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12 August 2025
Armed Convicted Felon Is Sentenced to Prison for Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Michael Anthony Cornwell, 30, and a convicted felon, was sentenced today to 106 months in prison and two years of supervised release for firearms offenses, announced Russ Ferguson, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina.
Alicia Jones, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Charlotte Field Division, and Chief Johnny Jennings of the Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD), join U.S. Attorney Ferguson in making today’s announcement.
According to court documents and court proceedings, on September 13, 2022, Cornwell was arrested by CMPD officers on an outstanding warrant. Law enforcement also executed a search warrant at Cornwell’s residence, where they seized multiple rounds of various ammunition, a .40 caliber drum magazine, multiple rifle magazines, a gun sight, digital scales, and distribution quantity of marijuana. Law enforcement also seized a loaded 40 caliber Glock semi-automatic pistol from Cornwell’s vehicle. Cornwell has prior felony convictions, and he is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition.
On January 10, 2025, Cornwell pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. He is in federal custody and will be transferred to the custody of the federal Bureau of Prisons upon designation of a federal facility.
In making today’s announcement, U.S. Attorney Ferguson thanked the ATF and CMPD for their investigation of the case.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
Alta Iowa Man Pleads Guilty to Illegal Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
A man who illegally possessed a firearm pled guilty August 11, 2025, in federal court in Sioux City.
Taxavier Ford, 29, from Alta, Iowa, was convicted of one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. Ford was previously convicted of possession of a narcotic drug, in the State of Indiana in 2017, and possession of marijuana, with intent to deliver and possession of a firearm by a felon, in the Iowa District Court for Buena Vista County in 2021. Both of these convictions prohibit a person from possessing any firearm.
At the plea hearing, evidence showed that on March 14, 2025, in Storm Lake, Iowa, law enforcement observed a vehicle, driven by Ford, with illegal window tint and initiated a traffic stop. Officers measured the window tint which revealed it was in excess of Iowa state law. When measuring the window tint, officers smelled the odor of marijuana coming from the vehicle. During a search of the vehicle and Ford, officers found a metal object in Ford’s waistband. Ford admitted he had a loaded firearm in his waistband.
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.
This case is also part of Operation Take Back America (https://www.justice.gov/dag/media/1393746/dl?inline) a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
Sentencing before United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand will be set after a presentence report is prepared. Ford remains free on bond previously set pending sentencing. Ford faces a possible maximum sentence of 15 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and no more than three years of supervised release following any imprisonment.
The case was investigated by the Storm Lake Police Department, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kraig R. Hamit.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 25-4028. Follow us on X @USAO_NDIA.
Albany Man Sentenced to 42 Years in Prison for Sexually Abusing a ToddlerRead the Press Release
EUGENE, Ore.— An Albany, Oregon man was sentenced to federal prison today for sexually abusing a toddler on at least five separate occasions and sharing videos of the abuse online.
Kevin Walter Taylor, 35, was sentenced to 504 months in federal prison and a life term of supervised release.
“The sexual abuse of this young child is reprehensible and is deserving of every month of the sentence that has been imposed by the court,” Scott E. Bradford, U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office recognizes and thanks the Albany police officers and HSI special agents for rescuing this child within hours of learning of the abuse.”
“HSI is unwavering in our commitment to protecting children and ensuring that those who exploit them are brought to justice,” said ICE Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Seattle Acting Special Agent in Charge Colin Jackson. “I am proud of the dedication and expertise demonstrated by our agents, analysts, and law enforcement partners in rescuing the victim from horrific sexual exploitation.”
According to court documents, on the morning of September 8, 2023, special agents from HSI discovered material online depicting child sexual abuse and determined that Taylor was likely committing the abuse from his home in Albany.
Within hours, HSI agents obtained and executed a federal search warrant on Taylor’s residence with the assistance of officers from the Albany Police Department. The same night, HSI and Albany Police arrested Taylor and rescued the toddler victim, who was still wearing the clothes depicted in the abuse material produced and distributed by Taylor just hours earlier.
Upon review of Taylor’s cell phone, agents discovered evidence of the abuse that occurred the day of his arrest as well as videos taken almost every day during the preceding week. Agents also discovered chats in which Taylor openly discussed his abuse of the toddler victim and shared the videos he made.
Agents discovered additional chats in which Taylor discussed his plans to kidnap and rape other children as well as his interest in filming children in stores in the community. Consistent with those chats, agents discovered videos taken in what appeared to be grocery stores, focused and zoomed in on children’s mid-sections. Agents also discovered videos in which Taylor recorded himself tossing fluids onto unaware women in public. The children and women filmed without their knowledge could not be identified.
On October 19, 2023, a federal grand jury in Eugene returned a ten-count indictment charging Taylor with sexually exploiting a child, distributing child pornography, and possessing child pornography. On December 10, 2024, Taylor pleaded guilty to sexually exploiting a child, distributing child pornography, and possessing child pornography.
This case was investigated by HSI Portland in conjunction with HSI Charlotte, the Boone Police Department in North Carolina, and the Albany Police Department. It was prosecuted by William M. McLaren, Assistant United States Attorney for the District of Oregon, in coordination with the Linn County District Attorney’s Office.
Anyone who has information about the physical or online exploitation of children are encouraged to contact HSI at (866) 347-2423 or submit a tip online at report.cybertip.org.
Federal law defines child pornography as any visual depiction of sexually explicit conduct involving a minor. It is important to remember child sexual abuse material depicts actual crimes being committed against children. Not only do these images and videos document the victims’ exploitation and abuse, but when shared across the internet, re-victimize and re-traumatize the child victims each time their abuse is viewed. To learn more, please visit the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children at www.missingkids.org.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
26 Fugitives Wanted for Violent and Serious Crimes Returned to the United States from Mexico Including Leaders of Foreign Terrorist Organizations and Alien Smuggling OrganizationRead the Press Release
The United States announced today that it has taken into custody 26 fugitives from Mexico facing a range of federal and state criminal charges from around the country, including charges relating to drug-trafficking, hostage-taking, kidnapping, illegal use of firearms, human smuggling, money laundering, the murder of a sheriffs’ deputy, and other crimes. Among the fugitives taken into U.S. custody today are leaders and managers of dangerous drug cartels, such as those designated as Foreign Terrorist Organizations and Specially Designated Global Terrorists, including the Sinaloa Cartel, Cártel de Jalisco Nueva Generación (CJNG), and Cártel del Noreste (formerly Los Zetas). These fugitives are collectively alleged to have imported into the United States tonnage quantities of dangerous drugs, including cocaine, methamphetamine, fentanyl, and heroin.
“Today is the latest example of the Trump administration's historic efforts to dismantle cartels and foreign terrorist organizations,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “These 26 men have all played a role in bringing violence and drugs to American shores -- under this Department of Justice, they will face severe consequences for their crimes against this country. We are grateful to Mexico’s National Security team for their collaboration in this matter.”
Included in today’s transfer are the following fugitives:
- Abigael Gonzalez Valencia also known as “Cuini” – is one of the leaders of Los Cuinis, a major Mexican drug cartel responsible for trafficking multiple tons of cocaine from South America, through Mexico, into the United States.
- Kevin Gil Acosta and Martin Zazueta Perez – According to court documents, Gil Acosta and Zazueta Perez are leaders of the security apparatus for the Chapitos, a powerful faction of the Sinaloa Cartel that engages in prolific fentanyl trafficking. Both men have led sicarios armed with military-style weapons – such as AK-47s, M-16s, AR-15s, and grenade launchers – in attacks on Mexican government and military officials. Gil Acosta leads sicarios tasked with protecting fentanyl labs and distribution routes while Zazueta Perez provides personal security for a leader of the Chapitos.
- Abdul Karim Conteh, a national of Sierra Leone, allegedly led a human smuggling organization that smuggled thousands of migrants to the United States through Mexico. These smuggled migrants originated from countries around the world, including Iran, Afghanistan, Uzbekistan, Pakistan, Kazakhstan, Turkey, Somalia, Cameroon, Senegal, Mauritania, Ethiopia, Egypt, and others. The migrants paid smuggling fees, often tens of thousands of dollars. Conteh allegedly oversaw the migrants’ unlawful entry into the United States by various surreptitious and unlawful means, including the use of ladders and tunnels.
- Leobardo Garcia Corrales is believed to be an important figure in the Sinaloa Cartel who has trafficked kilogram quantities of fentanyl into the United States, sometimes in exchange for military-grade weapons such as AK-47s, grenades, and submachine guns. He claims to be close friends and associates with Joaquín Archivaldo Guzmán Loera, aka “El Chapo.”
- Luis Raul Castro Valenzuela also known as “Chacho,” a member of the Sinaloa Cartel, has been charged with kidnapping and holding hostage a U.S. citizen.
- Juan Carlos Felix Gastelum also known as “El Chavo Félix,” a major Sinaloa Cartel cell leader and son-in-law to former Sinaloa Cartel leader Ismael “El Mayo” Zambada, is alleged to be a principal operator of the Sinaloa Cartel’s clandestine methamphetamine manufacturing laboratories located in the Sierra Madre Mountains of Sinaloa and Durango, Mexico involved in the manufacturing and distribution of large quantities of methamphetamine and cocaine from Mexico into the United States.
- Roberto Salazar is wanted in connection with the murder of Los Angeles County Sheriff's Deputy Juan Escalante, who was killed in 2008 when he was leaving his home during the early morning hours.
- Pablo Edwin Huerta Nuno, also known as “Flaquito,” is a violent Tijuana Plaza boss who has operated with impunity during the last 15 years. Huerta-Nuno is alleged to have supplied thousands of kilograms of methamphetamine, fentanyl, and cocaine to distributors and cells located throughout San Diego and Los Angeles. And in return, millions of dollars in narcotics proceeds were delivered to him and his organization via shipments of bulk cash from San Diego into Tijuana.
Below is a complete list of fugitives, as well as the districts in which they are charged and will appear in federal court in the coming days:
FugitiveArraignment JurisdictionStatutory MaximumEnrique Arballo TalamantesDistrict of New MexicoUp to life imprisonmentBenito Barrios MaldonadoDistrict of ArizonaUp to life imprisonmentLuis Raul Castro ValenzuelaDistrict of DelawareUp to life imprisonmentFrancisco ChavezDistrict of ColoradoUp to life imprisonmentAbdul Karim ContehSouthern District of California45 years’ imprisonmentBaldomero Fernandez BeltranDistrict of ArizonaUp to life imprisonmentIsmael Enrique Fernandez VazquezEastern District of TexasUp to life imprisonmentLeobardo Garcia CorralesSouthern District of New YorkUp to life imprisonmentAbigael Gonzalez ValenciaDistrict of ColumbiaUp to life imprisonmentJose Carlos Guzman BernalDistrict of AlaskaUp to life imprisonmentAnton Petrov KulkinDistrict of MassachusettsUp to life imprisonmentRoberto Omar LopezNorthern District of GeorgiaUp to life imprisonmentJose Francisco Mendoza GomezEastern District of VirginiaUp to life imprisonmentHernan Domingo Ojeda LopezDistrict of ColumbiaUp to life imprisonment
Daniel Perez RojasDistrict of ColumbiaUp to life imprisonmentJuan Carlos Sanchez GaytanSouthern District of TexasUp to life imprisonmentDavid Fernando Vasquez BejaranoEastern District of VirginiaUp to life imprisonmentJose Antonio Vivanco HernandezNorthern District of IllinoisUp to life imprisonmentMauro Alberto Nunez OjedaDistrict of ColumbiaUp to life imprisonmentJuan Carlos Felix GastelumSouthern District of CaliforniaUp to life imprisonmentJesus Guzman CastroEastern District of New York and District of South CarolinaUp to life imprisonmentPablo Edwin Huerta NunoSouthern District of CaliforniaUp to life imprisonmentServando Gomez MartinezSouthern District of New YorkUp to life imprisonmentKevin Gil AcostaSouthern District of New YorkUp to life imprisonmentRoberto SalazarCA: Los Angeles CountyUp to life imprisonmentMartin Zazueta PerezSouthern District of New YorkUp to life imprisonmentAttorney General Pamela Bondi thanked the law enforcement officers of the Drug Enforcement Administration, FBI, U.S. Marshal’s Service, and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, and the Los Angeles County Police Department for their valuable contributions to these investigations.
The Attorney General also thanked the Justice Department Criminal Division’s Narcotic and Dangerous Drug Section, as well as the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices for the District of Alaska, District of Arizona, Southern District of California, District of Columbia, District of Colorado, Middle District of North Carolina, District of Delaware, Northern District of Georgia, Northern District of Illinois, District of Massachusetts, District of New Mexico, Eastern District of New York, Southern District of New York, District of South Carolina, Eastern District of Virginia, Northern District of Texas, Eastern District of Texas, Southern District of Texas, and Western District of Texas and Los Angeles County for handling the prosecutions of these cases. The Attorney General also thanked the Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs which provided critical assistance in securing the transfer of these fugitives to the United States to face justice.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
11 August 2025
Wyoming Man Found Not Guilty in Federal CourtRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Gillette, Wyoming, man was acquitted of Transportation of a Minor with Intent to Engage in Criminal Sexual Activity and Aggravated Sexual Abuse with Children following a federal jury trial in Rapid City, South Dakota, on July 25, 2025.
Richard Wayne Gray, age 41, was indicted by a federal grand jury in December 2024. The charges related to the alleged transportation of a minor across state lines to engage in a sexual act.
The investigation was conducted by the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office and the Campbell County Sheriff’s Office in Wyoming. The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case.Waterbury Armed Drug Trafficker Sentenced to 5 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that ROBERT HARRISON, also known as “Firm” and “Lox,” 39, of Waterbury, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in New Haven to 60 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for a drug-related firearm offense.
According to court documents and statements made in court, between March and June 2024, the Drug Enforcement Administration New Haven Task Force and the Waterbury Police Department investigated a drug trafficking organization headed by Harrison. During that time, investigators made eight controlled purchases of narcotics from Harrison and his associates. On June 20, 2024, law enforcement executed federal search warrants for locations connected to Harrison’s organization. A search of Harrison’s residence on Frost Road, his auto repair business on Todd Hollow Road in Waterbury, and a recording studio he operated on Woodtick Road in Waterbury, revealed more than 370 grams of cocaine, narcotic pills, four loaded handguns, gun magazines, numerous rounds of ammunition, and approximately $18,208 in cash.
Harrison has been detained since his arrest on related state charges on June 20, 2024. On April 14, 2025, he pleaded guilty in federal court to possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
This matter has been investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration New Haven Task Force and the Waterbury Police Department. The Task Force includes members from the DEA, U.S. Marshals Service, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division, Connecticut State Police and the New Haven, Waterbury, East Haven, Branford, West Haven, Ansonia, Meriden, Naugatuck, and Shelton Police Departments.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Natasha M. Freismuth.
W. Ellis Boyle Sworn in as United States AttorneyRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – W. Ellis Boyle. has taken the oath of office to become the United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina. The oath was administered by United States District Judge Terrence W. Boyle at the Terry Sanford Courthouse in Raleigh. Attorney General Pamela Bondi appointed Mr. Boyle as the interim U.S. Attorney on August 7, 2025.
As U.S. Attorney, Mr. Boyle is the lead federal law enforcement official in the Eastern District of North Carolina, which includes the 44 eastern most counties of North Carolina. He oversees a staff of 119 employees, including 58 attorneys and 61 non-attorney support personnel. The office is responsible for prosecuting federal crimes across the district, including crimes related to immigration, gang violence, National Security, drug trafficking, and violent crime. The office also defends the United States in civil cases and collects debts owed to the United States.
Before becoming the U.S. Attorney, Mr. Boyle practiced law at Ward and Smith, P.A., where he practiced litigation, representing businesses, government entities, and individuals in complex matters. He also served as General Counsel and Deputy Secretary at the North Carolina Department of Public Safety (DPS), which employs over 27,000 people. The department oversees the state's prison and probation/parole systems, the State Highway Patrol, Emergency Management, the National Guard, and the juvenile justice system.
Prior to his role at DPS, Mr. Boyle was an Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) in the Eastern District of North Carolina for two years. During his time in the Civil Division, he tried many cases in federal court. He gained extensive experience representing the United States in cases involving negligence and medical malpractice claims for personal injuries under the Federal Tort Claims Act (FTCA), as well as in bankruptcy cases.
Before serving as an AUSA, Mr. Boyle was an associate in the business litigation practice group of Womble, Carlyle, Sandridge & Rice in Winston-Salem, where he primarily represented companies in matters related to business disputes and dissolution.
Mr. Boyle is from northeastern North Carolina, born and raised in Edenton. He earned a degree in history from Davidson College. After graduating, he was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant into the Army where he served as an infantry officer for four years, eventually rising to the rank of Captain. Following his time in the Army, Mr. Boyle earned a law degree from Wake Forest University Law School. After graduating, he spent a year as a law clerk for the Honorable Claude Hilton, a U.S. District Court Judge in the Eastern District of Virginia.
Violent Bridgeport Gang Member Sentenced to 40 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
LORENZO CARTER, also known as “Zo” and “Skiii,” 30, of Bridgeport, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Kari A. Dooley in Bridgeport to 480 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for his involvement in a violent Bridgeport street gang.
Today’s announcement was made by David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut; Joseph T. Corradino, State’s Attorney for the Fairfield Judicial District; Bridgeport Police Chief Roderick Porter; P.J. O’Brien, Special Agent in Charge of the New Haven Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation; Bryan DiGirolamo, Acting Special Agent in Charge, ATF Boston Field Division; Jarod Forget, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration for New England; and Acting Chief Deputy U.S. Marshal John Iverson.
According to court documents and the evidence presented during the trial, the FBI, ATF, DEA, U.S. Marshals Service, Connecticut State Police and Bridgeport Police have been investigating multiple Bridgeport-based gangs whose members are involved in narcotics trafficking, murder, and other acts of violence. Carter was a member of the Original North End (“O.N.E.”), a gang based in the Trumbull Gardens area of Bridgeport that committed acts of violence against rival gangs, including the East End gang, the East Side gang, and the PT Barnum gang. O.N.E. members also robbed drug dealers, customers, and others, sold narcotics, and stole cars from inside and outside Connecticut, often using the cars to commit crimes. They frequently used social media to promote and coordinate their criminal activities.
On August 9, 2018, O.N.E. members stole a Jeep Grand Cherokee in Newburgh, New York, and drove it back to Bridgeport. In the following days, O.N.E. members conspired to use the car to kill East End gang members and their allies who they had learned through social media were at a deli on Stratford Avenue in Bridgeport. Although that plan fell through, in the early morning hours of August 13, 2018, Carter and other O.N.E. members drove the stolen Jeep to Stratford and Union Avenues in Bridgeport where they shot and killed Len Smith, 25, who they mistook for a rival East End member, and shot and seriously wounded Smith’s female companion, both of whom were seated in a parked car. After the shooting, Carter and other O.N.E. members transported the Jeep to Indian Well State Park in Shelton where they burned the vehicle in an effort to destroy evidence of the murder.
O.N.E. members committed other violent crimes, including murder. Carter and other O.N.E. members, posted videos to social media in which they and others brandished firearms, celebrated violent gang culture, and referenced rivals who were killed.
Carter has been detained since May 21, 2021. On November 21, 2023, he was convicted after trial of racketeering conspiracy.
Carter’s criminal history includes state and federal firearm convictions. In 2016, he was sentenced in New Haven federal court to 21 months of imprisonment for unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon.
Approximately 47 members and associates of multiple Bridgeport-based gangs have been convicted of federal offenses stemming from this investigation, which has solved eight murders and approximately 20 attempted murders.
This investigation has been conducted by the FBI’s Safe Streets and Violent Crimes Task Forces, ATF, DEA, U.S. Marshals Service, Bridgeport Police Department, Connecticut State Police and the Bridgeport State’s Attorney’s Office, with the assistance of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Connecticut Forensic Science Laboratory, and the police departments from Norwalk, Stamford, Fairfield, Stratford, Ansonia, Monroe, Waterbury, Naugatuck, Eastchester (N.Y.), Rye (N.Y.), and Newburgh (N.Y.). The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Karen L. Peck, Jocelyn C. Kaoutzanis, Stephanie T. Levick, and Rahul Kale.
This prosecution is a part of the Justice’s Department’s Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), Project Longevity and Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) programs.
United States Obtains More Than $1.4 Million Judgment Against Family Medical Practitioner for Fraudulent BillingRead the Press Release
Baltimore, Maryland –The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland (USAO-MD) announced that it obtained a judgment of $1,407,493.23 against Dr. Richard Akoto, M.D., a family medical doctor, and his practice, Richard O. Akoto, M.D. PC, located in Takoma Park, Maryland. The U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland found that Akoto submitted, or caused the submission of, false claims to the Medicare program in connection with his use of auricular stimulation (P-Stim) devices.
U.S. Attorney Kelly O. Hayes announced the judgment with Special Agent in Charge Maureen Dixon, Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG).
In his practice, Dr. Akoto used a P-stim device to treat patients for pain. A P-Stim device provides electrical acupuncture to treat pain symptoms and is applied externally to the patient, generally behind the patient’s ear using an adhesive to hold the device in place. Acupuncture, electrical or otherwise, is not reimbursable by Medicare. The United States filed a complaint against Dr. Akoto alleging he falsely billed Medicare using a code for an implantable neurostimulator device, which is surgically implanted into a patient and typically performed by a surgeon in an operating room. Dr. Akoto fraudulently billed Medicare for this complex neurosurgical procedure numerous times from approximately January 17, 2019 to May 1, 2019.
“Dr. Akoto knowingly submitted false claims by billing non-invasive P-Stim devices as surgical implants—an unconscionable and blatant misrepresentation to exploit the Medicare system,” Hayes said. “This type of fraud not only wastes taxpayer dollars, it also undermines trust in our healthcare system. The U.S. Attorney’s office is committed to continuing to work with our partners to identify and eliminate this kind of waste and abuse of our federal health care programs.”
“Accurately billing for services provided to Medicare enrollees is required of all health care providers participating in the program,” Dixon said. “HHS-OIG and the U.S. Attorney’s Office will continue to evaluate and pursue inaccurate billings related to P-Stim and similar devices.”
U.S. Attorney Hayes commended HHS-OIG for its work in the investigation. Ms. Hayes also thanked Thomas F. Corcoran, Chief, USAO-MD Civil Division, and Investigator Ann Thiel, for their investigation and litigation of this case.
For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to report fraud, visit justice.gov/usao-md and justice.gov/usao-md/community-outreach.
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United States Department of Justice Transfers 14 Mexican Nationals with Drug Convictions to Mexico Pursuant to the U.S.-Mexico International Prisoner Transfer TreatyRead the Press Release
The U.S. Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs, with the assistance of the Department’s Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP), transferred 14 Mexican nationals serving prison sentences for drug distribution-related convictions in the United States to their home country on Friday. The transfer was made pursuant to the United States’ prisoner transfer treaty with the Government of Mexico.
“Friday’s transfer of 14 federal inmates to correctional authorities in Mexico has saved the United States over $4 million by eliminating the need to pay incarceration costs for the 96 years remaining on their combined sentences,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “The Justice Department will continue such transfers – pursuant to our treaty with Mexico – to reduce incarceration costs and relieve overcrowding in our federal prisons.”
All 14 inmates transferred Friday were serving sentences relating to the distribution of controlled substances. The inmates will complete the remainder of their sentences in Mexico pursuant to the treaty. The inmates requested to be transferred to their home country, and the governments of both the United States and Mexico approved these transfers.
The transfer was part of the United States’ congressionally enacted International Prisoner Transfer Program. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs’s International Prisoner Transfer Unit (IPTU) administers the program and coordinates all treaty-based international prisoner transfers.
Under the program, approved foreign national inmates in federal and state prisons are transferred, under certain circumstances, to complete their prison sentences in their native countries’ prisons. The United States has entered into 10 additional bilateral transfer agreements and two multilateral transfer conventions. These international agreements give the United States transfer treaty relationships with more than 85 countries.
To learn more about the International Prisoner Transfer Program, visit: www.justice.gov/criminal/criminal-oia/iptu
United Nuclear Corporation and General Electric to Perform $63M Cleanup of Uranium Mine Waste at Northeast Church Rock Mine and UNC Mill Sites in New Mexico and Navajo NationRead the Press Release
The United Nuclear Corporation (UNC) and General Electric Company (GE) have agreed to a consent decree with the United States, Navajo Nation, and the State of New Mexico under the federal Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act, also known as the Superfund law.
This agreement requires UNC and GE to excavate and remove approximately one million cubic yards of uranium mine waste from the Northeast Church Rock Superfund Site, located on the Navajo Nation, and transfer it to the UNC Mill Site, a federally licensed uranium mill and tailings disposal facility located adjacent to Navajo Nation in northwestern New Mexico. The Navajo Nation and the State of New Mexico are also parties to the agreement as co-plaintiffs with the United States. The cleanup is expected to cost nearly $63 million and take more than a decade to complete.
“Today’s settlement will achieve tangible remediation of the Mine and Mill Sites and protect human health from radioactive wastes,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Adam Gustafson of the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division (ENRD). “Consistent with this administration’s enforcement principles and priorities, the settlement follows CERCLA’s text, focuses on the affected locations, and assigns the cost of cleanup to the settling defendants, not taxpayers.”
“This agreement ensures that the companies responsible for the contamination will bear the cost of cleanup, not the community,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison for the District of New Mexico. “It is a decisive measure reflecting years of inaction, and while nothing erases the damage done, this cleanup is necessary to protect public health and right a persistent wrong.”
“This extraordinary cleanup agreement will improve the lives of the Navajo people, benefiting their children, grandchildren, and future generations,” said Regional Administrator Josh F.W. Cook of EPA’s Pacific Southwest Region. “The consent decree will ensure the removal of contaminated mine waste from their community and make their land suitable for future residential use.”
“This agreement represents extensive cooperation between EPA, the Navajo Nation, and the state of New Mexico. Each partner plays a critical role in working toward a safer environment for communities of Western New Mexico,” said Regional Administrator Scott Mason of EPA’s South Central. “With this historic settlement, we are ensuring cleanup progress will continue at the NECR mine site while improving existing protections at the UNC mill site.”
“This settlement sends a message that federal, sovereign, and state governments can come together to improve the lives of both New Mexican and Navajo Nation residents,” said Secretary for the New Mexico Environment Department James Kenney. “It’s the result of our regulatory partners' unwavering commitment to addressing the longstanding risks faced by communities impacted by uranium mining waste.”
The Northeast Church Rock Mine operated from 1967 to 1982 and served as the principal source of uranium ore for the UNC Mill. These mining operations left behind uranium mine waste piles, several former ponds and former mill tailings storage areas. Although EPA has required several shorter-term cleanup actions to be completed at the NECR Mine site, conditions at the site continue to present a risk of releases of hazardous substances to the air, surrounding soils, sediments, surface water and groundwater.
The UNC Mill site is a former uranium mill which operated from 1977 to 1982, generating mill tailings containing radionuclides and other hazardous substances. Disposal of about 3.5 million tons of tailings took place in on-site impoundments. Studies performed under EPA oversight have demonstrated that the transfer of Northeast Church Rock mine waste to the UNC Mill site, and placement of the waste over the tailings disposal area, would improve the cover and enhance erosion controls at the Mill site.
The agreement is the culmination of two decades of coordination between EPA’s Pacific Southwest and South Central Regional offices, the Department of Energy, the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, the Department of the Interior, state and Tribal stakeholders, and UNC and GE. EPA continues to work closely with federal partner agencies, Navajo Nation, and adjacent states to address impacts from uranium contamination at 523 abandoned uranium mines on or near Navajo land. This EPA work includes the assessment and cleanup of abandoned uranium mines, consultation with Navajo elected officials, and gathering input from affected communities throughout the cleanup process.
EPA investigated the case.
ENRD’s Environmental Enforcement Section is handling the case.
The proposed consent decree was lodged in the U.S. District Court for the District of New Mexico. The settlement is subject to a public comment period and final court approval. The consent decree will be available for viewing on the Justice Department’s website at: www.justice.gov/enrd/consent-decrees.
United Kingdom Citizen Sentenced to over 15 Years in Prison for Enticement of a MinorRead the Press Release
MIAMI – A citizen of the United Kingdom was sentenced in federal court after pleading guilty to enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity.
Chief U.S. District Judge Cecilia M. Altonaga ordered Jack Edward Coles, 40, to serve 188 months in federal prison, followed by 20 years of supervised release.
According to court records, in October 2024, Coles met a 14-year-old boy through a dating app. Coles arranged for an Uber to pick up the minor victim from his residence and bring him to the hotel where Coles was staying. Upon the minor victim’s arrival, Coles engaged in sexual acts with him. Coles later attempted to arrange additional meetings with the minor victim in October and November 2024, and again in February 2025. In November 2024, Coles also enticed the minor victim to send him sexually explicit photographs.
United States Attorney Hayden P. O’Byrne and Acting Special Agent in Charge José R. Figueroa of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Miami made the announcement.
HSI Miami investigated the case with assistance from the City of Miami Police Department and the State Attorney’s Office, Criminal Investigation Division.
Assistant United States Attorney Dwayne Williams prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or at http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov, under case number 25-cr-20073.
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Two Mexican Nationals Charged for Bribing State-Owned Energy OfficialsRead the Press Release
An indictment was unsealed today in the Southern District of Texas charging two Mexican businessmen for their roles in an alleged bribery scheme to retain and obtain business related to Petróleos Mexicanos (PEMEX), the state-owned oil company of Mexico, and PEMEX Exploración y Producción (PEP), PEMEX’s wholly owned exploration and production subsidiary.
“The defendants — foreign nationals residing in the U.S. — are alleged to have bribed Mexican officials in order to rig the bidding process to secure millions of dollars of lucrative contracts and other advantages,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “This indictment should send a clear message that the Criminal Division will not tolerate those who enrich corrupt officials for personal gain and to the detriment of the fair market.”
“Bribery harms fair competition, erodes public trust, and will not be tolerated,” said Assistant Director Jose A. Perez of the FBI Criminal Investigation Division. “Today’s indictment underscores the commitment of the FBI, and our law enforcement partners, to fairness for communities in Texas and beyond.”
According to court documents, Ramon Alexandro Rovirosa Martinez, 46, of The Woodlands, Texas, a Mexican citizen and U.S. lawful permanent resident, and Mario Alberto Avila Lizarraga, 61, of Spring, Texas, a Mexican citizen and U.S. lawful permanent resident, together with others, allegedly conspired to pay and offered to pay at least $150,000 in bribes to officials at PEMEX and PEP in order to obtain and retain business from PEMEX and PEP for companies associated with Rovirosa.
Between at least 2019 and continuing into at least 2021, Rovirosa, Avila, and their co-conspirators allegedly offered to pay and paid bribes in the form of luxury goods, including from Louis Vuitton and Hublot, cash payments, and other valuable items, to at least three PEMEX and PEP officials in exchange for those officials taking certain actions to help companies associated with Rovirosa obtain and retain business with PEMEX and PEP. Those improper advantages helped companies associated with Rovirosa obtain contracts with PEMEX and PEP worth at least $2.5 million.
Rovirosa and Avila are each charged with one count of conspiracy to violate the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) and three substantive violations of the FCPA. If convicted, each defendant faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison for each count. A federal judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Following his arrest, Rovirosa was arraigned today. Avila is a fugitive and remains at large.
The FBI and HSI are investigating the case, with assistance from the Office of the Inspector General for the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs provided critical assistance in this case.
Trial Attorneys Lindsey D. Carson, Abdus Samad Pardesi, and Paul G. Ream of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Brad Gray for the Southern District of Texas are prosecuting the case.
The Fraud Section is responsible for investigating and prosecuting FCPA and Foreign Extortion Prevention Act (FEPA) matters. Additional information about the Justice Department’s FCPA and FEPA enforcement efforts can be found at www.justice.gov/criminal-fraud/foreign-corrupt-practices-act.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Three Men Indicted for Violating the Federal Controlled Substances ActRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LA – Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced today the unsealing of a seven-count indictment charging the following individuals:
- DARRYL SUMLER, (SUMLER), age 61, of Slidell, Louisiana
- DARRYL GOODMAN, (GOODMAN), age 47, of New Orleans, Louisiana
- JASON SLAUGHTER, (SLAUGHTER), age 33, of Bogalusa, Louisiana
The indictment was returned Friday, June 26, 2025, and unsealed Wednesday, July 30, 2025, after all individuals were arrested by local law enforcement and Drug Enforcement Administration agents. All three individuals were indicted in Count 1 for Conspiracy to distribute, and possess with intent to distribute, 40 grams or more of fentanyl, in violation of Title 21 U.S.C. § 841(a)(1); § 841(b)(1)(B); and 846. If convicted of Count 1, they face a minimum of 5 years and up to 40 years imprisonment, up to a $5,000,000 fine, and at least 4 years of supervised release following imprisonment.
SUMLER was indicted in Counts 2, 5, 6, and 7 for distribution of 40 grams or more of fentanyl, in violation of Title 21 U.S.C. § 841(a)(1) and § 841(b)(1)(B). If convicted of any of these four counts, SUMLER faces a minimum of 5 years and up to 40 years imprisonment, up to a $5,000,000 fine, and at least 4 years of supervised release following imprisonment.
SLAUGHTER was indicted in Count 3 for possessing with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl, in violation of Title 21 U.S.C. § 841(a)(1) and § 841(b)(1)(B). If convicted, he faces a minimum of 5 years and up to 40 years imprisonment, up to a $5,000,000 fine, and at least 4 years of supervised release following imprisonment.
GOODMAN was indicted in Count 4 for distribution of a quantity of fentanyl, in violation of Title 21 U.S.C. § 841(a)(1) and § 841(b)(1)(C). If convicted of Count 4, he faces up to 20 years imprisonment, up to a $1,000,000 fine, and at least 3 years of supervised release following imprisonment. As to each count in which they are charged, SUMLER, SLAUGHTER, and GOODMAN, face payment of a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.
According to the indictment, beginning on a time unknown, but continuing until at least June 13, 2025, SUMLER, SLAUGHTER, and GOODMAN conspired to distribute, and possess with intent to distribute, fentanyl throughout the Eastern District of Louisiana.
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).
Acting United States Attorney Simpson praised the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, the Slidell Police Department, and the Louisiana State Police. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Lauren Sarver of the Narcotics Unit.
Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson reiterated that an indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
Temple Hills Man Pleads Guilty to Cares Act Unemployment Insurance Fraud and Firearms and Drug Trafficking CrimesRead the Press Release
Greenbelt, Maryland – Lawrence Nathanial Harris, 33, of Temple Hills Maryland, pled guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud and aggravated identity theft, in connection with submitting fraudulent CARES Act unemployment insurance (UI) claims. Additionally, in a separate case, he pled guilty to possession of a machine gun, possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug-trafficking offense.
Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the guilty plea with Special Agent in Charge Troy W. Springer, National Capital Region, U.S. Department of Labor – Office of Inspector General (DOL-OIG); Special Agent in Charge Charles Doerrer, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF); Special Agent in Charge William J. DelBagno, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) – Baltimore Field Office; and Chief George Nader, Prince George’s County Police Department (PGPD).
According to the plea agreement, beginning in at least January 2021, and continuing until about September 2023, Harris and his co-conspirators engaged in a scheme to defraud the United States, the State of Maryland, multiple financial institutions, and multiple individuals, including identity theft victims. The co-conspirators submitted false and fraudulent UI benefits claims to the Maryland Department of Labor (MD-DOL), Maryland’s agency that is responsible for processing the claims. Harris participated in submitting UI claims resulting in losses exceeding $550,000, but less than $1.5 million, and he used debit cards issued in the names of aggravated identity theft victims to obtain UI fraud funds.
Company 1, which provided professional support services to the MD-DOL to review UI claims and administer UI benefits, employed co-conspirators Bryan Nushawn Ruffin, 27, of Woodbridge, Virginia, and Kiara Smith, 27, of Fort Washington, Maryland. As detailed in the plea agreement, Harris and his co-conspirators possessed and used computers that Company 1 issued to Ruffin and Smith to access non-public UI data and databases maintained by the MD-DOL. Ruffin and Smith then granted Harris and his co-conspirators access to MD-DOL databases which they used to change information on existing UI claims.
This included the contact email address, online account password, and payment method for existing UI claims. The co-conspirators furthered the scheme by using the identity theft victims’ personal identifying information (PII). They also used their access to the MD-DOL databases to upload and approve documents submitted in support of fraudulent UI claims, remove fraud holds on UI claims, certify weeks for determining UI benefits, and engage in other actions to facilitate the fraudulent UI benefits payments. During the scheme, MD-DOL believed it was disbursing UI benefits to the of UI applicants’ debit cards/accounts, but Harris and his co-conspirators allegedly opened and controlled those accounts.
Harris also admitted that on November 16, 2022, while law enforcement executed a residential search warrant at his home, he threw a firearm and a bag of marijuana from his room. He possessed this firearm in furtherance of his drug-trafficking activities. Law enforcement then searched an attic in the residence that Harris had access to. Authorities found three additional firearms, including one that functioned as a machinegun, stored in the attic. Harris knew that the firearm functioned as a machine gun. Law enforcement also recovered approximately 37 pounds of marijuana that Harris intended to distribute.
Harris faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison for the wire fraud conspiracy, a mandatory sentence of two years — consecutive to any other imposed sentence — for aggravated identity theft, 10 years for possession of a machine gun, 20 years for possession with intent to distribute marijuana, and life for possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking.
Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge determines sentencing after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Harris’s sentencing is set for Thursday, November 6, at 2 p.m.
The District of Maryland COVID-19 Strike Force is one of five strike forces established throughout the United States by the U.S. Department of Justice to investigate and prosecute COVID-19 fraud, including fraud relating to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. The CARES Act was designed to provide emergency financial assistance to Americans suffering the economic effects caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The strike forces focus on large-scale, multi-state pandemic relief fraud perpetrated by criminal organizations and transnational actors. The strike forces are interagency law enforcement efforts, using prosecutor-led and data analyst-driven teams designed to identify and bring to justice those who stole pandemic relief funds.
For more information about the Department’s response to the pandemic, visit justice.gov/coronavirus. Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the DOL-OIG, ATF, FBI, and PGPD, for their work in the investigation and the MD-DOL for its assistance. Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Harry M. Gruber, Paul A. Riley, Joseph L. Wenner, Christopher Sarma, and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Lanay Mitchell, who are prosecuting this case. She also recognized the Maryland COVID-19 Strike Force and Paralegal Specialist Joanna B.N. Huber for their valuable assistance.
For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to report fraud, visit justice.gov/usao-md and justice.gov/usao-md/community-outreach.
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Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals Affirms 50-Year Sentence for Man Convicted of Attempted Robbery Leading to Death and Firearm CrimesRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – The Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals has affirmed the 50-year federal prison sentence handed down to Louis Holloway, 44, following his conviction for the attempted robbery of John Stambaugh in 2002 and firearms crimes. Joseph C. Murphy, Jr., Interim United States Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the affirmation of the sentence today.
On September 8, 2002, John Stambaugh, a student at the University of Memphis, was robbed and murdered by a shotgun blast while delivering pizza in Memphis’s Cooper-Young neighborhood. Holloway was identified as a suspect and later charged with attempted robbery and gun crimes.
In 2008, after a jury trial, Holloway was found guilty of attempted robbery, discharging a firearm in furtherance of attempted robbery, and three counts of being a felon in possession of a firearm. He was sentenced to life in prison.
Due to changes in the law which went into effect in 2022, Holloway’s life sentence was vacated, and the district court scheduled a resentencing hearing. At that hearing, United States District Judge Samuel H. Mays sentenced Holloway to 50 years in federal prison, the statutory maximum sentence in light of the changes in law, followed by three years of supervised release.
The Sixth Circuit affirmed the 50-year sentence, holding that it was reasonable considering the horrific nature of the offense and Holloway’s very serious criminal history.
This case was investigated by the Memphis Police Department.
On behalf of the government, Assistant United States Attorney Tony Arvin prosecuted this case in the district court and at the post-conviction stage. AUSA Naya Bedini prosecuted this case at the post-conviction stage and on appeal.
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For more information, please contact the Media Relations Team at [email protected]. Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office on Facebook or on X at @WDTNNews for office news and updates.
Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals Affirms 108-Month Sentence for Memphis Man Convicted of Machinegun PossessionRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – The Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals has affirmed the 108-month federal prison sentence handed down to Jaquan Bridges, 22, following his conviction for possession of a machinegun in the Western District of Tennessee. Joseph C. Murphy, Jr., Interim United States Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the affirmation of the sentence today.
On February 1, 2022, a Shelby County Sheriff’s Deputy observed Bridges driving a gray Ford Fusion near I-240 and Walnut Grove, traveling slowly while looking at his cell phone. The deputy activated emergency equipment to alert Bridges to put his phone down. Bridges rolled down his passenger-side window and fired gunshots at the deputy’s vehicle, striking it several times. Bridges then fled at a high rate of speed, leading deputies on a 10-mile pursuit, before Bridges hit at least three other vehicles and crashed into a concrete barrier at I-240 and Highway 385. When Bridges was taken into custody, deputies recovered a Glock .40 caliber pistol with an attached machinegun conversion device (known as a “switch”) and extended magazine.
On February 6, 2024, Bridges pled guilty to possessing a machinegun. On September 17, 2024, Senior United States District Judge John T. Fowlkes sentenced Bridges to 108 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
Bridges appealed the judgment of the district court, arguing that his prosecution for machinegun possession violated his Second Amendment right to bear arms. In an opinion filed August 7, 2025, the Sixth Circuit upheld the 108-month sentence and the constitutionality of the federal statute regulating the possession of machineguns. This is the first published case in which the Sixth Circuit has addressed this issue since the Supreme Court’s holding in New York State Rifle & Pistol Association, Inc. v. Bruen, 597 U.S. 1 (2022).
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 Shelby County Sheriff’s Department.
Assistant United States Attorney Eileen Kuo prosecuted this case and handled the appeal on behalf of the government.
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For more information, please contact the Media Relations Team at [email protected]. Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office on Facebook or on X at @WDTNNews for office news and updates.
Sioux City, Iowa Man Sentenced to 24 months’ for Failing to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Lesley A. Woods announced that Walter James Hulit, 37, of Sioux City, Iowa, was sentenced on August 7, 2025, in federal court in Omaha, Nebraska, for failing to register as a sex offender. Chief United States District Judge Robert F. Rossiter, Jr., sentenced Hulit to 24 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After Hulit’s release from prison, he will begin a six-year term of supervised release.
On June 12, 2020, in the United States District Court for the District of Nebraska, Hulit was convicted of sexual abuse of a minor. Hulit was sentenced to 41 months’ imprisonment and placed on a five-year term of supervised release. He was released from prison and began his supervision term on June 28, 2022. Hulit is required to register as a sex offender.
On November 18, 2024, Hulit was arrested in Winnebago, Nebraska, after Winnebago Children and Family Services received information that Hulit was residing in a home on the Winnebago Reservation.
A U.S. Marshals Service investigation revealed that Hulit was registered at an address in Sioux City, Iowa and not where he was residing in Winnebago. Hulit is aware of his duty to register as a sex offender. Hulit did not register or attempt to register from between approximately October 2024 to November 2024, when he was arrested.
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 United States Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
This case was investigated by the United States Marshals Service.
Shiprock Man Sentenced for Armed AssaultRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Shiprock man was sentenced today to three years of probation for a violent assault that injured two people.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court documents, on July 9, 2024, Jerome Weaver, 22, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, assaulted two adults at a residence in Shiprock, New Mexico, while intoxicated. Weaver choked one victim, pressed a loaded handgun equipped with a laser attachment to their head, and pointed the firearm at the second victim. A minor witnessed the assault and called 911. When officers arrived, they found the victims injured and observed Weaver holding a firearm, which he surrendered without incident.
Upon his release from prison, Weaver will be subject to three years of supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Philip Russell, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Farmington Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Police Department and Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant United States Attorney Brittany DuChaussee is prosecuting the case.
Shelby County Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Attempting to Sexually Exploit a MinorRead the Press Release
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – A Shelby County man has been sentenced for attempted enticement of a minor and possession of child pornography, announced U.S. Attorney Prim F. Escalona.
U.S. District Court Judge Madeline H. Haikala sentenced Justin Warren Lindstrom, 43, of Sterrett, Alabama, to 120 months in prison followed by a life term of supervised release. In April, Lindstrom pleaded guilty to attempted coercion and enticement of a minor and possession of child pornography. This conviction will require Lindstrom to register as a sex offender in accordance with the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act.
“Thanks to the collaborative efforts or our dedicated law enforcement partners and prosecutors, we have removed yet another child predator from our community,” U.S. Attorney Escalona said. “Today’s sentence ensures he can no longer pose a threat to our most vulnerable – our children. My office remains committed to protecting children and holding those who seek to harm them fully accountable.”
“This sentencing confirms that the FBI and our partners will stop at nothing to protect our children from predators who seek to exploit them,” said David R. Fitzgibbons, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Birmingham. “Together, we have ensured one less predator is victimizing the most innocent and vulnerable members of our community.”
According to the plea agreement, in November 2023, an undercover law enforcement officer posing as a 15-year-old girl posted an advertisement on a social media application. On November 15, 2023, Lindstrom arrived at a park in Vestavia Hills to engage in a sexual act with a minor. Vestavia Hills police officers conducted a traffic stop and arrested Lindstrom. After obtaining a search warrant, agents later located child pornography in one of Lindstrom’s email accounts.
If you suspect or become aware of possible sexual exploitation of a child, please contact law enforcement. To alert the FBI Birmingham Office, call 205-326-6166. Reports can also be filed with the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC) or online at www.cybertipline.org.
The case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched by the Department of Justice in May 2006 to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
The FBI investigated the case along with the Vestavia Hills Police Department and the Homewood Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel S. McBrayer prosecuted the case.
Sacramento Man Pleads Guilty to Sexual Exploitation of MinorsRead the Press Release
Raymond James Cornett, 53, of Sacramento, pleaded guilty today to sexual exploitation of a child, United States Attorney Eric Grant announced.
According to court documents, Cornett requested and received from a woman in Canada videos and images of a six-year-old victim and a 7-year-old victim engaged in sexually explicit conduct. In addition, Cornett admitted to requesting images and videos of sexually explicit conduct from two other minor victims.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Sacramento Police Department, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. Assistant U.S Attorney Roger Yang is prosecuting the case.
The Canadian woman was prosecuted by Canadian authorities.
Cornett is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge William B. Shubb on Dec. 8, 2025. Cornett faces a maximum statutory penalty of 30 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. The actual sentence, however, will be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute those who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. Click on the “resources” tab for information about internet-safety education.
Romania Nationals Indicted on Federal Wire Fraud and Identity Theft ChargesRead the Press Release
A federal grand jury returned a sixteen count Indictment charging Romanian nationals Bogdan Alexandru Gherghevici, 26, and Viorel Cristea, 33, with federal wire fraud and aggravated identity theft charges.
According to the allegations contained in the indictment, Gherghevici and Cristea, beginning at least as early as March 2025, and up to and including May 2025, participated in an extensive fraudulent scheme falsely claiming to do business in the Southern District of Georgia. This scheme involved selling fictitious farming equipment to Victims across the country, and resulted in a total loss of over $600,000 from the Victims.
Acting U.S. Attorney Tara M. Lyons for the Southern District of Georgia and Special Agent in Charge Steven Schrank of the HSI Atlanta Field Office made the announcement.
“This case highlights the commitment of Homeland Security Investigations to aggressively pursue individuals who exploit others through fraudulent schemes,” said Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in Georgia and Alabama Steven N. Schrank. “The defendants allegedly orchestrated a complex operation targeting victims nationwide, resulting in significant financial losses. HSI will continue to work tirelessly with our partners to ensure those who engage in such criminal activities are held accountable and brought to justice.”
Gherghevici and Cristea face a maximum penalty of up to 20 years in prison for each wire fraud charge, and a mandatory 2 years in prison consecutive to any other potential sentence for the Aggravated Identity Theft charge. If convicted, a federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The HSI Savannah Field Office is investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Bondura for the Southern District of Georgia is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Richmond psychotherapist convicted of healthcare fraud to pay over $1MRead the Press Release
RICHMOND, Va. – A Mechanicsville Licensed Clinical Social Worker who was convicted of criminal health care fraud has agreed to pay an additional $449,014.93 to settle civil fraud claims asserted against him by the United States and the Commonwealth of Virginia.
According to court documents, between January 2017 and December 2022, Daniel Jacobsen, 72, knowingly submitted at least $335,824.31 in fraudulent claims for reimbursement to Virginia Medicaid and Medicare for services that weren’t rendered. These included claims that billed for more than 16 hours in services in one day or that used billing codes for more complex services with higher rates than the services that were provided. To support his fraudulent claims, Jacobsen used false psychotherapy progress notes reflecting the patients’ supposed receipt of services.
Jacobsen pled guilty to health care fraud on Oct. 17, 2024, and on March 13, was sentenced to three months in prison. As part of his criminal case, Jacobsen paid $316,338.31 in restitution and was ordered to pay $335,821.31 in forfeiture and a $100,000 fine. To resolve the civil fraud claims against him, Jacobsen agreed to pay an additional $449,014.93. The restitution, forfeiture, fine, and settlement total $1,201,174.55.
The resolutions obtained in these matters were the result of an effort between the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Medicaid Fraud Control Unit of the Office of the Virginia Attorney General. Assistant U.S. Attorney Carla Jordan-Detamore prosecuted the criminal case. The civil fraud matter was investigated by Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert McIntosh and Virginia Assistant Attorneys General Joseph Hall, Ray Bowman, and Christopher Salerno.
A copy of this press release may be found on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Case records may be found on PACER under case number 3:24‑cr‑140.
The civil claims settled are allegations only; there has been no determination of civil liability.
Previously Identified MS-13 Gang Member Convicted of Illegal Reentry after an Aggravated Felony ConvictionRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Lesley A. Woods announced that Roberto Lamadrid Campuzano, 38, of Mexico, was sentenced on August 8, 2025, in federal court in Omaha, Nebraska for illegal reentry to the United States following an aggravated felony conviction. Chief Judge Robert F. Rossiter, Jr. sentenced Lamadrid Campuzano to 24 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After Lamadrid Campuzano’s release from prison, he will begin a 3-year term of supervised release.
Lamadrid Campuzano came to the attention of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) after agents received information from a traffic stop in Bellevue, Nebraska, conducted by Bellevue Police Department on April 4, 2025. Lamadrid Campuzano had previously been identified by law enforcement as a member of Mara Salvatrucha, also known as MS-13.
On April 10, 2025, special agents from HSI and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) observed Lamadrid Campuzano exit his residence and arrive at a construction site in Elkhorn, Nebraska. Lamadrid Campuzano was arrested while leaving the work site for his lunch break. Lamadrid Campuzano was then taken in for administrative processing where his identity was confirmed. Lamadrid Campuzano is a citizen and national of Mexico. Lamadrid Campuzano had been previously ordered removed from the United States on October 6, 2006, and was physically removed from the United States pursuant to that order on May 30, 2014. When he was encountered in the United States on April 10, 2025, Lamadrid Campuzano did not have the permission of the Attorney General or the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security to have returned to the United States.
On August 1, 2006, Lamadrid Campuzano was convicted of numerous felonies in Pottawattamie County, Iowa, which included Intimidation with a Dangerous Weapon, Criminal Gang Participation, and Reckless Use of a Firearm with Serious Injury.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.
Pete Serrano Appointed Interim United States Attorney for the Eastern District of WashingtonRead the Press Release
Spokane, Washington – Pete Serrano was sworn in today as the Interim United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington. United States Attorney Serrano was appointed to the position by Attorney General Pam Bondi on August 6, 2025.
As Interim United States Attorney, Mr. Serrano supervises the prosecution of all federal crimes and the litigation of all civil matters in the Eastern District of Washington in which the United States has an interest. He leads a staff of approximately 79 prosecutors, civil litigators, and support personnel across Eastern Washington.
Prior to his appointment as Interim U.S. Attorney, Mr. Serrano was Mayor of the City of Pasco, Washington.
In 2021, Mr. Serrano co-founded the Silent Majority Foundation, a nonprofit organization to fight for civil liberties. Mr. Serrano was Director and the General Counsel for the Foundation.
From 2015 to 2018, Mr. Serrano worked as an attorney for the Department of Energy focusing on environmental law. From 2018 to 2021, Mr. Serrano worked at Energy Northwest including working on permitting small modular nuclear reactors.
Panama City Man Charged with Possession of Illegal Drugs with the Intent to Distribute and a FirearmRead the Press Release
TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – Marlow Level Allen, 46, of Panama City, Florida, was indicted by a federal grand jury for one count of possession with intent to distribute cocaine, cocaine base, and marijuana; and one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida, announced the charges today.
Allen is scheduled for his arraignment in federal court before United States Magistrate Judge Martin A. Fitzpatrick on August 14, 2025 at 1:30 p.m. in Tallahassee, Florida.
If convicted on the drug count, Allen faces up to twenty years’ imprisonment. If convicted on the firearm count, Allen faces a minimum mandatory 15 years’ imprisonment.
The Bay County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney Eric K. Mountin is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation by a grand jury that a defendant has committed a violation of federal criminal law and is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial, during which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America (https://www.justice.gov/dag/media/1393746/dl?inline ) a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access available public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
Owner and Captain of Scuba Charter Vessel Sentenced to over Eight Years in Prison for Seaman’s Manslaughter and FraudRead the Press Release
MIAMI –The owner and captain of a scuba charter vessel has been sentenced to more than eight years in prison after a federal jury found him guilty in March 2025 of seaman’s manslaughter (both as the vessel’s owner and captain), lying to the U.S. Coast Guard, and fraudulently obtaining Covid-19 pandemic relief funds.
U.S. District Judge Aileen M. Cannon sentenced Dustin Sean McCabe, 50, to 100 months in prison—above the advisory Sentencing Guidelines—citing McCabe’s reckless conduct and the horrific circumstances and nature of the victim’s death.
In early March 2020, McCabe purchased a 48-foot vessel, named it Southern Comfort, and falsely claimed on Coast Guard forms that it would be used for recreational purposes. Instead, McCabe intended to operate the Southern Comfort to run paid scuba charters, refitting it himself for commercial use.
On March 28, 2020, McCabe took paying passengers on a scuba trip aboard the Southern Comfort. During the trip’s two dives, the Southern Comfort experienced significant mechanical malfunctions, including one propeller unexpectedly engaging, loss of steering, and the vessel running aground. In one incident, the port-side propeller activated while the vessel was in neutral during a diver pickup, pulling a diver toward the propeller before the diver narrowly escaped injury.
Despite these dangerous malfunctions, McCabe operated another paid scuba trip the very next day without reporting the prior day’s incidents to the Coast Guard, warning passengers of what had happened the day before, or repairing the vessel.
During this second trip, the same propeller malfunction occurred as the victim and her spouse were boarding from the water. The propeller pulled the victim and her spouse into it, killing her. Following the fatality, McCabe was prohibited from operating the Southern Comfort.
Months later, McCabe applied for two Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans, a federal relief program designed to help small businesses survive the economic impact of the pandemic. To secure the loans (and later their forgiveness), McCabe falsely claimed that his scuba charter business was still operational and submitted fraudulent payroll information and tax documents to obtain the funds and secure loan forgiveness.
U.S. Attorney Hayden P. O’Byrne for the Southern District of Florida and Special Agent in Charge Josh W. Packer of the Coast Guard Investigative Service (CGIS) Southeast Field Office made the announcement.
CGIS Southeast Field Office investigated the case, with assistance from U.S. Coast Guard Marine Safety Detachment Lake Worth and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Office of Law Enforcement.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller, U.S. Coast Guard Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Tanner Stiehl, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Jacob Koffsky prosecuted the case.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or on http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov under case number 24-CR-80103.
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Ohio Man Accused of Stealing Millions of Dollars from Missouri Grocery ChainRead the Press Release
ST. LOUIS – An Ohio man accused of defrauding a Missouri grocery chain out of more than $15 million worth of groceries and inventory has been arrested.
Muhammad Babar Chaudhry, 46, was indicted in U.S. District Court in St. Louis on July 23 with four counts of wire fraud. He was arrested Wednesday night. On Friday, he was ordered held in jail until trial at a hearing in U.S. District Court in Detroit.
The indictment says Chaudhry owns a grocery chain in southern Ohio called Sunshine Stores LLC. Beginning in May of 2021, the Missouri chain licensed its brand to 38 stores operated by Chaudhry and supplied those stores with groceries, the indictment says. In March of 2023, Chaudhry ordered $7.6 million in groceries and inventory from the Missouri chain with no intention of paying, the indictment says. He ordered $7.5 million more in April of 2023, the indictment says, then repeatedly lied to the victim company about payments. An employee was told to lie and say that Chaudhry was out of the country, and later say that “fraudulent activity” caused the failure to pay, the indictment says. Chaudhry intentionally drained his bank accounts so the victim company could not withdraw the funds and then falsely claimed he was wiring the payments, the indictment says.
A motion seeking to have Chaudhry held in jail until trial says he stole copper from one grocery store that will cost $1 million to replace and had concrete poured down the sinks and drains at the victim company’s grocery stores.
Charges set forth in an indictment are merely accusations and do not constitute proof of guilt. Every defendant is presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Wire fraud is punishable by up to 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine or both prison and a fine.
The FBI investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Derek Wiseman is prosecuting the case.
Mexican National Living Illegally in the United States Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug CrimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Braulio Villa-Chairez, also known as “Raul,” 31, a Mexican national living illegally in the United States, pleaded guilty today to conspiracy to distribute a quantity of methamphetamine.
According to court documents and statements made in court, beginning in March 2024 until in or around about October 2024, Villa-Chairez conspired with other individuals to distribute methamphetamine. As part of his guilty plea, Villa-Chairez admitted that he assisted the conspiracy by shipping methamphetamine to West Virginia and elsewhere.
In July 2024, Villa-Chairez shipped two separate packages containing a total of 1.97 kilograms of methamphetamine “ice” from Houston, Texas, to a customer in West Virginia after receiving instructions from a co-conspirator. On or about July 18, 2024, Villa-Chairez picked up a package containing $4,800 sent by the customer, notified a co-conspirator that he had obtained the package, and re-shipped it to Washington state.
In August 2024, Villa-Chairez shipped a package containing approximately 963.8 grams of methamphetamine to Alabama. In October 2024, Villa-Chairez assisted a co-conspirator who was delivering approximately 5.905 kilograms of methamphetamine “ice” and approximately 4.402 kilograms of methamphetamine by vehicle to West Virginia by providing him with directions to a hotel and a casino in Kanawha County.
As part of his guilty plea, Villa-Chairez also admitted that he has lived illegally in the United States under the name “Jose Jesus Villa-Chairez” and has been convicted of two federal felony offenses under that name.
Villa-Chairez is scheduled to be sentenced on December 8, 2025, and faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, at least three years of supervised release, and a $1 million fine. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has an immigration detainer on Villa-Chairez and he will be transferred to ICE administrative custody for removal proceedings upon the completion of any sentence.
Villa-Chairez and two other Mexican nationals living illegally in the United States were indicted by a federal grand jury as the result of a joint investigation by federal and local law enforcement into a conspiracy that was responsible for delivering large quantities of methamphetamine to West Virginia and elsewhere from Houston. Co-defendant Silvester Barcenas, 23, pleaded guilty on March 4, 2025, to conspiracy to distribute a quantity of methamphetamine and is scheduled to be sentenced on August 20, 2025. Co-defendant German Francisco Diaz, also known as “Trulio,” 41, remains a fugitive. An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Israel Chaires-Villa, 23, a Mexican national, pleaded guilty on February 13, 2025, to possession with intent to distribute a quantity of methamphetamine as a result of the joint investigation and is scheduled to be sentenced on September 4, 2025.
Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team (MDENT), which is composed of the Charleston Police Department, the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office, the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office, the Nitro Police Department, the St. Albans Police Department and the South Charleston Police Department.
United States Magistrate Judge Omar J. Aboulhosn presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Jeremy B. Wolfe 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. 2:24-cr-176.
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Marathon Man Charged with Seaman’s ManslaughterRead the Press Release
MIAMI – A federal grand jury has returned an indictment charging Daniel Gavin Couch, 52, with one count of seaman’s manslaughter.
According to the indictment, Couch was employed as a captain by Lighthouse Parasail, Inc., in Monroe County, Florida, and operated a commercial parasailing vessel, the M/V AIRBORNE, on the company’s behalf. The AIRBORNE was an inspected commercial vessel regulated by the U.S. Coast Guard and primarily used for parasailing charters.
On May 30, 2022, Couch engaged in misconduct, negligence, or inattention to his duties as captain, causing the death of a passenger.
If convicted, Couch faces up to 10 years in federal prison.
U.S. Attorney Hayden P. O’Byrne for the Southern District of Florida and Special Agent in Charge Josh W. Packer of the Coast Guard Investigative Service (CGIS) Southeast Field Office made the announcement.
CGIS Southeast Field Office investigated the case, with assistance from U.S. Coast Guard Marine Safety Detachment Lake Worth and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Office of Law Enforcement.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller and Coast Guard Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Tanner Stiehl are prosecuting the case.
An indictment contains mere allegations, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or on http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov under case number 24-CR-10036.
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Madison Man Indicted for Distribution of MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – Willie Frank Hicks, Jr., 42, of Madison, Florida, has been indicted in federal court for one count of distribution of methamphetamine. John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida announced the charge.
Hicks, Jr. is scheduled for his arraignment in federal court before United States Magistrate Judge Martin A. Fitzpatrick on August 12, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. in Tallahassee, Florida.
If convicted, Smith faces a minimum mandatory sentence of 10 years’ imprisonment with a maximum of life imprisonment.
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Madison County Sheriff’s Office. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Eric K. Mountin.
An indictment is merely an allegation by a grand jury that a defendant has committed a violation of federal criminal law and is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial, during which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America (https://www.justice.gov/dag/media/1393746/dl?inline ) a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
Lubbock Man Convicted of Threatening to Kill Secret Service Agents and Their FamiliesRead the Press Release
LUBBOCK, Texas —A federal jury in Lubbock convicted a Lubbock man for issuing online threats to kill United States Secret Service agents and their families, announced Acting United States Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Nancy E. Larson.
Tristan Rene Langston, 37, of Lubbock, Texas, was charged in March 2025 with the federal offenses of transmitting threats in interstate commerce and threatening a federal law enforcement officer, stemming from online threats Langston made in February 2025. On Thursday, August 7, 2025, after a four-day trial, a federal jury convicted Langston on both counts.
According to evidence presented during trial, on February 21, 2025, Langston posted a message to X.com, formerly Twitter, criticizing two U.S. Secret Service agents and then declaring, “2nd Amendment in full effect. Gonna slit the throats of agents and their families.”
Evidence in the case revealed that Langston’s statements went well beyond mere political rhetoric or bluster and constituted true threats directed at specific federal agents.
The jury heard evidence that Langston became angry with the two specific Secret Service agents after they investigated a threat Langston made online in 2023. Over the ensuing months, Langston targeted one of the agents and his family in online posts and memorialized the anger and resentment he harbored against the agents in videos and notes he maintained on his cellphone over a period of years. Testimony established that the defendant knew the agents would perceive the graphic threat as retaliation for their investigation.
“Targeting federal agents and their families with threats of violence is not protected speech—it is a federal crime,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Nancy E. Larson. “This verdict reaffirms our office’s commitment to take all threats seriously and to hold accountable those who try to intimidate and terrorize our law enforcement partners.”
“We commend the jury’s decision in finding Tristan Langston guilty of threatening to kill United States Secret Service agents and their families,” said Christina Foley, Deputy Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Secret Service Dallas Field Office. “Threats against federal law enforcement officers and their loved ones are taken with the utmost seriousness, and this verdict reflects our unwavering commitment to protecting those who serve.”
Langston faces a maximum prison sentence of 15 years in federal prison. He is scheduled to be sentenced on November 6, 2025.
The matter was investigated by the U.S. Secret Service and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ann Howey and Sean Long of the Lubbock Division.
Los Angeles County Man Responsible for Trafficking over 3,500 Pounds of Methamphetamine Sentenced to over 21 YearsRead the Press Release
Jose Nunez, 43, of Lancaster, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Jennifer L. Thurston to 21 years and 10 months in prison for trafficking methamphetamine, U.S. Attorney Eric Grant announced.
According to court documents, Nunez worked for a Mexico-based drug-trafficking ring that imported from Mexico into the United States large quantities of methamphetamine, cocaine, and fentanyl. That drug ring was dismantled in June 2024, in an operation dubbed “Toxic Waste.”
Nunez served as a “stash house” operator for the drug ring. He maintained the organization’s drugs in the United States and distributed it to others who resold it. He was also involved in establishing and operating a methamphetamine conversion laboratory, where he and others converted liquid methamphetamine to crystal methamphetamine.
Nunez was arrested along with 14 others an investigation that resulted in the seizure of more than 12,900 pounds of methamphetamine, more than 50 pounds of fentanyl mixture, 39 pounds of cocaine, and 22 pounds of heroin. For sentencing purposes, Nunez was found to be responsible for distributing 3,500 pounds of the methamphetamine. As evidenced by tens of thousands of recorded communications, the organization smuggled methamphetamine, cocaine, and fentanyl (in powder and pill form) in portable projectors and batteries, under the guise of a legitimate transportation business. The organization also secreted thousands of pounds of methamphetamine inside semi-trucks and hundreds of pounds of liquid methamphetamine in the gas tanks of cars and brought it across the border.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from Homeland Security Investigations, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the U.S. Marshals Service, the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, the San Bernardino Sheriff’s Office’s Inland Regional Narcotics Enforcement Team, the Merced Area Gang and Narcotics Enforcement Team, and the Los Angeles Strike Force. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Justin J. Gilio and Cody S. Chapple are prosecuting the case.
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 www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
This case is part of Operation Synthetic Opioid Surge (S.O.S.) a program designed to reduce the supply of deadly synthetic opioids in high impact areas as well as identifying wholesale distribution networks and international and domestic suppliers. In July 2018, the Justice Department announced the creation of S.O.S., which is being implemented in the Eastern District of California and nine other federal districts.
Local Man Gets Federal Sentence for Distributing Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
OXFORD, MS – A Booneville, Mississippi man was sentenced to 60 months in prison for distributing child sexual abuse material.
According to court documents, Austin Thompson, 21 years old, was using an internet application to distribute sexually explicit images and videos of minors as young as 8 years old. Agents identified Austin Thompson as the likely owner and user of the identified accounts based on prior contact with law enforcement for trafficking in child pornography.
“People who have a sexual interest in children do not belong in society, they belong in prison,” said United States Attorney Clay Joyner. “Thanks to exemplary teamwork by the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office, the FBI, and AUSA Parker King, another criminal who views kids as sex objects is behind bars.”
“Each time child pornography is exchanged over the internet, children are re-victimized,” stated Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Jackson Field Office Robert Eikhoff. “The FBI’s work with its partners to stop Austin Thompson’s calculated, deliberate efforts to distribute sexual abuse material and this sentencing demonstrate our resolute commitment to preventing future harm. The FBI has a great resolve to pursue justice for the predators who seek to exploit the youth of our communities and stands firm with the USAO, Mississippi AGO, and Prentiss County Sheriff’s Department in protecting our most vulnerable population - our children."
“While this conviction does not turn back the clock, it prevents this predator from inflicting more harm,” said Attorney General Lynn Fitch. “I appreciate the strong partnership our office has with the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the FBI. Together, we are dedicated to serving justice for the victims and making Mississippi a safer place for everyone.”
The Mississippi Attorney General’s Office and the Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Parker S. King prosecuted the case as part of the Project Safe Childhood nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
Las Cruces Man Sentenced to over 10 Years for Role in Fentanyl Trafficking OperationRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Las Cruces man was sentenced to 123 months in prison following an investigation into a fentanyl trafficking operation in southern New Mexico.
According to court records, since early 2024, the FBI’s Southern New Mexico Safe Streets Gang Task Force, together with Las Cruces/Dona Ana County Metro Narcotics and the Las Cruces Police Department, have been investigating a drug trafficking organization distributing fentanyl and methamphetamine in and around Las Cruces, New Mexico. The investigation identified Orangie Lee Fisher, 37, as a key participant in the operation.
On April 3, 2024, agents executed a federal search warrant at a motel room occupied by Fisher at the Imperial Sky Motel in Las Cruces, New Mexico. Inside the room and Fisher’s vehicle, agents recovered approximately 600 grams of suspected marijuana, $5,693 in cash, firearms magazines, and ammunition.
After the seizure, agents continued to surveil Fisher and conducted controlled narcotics purchases at his Las Cruces residence. On October 4, 2024, agents from the Las Cruces/Dona Ana County Metro Narcotics executed a state search warrant at that residence, where Fisher was present.
During the search, Fisher ignored commands and fled into a bedroom before surrendering. Approximately 1,000 fentanyl pills were found scattered throughout the residence, and a stolen handgun wrapped in a latex glove was recovered from the bedroom closet.
When interviewed at the scene, Fisher denied living at the residence and denied any knowledge of the drugs or firearm.
Fisher subsequently pled guilty to possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
Upon his release from prison, Fisher will be subject to five years of supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Philip Russell, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Las Cruces Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from Las Cruces/Dona Ana County Metro Narcotics, the Las Cruces Police Department, the Doña Ana County Sheriff’s Office, and New Mexico State Police. Assistant United States Attorney Maria Y. Armijo prosecuted the case.
Laplace Man Guilty of Bank FraudRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that ERNEST X. TAYLOR, JR. (“TAYLOR”), age 40, a resident of LaPlace, Louisiana, pleaded guilty on August 6, 2025, to Bank Fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1344(2).
According to court documents, between 2019 and 2022, TAYLOR applied for over $400,000 in loans from credit unions and falsely claimed that the funds would be utilized to purchase vehicles. TAYLOR applied for loans under other people’s names and did not disclose to the credit unions that the loan proceeds would go to TAYLOR. In furtherance of his scheme, TAYLOR presented materially false documentation to the credit unions, including fraudulent vehicle titles and falsified pay stubs. After receiving the loan proceeds, TAYLOR defaulted on the loans.
The Honorable Jane T. Milazzo set TAYLOR’s sentencing for October 29, 2025.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the United States Secret Service. Assistant United States Attorneys Maria M. Carboni and Edward Rivera of the Financial Crimes Unit are handling the prosecution.
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Kings County Drug Trafficker Arrested in Operation Red Reaper Sentenced to over 15 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
Ryan Gines, 44, of Hanford, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Dale A. Drozd to 15 years and six months in prison for trafficking methamphetamine, U.S. Attorney Eric Grant announced.
According to court documents, in March 2019, various federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies partnered in Operation Red Reaper, an investigation into the Nuestra Familia prison gang and the Norteño street gang in Kings County. The investigation uncovered that Nuestra Familia was responsible for large-scale trafficking of methamphetamine and other controlled substances, as well as various firearms offenses and other violent crimes. The operation resulted in federal charges brought against 21 drug traffickers, including Gines.
In May 2019, recorded interceptions on a wiretap revealed that Gines was conspiring with others to obtain and sell more than 5 pounds of methamphetamine. With the aid of the wiretap, shortly after midnight, a Kings County Sheriff’s deputy stopped the car transporting that methamphetamine, searched the car, and found the drugs.
This case was the product of an investigation by the Kings County Gang Task Force, Agents of the Special Operations Unit which is a team of agents from the California Department of Justice and the California Highway Patrol, the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, the FBI, the Kings County District Attorney's Office, and the Tulare County Sheriff's Office. The DEA, ATF, U.S. Marshals Service, and Homeland Security Investigations all assisted with the takedown. Assistant U.S. Attorney Justin J. Gilio 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 U.S. Department of Justice 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 under the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF). OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. For more information about Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces, please visit Justice.gov/OCDETF.
Kenduskeag Man Pleads Guilty to Producing and Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
BANGOR, Maine: A Kenduskeag man pleaded guilty today in U.S. District Court in Bangor to two counts of producing child pornography and one count of possessing child pornography.
According to court records, in February 2024, investigators with Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) executed a search warrant at the home of Justin Leonard, 24, based on a CyberTip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. Leonard was home during the warrant’s execution and provided the password and Face ID to a hidden folder on his cellular telephone. In this hidden folder, investigators located multiple sexually explicit images and videos of two very young children. Leonard admitted that he had taken these images and videos. The parents of the children confirmed Leonard’s statements and identified their children in the images and videos. A subsequent forensic review of Leonard’s phone uncovered Facebook chats where he expressed an interest in children and a desire to acquire children. In addition, in the Safari history of Leonard’s phone, artifacts were found indicating an interest in Rohypnol or Roofies, a powerful sedative. His queries included, “youngest age you can safely give a roofie” and “Is there any drug that can make a person unconscious for 2 hours?”
For each child pornography production count, Leonard faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years in prison and a maximum sentence of 30 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and up to a lifetime of supervised release. For the child pornography possession count, Leonard faces up to 20 years imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and up to a lifetime of supervised release. He will be sentenced after the completion of a presentence investigative report by the U.S. Probation Office. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
HSI and the Maine State Police Computer Crimes Unit investigated the case.
To report an incident involving the possession, distribution, receipt or production of child sexual abuse material: 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.
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Kansas City Men Sentenced for St. Louis County CarjackingRead the Press Release
ST. LOUIS – Two men from Kansas City, Missouri have been sentenced for a 2022 St. Louis County carjacking.
U.S. District Judge John A. Ross on Monday sentenced Reginald Hudson, now 29, to 125 months in prison. On July 9, Judge Ross sentenced Ki’Juan Calhoun, 28, to 144 months in prison. Both men were ordered to pay restitution of $24,438.
Hudson and Calhoun pleaded guilty in April to one count of carjacking and one count of brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence. They admitted stealing a 2019 Ford Fusion at gunpoint from a woman on Jan. 12, 2022, at her apartment in St. Louis County. The woman saw two men walking down the stairs from the third floor to the second, both pointing handguns at her. One of the men demanded her car keys, purse and phone, and then both men fled in her car.
“I completely understand the terror you had to be feeling that night,” Judge Ross told the victim in court.
The victim’s car was found the next day by the Kansas City Police Department. After an investigation, officers found Hudson as well as the victim’s purse and her debit card in a nearby home, along with two handguns.
The St. Louis County Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ashley Walker prosecuted the case.
Justice Department announces coordinated disruption actions against BlackSuit (Royal) Ransomware operationsRead the Press Release
ALEXANDRIA, Va. – The Justice Department announced today coordinated actions against the BlackSuit (Royal) Ransomware group which included the takedown of four servers and nine domains on July 24. The takedown was conducted by the Department of Homeland Security’s Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the U.S. Secret Service, IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI), the FBI, and international law enforcement from the United Kingdom, Germany, Ireland, France, Canada, Ukraine, and Lithuania. These actions include the unsealing of a warrant for the seizure of virtual currency valued at $1,091,453 at the time of the seizure. The unsealing was announced today jointly by the U.S. Attorney’s Offices for the Eastern District of Virginia and the District of Columbia.
"This action exemplifies the forward-leaning, disruption-first approach we are taking to address this threat," said Erik S. Siebert, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia. "When it comes to protecting U.S. businesses, critical infrastructure, and other victims from ransomware and other cyberthreat actors, we will pull no punches."
“The BlackSuit ransomware gang’s persistent targeting of U.S. critical infrastructure represents a serious threat to U.S. public safety,” said Assistant Attorney General for National Security John A. Eisenberg. “The National Security Division is proud to be part of an ongoing team of government agencies and partners working to protect our Nation from threats to our critical infrastructure.”
“Too often we see the damage ransomware causes to systems that then allows cybercriminals to wreak havoc on corporations and others,” said U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro for the District of Columbia. “Whether these criminals target law enforcement, other government agencies, or private companies, my office and our law enforcement partners stand ready to go toe-to-toe with criminals and make victims whole.”
“Disrupting ransomware infrastructure is not only about taking down servers—it's about dismantling the entire ecosystem that enables cybercriminals to operate with impunity,” said Michael Prado, Deputy Assistant Director for HSI’s Cyber Crimes Center (C3). “This operation is the result of tireless international coordination and shows our collective resolve to hold ransomware actors accountable.”
“This investigation reflects the full reach of HSI Washington, D.C.’s cyber mission and our commitment to defending victims—whether they’re small businesses, school systems, or hospitals,” said Christopher Heck, Special Agent in Charge of HSI Washington, D.C. “We will continue to target the infrastructure, finances, and operators behind these ransomware groups to ensure they have nowhere left to hide.”
“This operation strikes a critical blow to BlackSuit’s infrastructure and operations,” said Special Agent in Charge William Mancino of the U.S. Secret Service’s Criminal Investigative Division. “The U.S. Secret Service is committed to working alongside our law enforcement partners to dismantle criminal enterprises and prevent the deployment of malicious ransomware that victimizes businesses and organizations.”
“This announcement demonstrates IRS Criminal Investigation’s commitment to disrupting the illicit flow of money that enables cyber criminals to illegally launder millions in cryptocurrency,” said Executive Special Agent in Charge Kareem Carter of the IRS-CI Washington Field Office. “Criminal software like the BlackSuit Ransomware group is deployed to steal, extort victims, and launder proceeds of these activities. IRS Criminal Investigation Washington, D.C., Cyber Crimes Unit will continue to work hand in hand with our law enforcement partners to leverage all available tools to identify, apprehend and hold accountable these bad actors and put an end to their illicit activity.”
As detailed in a joint announcement released by HSI, an operation by U.S. law enforcement in close coordination with international partners successfully seized servers, domains, and digital assets used by the BlackSuit Ransomware group to deploy ransomware, extort victims, and launder proceeds of these activities. Some of those proceeds included approximately $1,091,453 in virtual currency (valued at the time of the theft) — which was separately seized by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia using evidence collected by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia on or about June 21, 2024.
As previously described in a joint FBI and Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) Cybersecurity Advisory, BlackSuit (Royal) ransomware attacks have targeted numerous critical infrastructure sectors including, but not limited to, critical manufacturing, government facilities, healthcare and public health, and commercial facilities. The advisory also describes the tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs) used and indicators of compromise (IOCs) to help organizations protect against ransomware.
Royal victims are typically required to pay ransoms in BTC by accessing a darknet website. On April 4, 2023, a victim paid a ransom of 49.3120227 Bitcoin to decrypt their data. This ransom was worth $1,445,454.86 at the time of the transaction. A portion of those proceeds ($1,091,453) was repeatedly deposited and withdrawn into a virtual currency exchange account until the funds were frozen by that exchange on Jan. 9, 2024.
HSI, the U.S. Secret Service, IRS-CI, and the FBI are investigating the case alongside the United Kingdom’s National Crime Agency and Northwest Regional Organized Crime Unit, Germany's Landeskriminalamt Niedersachsen, Ireland's An Garda Síochána - Garda National Cyber Crime Bureau, France's Office Anti-Cybercriminalité, Canada's Royal Canadian Mounted Police and Delta Police Department, Ukraine's National Police – Cyber Police Department, and Lithuania's Criminal Police Bureau.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Laura D. Withers for the Eastern District of Virginia, Trial Attorney Jacques Singer-Emery of the National Security Division’s National Security Cyber Section, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Rick Blaylock Jr. for the District of Columbia.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia.
Justice Department Seeks to Shut Down Texas Tax Return Preparation Business for Claiming Fabricated Credits and ExpensesRead the Press Release
Note: view complaint here.
The Justice Department filed a complaint today in U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas to permanently bar Maxumus Tax LLC and its owner and tax return preparer James Carroll III from preparing tax returns for others. Maxumus Tax allegedly operates a tax return preparation store located in Fort Worth, Texas, and serves customers online.
According to the complaint, Maxumus Tax prepared customers’ tax returns that inflated by more than $5 million claims for tax credits enacted to combat the economic impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic. Further, Maxumus Tax allegedly fabricated business losses on tax returns, including by concocting entirely non-existent businesses, to fraudulently reduce reported taxable income. Between 2021 and 2024, Maxumus and Carroll prepared more than 7,000 income tax returns, according to the complaint.
Return preparer fraud is one of the IRS’ Dirty Dozen Tax Scams, and taxpayers seeking a return preparer should remain vigilant. The IRS has information on its website for choosing a tax preparer, launched a free directory of federal tax preparers, and offers information on how to avoid “ghost” tax preparers whose refusal to sign a return should be a red flag to taxpayers. The IRS also has a checklist of things to remember when filing income tax returns.
In the past decade, the Justice Department’s Tax Division has obtained injunctions against hundreds of unscrupulous tax preparers. Information about these cases is available on the Justice Department’s website. An alphabetical listing of persons enjoined from preparing returns and promoting tax schemes can be found here. If you believe that one of the enjoined persons or businesses may be violating an injunction, please contact the Tax Division with details.
Justice Department Announces Coordinated Disruption Actions Against BlackSuit (Royal) Ransomware OperationsRead the Press Release
The Justice Department announced today coordinated actions against the BlackSuit (Royal) Ransomware group which included the takedown of four servers and nine domains on July 24, 2025. The takedown was conducted by the Department of Homeland Security’s Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the U.S. Secret Service, IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI), the FBI, and international law enforcement from the United Kingdom, Germany, Ireland, France, Canada, Ukraine, and Lithuania. These actions include the unsealing of a warrant for the seizure of virtual currency valued at $1,091,453 at the time of the seizure. The unsealing was announced today jointly by the U.S. Attorney’s Offices for the Eastern District of Virginia and the District of Columbia.
“The BlackSuit ransomware gang’s persistent targeting of U.S. critical infrastructure represents a serious threat to U.S. public safety,” said Assistant Attorney General for National Security John A. Eisenberg. “The National Security Division is proud to be part of an ongoing team of government agencies and partners working to protect our Nation from threats to our critical infrastructure.”
“This action exemplifies the forward-leaning, disruption-first approach we are taking to address this threat,” said U.S. Attorney Erik S. Siebert for the Eastern District of Virginia. “When it comes to protecting U.S. businesses, critical infrastructure, and other victims from ransomware and other cyberthreat actors, we will pull no punches.”
“Too often we see the damage ransomware causes to systems that then allows cybercriminals to wreak havoc on corporations and others,” said U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro for the District of Columbia. “Whether these criminals target law enforcement, other government agencies, or private companies, my office and our law enforcement partners stand ready to go toe-to-toe with criminals and make victims whole.”
“Disrupting ransomware infrastructure is not only about taking down servers — it's about dismantling the entire ecosystem that enables cybercriminals to operate with impunity,” said Deputy Assistant Director Michael Prado for HSI’s Cyber Crimes Center (C3). “This operation is the result of tireless international coordination and shows our collective resolve to hold ransomware actors accountable.”
“This operation strikes a critical blow to BlackSuit’s infrastructure and operations,” said Special Agent in Charge William Mancino of the U.S. Secret Service’s Criminal Investigative Division. “The U.S. Secret Service is committed to working alongside our law enforcement partners to dismantle criminal enterprises and prevent the deployment of malicious ransomware that victimizes businesses and organizations.”
“This announcement demonstrates IRS Criminal Investigation’s commitment to disrupting the illicit flow of money that enables cyber criminals to illegally launder millions in cryptocurrency,” said Executive Special Agent in Charge Kareem Carter of the IRS-CI Washington Field Office. “Criminal software like the BlackSuit Ransomware group is deployed to steal, extort victims, and launder proceeds of these activities. IRS Criminal Investigation Washington, D.C., Cyber Crimes Unit will continue to work hand in hand with our law enforcement partners to leverage all available tools to identify, apprehend and hold accountable these bad actors and put an end to their illicit activity.”
As detailed in an announcement by HSI, an operation by U.S. law enforcement in close coordination with international partners successfully seized servers, domains, and digital assets used by the BlackSuit Ransomware group to deploy ransomware, extort victims, and launder proceeds of these activities. Some of those proceeds included approximately $1,091,453 in virtual currency (valued at the time of the theft) – which was separately seized by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia using evidence collected by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia on or about June 21, 2024.
As previously described in a joint FBI and Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) Cybersecurity Advisory, BlackSuit (Royal) ransomware attacks have targeted numerous critical infrastructure sectors including, but not limited to, critical manufacturing, government facilities, healthcare and public health, and commercial facilities. The advisory also describes the tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs) used and indicators of compromise (IOCs) to help organizations protect against ransomware.
Royal victims are typically required to pay ransoms in BTC by accessing a darknet website. On or about April 4, 2023, a victim paid a ransom of 49.3120227 Bitcoin to decrypt their data. This ransom was worth $1,445,454.86 at the time of the transaction. A portion of those proceeds ($1,091,453) was repeatedly deposited and withdrawn into a virtual currency exchange account until the funds were frozen by that exchange on or about Jan. 9, 2024.
HSI, the U.S. Secret Service, IRS-CI, and the FBI are investigating the case alongside the United Kingdom’s National Crime Agency and Northwest Regional Organized Crime Unit, Germany's Landeskriminalamt Niedersachsen, Ireland's An Garda Síochána - Garda National Cyber Crime Bureau, France's Office Anti-Cybercriminalité, Canada's Royal Canadian Mounted Police and Delta Police Department, Ukraine's National Police – Cyber Police Department, and Lithuania's Criminal Police Bureau.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Laura D. Withers for the Eastern District of Virginia, Trial Attorney Jacques Singer-Emery of the National Security Division’s National Security Cyber Section, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Rick Blaylock Jr. for the District of Columbia.
Justice Department Announces Coordinated Actions to Disrupt the Operations of BlackSuit (Royal) RansomwareRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON — The Justice Department today announced coordinated actions against the BlackSuit (Royal) Ransomware group which included the takedown of four servers and nine domains on July 24. The takedown was conducted by the Department of Homeland Security’s Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the U.S. Secret Service, IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI), the FBI, and international law enforcement from the United Kingdom, Germany, Ireland, France, Canada, Ukraine, and Lithuania. These actions include the unsealing of a warrant for the seizure of virtual currency valued at $1,091,453 at the time of the seizure. The unsealing was announced today jointly by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia and the U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia.
“Too often we see the damage ransomware causes to systems that then allows cybercriminals to wreak havoc on corporations and others,” said U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro for the District of Columbia. “Whether these criminals target law enforcement, other government agencies, or private companies, my office and our law enforcement partners stand ready to go toe-to-toe with criminals and make victims whole.”
“The BlackSuit ransomware gang’s persistent targeting of U.S. critical infrastructure represents a serious threat to U.S. public safety,” said Assistant Attorney General for National Security John A. Eisenberg. “The National Security Division is proud to be part of an ongoing team of government agencies and partners working to protect our Nation from threats to our critical infrastructure.”
“Today’s action exemplifies the forward-leaning, disruption-first approach we are taking to address this threat,” said U.S. Attorney Erik S. Siebert for the Eastern District of Virginia. “When it comes to protecting U.S. businesses, critical infrastructure, and other victims from ransomware and other cyberthreat actors, we will pull no punches.”
“Disrupting ransomware infrastructure is not only about taking down servers — it's about dismantling the entire ecosystem that enables cybercriminals to operate with impunity,” said Deputy Assistant Director Michael Prado for HSI’s Cyber Crimes Center (C3). “This operation is the result of tireless international coordination and shows our collective resolve to hold ransomware actors accountable.”
“This operation strikes a critical blow to BlackSuit’s infrastructure and operations,” said Special Agent in Charge William Mancino of the U.S. Secret Service’s Criminal Investigative Division. “The U.S. Secret Service is committed to working alongside our law enforcement partners to dismantle criminal enterprises and prevent the deployment of malicious ransomware that victimizes businesses and organizations.”
“Today's announcement demonstrates IRS Criminal Investigation’s commitment to disrupting the illicit flow of money that enables cyber criminals to illegally launder millions in cryptocurrency,” said Executive Special Agent in Charge Kareem Carter of the IRS-CI Washington Field Office. “Criminal software like the BlackSuit Ransomware group is deployed to steal, extort victims, and launder proceeds of these activities. IRS Criminal Investigation Washington, D.C., Cyber Crimes Unit will continue to work hand in hand with our law enforcement partners to leverage all available tools to identify, apprehend, and hold accountable these bad actors and put an end to their illicit activity.”
As detailed in a joint announcement released today by HSI, an operation by U.S. law enforcement in close coordination with international partners successfully seized servers, domains, and digital assets used by the BlackSuit Ransomware group to deploy ransomware, extort victims, and launder proceeds of these activities. Some of those proceeds included approximately $1,091,453 in virtual currency (valued at the time of the theft) — which was separately seized by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia using evidence collected by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia on or about June 21, 2024.
As previously described in a joint FBI and Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) Cybersecurity Advisory, BlackSuit (Royal) ransomware attacks have targeted numerous critical infrastructure sectors including, but not limited to, critical manufacturing, government facilities, healthcare and public health, and commercial facilities. The advisory also describes the tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs) used and indicators of compromise (IOCs) to help organizations protect against ransomware.
Royal victims are typically required to pay ransoms in BTC by accessing a darknet website. On or about April 4, 2023, a victim paid a ransom of 49.3120227 Bitcoin to decrypt their data. This ransom was worth $1,445,454.86 at the time of the transaction. A portion of those proceeds ($1,091,453) was repeatedly deposited and withdrawn into a virtual currency exchange account until the funds were frozen by that exchange on or about Jan. 9, 2024.
HSI, the U.S. Secret Service, IRS-CI, and the FBI are investigating the case alongside the United Kingdom’s National Crime Agency and Northwest Regional Organized Crime Unit, Germany's Landeskriminalamt Niedersachsen, Ireland's An Garda Síochána - Garda National Cyber Crime Bureau, France's Office Anti-Cybercriminalité, Canada's Royal Canadian Mounted Police and Delta Police Department, Ukraine's National Police – Cyber Police Department, and Lithuania's Criminal Police Bureau.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Rick Blaylock Jr. for the District of Columbia, Assistant U.S. Attorney Laura D. Withers for the Eastern District of Virginia, and Trial Attorney Jacques Singer-Emery of the National Security Division’s National Security Cyber Section.
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Links to Court Documents:
DDC Seizure
blacksuit_24-sz-27_-_redacted_-_seizure_warrant.pdfUnsealing Motion and Order
Jay Man Pleads Guilty to Distributing Narcotics and Illegally Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
BANGOR, Maine: A Jay man pleaded guilty today in U.S. District Court in Bangor to distributing narcotics and illegally possessing a firearm.
According to court records, Thomas Ray Cook, 44, sold $600 worth of cocaine to a Maine Drug Enforcement Agency (MDEA) confidential information source (CI) in February 2025 from Cook’s home in Jay. In March 2025, Cook sold the CI additional cocaine and seven firearms for $1,600, from a different residence in Farmington. Cook is prohibited from possessing firearms because of multiple prior Maine state felony convictions, including Aggravated Operating after Habitual Offender Revocation and Eluding an Officer.
For the narcotics charge, Cook faces up to 20 years in prison, a $1 million fine, and up to a lifetime of supervised release. For the firearms charge, Cook faces up to 15 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and up to three years of supervised release. He will be sentenced after the completion of a presentence investigative report by the U.S. Probation Office. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and MDEA investigated the case.
Operation Take Back America: This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
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Huntington Man Sentenced to Prison for Federal Gun CrimeRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Khali Marquise Barnes, 26, of Huntington, was sentenced today to four years and four months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, for being a felon in possession of a firearm.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on January 9, 2023, law enforcement officers conducted a home compliance check at Barnes’ residence in Huntington and located a loaded Glock 19 9mm handgun in Barnes’ bed. Barnes admitted to possessing the firearm.
Federal law prohibits a person with a prior felony conviction from possessing a firearm or ammunition. Barnes knew he was prohibited from possessing a firearm because of his prior felony conviction for conspiracy to commit first-degree robbery in Cabell County Circuit Court on August 10, 2021.
Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Cabell County Sheriff’s Office, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and the Huntington Police Department.
United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Courtney L. Finney 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.
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. 3:23-cr-61.
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Huntington Man Sentenced to Prison for Federal Drug Crime and Violating Supervised ReleaseRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Robert Lee Taylor, 44, of Huntington, was sentenced today to three years and five months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, for possession with intent to distribute heroin and for violating supervised release.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on March 19, 2025, law enforcement officers obtained consent to search a Huntington residence and found approximately 104 grams of heroin, three digital scales, and plastic bags for packaging the heroin in a storage tote on the back deck of the residence. As part of his guilty plea, Taylor admitted that he possessed the seized heroin and that he intended to distribute it. Taylor further admitted to selling approximately 7 grams of heroin to a confidential informant for $491 on the back deck of the Huntington residence the day before the search.
Officers executed a search warrant at Taylor’s residence in Huntington on March 19, 2025, and seized approximately $8,661. Taylor admitted that the seized cash was proceeds from the distribution of heroin.
At the time of this offense, Taylor was on supervised release after pleading guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl in United States District Court for the Southern District of West Virginia on May 1, 2023. Today’s sentence includes eight months for committing a crime while on supervised release.
Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Violent Crime and Drug Task Force West.
United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Courtney L. Finney prosecuted the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:25-cr-74.
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Huntington Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Gun CrimeRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Robert Craig Hatfield, also known as “Bobby,” 48, of Huntington, pleaded guilty today to carrying a firearm during and in relation to the distribution of fentanyl.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on February 11, 2025, Hatfield sold a SCCY 9mm pistol and approximately 4.5 grams of heroin to a confidential informant in exchange for $340. Hatfield admitted to conducting the transaction, which occurred at his Huntington residence, and to arranging it beforehand.
Hatfield is scheduled to be sentenced on November 24, 2025, and faces a mandatory minimum of five years and up to life in prison, up to five 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 Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Cabell County Sheriff's Office.
United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie Taylor is prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) and Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN).
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:25-cr-45.
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Human Smuggling Coordinator Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy after Illegal Alien DiesRead the Press Release
TUCSON, Ariz. – Nathan Jr. Espinoza, 23, of Avondale, Arizona pleaded guilty on August 6, to one count of Conspiracy to Transport Illegal Aliens for Profit. Sentencing is scheduled for October 16, 2025, before United States District Judge Angela M. Martinez.
In his plea, Espinoza admitted that for a period of time leading up to March 2024, he recruited human smuggling drivers and coordinated the transportation of illegal aliens from areas near the Mexico border to places further in the interior of the United States. Espinoza’s involvement in the conspiracy was for personal financial gain and led to at least 25 illegal aliens receiving transportation.
Espinoza also admitted that on March 6, 2024, he coordinated an event in which a driver and a front seat passenger picked up two illegal aliens near Lukeville, Arizona. At some point while they were being transported, the aliens were told to get out of the vehicle. The two aliens then jumped, fell, or were pushed from the vehicle while it was still moving. As a result, one of the aliens hit his head on the ground, suffered serious injury, and died at the hospital two days later.
A conviction for Conspiracy to Transport Illegal Aliens for Profit carries a maximum penalty of ten years of imprisonment and a maximum fine of $250,000,000.
The investigation of this case is the result of the coordinated efforts of Joint Task Force Alpha (JTFA). JTFA, a partnership with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), has been elevated and expanded by the Attorney General with a mandate to target cartels and transnational criminal organizations to eliminate human smuggling and trafficking networks operating in Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Panama, and Colombia that impact public safety and the security of our borders. JTFA currently comprises detailees from U.S. Attorneys’ Offices along the southwest border. Dedicated support is provided by numerous components of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, led by the Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section (HRSP) and supported by the Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section, the Office of Enforcement Operations, and the Office of International Affairs (OIA), among others. JTFA also relies on substantial law enforcement investment from DHS, the FBI, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and other partners. To date, JTFA’s work has resulted in more than 405 domestic and international arrests of leaders, organizers, and significant facilitators of alien smuggling; more than 350 U.S. convictions; more than 305 significant jail sentences imposed; and forfeitures of substantial assets
Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation in this case. The United States Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, Tucson, is handling the prosecution.
CASE NUMBER: CR-24-05407-TUC-AMM
RELEASE NUMBER: 2025-133_Espinoza# # #
For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on Twitter @USAO_AZ for the latest news.
Houston doctor agrees to pay over $2 million to settle allegations of fraudulent billing of federal programsRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – A 63-year-old Houston man has agreed to pay $2,053,515 to resolve allegations he submitted false claims to federally funded health care programs for the surgical implantation of neurostimulator electrodes, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Dr. Ajay Aggarwal is an anesthesiologist and pain medicine doctor who practices in Bellaire and Lake Jackson as well as Van Vleck. Ajay Aggarwal, a sole proprietorship, and PRWCSWTX LLC are entities Aggarwal used to conduct his medical practice known as The Pain Relief & Wellness Center.
From Nov. 16, 2021, to March 28, 2023, Aggarwal billed federally funded health care programs, such as Medicare and the Department of Labor’s Workers’ Compensation Programs, for the surgical implantation of neurostimulator electrodes. These are invasive procedures usually requiring use of an operating room. As a result, Medicare and other federally funded health care programs pay thousands of dollars per procedure.
However, neither Aggarwal nor his staff performed these surgical procedures, according to the allegations.
Instead, patients allegedly received devices used for electro-acupuncture, which only involved inserting monofilament wire a few millimeters into patients’ ears and taping the neurostimulator behind the ear with an adhesive. All device placements took place in Aggarwal’s clinic, not a hospital or surgical center, and no incision was made on a patient, according to the allegations.
“A doctor who uses simple medical devices on his patients, yet bills Medicare for a sophisticated spinal surgery, is bilking the American taxpayer, plain and simple,” said Ganjei. “The Southern District of Texas will ensure that losses to federally funded healthcare programs from fraudulent billing, like what happened here, are recouped and that wrongdoers are held accountable.”
“The civil penalties imposed today strongly serve as a clear deterrent to those engaging in fraud against federal benefit programs,” said Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Ulrich of the U.S. Postal Service - Office of Inspector General (USPS-OIG). “USPS-OIG, along with our law enforcement partners, will continue to aggressively pursue these investigations and exhaust all efforts to protect the Postal Service from fraud, waste and abuse.”
“Investigating alleged false claims involving the programs administered by the Department of Labor’s (DOL) Office of Workers’ Compensation Programs (OWCP) is an important part of our mission. That is particularly true when a medical provider is involved,” said Special Agent in Charge Casey Howard, DOL-OIG, Central Region. “We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners and OWCP to protect the integrity of DOL’s worker compensation programs.”
“This settlement underscores our agency’s steadfast commitment to enforcing the False Claims Act,” said Special Agent in Charge Jason E. Meadows of the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS)-OIG. “Working with our law enforcement partners, DHHS-OIG remains dedicated to safeguarding the integrity of federal health care programs and protecting the individuals who depend on them by investigating schemes that compromise the proper use of medical devices.”
The U.S. Attorney’s Office conducted the investigation with significant assistance from OIG offices of USPS, DOL and DHHS. OIG offices of Office of Personnel Management and Department of Veterans Affairs also contributed to the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Laura E. Collins handled the matter.
The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only and there has been no determination of liability.
Guatemalan Convicted Felon Indicted for Illegal Re-EntryRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced the August 7, 2025 indictment of FEDERICO MENDEZ-FRANCISCO a/k/a “JORGE SANTOS ARROYO,” a/k/a “JORGE A. GORDILLO,” a/k/a “FEDERICO MENDEZ,” a/k/a “FREDERICO MENDEZ,” a/k/a “FEDERICO MENDEZ FRANCISCO,” (“MENDEZ-FRANCISCO”), age 40, a native of Guatemala, for re-entry of a removed alien, in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a)(b)(1).
According to court documents, MENDEZ-FRANCISCO, an illegal alien, was found in Jefferson Parish on May 2, 2025. Law enforcement previously removed MENDEZ-FRANCISCO from the United States on July 3, 2024, and he had not received permission from the Attorney General of the United States or the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security to re-enter the United States. On August 24, 2005 and prior to his removal from the United States, MENDEZ-FRANCISCO pled guilty to felony forgery in the Circuit Court of Pike County, Missouri.
MENDEZ-FRANCISCO faces a maximum term of imprisonment of ten (10) years, a fine of up to $250,000, up to three (3) years of supervised release, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.
Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson reiterated that an indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson praised the work of the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations (“ICE-ERO”) in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Duane A. Evans of the General Crimes Unit is prosecuting the matter.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
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