR
Wapato Man Convicted of Second Degree MurderRead the Press Release
Yakima, Washington – United States Attorney S. Peter Serrano announced that Jason Alexander Logie, age 36, of Wapato, Washington, was convicted of Second Degree Murder following a jury trial in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Washington. Trial commenced on August 18, 2025 before Chief United States District Judge Stanley A. Bastian and the jury returned its verdict on August 20, 2025. A sentencing hearing has been scheduled for November 18, 2025.
According to court documents and information presented at trial, while driving under the influence of alcohol, Logie crossed the center line on North Track Road within the Yakama Nation Indian Reservation on the afternoon of September 9, 2023, striking an on-coming vehicle in its own lane of travel. The driver of the vehicle died as a result of the collision.
United States Attorney Pete Serrano stated, “One of my top priorities as U.S. Attorney will be to strengthen our relationship with state, local, and Tribal law enforcement. Partnering with these agencies strengthens our prosecution of cases like this, where a repeat offender will be held accountable for his careless actions that costs an innocent victim their life. I’d like to offer my thanks to our partner agencies on this case.”
This case was investigated and presented for prosecution by the Yakama Nation Police Department and the investigation was assisted by the Yakima County Sheriff’s Department and the Washington State Patrol. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Michael D. Murphy and Courtney R. Pratten.
1:24-cr-02059-SAB
Veterans Affairs Employee Charged with Benefits FraudRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Edmond Anadio, aged 64, of Gloversville, New York, was arrested yesterday on charges of falsely claiming disability benefits. Anadio is alleged to have stolen almost $85,000 in benefits between 2021 and 2024 by claiming he was disabled, while in fact he was working full time for the Department of Veterans Affairs in Albany. Anadio took early retirement from the Department of Veterans Affairs earlier this year.
Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III; Amy Connelly, Special Agent in Charge, Boston / New York Field Division, Social Security Administration Office of the Inspector General (SSA-OIG); and Christopher Algieri, Special Agent in Charge, Northeast Field Office, Department of Veterans Affairs Office of the Inspector General (VA-OIG), made the announcement.
The U.S. Marshals Service effected Anadio’s arrest and brought him to the federal courthouse in Albany. Anadio was arraigned before United States Magistrate Judge Paul J. Evangelista yesterday afternoon and was released pending further proceedings.
Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III said: “Edmond Anadio had a position of public trust and was well compensated for it — he worked for the VA earning over $100,000 a year. But that wasn’t enough, and he also pocketed up to $30,000 a year in disability benefits. My office has no tolerance for anyone who steals public money, let alone while also taking a paycheck from the taxpayer. We are glad he is no longer working for the VA and are prosecuting this case vigorously.”
Amy Connelly, Special Agent in Charge, Boston / New York Field Division, SSA-OIG, said: “We appreciate the assistance from our partners at the Department of Veterans Affairs Office of the Inspector General, the U.S. Marshals Service, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office during this significant Social Security disability fraud investigation. Federal employees are held to a higher standard of integrity and Edmond Anadio violated that standard. Our office will continue to work with other law enforcement agencies and the U.S. Attorney’s Office to protect the Social Security trust funds for those who truly deserve them.”
Christopher Algieri, Special Agent in Charge, Northeast Field Office, VA-OIG, said: “This indictment sends a clear message that VA-OIG will diligently investigate those who would misuse their positions of public trust to commit fraud. VA-OIG appreciates the commitment of the U.S. Attorney’s Office throughout this investigation and will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to hold wrongdoers accountable”
The charges in the indictment are merely accusations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
The charge of submitting a false application for disability benefits carries a maximum sentence of 5 years in prison, a term of supervised release of up to 3 years, and a maximum fine of $250,000. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statutes the defendant is convicted of violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors.
SSA-OIG is investigating the case, with assistance from VA-OIG. Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas Walter is prosecuting the case.
Two Men Sentenced and Third Man Pleads Guilty in Separate Schemes to Transport Contraband into FCI McDowell with DronesRead the Press Release
BLUEFIELD, W.Va. – Hector Luis Gomez DeJesus, 32, of Sanford, North Carolina, and Raymond Luis Saez Aviles, 37, of Poinciana, Florida, were each sentenced today to three years of probation, including two months on home detention, for aiding and abetting the introduction of contraband into a federal prison. Arturo Joel Gallegos, 26, of Chicago, Illinois, pleaded guilty today to conspiracy to introduce or attempt to introduce contraband into a federal prison.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on February 9, 2024, correctional officers at Federal Correctional Institution (FCI) McDowell detected a drone flying over the prison facility. The flight path of the drone took it from the fence securing the prison facility to a cell in one of the housing units. Officers searched the cell and found a broken exterior window, numerous cell phones, tobacco, and marijuana within the cell. Officers traced the flight path back to the drone’s launch site, where they found and apprehended DeJesus, Aviles, and co-defendant Gamalier Rivera. Officers seized the drone, the drone’s remote controller, and contraband consistent with what was found in the cell.
Rivera, 34, of Allentown, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty on March 27, 2025. to aiding and abetting the introduction of contraband into a federal prison. Rivera, DeJesus and Aviles each admitted that they participated in the introduction of the contraband into FCI McDowell by using the drone to transport marijuana, tobacco, and cell phones into the prison facility. All three further admitted that they expected to be paid for their participation in the contraband introduction. Rivera was sentenced on July 7, 2025, to three years of federal probation, including two months on home detention.
On February 1, 2024, Gallegos traveled to Welch, West Virginia, with two other Chicago men, co-defendants Miguel Angel Aleman-Piceno and Francisco Alejandro Gonzalez. Later that day, law enforcement officers caught Aleman-Piceno and Gonzalez with a drone and camouflaged packages containing tobacco, four cell phones, chargers, phone cards and marijuana next to the prison fence. Also that day, officers encountered Gallegos at a Welch motel where they seized packaging materials, tobacco, and marijuana.
As part of his guilty plea, Gallegos admitted that he conspired with Aleman-Piceno and Gonzalez to fly the contraband onto the grounds of FCI McDowell, and that he expected to be paid for his participation in the conspiracy.
Gallegos is scheduled to be sentenced on December 8, 2025, and faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison, up to three years of supervised release, and a $250,00 fine.
Aleman-Piceno, 23, pleaded guilty on June 2, 2025, and Gonzalez, 24, pleaded guilty on July 7, 2025, each to conspiracy to commit the felony crime of attempting to introduce contraband into a federal prison. Aleman-Piceno is scheduled to be sentenced on September 8, 2025, and Gonzalez is scheduled to be sentenced on November 3, 2025.
Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP), and the McDowell County Sheriff’s Office.
Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber presided over the hearings and imposed the sentences. Assistant United States Attorney Brian D. Parsons prosecuted the cases.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:24-cr-127 (DeJesus and Aviles) and 1:24-cr-126 (Gallegos).
###
Two Investment Fund Manager Sales Team Leaders Plead Guilty to Pre-IPO Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
Earlier today, in federal court in Brooklyn, Enrico Carini, also known as “Ed,” pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit securities fraud and investment adviser fraud in connection with his role in a multi-million dollar investment fraud scheme. Co-defendant Caner Otar, also known as “John,” pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit securities fraud on August 25, 2025 in connection with his role in the same scheme. Both proceedings were held before United States District Judge Carol B. Amon. When sentenced, Carini faces a maximum sentence of 10 years’ imprisonment, restitution, and forfeiture of cash and assets collectively valued at more than $430,000, including several luxury watches. Otar faces a maximum sentence of five years’ imprisonment, restitution, and $400,000 in forfeiture.
Joseph Nocella, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York and Christopher G. Raia, Assistant Director in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, New York Field Office (FBI) announced the guilty pleas.
“Protecting investors from fraudulent schemes is a core mission of our Office,” stated United States Attorney Nocella. “These defendants used a series of lies to entice unsuspecting investors, and to enrich themselves and their co-conspirators along the way. As demonstrated by these guilty pleas, our Office will uncover and vigorously prosecute fraudulent schemes that undermine the market for private securities.”
Mr. Nocella expressed his appreciation to the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Washington, D.C. Home Office, for its significant cooperation and assistance during the investigation.
“Carini, Otar, and others at Max Infinity swindled more than $60 million from investors to divert towards personal finances,” stated FBI Assistant Director in Charge Raia. “Along with other conspirators, these defendants actively manipulated their clients through rehearsed lies of reassurances and success to generate an unlawful investment stream. The FBI remains determined to protect the integrity of our city’s economic infrastructure and investors from fraudulent tactics.”
As set forth in court filings and facts presented during the plea hearing, Carini and Otar were sales team leaders for Max Infinity Management LLC, Elder Fund Management LLC, and a related series of funds (Max Infinity). Max Infinity wasa New York City-based manager of investment funds that purported to buy and sell stock issued by privately held companies that anticipated an initial public offering (IPO), including well-known companies like Stripe, Chime, Instacart, and Flexport. Carini and Otar made numerous misstatements to Max Infinity investors, including by falsely representing that they did not make money on investments until investors profited, when in fact they received commissions on each investment they solicited. Carini and Otar also falsely represented to investors that the company and its investment funds were registered with the SEC. Along with other company salespeople, Carini and Otar utilized scripts that falsely assured investors that the firm had an impressive track record of success in prior IPO deals when, in reality, Max Infinity had no such previous investments. In total, Max Infinity raised more than $60 million from investors through false and misleading promises and high-pressure sales tactics.
Charges against Carini and Otar’s co-defendants remain pending. Trial for the co-defendants is scheduled for January 12, 2026. They are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
The government’s case is being handled by the Office’s Business and Securities Fraud Section. Assistant United States Attorneys Sarah M. Evans, Eric Silverberg, Lorena Michelen, and Nicholas M. Axelrod are in charge of the prosecution, with assistance from Paralegal Specialists Liam McNett and Timothy Migliaro.
Defendants Who Pleaded Guilty:
ENRICO CARINI (also known as “Ed”)
Age: 40
Staten Island, New YorkCANER OTAR (also known as “John”)
Age: 38
Brooklyn, New YorkCo-Defendants Awaiting Trial:
JOHN CANGIALOSI
Age: 44
Manalapan, New JerseyPETER GIRGIS
Age: 44
Staten Island, New YorkGENE SARABELLA (also known as “Jerry”)
Age: 37
Monroe, New JerseyE.D.N.Y. Docket No. 24-CR-363 (CBA)
Two Huntington Men Plead Guilty to Fentanyl CrimesRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Today, Anthony Jackson, also known as “Snake,” 59, of Huntington, pleaded guilty to distribution of a quantity of fentanyl and Brian Lee Moore, also known as “Pooter,” 37, of Huntington, pleaded guilty to aiding and abetting the distribution of a quantity of fentanyl.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on January 8, 2025, Jackson and Moore took part in the sale of approximately 3.28 grams of fentanyl to a confidential informant located at a 10th Avenue apartment in Huntington. As part of their guilty pleas, Moore admitted that he provided the fentanyl to Jackson and Jackson admitted that he distributed it to the confidential informant.
As part of their guilty pleas, Jackson and Moore each admitted to additional criminal conduct. Jackson admitted that between January 11, 2024, and July 3, 2024, he distributed a total of 78.16 grams of fentanyl to a confidential informant on eight different occasions. Moore admitted to providing a total of 67.09 grams of fentanyl for six of those transactions.
On August 6, 2024, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at the 10th Avenue apartment and seized approximately 338.34 grams of a substance containing fentanyl, the fentanyl analogue fluorofentanyl, heroin, and xylazine, a veterinary tranquilizer also known as “tranq.” Officers also seized approximately $1,130, a Taurus Model G2C 9mm pistol and a Springfield Model MDM pistol during the search. Jackson and Moore each admitted they were in the apartment during the search. Jackson admitted that he was at the apartment to receive fentanyl to distribute. Moore admitted that he was at the apartment to provide fentanyl for distribution and further admitted that he possessed the seized firearms and cash.
On August 9, 2025, officers executed a search warrant for a safe deposit box at a bank in Huntington and seized approximately $50,000. Moore admitted that he possessed the seized cash and that it was proceeds from drug distributions.
Jackson and Moore are scheduled to be sentenced on December 15, 2025, and each faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, at least three years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $1 million.
Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Cabell County Sheriff’s Office.
United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers presided over the hearings. Assistant United States Attorney Joseph F. Adams is prosecuting the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:24-cr-156.
###
Topsham Man Serving State Sentence for Sexual Abuse of Children Sentenced to 20 Years for Producing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
PORTLAND, Maine: A Topsham man was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Portland for sexually exploiting four children.
Chief U.S. District Judge Lance E. Walker sentenced Henry Eichman, 65, to 20 years in prison to be followed by a lifetime of supervised release. Eichman pleaded guilty on December 10, 2024.
According to court records, in August 2022, a worker from a Brunswick landscaping company found two laptops and several hard drives hidden under a kayak on the company’s property. The employee opened the devices, discovered that they contained child sexual abuse material, and recognized Eichman, who was a former employee, in some of the files. Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) forensically examined the devices and recovered over 500 images and videos containing child sexual abuse material, including videos showing Eichman setting up a recording device and/or participating in the sexual abuse of minor victims from 2014 to 2016. The videos depicted Eichman engaging in sexually explicit conduct with children under the age of 12. The U.S. Attorney’s Office is limiting identifying information to protect the minor victims’ privacy.
Eichman previously entered an Alford plea in state court in 2018 to the sexual abuse of children and is currently serving a 10-year sentence. He will begin serving the sentence imposed today after the completion of his state sentence.
HSI investigated the case with assistance from the Topsham Police Department and the Brunswick Police Department.
To report an incident involving the possession, distribution, receipt or production of child pornography: Child sexual abuse material – referred to in legal terms as "child pornography" – captures the sexual abuse and exploitation of children. These images document victims’ exploitation and abuse, and they suffer revictimization every time the images are viewed. In 2023, the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children received 36 million reports of the possession, manufacture, or distribution of child sexual abuse materials. To file a report with NCMEC, go to https://report.cybertip.org or call 1-800-843-5678. If you are in Maine and you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted or abused, you can get help by calling the free, private 24-hour statewide sexual assault helpline at 1-800-871-7741.
Project Safe Childhood: This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Department’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-me/psc.
###
Three More Minneapolis Gang Members Charged with RICO Conspiracy and MurderRead the Press Release
A federal grand jury in Minneapolis charged three additional alleged members or associates of the violent street gang known as the Lows, bringing the total number of defendants in this indictment to 14.
“The defendants are allegedly responsible for 10 murders carried out through repeated shootings in public spaces, including gas stations, barbershops, food trucks, and crowded streets,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “By opening fire into groups of people, they took lives, spread fear, and inflicted devastating harm on families and entire communities. This case underscores the Criminal Division’s commitment to dismantling violent gangs and protecting communities from the terror and destruction they cause.”
“The Lows are killing our neighbors, and we’re taking them down,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Joseph H. Thompson for the District of Minnesota. “RICO charges give us the power to dismantle the violent street gangs that fuel the violence and trap families in fear. Every time we bring one of these cases, shootings drop, neighborhoods calm, and law-abiding families reclaim their streets. This progress is only possible because of the relentless work of our law enforcement partners and the Department of Justice’s Violent Crime & Racketeering Section. To every family that has lost someone to gang violence: we will not stop until your streets are safe.”
“This violent street gang, the Lows, will not continue to wreak havoc in Minneapolis neighborhoods,” said Assistant Director Jose A. Perez of the FBI Criminal Investigative Division. “Violent groups don't belong in our communities. These charges demonstrate our overall strategy and relentless determination to eradicate the drug-fueled gang violence plaguing our community. The FBI and our partners will continue to aggressively pursue gangs wherever they surface and are steadfast in making sure our communities are a safe place for our citizens.”
“Street gangs have been a persistent source of violence in Minneapolis, and the allegations in this indictment show the toll they continue to take on our communities,” said Special Agent in Charge Travis Riddle of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) St. Paul Field Division. “ATF has been committed to this city for decades, and we will continue working to keep firearms out of the hands of those who are prohibited and to hold accountable those who use violence to threaten the safety of our neighborhoods.”
“This criminal street gang treated gun violence and murder as business tools to maintain power and control,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Jason Bushey of the IRS Criminal Investigation Chicago Field Office. “IRS-CI special agents followed the money to expose how this enterprise was financed, uncovering the cash flow that allowed them to buy weapons, traffic drugs, and sow fear in Minneapolis neighborhoods. By tracing their illicit proceeds, we gave our law enforcement partners the evidence to not only disrupt this conspiracy but to hold its leaders accountable for the violence they inflicted. This case shows how IRS-CI’s financial expertise is critical to dismantling organized crime and protecting communities from violent threats.”
The newest defendants – Marques Armstrong Jr., 30, Davant Moore, 23, and Jahon Lynch, 20, all of Minneapolis — made their initial appearances today in the District of Minnesota.
The superseding indictment charges the Lows with racketeering conspiracy involving murder; using a firearm to kill during murder in aid of racketeering; attempted murder; robbery; and firearms and drug trafficking, including fentanyl distribution. According to the superseding indictment, the Lows have operated in north Minneapolis since approximately 2004. Members and associates allegedly traffic in firearms and narcotics and use threats, intimidation, and violence to protect their territory, reputation, illicit proceeds, and power.
The superseding indictment alleges that the gang committed a total of 10 murders as part of its racketeering activities, including the following:
- On May 6, 2021, Albert Lucas V, 21, shot and killed a victim at a Minneapolis gas station while the victim was pumping gas.
- On Sept. 9, 2021, Kaprice Richards, 24, and Marques Armstrong Jr. stood on a sidewalk and fired at least 26 rounds through the window of a crowded Minneapolis barbershop. The barrage of bullets killed one victim and injured another victim who was inside with a young child.
- On May 14, 2022, Glenn Carter III, 25, shot and killed two victims near a food truck in Minneapolis.
- Just days later, on May 19, 2022, Lows members and associates murdered two victims in a drive-by shooting in Minneapolis, after days of threats and taunting. Lows members and associates located the victim’s vehicle and pulled alongside when it was stopped at a traffic light. Lows members and associates then fired multiple shots from their vehicle at the victim’s vehicle, killing both the driver and passenger.
- On April 27, 2023, Shannon Jackson, 33, and Kaprice Richards, and others opened fire on a group in Minneapolis, killing one victim.
- On Nov. 6, 2023, Jahon Lynch, using a vehicle he carjacked about a week before, drove Albert Lucas V, Davant Moore, and other Lows members and associates to North Minneapolis, where they shot into a group of people, killing one victim.
- On Dec. 3, 2023, Damari Douglas, 20, Davant Moore, and other Lows members and associates attended a party in Minneapolis. After leaving the party, the group was walking down a street when they began firing at a passing vehicle. A stray bullet struck and killed a victim standing on the sidewalk. Law enforcement recovered discharged cartridge casings at the scene from multiple firearms.
- On Feb. 27, 2024, Albert Lucas V, Victor Collins, 23, and other Lows members and associates drove to the area of the Minneapolis Market, and shot into a group of people, injuring several victims and killing one victim.
If convicted, the defendants face a range of penalties, including up to life in prison for racketeering conspiracy involving acts of murder, using a firearm to commit murder, and conspiracy to distribute controlled substances. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after the consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
ATF, FBI, DEA, IRS-CI, HSI, USPIS, Minneapolis Police Department, Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office, Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, and Minnesota Department of Corrections are investigating the case, with assistance from the U.S. Marshals Service.
Trial Attorney Jared Engelking of the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Garrett S. Fields and David M. Classen for the District of Minnesota are prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Three More Lows Gang Members Charged with RICO Conspiracy and MurderRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – A federal grand jury in Minneapolis charged three more alleged members or associates of the violent street gang known as the Lows, bringing the total number of defendants in this indictment to fourteen.
The newest defendants—Marques Armstrong Jr., 30, Davant Moore, 23, and Jahon Lynch, 20, each of Minneapolis—began making their initial appearances today in the District of Minnesota. The indictment charges the Lows, a violent Minneapolis street gang, for crimes including Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) conspiracy involving murder, using a firearm to kill during racketeering murder, attempted murder, and other gun and drug trafficking, including fentanyl. Ten murders are alleged as part of the gang’s pattern of racketeering activity.
“These fourteen defendants are allegedly all part of a gang that is responsible for at least 10 murders on the streets of Minneapolis,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “These murders, which allegedly took place at a gas station, a barbershop, a food truck, and other public places, terrorized neighborhoods. As this superseding indictment to net additional gang members shows, the Criminal Division will not relent in addressing violent crime.”
“The Lows are killing our neighbors, and we’re taking them down,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Joseph H. Thompson. “RICO charges give us the power to dismantle the violent street gangs that fuel the violence and trap families in fear. Every time we bring one of these cases, shootings drop, neighborhoods calm, and law-abiding families reclaim their streets. This progress is only possible because of the relentless work of our law enforcement partners and the Department of Justice’s Violent Crime & Racketeering Section. To every family that has lost someone to gang violence: we will not stop until your streets are safe.”
“This violent street gang, the Lows, will not continue to wreak havoc in Minneapolis neighborhoods,” said Assistant Director Jose A. Perez of the FBI Criminal Investigative Division. “Violent groups don’t belong in our communities. These charges demonstrate our overall strategy and relentless determination to eradicate the drug-fueled gang violence plaguing our community. The FBI and our partners will continue to aggressively pursue gangs wherever they surface and are steadfast in making sure our communities are a safe place for our citizens.”
“For nearly two decades, the Lows have menaced the north Minneapolis community through gun violence and murders,” said Special Agent in Charge Alvin M. Winston Sr. of FBI Minneapolis. “Together with our law enforcement partners, the FBI has fought tirelessly to end that reign of terror. This new indictment shows that the FBI will never stop working to crush violent gangs like the Lows, save lives, and protect our communities.”
“Through the relentless efforts of the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the Minneapolis Police Department, and our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners, this outcome represents another significant step in dismantling the gangs that have victimized our city—especially in the neighborhoods most impacted,” said Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara. “For the individuals and families who have endured this violence, today’s result brings us closer to justice and accountability. We remain steadfast in our commitment to protecting every family and every community. The people of Minneapolis deserve a city that is safe and free from fear.”
“This criminal street gang treated gun violence and murder as business tools to maintain power and control,” said Jason Bushey, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the IRS Criminal Investigation Chicago Field Office. “IRS-CI special agents followed the money to expose how this enterprise was financed, uncovering the cash flow that allowed them to buy weapons, traffic drugs, and sow fear in Minneapolis neighborhoods. By tracing their illicit proceeds, we gave our law enforcement partners the evidence to not only disrupt this conspiracy but to hold its leaders accountable for the violence they inflicted. This case shows how IRS-CI’s financial expertise is critical to dismantling organized crime and protecting communities from violent threats.”
“Street gangs have been a persistent source of violence in Minneapolis, and the allegations in this indictment show the toll they continue to take on our communities,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Travis Riddle of the St. Paul Field Division. “ATF has been committed to this city for decades, and we will continue working to keep firearms out of the hands of those who are prohibited and to hold accountable those who use violence to threaten the safety of our neighborhoods.”
“The line between drug trafficking and violence is non-existent and today’s announcement is another reminder of this fact,” said Drug Enforcement Administration Omaha Division Acting Special Agent in Charge Rafael Mattei. “Agents with the DEA remain committed to our partners in law enforcement to ensure our communities are safe places to live.”
“Criminal organizations like the Lows pose a significant threat to public safety, endangering our communities through murder, narcotics trafficking to include fentanyl, gang violence, and other criminal activities,” said ICE HSI St. Paul Acting Special Agent in Charge Samuel Westbay. “Our agents remain steadfast in their commitment to working alongside our law enforcement partners to dismantle these dangerous criminal enterprises and restore safety and security to our neighborhoods.”
“The expansion of this RICO case to include three more defendants suspected of the most heinous crimes underscores the strength of our ongoing partnership at the local, state, and federal level,” said Hennepin County Sheriff DeWanna Witt. “We are dismantling this violent organization responsible for terrorizing our communities and taking important steps towards justice for victims and the safety of our neighborhoods. Gang violence has no place in Hennepin County and the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office will continue to work to put these criminal organizations out of business.”
“Minnesotans deserve to live without the fear of gang violence at their doorstep—of rivalry escalating to bloodshed,” said Bureau of Criminal Apprehension Superintendent Drew Evans. “It has to stop, and our resolve to make that happen has never been stronger.”
“Stopping violent criminals that misuse the U.S. Postal Service and pose a risk to the general public remains the top priority of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service,” said Postal Inspector in Charge Bryan Musgrove. “Today’s superseding indictment sends a clear message: If you do harm to our communities, we will find you and bring you to justice.”
According to the allegations in the superseding indictment, the defendants were members of the Lows criminal street gang, which has been in existence in Minneapolis since approximately 2004. The Lows are primarily active in the north side of Minneapolis. They allegedly traffic in firearms and narcotics, including fentanyl, and use threats, intimidation, and violence to protect their territory, reputation, crime proceeds, and power.
The murders alleged in the indictment include that these new defendants along with defendants previously indicted are listed below.
- On May 6, 2021, Albert Lucas V, 21, shot and killed a victim at a Minneapolis gas station while the victim was pumping gas.
- On Sept. 9, 2021, Kaprice Richards, 24, and Marques Armstrong Jr. stood on a sidewalk and fired at least 26 rounds through the window of a crowded Minneapolis barbershop. The barrage of bullets killed one victim and injured another victim who was inside with a young child.
- On May 14, 2022, Glenn Carter III, 25, shot and killed two victims near a food truck in Minneapolis.
- Just days later, on May 19, 2022, Lows members and associates murdered two victims in a drive-by shooting in Minneapolis, after days of threats and taunting. Lows members and associates located the victim’s vehicle and pulled alongside when it was stopped at a traffic light. Lows members and associates then fired multiple shots from their vehicle at the victim’s vehicle, killing both the driver and passenger.
- On April 27, 2023, Shannon Jackson, 33, and Kaprice Richards, and others opened fire on a group in Minneapolis, killing one victim.
- On Nov. 6, 2023, Jahon Lynch, using a vehicle he carjacked about a week before, drove Albert Lucas V, Davant Moore, and other Lows members and associates to North Minneapolis, where they shot into a group of people, killing one victim.
- On Dec. 3, 2023, Damari Douglas, 20, Davant Moore, and other Lows members and associates attended a party in Minneapolis. After leaving the party, the group was walking down a street when they began firing at a passing vehicle. A stray bullet struck and killed a victim standing on the sidewalk. Law enforcement recovered discharged cartridge casings at the scene from multiple firearms.
- On Feb. 27, 2024, Albert Lucas V, Victor Collins, 23, and other Lows members and associates drove to the area of the Minneapolis Market, and shot into a group of people, injuring several victims and killing one victim.
If convicted, the defendants face a range of penalties, including up to life in prison for racketeering conspiracy involving acts of murder, using a firearm to commit murder, and conspiracy to distribute controlled substances. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after the consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
ATF, FBI, DEA, IRS-CI, HSI, USPIS, Minneapolis Police Department, Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office, Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, and Minnesota Department of Corrections are investigating the case, with assistance from the U.S. Marshals Service.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Garrett S. Fields and David M. Classen for the District of Minnesota and Trial Attorney Jared Engelking of the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section are prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Three Defendants Plead Guilty in Multi-Million Dollar Pandemic Assistance Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
DETROIT - Three Macomb County residents have pleaded guilty to conspiring to execute a multi-million-dollar Paycheck Protection Program (“PPP”) fraud scheme, announced United States Attorney Jerome F. Gorgon Jr.
Joining in the announcement were Acting Special Agent in Charge Reuben Coleman, Federal Bureau of Investigation and Acting Special Agent in Charge Jared Murphey, United States Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations.
Rita Shaba, 39, of Macomb and Samer Kammo, 45 of Shelby Township pleaded guilty today before Judge Jonathan J.C. Grey to conspiring to commit wire fraud and bank fraud.
Christina Anasi, 35, of Shelby Township, previously pleaded guilty to the conspiracy.
According to court records, the defendants caused fraudulent PPP applications to be submitted for several business entities. Those applications misrepresented payroll information for the business entities and falsely certified that PPP loan funds would be used for permissible business-related purposes. The defendants also caused fictitious payroll, health insurance, bank, and tax records to be submitted in connection with the PPP loan applications.
According to court records, the defendants received over $3 million in fraudulent PPP loan funds. To date, law enforcement has seized and recovered over $2.1 million of those funds.
The Paycheck Protection Program was created by Congress to provide assistance to businesses harmed by the economic dislocations caused by the Covid-19 pandemic.
U.S. Attorney Gorgon stated, “While the numbers fraudsters used to illicitly enrich themselves were fake, the prison time they’re facing is very real. My office is committed to holding accountable all those who chose to exploit a global pandemic to steal from hardworking taxpayers.”
“Today’s guilty plea reaffirms that those who exploit government programs intended to assist the American people during a national crisis, will be held fully accountable under federal law,” said Reuben Coleman, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Detroit Field Office. “Rita Shaba stole from hardworking taxpaying citizens and struggling businesses during the Covid-19 pandemic, essentially eroding the trust placed in critical relief efforts designed by the U.S. Government. I want to thank our FBI Macomb County Resident Agency, and our law enforcement partners for their diligent work to ensure that bad actors face the full consequences of their criminal actions.”
“This money was designed to support businesses and help them navigate the pandemic, instead these defendants used it to enrich themselves and deprive honest businesses of much needed assistance,” said ICE HSI Detroit acting Special Agent in Charge Jared Murphey. “By now the writing is on the wall that if you stole money during the pandemic, it’s only a matter of time before law enforcement is knocking at your door.”
Shaba will be sentenced by Judge Grey on January 5, 2026. Anasi’s sentencing is set for January 7, 2026 and Kammo will be sentenced on January 15, 2026. The defendants each face a maximum sentence of up to 30 years’ imprisonment.
This case was investigated by special agents of the FBI and ICE HSI Detroit and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Andrew Yahkind.
Texas Man Pleads Guilty to Damaging Bluefield Federal BuildingRead the Press Release
BLUEFIELD, W.Va. – Will Adrian Samuels, 48, of Jefferson, Texas, pleaded guilty today to destruction of government property.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on November 19, 2023, Samuels repeatedly threw objects at two glass exterior doors located at the front of the Elizabeth Kee Federal Building in Bluefield, causing more than $1,000 in damage.
Samuels is scheduled to be sentenced on December 8, 2025, and faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison, up to three years of supervised release, and a $250,000 fine.
Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the United States Marshals Service (USMS) and the assistance provided by the Mercer County Sheriff's Office and the Wytheville, Virginia, Police Department.
Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney D. Keith Randolph is prosecuting the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:24-cr-195.
###
Ten Multi-Pound Level Methamphetamine Distributors in Northeast Arkansas in Custody Following Arrest OperationRead the Press Release
JONESBORO—Ten out of 11 defendants indicted on charges of distributing large amounts of methamphetamine and conspiracy in northeast Arkansas are in custody after federal and state authorities made a series of arrests this morning as part of an ongoing drug-trafficking investigation. Jonathan D. Ross, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, and Alicia D. Corder, Special Agent in Charge, FBI Little Rock Field Office, announced today’s arrests. Five additional defendants have been indicted who were already in custody.
The arrests stem from an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force, or OCDETF, investigation that began in January 2024 targeting multi-pound level dealers of methamphetamine in the northeast Arkansas area. The defendants listed in the indictments hail from Jonesboro, Blytheville, Osceola, Luxora, Manilla, and Trumann. The investigation, which was headed by the FBI, involved numerous controlled purchases of pounds of methamphetamine from members of four different conspiracies, as well as from individual distributors. According to information learned throughout the investigation, it is believed that these defendants have collectively trafficked more than 100 pounds of methamphetamine to people in Arkansas.
Additionally, during an investigation into one of the conspiracies, law enforcement agents intercepted numerous phone calls in which the conspiracy members discussed trafficking methamphetamine.
“Methamphetamine continues to be the most abused drug across Arkansas. According to the Arkansas State Crime Laboratory, 55% of our state’s 393 known overdose deaths in 2024 involved meth,” Ross said. “As such, our office and law enforcement partners will continue to prioritize investigations involving methamphetamine, as well as the other leading substances causing drug overdose deaths in Arkansas including cocaine, opioids, and fentanyl. We are especially grateful for the countless hours and dedicated hard work by the FBI, and our state, local, and additional federal law enforcement partners that investigated this case and led to today’s successful arrest operation. The citizens of Arkansas should know that these men and women work stoically day in and day out to protect the safety of our state and that they do so without concern for recognition, which I give today because we are all safer due to their commitment to public safety – the number one priority of law enforcement. So I say THANK YOU to everyone who played a role in this operation. We are grateful for you.”
“FBI Little Rock, in partnership with our federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies, remains resolute in our mission to protect Arkansans by crushing violent crime and dismantling networks that traffic dangerous narcotics,” SAC Corder said. “We are proactively targeting violent offenders, drug trafficking organizations, and criminal enterprises to safeguard our communities and uphold public safety.”
This initiative is part of “SUMMER HEAT,” the FBI’s nationwide initiative targeting violent crime during the summer months. As part of this effort, the FBI has launched a multi-pronged offensive to crush violent crime. By surging resources alongside state and local partners, executing federal warrants on violent criminals and fugitives, and dismantling violent gangs nationwide, the FBI seeks to aggressively restore safety in communities across the country.
This operation is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
Those arrested today will be arraigned before United States Magistrate Judge Benecia B. Moore on Thursday. Today’s arrests are the result of an investigation headed by the FBI, and assisted by the Department of Homeland Security, the Second Judicial Drug Task Force, the Jonesboro Police Department, the Craighead County Sheriff’s Office, the Poinsett County Sheriff’s Office, the Trumann Police Department, the Blytheville Police Department, the Osceola Police Department, the Mississippi County Sheriff’s Office, the West Memphis Police Department, the Marion Police Department, the Arkansas State Police, and the Southeast Missouri Drug Task Force.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Erin O’Leary.
All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
# # #
Additional information about the office of the
United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, is available online at
https://www.justice.gov/edar
X (formerly known as Twitter):
@USAO_EDAR
Stockton Man Pleads Guilty to Firearms Trafficking, Including 2 Machine GunsRead the Press Release
Rayshawn Williams, 20, of Stockton, pleaded guilty today to illegally dealing in firearms and two counts of possessing machine guns, U.S. Attorney Eric Grant announced.
According to court documents, between May and July 2024, Williams sold 10 firearms to a confidential informant in illegal deals conducted on the streets in exchange for cash. Of the firearms sold to the informant, two of them were Glock pistols with machine gun conversion devices, popularly known as “switches,” that allow the Glock pistols to fire in a fully automatic mode.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Stockton Police Department Crime Gun Intelligence Center. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jason Hitt and Zulkar Khan are prosecuting the case.
Williams is set for sentencing before U.S. District Judge John A. Mendez on Dec. 9, 2025. Williams faces a maximum statutory penalty of 10 years in prison on each of the machine gun charges, a five-year maximum penalty on the illegal firearms trafficking charge, and a $250,000 fine. The actual sentence, however, will be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables.
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).
Stanislaus County Man Sentenced to 16 Years in Prison for Possessing Fentanyl and Methamphetamine with Intent to DistributeRead the Press Release
Salvador Vega Rendon Jr., 33, of Turlock, was sentenced Monday by U.S. District Judge Troy L. Nunley to 16 years in prison for possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and methamphetamine and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, U.S. Attorney Eric Grant announced.
According to court documents, on Nov. 29, 2020, in Stanislaus County, Rendon was driving while intoxicated and crashed his vehicle into a parked car. Witnesses observed Rendon remove an ice chest and several other suitcases and bags from his vehicle and place them on the side of the road and in the driveway of a nearby property. Law enforcement officers arrived and apprehended Rendon. The ice chest, bags and suitcases and Rendon’s vehicle were found to contain more than 10 kilograms of methamphetamine, 7,000 pills containing fentanyl, cocaine, heroin, LSD, marijuana, firearms, and body armor. Three of the four firearms that Rendon possessed in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime were outfitted with devices that enabled them to function as fully automatic weapons.
This case was the product of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Stanislaus County Sheriff’s Office, and the California Highway Patrol. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kimberly A. Sanchez and Michael G. Tierney prosecuted the case.
St. Louis Man Convicted of $200,000 Kohl’s Cash ScamRead the Press Release
ST. LOUIS – A jury in U.S. District Court in St. Louis on Tuesday convicted a St. Louis man of all of the charges he faced for stealing more than $200,000 worth of online merchandise from Kohl’s.
According to evidence and testimony at the trial, Marshall Lampkin, 35, devised a scheme to use “Kohl’s Cash” twice. First, Lampkin would use Kohl’s Cash to purchase merchandise in a Kohl’s store, generally for more than $1,000. He then immediately used the same Kohl’s Cash to order merchandise online, knowing that the in-person transaction had not yet registered. Lampkin then returned the items he purchased in the store for a refund in Kohl’s Cash, so he could repeat his scam, evidence and testimony showed. Lampkin used the scheme more than 100 times in 2021 and 2022, at 40 different stores in 13 states, the trial showed.
He had his online purchases, which included flooring, furniture, small appliances and other items, shipped to storage units in St. Louis and a relative’s house in Illinois, evidence and testimony showed. He later sold or tried to sell those items by advertising them on Facebook.
Investigators also recovered hundreds of thousands of dollars in Kohl’s merchandise packed into Lampkin’s storage units.
The trial began Monday. In less than seven minutes, jurors found Lampkin guilty of five counts of mail fraud. He is scheduled to be sentenced in December.
The U.S. Secret Service and the St. Louis County Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Justin Ladendorf and Derek Wiseman are prosecuting the case.
St. Bernard Parish Man Guilty of Violating Federal Controlled Substances and Gun Control ActsRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – TERRY BAHAM, JR. (“BAHAM”), age 37, a resident of St. Bernard Parish, pled guilty on August 12, 2025 before United States District Judge Brandon S. Long to possession with intent to distribute forty grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl, and quantities of mixtures and substances containing detectable amounts of cocaine, methamphetamine, and marijuana, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(B), 841(b)(1)(C), and 841(b)(1)(D), and possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A), announced Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson.
According to court documents, in October 2021, St. Bernard Parish Sheriff’s deputies received information regarding the drug trafficking activities of BAHAM at his residence in Chalmette, Louisiana. Deputies obtained a search warrant for the residence. Inside the residence, deputies located and seized approximately 112 grams of fentanyl, 74 grams of cocaine, 14 grams of methamphetamine, 405 grams of marijuana and 112 THC cartridges. Also seized from the residence were four firearms: a Beretta Model BU9 Nano, nine-millimeter semi-automatic pistol, a Glock Model 27, 40 caliber. semi-automatic pistol, a Zastava Arms Model PAP M85 NP, .223 caliber semi-automatic pistol, and a Sharps Bros. Model Warthog, .223 caliber rifle.
For the drug count, BAHAM faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of five years and a maximum term of imprisonment of forty years, a fine of up to $5,000,000.00, at least four years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00. For the firearm count, BAHAM faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of five years to run consecutive to any other sentence imposed, a fine of up to $250,000.00, five years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the St. Bernard Parish Sheriff’s Office. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney André Jones of the Narcotics Unit.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.