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Thursday 5 June 2025
Box Elder man pleads guilty to sexual abuse chargesRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS - A Box Elder man accused of sexually abusing a minor on the Rocky Boy’s Indian Reservation admitted to charges today, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
The defendant, Peter Maxwell Houle, 35, pleaded guilty to sexual abuse of a minor. Houle faces 15 years of imprisonment, a $250,000 fine and 5 years to a lifetime of supervised release.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided and will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing is set for October 9, 2025. Houle was detained pending further proceedings.
The government alleged in court documents that in December 2023, law enforcement officers were alerted to the possibility of a sexual relationship involving Jane Doe, an underage girl. Doe underwent a forensic interview during which she disclosed she had been in a “relationship” with Houle that started around the end of June or beginning of July 2022. At that time, Doe was 15 years old and Houle was 34.
According to Doe, she and Houle communicated over Facebook Messenger and she told him in those messages that she was 15. Over Messenger, Houle asked Doe whether she wanted to have sex with him. Around July 4, 2022, Houle went to Doe’s house where he and Doe had sexual intercourse.
Doe and Houle continued to have a sexual relationship that summer and Houle moved into her house in August 2022. Doe’s family was aware of the relationship between Doe and Houle and did not approve but allowed him to stay in exchange for helping around the house. Doe turned 16 in 2023, while the sexual relationship was still ongoing.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case. The FBI conducted the investigation.
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Administrator of Online Chatroom Dedicated to the Distribution of Child Sexual Abuse Material Is Sentenced to 15+ Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
ASHEVILLE, N.C. – A previously convicted sex offender who served as the administrator of an online chatroom dedicated to sharing child sexual abuse material (CSAM) was sentenced to 188 months in prison today for distributing child pornography, announced Russ Ferguson, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina. In addition to the prison term imposed, Nicholas Tyler Banks, 24, of Burnsville, N.C., was ordered to serve a lifetime of supervised release, to register as a sex offender, and to pay $26,000 in restitution.
Chief Daniel Duckworth of the Boone Police Department joins U.S. Attorney Ferguson in making the announcement.
According to court documents and the sentencing hearing, beginning in September 2023, a Boone Police Department detective was conducting an undercover investigation into the sexual exploitation of children online. During the investigation, law enforcement determined that Banks was using a commonly available chat application to share images and videos depicting the sexual abuse of children in a chatroom dedicated to sharing CSAM. All the files shared by Banks were made available for all users of the chatroom to view, download, and further distribute. The CSAM files depicted prepubescent children engaging in sexually explicit conduct with adults and some of the videos depicted sadomasochistic conduct. The investigation further revealed that Banks served as the administrator of the chat group, and in that role, he was in charge of adding new members to the group.
In January 2024, a search warrant was executed at Banks’s residence. Several electronic devices were seized and forensically examined. In total, investigators found that Banks possessed the equivalent (when taking videos into account) of more than 47,700 CSAM images. Investigators also determined that Banks continued to collect and share additional CSAM even after the search warrant was executed.
Banks was previously convicted of the Sexual Exploitation of a Minor in Sullivan County, in Tennessee, and as a result of that conviction he was a registered sex offender.
On January 27, 2025, Banks pleaded guilty to possession of child pornography with a qualifying prior conviction. 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 commended the Boone Police Department for their investigation of the case.
Assistant United States Attorney Alexis Solheim of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Asheville 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 https://www.justice.gov/psc.
Wednesday 4 June 2025
Washington State Man Arrested on Federal Charges Alleging He Provided Material Support to Palm Springs Fertility Clinic BomberRead the Press Release
A Washington state man was arrested on a federal criminal complaint alleging he provided material support to the Palm Springs fertility clinic bomber by shipping and paying for significant quantities of ammonium nitrate – an explosive precursor – prior to the suicidal terror attack last month.
Daniel Jongyon Park, 32, of Kent, was arrested last night shortly after his flight from Poland arrived at John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York. Park is charged with providing and attempting to provide material support to terrorists and made his initial court appearance today in the Eastern District of New York.
“This defendant is charged with facilitating the horrific attack on a fertility center in California. Bringing chaos and violence to a facility that exists to help women and mothers is a particularly cruel, disgusting crime that strikes at the very heart of our shared humanity,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “We are grateful to our partners in Poland who helped get this man back to America and we will prosecute him to the fullest extent of the law.”
“Park allegedly sent large amounts of explosive precursors to the man who drove a car bomb to a fertility clinic in Palm Springs, an attack that potentially could have killed innocent people,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “The FBI and our partners work together to find and hold accountable those who engage in domestic terrorism and other illegal activity. I also want to express my thanks to authorities in Poland for their vital assistance in this case.”
“This defendant is charged with shipping large quantities of explosive precursors to the man whose suicide bombing last month destroyed a fertility clinic in Palm Springs,” said U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli for the Central District of California. “Domestic terrorism is evil and unacceptable. Those who aid terrorists can expect to feel the cold wrath of justice.”
According to an affidavit filed with the complaint, Guy Edward Bartkus, 25, of Twentynine Palms, California, drove a car containing a bomb to a fertility clinic in Palm Springs on May 17. Bartkus detonated the bomb, killing himself, injuring numerous victims, destroying the fertility clinic’s building, and damaging surrounding buildings and areas. Bartkus’s attack was motivated by his pro-mortalism, anti-natalism, and anti-pro-life ideology, which is the belief that individuals should not be born without their consent and that non-existence is best.
Park – who shares Bartkus’s extremist views – shipped large quantities of explosive precursor materials to Bartkus, including approximately 180 pounds of ammonium nitrate. Days before the Palm Springs bombing, Park paid for an additional 90 pounds (40.8 kilograms) of ammonium nitrate that was shipped to Bartkus.
Park sent the first shipments of approximately 180 pounds (81.7 kilograms) of ammonium nitrate to Bartkus shortly before traveling to Bartkus’s residence, where he stayed with Bartkus from Jan. 25 to Feb. 8. Three days before Park arrived at Bartkus’s house, records from an AI chat application show that Bartkus researched how to make powerful explosions using ammonium nitrate and fuel.
During his stay at Bartkus’s residence, Park and Bartkus spent time in Bartkus’s room as well as in a detached garage “running experiments,” according to the affidavit. This was the same garage where law enforcement, during a search after the May 17 bombing, located significant amounts of chemicals commonly used in the construction of homemade bombs.
Four days after Bartkus conducted the suicide bombing, Park flew to Europe. On May 30, Park was detained in Poland and later was ordered deported to the United States.
If convicted, Park would face a statutory maximum penalty of 15 years in federal prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The FBI’s Inland Empire Joint Terrorism Task Force is investigating this matter. Considerable assistance was provided by the Palm Springs Police Department, the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department; the FBI’s legal attaché in Warsaw, Polish authorities, and FBI field offices in Seattle, New York, San Diego, Las Vegas, and Portland.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sarah E. Gerdes and Anna P. Boylan for the Central District of California, and Trial Attorney Patrick J. Cashman of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section are prosecuting the case.
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Washington State Man Arrested on Federal Charges Alleging He Provided Material Support to Palm Springs Fertility Clinic BomberRead the Press Release
LOS ANGELES – A Washington state man has been arrested on a federal criminal complaint alleging he provided material support to the Palm Springs fertility clinic bomber by shipping and paying for significant quantities of ammonium nitrate – an explosive precursor – prior to the suicidal terror attack last month, the Justice Department announced today.
Daniel Jongyon Park, 32, of Kent, Washington, was arrested last night shortly after his flight from Poland arrived at John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York.
Park is charged with providing and attempting to provide material support to terrorists.
He is expected to make his initial appearance today in United States District Court in Brooklyn, New York.
“This defendant is charged with facilitating the horrific attack on a fertility center in California. Bringing chaos and violence to a facility that exists to help women and mothers is a particularly cruel, disgusting crime that strikes at the very heart of our shared humanity,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “We are grateful to our partners in Poland who helped get this man back to America and we will prosecute him to the fullest extent of the law.”
“This defendant is charged with providing material support to a terrorist by shipping large quantities of explosive precursors to the man whose suicide bombing last month destroyed a fertility clinic in Palm Springs,” said United States Attorney Bill Essayli. “Domestic terrorism is evil and unacceptable. Those who aid terrorists can expect to feel the cold wrath of justice.”
“Park allegedly sent large amounts of explosive precursors to the man who drove a car bomb to a fertility clinic in Palm Springs, an attack that potentially could have killed innocent people,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “The FBI and our partners work together to find and hold accountable those who engage in domestic terrorism and other illegal activity. I also want to express my thanks to authorities in Poland for their vital assistance in this case.”
“Mr. Park’s contribution to the destructive device detonated on May 17 led to today’s charges and we continue to ask the public to come forward with any information,” said Akil Davis, the Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI’s Los Angeles Field Office. “We must strive to prevent another attack like this and the way we do that is to learn everything we can about what exactly caused the explosion, who knew about it or planned it, and why.”
According to an affidavit filed with the complaint, Guy Edward Bartkus, 25, of Twentynine Palms, California, drove a car containing a bomb to a fertility clinic in Palm Springs on May 17. Bartkus detonated the bomb, killing himself, injuring numerous victims, destroying the fertility clinic’s building and damaging surrounding buildings and areas. Bartkus’s attack was motivated by his pro-mortalism, anti-natalism, and anti-pro-life ideology, which is the belief that individuals should not be born without their consent and that non-existence is best.
Park – who shares Bartkus’s extremist views – shipped large quantities of explosive precursor materials to Bartkus, including approximately 180 pounds of ammonium nitrate. Days before the Palm Springs bombing, Park paid for an additional 90 pounds (40.8 kilograms) of ammonium nitrate that was shipped to Bartkus.
Park sent the first shipments of approximately 180 pounds (81.7 kilograms) of ammonium nitrate to Bartkus shortly before traveling to Bartkus’s residence, where he stayed with Bartkus from January 25 to February 8. Three days before Park arrived at Bartkus’s house, records from an AI chat application show that Bartkus researched how to make powerful explosions using ammonium nitrate and fuel.
During his stay at Bartkus’s residence, Park and Bartkus spent time in Bartkus’s room as well as in a detached garage “running experiments,” according to the affidavit. This was the same garage where law enforcement, during a search after the May 17 bombing, located significant amounts of chemicals commonly used in the construction of homemade bombs.
Four days after Bartkus conducted the suicide bombing, Park flew to Europe. On May 30, Park was detained in Poland and later was ordered deported to the United States.
A criminal complaint contains allegations. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
If convicted, Park would face a statutory maximum sentence of 15 years in federal prison.
The FBI’s Inland Empire Joint Terrorism Task Force is investigating this matter. Considerable assistance was provided by the Palm Springs Police Department, the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department; the FBI’s legal attaché in Warsaw, Polish authorities, and FBI field offices in Seattle, New York, San Diego, Las Vegas, and Portland.
Assistant United States Attorneys Sarah E. Gerdes and Anna P. Boylan of the Terrorism and Export Crimes Section are prosecuting this case, with substantial assistance from Trial Attorney Patrick J. Cashman of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section.
Venezuelan National Charged with Black Tar Heroin DistributionRead the Press Release
NEWARK, N.J. – A Venezuelan man has been charged in connection with possessing with intent to distribute over two kilograms of black tar heroin, U.S. Attorney Alina Habba announced.
Reinaldo Rafael Belisario Mendoza (“Mendoza”), 29, of Venezuela, was charged by complaint with one count of possession with intent to distribute heroin. Mendoza appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge James B. Clark, III in Newark federal court on May 29, 2025, and was detained.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
In May 2025, law enforcement officials received information that Mendoza was engaged in narcotics trafficking in New Jersey. On May 28, 2025, Mendoza met with a prospective buyer to sell two kilograms of heroin that he had stored in the trunk of his vehicle. Mendoza drove to the sale with an adult and two minor family members in the car.
The heroin distribution count carries a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years in prison, maximum potential penalty of life in prison, and a $10 million fine.
U.S. Attorney Habba credited special agents of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) New York Division’s Special Agent in Charge Frank Tarentino, with the investigation leads to the arrest.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica R. Ecker of the Criminal Division in Newark.
The charge and allegations contained in the complaint are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
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Defense counsel: Adalgiza Nunez, Esq.
mendoza.complaint.pdfU.S. Government seizes approximately 145 criminal marketplace domainsRead the Press Release
ALEXANDRIA, Va. – The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia announced today the seizure of approximately 145 darknet and traditional internet domains, and cryptocurrency funds associated with the BidenCash marketplace. The operators of the BidenCash marketplace use the platform to simplify the process of buying and selling stolen credit cards and associated personal information.
BidenCash commenced operations in March 2022. BidenCash administrators charged a fee for every transaction conducted on the website. The BidenCash marketplace had grown to support over 117,000 customers, facilitated the trafficking of over 15 million payment card numbers and personally identifiable information, and generated over $17 million in revenue during its operations.
The BidenCash marketplace domains will no longer be operational and will be redirected to a U.S. law enforcement-controlled server, preventing future criminal activity on these sites. The marketplace also sold compromised credentials that could be used to access computers without proper authorization.
Between October 2022 and February 2023, the BidenCash marketplace published 3.3 million individual stolen credit cards for free to promote the use of their services. The stolen data included credit card numbers, expiration dates, Card Verification Value (CVV) numbers, account holder names, addresses, email addresses, and phone numbers.
According to court records, the United States obtained court authorization to seize cryptocurrency funds that BidenCash marketplace used to receive illicit proceeds from its illegal sales.
Erik S. Siebert, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; John Szydlik, Resident Agent in Charge of the U.S. Secret Service’s Frankfurt Resident Office; and Philip Russell, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Secret Service’s Frankfurt Resident Office, the U.S. Secret Service’s Cyber Investigative Section, and the FBI Albuquerque Field Office.
The Department of Justice thanks the Dutch National High Tech Crime Unit, The Shadowserver Foundation and Searchlight Cyber for their assistance with the investigation.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Zoe Bedell in these matters.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia.
U.S. Attorney’s Office Announces Expansion of Project Safe Neighborhoods in ChicagoRead the Press Release
CHICAGO — Andrew S. Boutros, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, today announced an expansion of Project Safe Neighborhoods (“PSN”)—a key component of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction strategy—to include the economic centers in downtown Chicago and the entire rail system operated by the Chicago Transit Authority, including all train lines operating in every neighborhood from every part of the city.
The PSN program is a federally funded, nationwide initiative that brings together federal, state, and local law enforcement and other stakeholders to identify the most pressing violent crime problems and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. Until today, the PSN program was deployed in seven Chicago neighborhoods on the West and South sides of the city. The expansion announced today will implement the program in parts of three police districts in downtown financial zones that represent the economic engines of the city and region, as well as on the CTA trains that bring residents and visitors to those areas from every neighborhood of Chicago and from the city’s two international airports. Today’s announcement represents the first time anywhere in the country that the program will be deployed on mass transit.
The PSN expansion was announced by U.S. Attorney Boutros and members of the PSN Chicago Task Force, including the Chicago Police Department. Substantial assistance to the PSN program is provided by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives, U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Cook County Sheriff’s Office.
“Downtown Chicago is the capital of the region’s economy and the cultural and civic heart of the Midwest, where interstate commerce runs strong,” said U.S. Attorney Boutros, who was sworn in as the United States Attorney on April 7, 2025. “Many billions of dollars of revenue, taxes, and investments are anchored in our city’s financial districts, and when violence and criminal activity cause our residents, businesses, and tourists not to feel safe to live, invest, and shop in Chicago, everyone suffers, whether at the federal, state, or local level. By investing PSN resources in our urban economic centers and the public transit system that feeds into them, we will help foster a downtown that is both safe and friendly to economic vitality for everyone. This initiative could not happen without a deep collaboration and shared commitment between the Department of Justice and our PSN partners to dedicate the resources necessary to support the downtown economic zones and the many millions of people who annually visit them, as well as the scores of businesses both large and small who serve them.”
“Partnership and collaboration with our law enforcement and prosecutorial partners are vital in reducing violence and making Chicago safer for all,” said Chicago Police Department Superintendent Larry Snelling. “Project Safe Neighborhoods reflects this spirit of collaboration and serves as an important tool in addressing crime in one of the busiest areas of our city. The expansion of this program builds on the progress CPD is making in combating crime citywide.”
“This new investment of federal resources is critically needed to address the threat that crime—including organized retail theft, carjacking, and armed robberies—pose to the heart of Chicago’s economy and to the transportation systems that tens of thousands of Chicagoans use to travel to and from the downtown,” said Cook County Sheriff Thomas J. Dart. “For years, my office has devoted significant resources to aggressively combat crime throughout downtown Chicago, the Magnificent Mile, and the surrounding areas, and we welcome the much-needed expansion of Project Safe Neighborhoods to these areas.”
“ATF is proud to work with our federal, state, and local partners on the expansion of Project Safe Neighborhoods,” said ATF Chicago Special Agent-in-Charge Christopher Amon. “By combining resources and expertise, we are proactively taking steps to disrupt violent crime in key transit and economic areas to ensure the safety of our residents and visitors.”
“The FBI remains steadfast in our dogged pursuit of eliminating violent crime,” said FBI Chicago Special Agent-in-Charge Douglas S. DePodesta. “We continue to be thankful for the powerful collaboration between our many law enforcement and prosecutorial partners in this fight. Our combined efforts reflect our unwavering commitment to ensure that anyone who seeks to endanger our community will be held accountable.”
Originally launched in 2001, PSN is an evidence-based program that focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders, and partners with local prevention and reentry programs to pursue lasting reductions in crime. PSN follows four key design elements: focused and strategic enforcement; prevention and intervention; accountability; and community engagement.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office works closely with its Chicago PSN Task Force partners to assist with applying for and obtaining federal PSN grants to support anti-violence strategies in Chicago. By designating the downtown economic centers and CTA trains as PSN Enforcement Zones, PSN funds can now be deployed in various ways to help reduce violent crime in those areas, including:
Aggressively prosecuting violent offenders.
Hiring law enforcement personnel.
Paying certain overtime costs for law enforcement officers and others working downtown and aboard CTA trains.
Purchasing equipment to assist with violent crime reduction efforts.
Supporting multi-jurisdictional task forces.
Providing training and technical assistance under the national PSN program.
Expanding messaging to deter violence, including signage aboard CTA trains.
The enforcement efforts in the newly designated PSN Enforcement Zones will focus on the investigation and prosecution of individuals and organized groups who engage in illegal firearm possession, drug trafficking, robberies, carjackings, and other violent offenses. For violent offenders arrested downtown or aboard CTA trains, criminal prosecutors will bring appropriate charges to achieve maximum deterrence and will seek pretrial detention and substantial prison sentences for defendants who pose a danger to the community.
In addition to all of the CTA rail lines in every neighborhood in Chicago, the newly designated PSN Enforcement Zone, depicted on this map (reproduced below), extends from Division Street on the Near North Side, between Lake Michigan and La Salle Drive (e.g., Magnificent Mile and Oak Street shopping corridors, Navy Pier, Loop, and Millennium Park), to I-55 between Clark Street and Lake Michigan on the Near South Side (e.g., Museum Campus and McCormick Place), and extends west to Ogden and Ashland Avenues, between Grand Avenue and I-290 (e.g., Fulton Market and West Loop business corridors).
psn_economic_zone_map_june_2025.pdfTwo Men Sentenced to Prison for Aggravated Identity Theft and Computer Hacking CrimesRead the Press Release
Earlier today, in federal court in Brooklyn, United States District Judge Frederic Block sentenced Sagar Steven Singh, also known as “Weep,” to 27 months’ imprisonment for conspiracy to commit computer intrusion and aggravated identify theft. On May 30, 2025, Nicholas Ceraolo, also known as “Convict,” “Anon,” and “Ominous,” was sentenced to 25 months’ imprisonment for the same offenses.
Joseph Nocella Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, andMichael Alfonso, Acting Special Agent in Charge, Homeland Security Investigations, New York (HSI New York) announced the sentencings.
“The defendants breached a federal law enforcement database, used multiple means to steal sensitive personal information, and exploited that data to extort and threaten innocent people and their families,” stated United States Attorney Nocella. “This sentence sends a clear message that my Office is committed to protecting victims from digital predators and that those who exploit vulnerabilities in government systems will face jail time.”
“The defendants impersonated law enforcement, illegally accessed government databases, and even faked life-threatening situations to bypass criminal procedures through which they could obtain sensitive personal information,” stated HSI Acting Special Agent in Charge Alfonso. “They threatened innocent victims’ livelihoods and were found to have joked about their deceptive, exploitative, and calculated scheme in messages with each other. As a result of the HSI New York El Dorado Task Force’s commitment to justice in this case, both men will now have months in federal prison to consider the seriousness of these crimes.”
Singh and Ceraolo belonged to a group called “ViLE,” whose logo is the body of a hanging girl.
Members of ViLE sought to collect victims’ personal information, including social security numbers. ViLE then threatened to “dox” victims by posting that information on a public website administered by a ViLE member. Victims could pay to have their information removed from or kept off the website.
Singh and Ceraolo unlawfully used a law enforcement officer’s stolen password to access a nonpublic, password-protected web portal (the “Portal”) maintained by a U.S. federal law enforcement agency for the purpose of sharing intelligence with state and local law enforcement. The Portal detailed nonpublic records of narcotics and currency seizures, as well as law enforcement intelligence reports.
The defendants used their access to the Portal to extort their victims. Singh wrote to a victim (“Victim-1”) that he would “harm” Victim-1’s family unless Victim-1 gave Singh the credentials for Victim-1’s Instagram accounts—and appended Victim-1’s social security number, driver’s license number, home address, and other personal details. During the conversation, Singh told Victim-1 that he had “access to [] databases, which are federal, through [the] portal, i can request information on anyone in the US doesn’t matter who, nobody is safe.” He added: “you’re gonna comply to me if you don’t want anything negative to happen to your parents.” Singh ultimately directed Victim-1 to sell Victim-1’s accounts and give the proceeds to Singh.
After Singh and Ceraolo accessed the Portal, they both acknowledged that their conduct was criminal. Ceraolo wrote to Singh: “were all gonna get raided one of these days i swear.” Later that day, Singh wrote to a contact that the “portal [] i accessed i was not supposed to be there not one bit.” Singh said he had “jacked into a police officer’s account” and “that portal had some fucking potent tools.” Singh continued: “it gave me access to gov databases,” followed by the names of five search tools accessible through the Portal.
The government’s case is being handled by the Office’s National Security and Cybercrime Section. Assistant United States Attorneys Alexander Mindlin, Ellen H. Sise, and Adam Amir are in charge of the prosecution.
The Defendants:
NICHOLAR CERAOLO (also known as “Convict,” “Anon,” and “Ominous)
Age: 27
Queens, New YorkSAGAR STEVEN SINGH (also known as “Weep”)
Age: 21
Pawtucket, Rhode IslandE.D.N.Y. Docket No. 23-CR-236 (FB)
The Justice Department Files Complaint to Block Decades-Old Texas Laws Providing In-State Tuition for Illegal AliensRead the Press Release
The United States is challenging two decades-old Texas laws providing in-state tuition for illegal aliens. These laws unconstitutionally discriminate against U.S. citizens, who are not afforded the same privileges, in direct conflict with federal law. On Wednesday, June 4, the Department of Justice filed a complaint in the Northern District of Texas against the State of Texas and many Texas officials seeking to enjoin the officials from enforcing the Texas laws and bring them into compliance with federal requirements.
In the complaint, the United States seeks to enjoin enforcement of Texas laws that require colleges and universities to provide in-state tuition rates for all aliens who maintain Texas residency, regardless of whether those aliens are lawfully present in the United States. Federal law prohibits institutions of higher education from providing benefits to aliens that are not offered to U.S. citizens. The Texas laws blatantly conflict with federal law and are thus in conflict with the Supremacy Clause of the U.S. Constitution.
“Under federal law, schools cannot provide benefits to illegal aliens that they do not provide to U.S. citizens,” said Attorney General Bondi. “The Justice Department will relentlessly fight to vindicate federal law and ensure that U.S. citizens are not treated like second-class citizens anywhere in the country.”
This lawsuit follows two executive orders recently signed by President Trump that seek to ensure illegal aliens are not obtaining taxpayer benefits or preferential treatment. The first, “Ending Taxpayer Subsidization of Open Borders” orders all agencies to “ensure, to the maximum extent permitted by law, that no taxpayer-funded benefits go to unqualified aliens.” The second, “Protecting American Communities From Criminal Aliens,” directs relevant officials to “take appropriate action to stop the enforcement of State and local laws, regulations, policies, and practices favoring aliens over any groups of American citizens that are unlawful, preempted by Federal law, or otherwise unenforceable, including State laws that provide in-State higher education tuition to aliens but not to out-of-State American citizens.”
View the complaint here.
Tampa Man Sentenced to 20 Years for the Sex Trafficking of Two Minors and Producing Child Sex Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge Mary S. Scriven has sentenced Dontae D. Burton (40, Tampa) to 20 years in federal prison for sex trafficking a minor and production of child sex abuse material. A federal jury found Burton guilty on January 15, 2025.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Burton arranged commercial sexual activity for two minors, ages 16 and 17, by creating and posting ads for them on adult escort websites. Burton handled all communications with clients, scheduled dates, determined the amount of money to be paid for the sex acts, and transported the victims to and from the dates. Burton managed the money and kept approximately half of what the clients had paid for the sex acts. Burton also recorded and edited a video of one of the victims performing a sex act on him.
“This sentence reflects the severity of Dontae Burton’s crimes of exploiting two vulnerable minors for commercial sex and creating child sexual abuse material in the process,” said Homeland Security Investigations Tampa assistant Special agent in Charge Kristopher Pagitt. “Protecting children from predators who traffic and abuse them remains one of HSI’s highest priorities, and we will continue to pursue justice for the victims.”
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Courtney Derry.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Sterling Heights Man Pleads Guilty to Aggravated Assaults on Federal Officers While Resisting ArrestRead the Press Release
DETROIT – Carl Emerson Travis, 52, of Sterling Heights, Michigan, pleaded guilty today to aggravated assaults on federal officers, announced United States Attorney Jerome F. Gorgon, Jr.
Gorgon was joined in the announcement by Cheyvoryea Gibson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Michigan.
According to court documents, on March 29, 2024, members of the U.S. Marshals Fugitive Apprehension Team tried to arrest Travis, who was wanted in multiple jurisdictions. Travis resisted and attempted to escape with a moving car, endangering the surrounding officers. At the end of the struggle, Travis sped his car in reverse, dragging two officers and nearly running over another with his car. The officers sustained injuries during the assault. Travis only stopped resisting when his car slammed into a parked vehicle, pushing it through the wall of an occupied hotel room.
Sentencing is scheduled for October 15, 2025. A conviction for assault on a federal officer carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, or both.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated the case with assistance from Michigan State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Nhan Ho and Eaton Brown are prosecuting the case on behalf of the United States.
St. Petersburg Man Pleads Guilty to Bank Fraud and Mail TheftRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces that Ah’Jhzae Diamondric Artag Berry (30, St. Petersburg) has pleaded guilty to four counts of bank fraud and six counts of mail theft. Berry faces a maximum penalty of 30 years in federal prison for each bank fraud count and up to 5 years’ imprisonment for each mail theft count. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
According to court documents, on multiple occasions, usually at night, between January and June 2024, Berry, aided and abetted by others, broke into U.S. Postal Service receptacles using a stolen Postal Service key. Berry stole the mail from the receptacles and opened it to remove contents of value including debit cards, credit cards, gift cards, and checks. Berry and his accomplices altered the payee on the stolen checks and fraudulently deposited them at federally insured banks. In total, they victimized hundreds of individuals with a total intended loss of more than $380,000.
This case was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service. It is being prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Joseph Wheeler, III.
South Texan receives over 17 years for attempting to coerce and entice international child pornography using popular appsRead the Press Release
McALLEN, Texas – A 20-year-old Edinburg man has been sentenced for attempting to coerce and entice the production of child sexual abuse material (CSAM) from a Finnish minor, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Brandon Roy Alvarez pleaded guilty Oct. 9, 2024.
U.S. District Judge Drew Tipton has now sentenced Alvarez to 210 months in federal prison. At the hearing, the court heard additional information including that Alvarez would collect child pornography and store it on multiple devices. He would then pose as a minor and utilize the CSAM he collected to entice his victims to produce more. Alvarez will serve 10 years on supervised release following completion of his prison term. During that time, he will have to comply with numerous requirements designed to restrict his access to children and the internet. Alvarez will also be ordered to register as a sex offender.
The investigation began after authorities discovered a 10-year-old minor victim residing in Finland had received sexually explicit messages and CSAM videos from an English-speaking individual through various social media and other applications. They identified Alvarez as that person.
He had attempted to entice the minor victim into sending him a nude photo and/or a video of the victim masturbating from on or about Sept. 17-20, 2023.
Alvarez admitted he used his accounts to meet underage children online. He said he would pretend to be a minor female child to gain the other user’s trust and then use child pornography he collected to lure minors into sending sexually explicit photographs and videos.
FBI conducted the investigation.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexa D. Parcell is prosecuting the case, which was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood (PSC), a nationwide initiative the Department of Justice (DOJ) launched in May 2006 to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section leads PSC, which marshals federal, state and local resources to locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children and identifies and rescues victims. For more information about PSC, please visit DOJ’s PSC page. For more information about internet safety education, please visit the resources tab on that page.
Sioux City Man Sentenced to More Than 10 Years in Federal Prison for Firearm and Meth ConvictionsRead the Press Release
A man who illegally possessed three guns and several ounces of methamphetamine was sentenced on June 3, 2025, in federal court in Sioux City.
Felipe Alcaraz, Jr., 35, from Sioux City, Iowa, pled guilty on January 21, 2025, to three counts of possession of a firearm by a prohibited person and one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. Alcaraz, Jr. was previously convicted of eluding and possession of a controlled substance – third or subsequent offense, both prohibit a person from possessing a firearm.
At the plea and sentencing hearings, evidence showed that on several occasions Alcaraz, Jr. fled law enforcement’s attempts to conduct traffic stops of vehicles he operated, driving recklessly at high speeds creating danger to others. Alcaraz, Jr. was found to be involved with at least three guns. During two traffic stops, law enforcement located guns and ammunition, and on another traffic stop, defendant had two ounces of methamphetamine seized. One gun was stolen, another had an altered serial number, and a third was sold to another federal felon caught with it during his attempted flight from law enforcement. Alcaraz, Jr. admitted his involvement with at least 350 grams of methamphetamine which he intended to distribute to others in the Sioux City area.
Sentencing was held before United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand. Alcaraz, Jr. was sentenced to 125 months’ imprisonment and must serve a term of six years supervised release following imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. Alcaraz, Jr. remains in custody of the United States Marshal until he can be transported to a federal prison.
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 prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Shawn S. Wehde and was investigated by the Tri-State Drug Task Force based in Sioux City, Iowa, that consists of law enforcement personnel from the Drug Enforcement Administration; Sioux City, Iowa, Police Department; Homeland Security Investigations; Woodbury County Sheriff’s Office; South Sioux City, Nebraska, Police Department; Nebraska State Patrol; Iowa National Guard; Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement; United States Marshals Service; South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation; and Woodbury County Attorney’s Office.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 24-4052.
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San Felipe Man Sentenced for Sexually Abusing a MinorRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A San Felipe man was sentenced to 13 years in federal prison for sexually abusing an 11-year-old girl.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court records, on August 1 and August 15 of 2022, Vernon Chavez, 62, an enrolled member of the San Felipe Pueblo, inappropriately touched an 11-year-old girl over her clothing.
Upon his release from prison, Chavez will be subject to 15 years of supervised release and must register as a sex offender.
U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison made the announcement today.
The Bureau of Indian Affairs investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney Jesse Pecoraro prosecuted the case as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC.
Sacramento Doctor Agrees to Pay $125,000 for Controlled Substances Act Violations at Sutter Imaging Capitol PavilionRead the Press Release
Philip Yen, M.D. has agreed to pay the United States $125,000 to resolve allegations that he failed to comply with federal statutory requirements related to his role as the Drug Enforcement Administration registrant at Sutter Imaging Capitol Pavilion, Acting U.S. Attorney Michele Beckwith announced today.
Dr. Yen is a radiologist employed by Sutter Medical Group. From 2018 to 2024, he was the DEA registrant at Capitol Pavilion, which is located at 2725 Capitol Avenue, next to Sutter Medical Center, in Sacramento. As the registrant, Dr. Yen was required by the Controlled Substances Act to keep detailed records related to Capitol Pavilion’s receipt and dispensing of controlled substances, to ensure that controlled substances including opioids and other addictive and dangerous drugs were maintained, recorded, and documented properly in order to prevent their diversion.
An inspection conducted in 2022 of controlled substance records at Capitol Pavilion identified multiple recordkeeping violations at the facility. Other evidence developed that Dr. Yen was not adequately trained regarding the role and responsibilities of a DEA registrant, and that Sutter staff was aware of the risk of diversion of controlled substances from Capitol Pavilion.
In addition to paying civil monetary penalties, Dr. Yen has agreed to complete comprehensive training on his obligations under the CSA as a registrant, including recordkeeping requirements and effective controls against theft and diversion.
“Healthcare facilities and their employees are entrusted to handle dangerous drugs with care,” said Acting US Attorney Beckwith. “Compliance with the CSA and its recordkeeping requirements is critical to preventing diversion and protecting the public.”
“Controlled substance recordkeeping requirements are an essential line of defense against prescription drug diversion. Every dose must be accounted for to prevent misuse and save lives,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Bob P. Beris. “The DEA will continue to pursue healthcare providers who are not in compliance with mandatory regulations.”
The investigation was conducted by the DEA Tactical Diversion Squad. Assistant U.S. Attorney Emilia P. E. Morris handled the case for the United States.
The claims resolved by this settlement are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability.
The settlement agreement can be found here:
dr._yen_settlement_agreement_-_executed_5.30.25.pdfRosedale Woman Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy to Distribute Controlled Substances and Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
Baltimore, Maryland – Terry Allen, 57, of Rosedale, Maryland, has pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute controlled substances and money laundering.
Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the guilty plea with Acting Special Agent in Charge Amanda M. Koldjeski, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) – Baltimore Field Office; Special Agent in Charge Ibrar A. Mian, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) – Washington Division; Special Agent in Charge Maureen Dixon, Health and Human Services-Office of the Inspector General (HHS-OIG) – Philadelphia Regional Office; and Chief Robert O. McCullough, Baltimore County Police Department (BCPD).
According to the guilty plea, in 2022, during an investigation into a target, the FBI discovered that the target paid Allen more than $270,000. Agents later learned that Allen was supplying the FBI target with diverted prescription drugs. As a result, the FBI partnered with the DEA and identified Allen as the leader of a Baltimore-region drug trafficking organization (DTO). Agents soon learned that from 2022 to 2023, Allen’s DTO flooded the Baltimore community with thousands of diverted oxycodone pills.
The DTO’s members deployed a vast network of pseudo-patients to acquire diverted oxycodone pills. Pseudo patients are individuals recruited by drug traffickers to enter “pill-mill” clinics with fictitious complaints of pain to receive prescriptions for Schedule II controlled substances. As part of the conspiracy, pseudo-patients gave their oxycodone prescriptions to DTO members in exchange for cash payments or oxycodone.
In February 2023, law enforcement received court authorization to intercept phone calls and text messages from numerous DTO members’ cellular phones. Intercepted calls revealed that Allen was distributing vast quantities of oxycodone.
On these calls, Allen openly discussed the large quantity of drugs she possessed for redistribution. She acquired her vast supply of oxycodone from her large pseudo-patient network. Intercepted calls revealed how Allen and her top oxycodone supplier, Co-Conspirator 1, collaborated to manage the pseudo-patients. Co-Conspirator 1 managed 12 pseudo-patients to acquire oxycodone, which Co-Conspirator 1 then resold to Allen. During their intercepted calls, Allen and Co-Conspirator 1 discussed inventory; transferred pseudo-patients to pill-mill clinics that would easily refill oxycodone prescriptions or give higher dosages; and arranged for pseudo-patients to pass urine screenings.
Additionally, through the investigation, law enforcement uncovered Allen’s money laundering. A review of Allen’s bank records revealed she received and spent more than $2 million from 2017 to 2023. Agents traced Allen’s drug transactions through peer-to-peer applications such as Zelle and Cash App.
In May 2023, agents obtained more than 30 search warrants for residences, vehicles, and persons involved in the investigation. On May 31, agents searched Allen’s residence, located in Rosedale, Maryland. As law enforcement searched Allen’s house, she agreed to speak with FBI agents in a separate room. Allen then admitted to using pseudo-patients to acquire oxycodone that she redistributed on the street.
During the search, agents found approximately $39,380; drug ledgers; a calendar with annotations regarding medical appointments for pseudo-patients; distribution quantity of oxycodone pills, suboxone strips, and Adderall pills; a Glock 19 9mm handgun; and a Remington 12-gauge shotgun. The money and firearms were connected to Allen’s drug trafficking activities.
Authorities arrested Allen, but after her bail hearing, she was released on home detention. In August 2023, while on home detention, law enforcement learned that Allen was distributing oxycodone. On September 13, law enforcement searched her home and found two pseudo-patients’ prescription-pill bottles, containing 200 oxycodone 20MG pills.
During the investigation, agents obtained Maryland Prescription Drug Monitoring Program (PDMP) records for all of the DTO’s pseudo-patients’ oxycodone prescriptions. According to PDMP records, members of the conspiracy illegally re-distributed at least 3,000 kilograms of converted drug weight worth of oxycodone.
Through the conspiracy, Allen sold approximately 4,454 pills, containing 30 milligrams of oxycodone for $45 per pill; approximately 12,835 pills, containing 20 milligrams of oxycodone for $30 per pill; approximately 6,749 pills, containing 15 milligrams of oxycodone for $20 per pill; and approximately 770 pills, containing 30 milligrams of Adderall for $20 per pill. Allen received approximately $735,860 from selling the pills. In addition to using her residence in Rosedale to distribute drugs, Allen leveraged the proceeds from her drug trafficking activities to pay the mortgage for the property.
Allen faces a maximum of 40 years in prison followed by up to lifetime of supervised release for conspiracy to distribute controlled substances and money laundering. Sentencing is scheduled for August 26, at 10:00 a.m.
This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the FBI, DEA, HHS-OIG, and BCPD for their work in the investigation. Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Calvin C. Miner and Ari D. Evans who are prosecuting the federal case.
For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, please visit justice.gov/usao-md and justice.gov/usao-md/community-outreach.
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Philadelphia Man Sentenced to More Than Seven Years in Prison for His Role in Two Gunpoint Carjackings Targeting Elderly VictimsRead the Press Release
PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney David Metcalf announced that Zamir Tucker, 21, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 85 months’ imprisonment, five years of supervised release, and restitution of $33,483 by United States District Court Judge Timothy J. Savage on Tuesday in connection with two gunpoint carjacking incidents in Upper Darby Township in September 2022.
Tucker was charged by superseding indictment in April 2023 and, in February of this year, pleaded guilty to one count each of conspiracy to commit carjacking, carjacking, attempted carjacking, and using, carrying, and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence.
The defendant conspired with others, including co-defendant Alex Askew, to commit one carjacking and one attempted carjacking, both with firearms.
Late in the evening of September 7, 2022, Tucker, Askew, and others threatened a 66-year-old woman at gunpoint, in the course of stealing her Acura SUV. The victim had just parked in front of her home on Wilde Avenue in Upper Darby when a male with a firearm pointed a gun at her and demanded her keys. The offenders stole the victim’s purse and fled in her vehicle.
In the late afternoon of September 11, 2022, Tucker, Askew, and others threatened a 71-year-old woman at gunpoint as she parked in the alleyway behind her home on Brunswick Avenue in Upper Darby. Tucker and Askew demanded her keys, but when the victim screamed and ran towards her home, the offenders fled the scene without her vehicle.
Askew pleaded guilty in February of last year to one count of conspiracy to commit carjacking, three counts of carjacking, three counts of using a firearm in relation to a crime of violence, and one count of attempted carjacking, in connection with the September 7, 2022, and September 11, 2022, carjacking incidents, and two additional carjackings in Philadelphia. He was sentenced in September of 2024 to 21 years in prison.
“Nobody, let alone our mothers and grandmothers, should have to fear an armed carjacker’s ambush,” said U.S. Attorney Metcalf. “Taking violent criminals off the street will always remain a top priority of our office.”
“Carjacking elderly women at gunpoint is a cruel dangerous crime, and Zamir Tucker is now facing years in federal prison for it,” said Eric DeGree, Special Agent in Charge of the ATF Philadelphia Field Division. “Working with the Philadelphia Carjacking Task Force we continue to prosecute the carjackers who have plagued Philadelphia, making our city and communities safer with each case we solve. Carjacking is a serious crime, and we hope cases like this deter those who might try it.”
“I want to thank U.S. Attorney Metcalf and his team for making Upper Darby safer through their prosecution of this dangerous armed criminal,” said Delaware County District Attorney Jack Stollsteimer. “The collaboration between the ATF, Upper Darby and Philadelphia Police Departments, and prosecutors from my office and the U.S. Attorney’s Office, is critical to keeping Delco a safe place to live and work,” said Stollsteimer.
“I want to thank U.S. Attorney David Metcalf for his continued partnership in ensuring violent offenders are held fully accountable,” said Upper Darby Police Superintendent Timothy M. Bernhardt. “Strong collaborations like this are critical to protecting our communities. Tucker will now face justice for his cowardly acts against elderly residents of Upper Darby. Preying on the elderly is the lowest form of criminal behavior, and it will not be tolerated. These prosecutions send a clear message: if you come into our communities to commit violent crimes, you will be caught, and you will be prosecuted. All our residents, especially our most vulnerable, deserve to feel safe, and we will not allow anyone to take that from them. Let this serve as a warning: if you think you can commit these violent acts, not be caught and held accountable, think again,” Bernhardt said.
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 ATF, the Delaware County District Attorney’s Office Criminal Investigation Division, the Upper Darby Township Police Department, and the Philadelphia Police Department, and is being prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorneys Brian Doherty and Sandra M. Urban.
Outdoor Retailer Sentenced to Prison for Tax Fraud and Ordered to Pay over $2M in Fines and RestitutionRead the Press Release
ST. GEORGE, Utah – Phyllip Hallman Heaton, 43, of Washington City, Utah, was sentenced to five months’ imprisonment and 18 months’ supervised release (including six months of home detention) after he evaded paying taxes for six years.
The sentence, imposed by U.S. District Court Judge Ann Marie McIff Allen, comes after Heaton pleaded guilty to tax evasion on February 24, 2025. In addition to his term of imprisonment, the court ordered Heaton to pay a $95,000.00 fine and $1,947,906.79 in restitution, which the defendant paid in full at the time of his sentencing hearing.
According to court documents and statements made at Heaton’s change of plea and sentencing hearings, from 2017 to 2022, Heaton evaded taxes by underreporting his income to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Heaton is the sole owner of Zion Outfitter, an outdoor retailer in Springdale, Utah. He managed the company and handled the finances. When tax season came, he provided certified public accountants (CPAs) with information and records to prepare tax forms to submit to the IRS. The CPAs relied on the information they received from Heaton. By underreporting Zion Outfitter’s gross receipts, Heaton ultimately underreported his taxable personal income, which resulted in Heaton evading at least $1.9 million of income tax.
“No one can decide they are not going to pay their fair share of taxes without serious consequences,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Felice John Viti of the District of Utah. “Mr. Heaton’s sentence is one such consequence and also serves as a deterrence to others by demonstrating that tax evasion comes with serious penalties from the Department of Justice.”
“Deliberate actions to evade taxes is a criminal offense,” said Special Agent in Charge Carissa Messick, IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI), Phoenix Field Office. “IRS-CI remains steadfast in its mission to serve the American public by investigating potential criminal violations of the Internal Revenue Code in a manner that fosters confidence in the tax system and compliance with the law.”
The case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI).
Assistant United States Attorney Stephen P. Dent of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah prosecuted the case.
One Irish National and One Massachusetts Man Arrested in Vermont Border-Crossing EventRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that on May 31, 2025, Michael Doherty, 41, of Quincy, Massachusetts, and Andrew McRedmond, 42, a citizen of Ireland, were arrested by the United States Border Patrol in Williamstown, Vermont. Both were charged by criminal complaints—McRedmond with illegally re-entering the United States as an alien and entry into the United States at a time or place other than authorized, and Doherty with transporting McRedmond in furtherance of his illegal entry. Doherty and McRedmond both appeared on June 2, 2025, before United States Magistrate Judge Kevin J. Doyle, who ordered that Doherty be released on conditions of pretrial supervision pending further proceedings. Judge Doyle ordered McRedmond detained pending future proceedings.
According to court records, around 7:13 a.m. on May 31, 2025, one individual with a blue hat with white mesh and a backpack was seen walking south from a wooded area near Golf Course Road in Richford, Vermont, approximately a quarter mile south of the United States/Canada border. Law enforcement authorities determined that a vehicle driven by Doherty that had recently crossed the United States border at the Richford Port of Entry, was also in the vicinity of the person observed in the wooded area near Golf Course Road. When law enforcement later stopped Doherty’s vehicle on Interstate 91 in Williamstown, Vermont, Doherty was driving, and McRedmond was also in the vehicle. Investigators also observed a blue hat with white mesh on the dashboard matching the description of the person from the wooded area. In a post-arrest interview, McRedmond admitted to Border Patrol agents that he was in the United States illegally, and that he coordinated with Doherty to be picked up near the international border.
The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that the complaints contain allegations only and that Doherty and McRedmond are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. Doherty faces up to five years’ imprisonment if convicted. McRedmond faces up to two years’ incarceration if convicted. The actual sentence, however, would be determined by the District Court with guidance from the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines and the statutory sentencing factors.
Acting United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher commended the investigatory efforts of the United States Border Patrol and Customs and Border Protection.
The prosecutor is Assistant United States Attorney Zachary Stendig. Doherty is represented by Assistant Federal Defender Barclay Johnson and McRedmond is represented by Richard Bothfeld, Esq.
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).
Oktibbeha County Man Sentenced in OCDETF Illegal Firearm and Drug Trafficking CaseRead the Press Release
Oxford, MS – A Starkville, Mississippi man was sentenced today to over six years for illegal gun possession and drug trafficking.
According to court documents, Michael Anthony Doss, of Starkville, Mississippi, pled guilty in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District to Mississippi to being a felon in possession of a firearm and trafficking methamphetamine. Doss was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Debra M. Brown on Wednesday to 78 months in prison for the charges. He was further sentenced to three years supervised release following his release from prison.
“Drug dealers and guns are a lethal combination, and I am extremely proud of the work done by our state and local partners and ATF to bring this defendant to justice and protect our communities,” said U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner.
“This sentence sends a clear message that drug trafficking and gun violence will not be tolerated in Mississippi. I’m proud of the collaborative efforts of our local, state, and federal partners who worked tirelessly to bring this individual to justice. Together, we are making our communities safer,” said Department of Public Safety Commissioner Sean Tindell.
The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Oktibbeha County Sheriff’s Department, Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics, and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Clyde McGee prosecuted the case.
This investigation and resulting case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
This case is also a 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.
Oklahoma City Man to Serve More than 11 Years in Federal Prison After Man is Shot in the HeadRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – CHARLES DARNELL HUNTER, 50, of Oklahoma City, has been sentenced to serve 137 months in federal prison for illegal possession of a firearm after a previous felony conviction, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
On May 7, 2025, a federal Grand Jury charged Hunter with being a felon in possession of a firearm. According to public record, on January 20, 2024, officers with the Oklahoma City Police Department (OCPD) responded to a metro hospital following a reported shooting that resulted in a man with a gunshot wound to the head. Witnesses told OCPD that shortly before the shooting, they saw a black truck driving on Northwest 87th Street with a gun pointed out the window. The victim survived his injuries. An investigation into the vehicle led OCPD to Hunter, and OCPD executed a search warrant at Hunter’s home on February 1, 2024, where they seized two firearms. One of these firearms matched cartridge cases recovered at the scene of the shooting.
On September 24, 2024, Hunter pleaded guilty, and admitted he possessed a firearm despite his previous felony convictions.
At the sentencing hearing on May 30, 2025, U.S. Chief District Judge Timothy D. DeGiusti sentenced Hunter to serve 137 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release. In announcing the sentence, the Court noted the seriousness of the offense and Hunter’s criminal history. Public record reflects that Hunter has previous felony convictions in Oklahoma County District Court that include:
- first-degree robbery in case number CF-1991-6009;
- possession of a firearm in case number CF-2004-3487; and
- possession of controlled dangerous substances with intent to distribute in case numbers CF-2013-3716 and CF-2014-5232.
Public record further reflects that Hunter has charges pending in Oklahoma County District Court for shooting with intent to kill and / or drive-by shooting, being a felon in possession of a firearm, and a commission of a gang related offense in case number CF-2024-688.
This case is the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Oklahoma City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney David Nichols, Jr. 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. This case is also part of “Operation Shots Fired.” Operation Shots Fired targets cases involving individuals who discharge firearms as part of their criminal activity, such as drive-by shootings or when shots are fired during robberies, domestic disputes, or other incidents. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit https://justice.gov/psn and https://justice.gov/usao-wdok.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Ohio Woman Charged after Attempting to Exit Plane MidairRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – Yesterday, a federal Grand Jury charged JENDAYA KASHAR BRENNAN, 30, of Ohio, with interference with flight crew members and attendants, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
According to public records, on May 22, 2025, agents with the FBI Oklahoma City Field Office were notified of a disturbance aboard a Southwest Airlines flight destined for Phoenix, Arizona. The flight was diverted to Oklahoma City after on-duty flight crew members reported that Brennan attempted to exit the plane utilizing the rear exit door while the plane was still in the air. Despite the crew’s attempts to calm Brennan, she continued to scream that she was going to exit the plane, kicked and spit at crew members as they attempted to apply wrist restraints, and pulled on a crew member’s lanyard in an attempt to pull the crew member to the ground. Even after Brennan’s hands and legs were restrained, public record reflects that Brennan broke through her wrist restrains and had to be held down to prevent her from striking the flight crew or other passengers. The pilot diverted the plane to Oklahoma City after he heard the disturbance. Once the plane landed, the Oklahoma City Police Department had to remove Brennan from the plane.
If found guilty, Brennan faces up to 20 years in federal prison, and a fine of up to $250,000.
The public is reminded that this charge is merely an allegation, and that Brennan is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case is the result of an investigation by the FBI Oklahoma City Field Office and the Oklahoma City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Matt Dillon and Jessica L. Perry are prosecuting the case.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Newcomb Man Pleads Guilty to Knife Assault Outside Shiprock Grocery StoreRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Newcomb man pleaded guilty to assault resulting in serious injury following a violent knife assault outside a local grocery store.
According to court records, on November 12, 2024, Josiah Bodie, 23, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, assaulted John Doe with a knife outside Basha’s Grocery Store in Shiprock, New Mexico. As a result of the assault, John Doe suffered serious bodily injury.
At sentencing, Bodie faces a maximum of 10 years in prison. Upon his release from prison, Bodie will be subject to up 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 Farmington Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with the assistance of the Navajo Nation Police Department and the Navajo Nation Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Caitlin L. Dillon is prosecuting the case.
View the Plea Agreement (Bodie).pdfNew Jersey Man Pleads Guilty to Tax EvasionRead the Press Release
NEWARK – A New Jersey man pleaded guilty today to tax evasion.
The following is according to court documents and statements made in court: for tax years 2015 and 2016, Matthew Tucci, of West Long Branch, filed tax returns that stated he owed more than $2 million in taxes for both years. Despite admitting that he owed those taxes, Tucci did not fully pay them when they were due. Instead, Tucci purchased real estate and engaged in a series of transactions designed to conceal his interest in those properties.
In 2017, the IRS sent notices to Tucci that he owed taxes, interest, and penalties for 2015 and 2016. After receiving these notices, Tucci transferred multiple properties to an entity owned by another individual, but he continued to exert control over at least two of them. Of the two properties Tucci continued to control, he sold one and refinanced the other. Tucci used the proceeds from these transactions to pay his personal expenses rather than his tax debts. In 2019, Tucci submitted documents to the IRS that falsely claimed that he had no connection to the entity that owned the 12 properties.
Tucci is scheduled to be sentenced on October 9, 2025. He faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison as well as a period of supervised release, restitution, and monetary penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney Karen E. Kelly of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and Acting U.S. Attorney Alina Habba for the District of New Jersey made the announcement.
IRS Criminal Investigation and the FBI are investigating the case.
Trial Attorney Catriona Coppler of the Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Belgiovine for the District of New Jersey are prosecuting the case.
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New Jersey Man Pleads Guilty to Tax EvasionRead the Press Release
A New Jersey man pleaded guilty today to tax evasion.
The following is according to court documents and statements made in court: for tax years 2015 and 2016, Matthew Tucci, of West Long Branch, filed tax returns that stated he owed more than $2 million in taxes for both years. Despite admitting that he owed those taxes, Tucci did not fully pay them when they were due. Instead, Tucci purchased real estate and engaged in a series of transactions designed to conceal his interest in those properties.
In 2017, the IRS sent notices to Tucci that he owed taxes, interest, and penalties for 2015 and 2016. After receiving these notices, Tucci transferred multiple properties to an entity owned by another individual, but he continued to exert control over at least two of them. Of the two properties Tucci continued to control, he sold one and refinanced the other. Tucci used the proceeds from these transactions to pay his personal expenses rather than his tax debts. In 2019, Tucci submitted documents to the IRS that falsely claimed that he had no connection to the entity that owned the 12 properties.
Tucci is scheduled to be sentenced on Oct. 9. He faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison as well as a period of supervised release, restitution, and monetary penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney Karen E. Kelly of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and Acting U.S. Attorney Alina Habba for the District of New Jersey made the announcement.
IRS Criminal Investigation and the FBI are investigating the case.
Trial Attorney Catriona Coppler of the Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Belgiovine for the District of New Jersey are prosecuting the case.
New Castle Man Sentenced to 70 Months in Prison for Trafficking Fentanyl, FluorofentanylRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of New Castle, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 70 months in prison for conspiring to distribute fentanyl and fluorofentanyl, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
Senior United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on Kailin Stewart, 38, who previously pleaded guilty to conspiring to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl and 10 grams or more of fluorofentanyl between May 2021 and October 2022.
According to information presented to the Court, Stewart was on state parole in 2022 following his release from an 11- to 40-year Pennsylvania state prison sentence for a conviction for conspiracy to commit homicide. The Court also was informed that Stewart was responsible for the trafficking of between 70 and 100 grams of a mixture of fentanyl and fluorofentanyl while on state parole.
Judge Schwab ordered that Stewart’s federal prison sentence be served consecutive to any Pennsylvania state parole revocation sentence Stewart may receive. Judge Schwab also ordered that Stewart serve four years of supervised release following his federal prison sentence.
Assistant United States Attorney Craig W. Haller prosecuted this case on behalf of the United States.
Acting United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, United States Postal Inspection Service, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Lawrence County Drug Task Force, Mercer County Drug Task Force, New Castle Police Department, Sharon Police Department, and Pennsylvania State Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Stewart.
Nevada Man Unlawfully Residing in the United States Pleads Guilty to Leadership Role in Oregon Drug Trafficking and Multi-Million Dollar Money Laundering ConspiraciesRead the Press Release
PORTLAND, Ore.—Luis Antonio Beltran Arredondo, 35, a Mexican national unlawfully residing in North Las Vegas, Nevada, pleaded guilty Monday to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute heroin and fentanyl; and conspiracy to commit money laundering.
According to court documents, a long-term investigation revealed that Arredondo was the leader of an Oregon-based drug trafficking organization that distributed large quantities of heroin and fentanyl in the Portland metro area. Between October 2021 and January 2022, investigators seized more than 52 pounds of heroin, more than 7 pounds of fentanyl pills, and nearly six pounds of methamphetamine from individuals, vehicles, and locations connected to Arredondo’s organization.
Arredondo also conspired to launder $4.63 million dollars by running drug trafficking proceeds through a Tualatin, Oregon-based beauty salon, and then using the money to buy nine properties, which were then converted into income-generating rentals. These properties have been forfeited to the United States and are in the process of being sold.
Arredondo faces a maximum sentence of life in prison, a $10 million fine and 5 years of supervised release. He will be sentenced on August 18, 2025, before U.S. District Court Judge Michael Simon.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) with assistance from the FBI, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), IRS-Criminal Investigation (IRS:CI), Tigard Police Department, and the Oregon State Police. It is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon.
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.
Milwaukee Woman Sentenced to 15 Years in Federal Prison for Production of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Richard G. Frohling, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on June 3, 2025, Chasity Evans (age 38, of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and Ripley, Tennessee) was sentenced to 15 years in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Lynn Adelman for her role in the production of child sexual abuse material (CSAM, or child pornography), in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 2251(a), 2251(e), and 2(a).
According to court records, Evans created child pornography using a minor child, which she then distributed and sold to her co-defendant via cell phone, in exchange for nominal sums of money via Cash App. The criminal conduct occurred on multiple occasions between February 2023 and June 2023, while Evans was a resident of Milwaukee and the Memphis, Tennessee, area. The child was between the ages of 11 and 12 during the production of the CSAM.
Following her term of imprisonment, Evans also will spend five years on supervised release. She will also have to register as a sex offender under state and federal law.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and Memphis, Tennessee, field offices) investigated this case, with the assistance of the Lauderdale County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Abbey M. Marzick.
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Middlesex County Man Sentenced to 27 Months for Defrauding South Koreans Through Bogus Commodities Investment SchemeRead the Press Release
TRENTON, N.J. – A Middlesex County, New Jersey man was sentenced to prison for defrauding victims in South Korea through a bogus investment scheme, U.S. Attorney Alina Habba announced.
Mohammed Rahman, 64, of Iselin, New Jersey, was sentenced to 27 months in prison. Rahman previously pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Georgette Castner to an information charging him with conspiracy to commit wire fraud.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
Rahman controlled a company, Caltech Trading Corporation, through which he purported to buy and sell commodities. Rahman and other individuals in South Korea persuaded approximately 60 victims there to invest funds purportedly toward the purchase of $1 million of sugar from Brazil, which Caltech would then sell for a substantial profit. Rahman and his associates memorialized the investment terms in a fraudulent investment agreement that falsely promised the victim investors that they would receive a one hundred percent return on their investment. The victims relied on Rahman’s misrepresentations about how their funds would be used to purchase sugar. In reality, the funds were wired into Rahman’s bank account and used to pay his personal expenses, including his mortgage. Rahman also altered his bank account statement in an attempt to conceal the fact that he did not use the investors’ funds to purchase sugar.
In addition to the prison term, Judge Castner sentenced Rahman to two years of supervised release and to pay $1,393,200 in restitution to the victims. Judge Castner ordered forfeiture of $1,000,000, constituting proceeds derived from the conspiracy.
U.S. Attorney Habba credited special agents of the IRS-Criminal Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Jenifer Piovesan, and special agents of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Ricky J. Patel in Newark, with the investigation. She also thanked the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency and the Seoul Central District Prosecutor’s Office for their assistance.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica R. Ecker of the Health Care Fraud & Opioids Abuse Prevention Unit in Newark.
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Defense counsel: Robert G. Stahl, Esq.
Maryland Man Sentenced for Wire Fraud in Hampshire CountyRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Duane Dixon, Jr., age 35, of Aberdeen, Maryland, was sentenced to 15 months in federal prison for conspiracy to commit wire fraud and three counts of wire fraud.
Dixon was found guilty by a jury following a trial in January 2025. The jury heard testimony that as part of a fraud conspiracy an individual impersonating a landowner contacted a realtor in Winchester, Virginia, claiming to have authority to sell a parcel of real estate located in Hampshire County, West Virginia. Although having no legal rights to the property, the imposter listed the property for sale through the realtor.
As part of the fraud scheme, deposit information for a bank account belonging to, and controlled by Dixon, a co-conspirator of the imposter, was emailed to a real estate closing agent in an attempt to acquire control of the proceeds from the sham transaction. The imposter continued to make contact via email in his attempt to have funds wired to Dixon’s bank account. When subsequently contacted by an undercover employee of the FBI, Dixon repeatedly lied about his relationship with the sender of the attempted wire transaction and his knowledge regarding the transactions. Dixon’s fraudulent statements were made with the intent to complete the sham transaction.
Dixon will serve three years of supervised release following his prison sentence.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jarod Douglas and Dan Salem prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated the case.
U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Manhattan man sentenced to 7 years in prison on drug chargesRead the Press Release
MISSOULA – A Manhattan, Montana man who distributed methamphetamine was sentenced today to 84 months in prison to be followed by 5 years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Kevin Andrew Bacon, 51, pleaded guilty in January 2025 to one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute controlled substances and one count of possession with intent to distribute controlled substances.
U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided.
The government alleged in court documents that in June 2022, law enforcement officers began investigating a drug trafficking ring operating in and around Butte. The conspiracy operated in part by sending drugs through the mail from California to Montana. For a substantial portion of the conspiracy, several of the conspirators operated out of a residence in Whitehall, MT.
The investigation led to the arrest of several conspirators in early January 2023 and the seizure of approximately 13 pounds of methamphetamine. On February 23, 2023, law enforcement located a package sent from California to “Kevin Bacon” in Manhattan, MT. Law enforcement searched the package and located 873.5 grams of actual methamphetamine inside.
On February 28, 2023, Bacon arrived at the post office in Manhattan and picked up the package. Bacon was arrested as he exited the building with the package. He told investigators he had a friend in Whitehall who sold methamphetamine, and that friend had asked Bacon to receive a package at Bacon’s P.O. Box, which Bacon knew would contain drugs.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian Lowney prosecuted the case. The investigation was conducted by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Homeland Security Investigations, Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office and Montana Division of Criminal Investigation.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.
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Man from El Salvador charged with making false statementRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Oscar David Contreras Guzman, 49, a citizen of El Salvador, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with making a false statement, which carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Sasha Mascarenhas, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, in the early morning hours of May 17, 2025, Guzman was driving a commercial truck bearing Maryland license plates at the Lewiston Bridge Port of Entry. When asked for identification during primary inspection, Guzman presented a Maryland State Driver’s License. He also claimed to be a citizen of Mexico and indicated that he had been refused entry into Canada, after making a wrong turn onto the Lewiston Bridge, on his way to Michigan. Guzman was referred to secondary to determine his immigration status in the United States. During secondary inspection, Guzman again stated that he was a citizen of Mexico and had in his possession a Mexican Consular ID card. A fingerprint check determined that he was in fact Oscar David Contreras Guzman, a citizen of El Salvador, and was previously removed from the United States in April 2007.
This investigation is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
The complaint is the result of an investigation by Customs and Border Protection, under the direction of Director of Field Operations Rose Brophy.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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Man Sentenced to 300 Months in Prison for Sexual Exploitation of a Female MinorRead the Press Release
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico – On June 3, 2025, United States District Court Chief Judge Raúl M. Arias Marxuach sentenced Elvin Jhohanie Molina-Rosado to 300 months (25 years) in prisonfollowed by 15 years of supervised release for child exploitation charges against a female minor victim. Molina-Rosado, 36, from Corozal, PR, was indicted on January 26, 2024, and plead guilty on February 14, 2025.
According to court documents, from February 2020 to April 2022 Elvin Jhohanie Molina Rosado knowingly employed, used, and coerced a minor female, when she was between the ages of twelve and fourteen years old, to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing visual depictions of such conduct, that is images of sexual acts and lascivious exhibition of the genital and pubic areas. The visual depictions were produced using his cellular devices. In April 2022, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Puerto Rico Crimes Against Children Task Force received information from the Police of Puerto Rico regarding the allegations that Defendant had sexually abused and recorded sexually explicit images of the minor female. The investigation led to the arrest and prosecution of Elvin Jhohanie Molina Rosado.
“This case demonstrates the resolve of the Department of Justice to prosecute those who exploit and victimize our children,” said W. Stephen Muldrow, United States Attorney for the District of Puerto Rico. “I thank our dedicated team of prosecutors, victim witness coordinators, support personnel, as well as our dedicated law enforcement partners and their relentless efforts to combat child exploitation and to bring offenders to justice.”
“Adults have a fundamental responsibility to protect our children—not to exploit or harm them. This case represents a violation of that duty, and the sentence reflects the seriousness we put toward the investigation and prosecution of these crimes,” said Rebecca González-Ramos, HSI San Juan Special Agent in Charge. “The exploitation of a child is abominable. Homeland Security Investigations remains steadfast in our mission to protect our children. Individuals involved in these heinous acts should know that no matter where they hide, if they exploit a minor we will find them. — This 25 years sentence of incarceration and 15 years of supervised release ensure this predator can no longer harm a child.”
The Department of Homeland Security Investigations investigated the case with the collaboration of the Puerto Rico Police Bureau. Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) Jenifer Y. Hernández-Vega, Chief of the Child Exploitation and Immigration Unit, prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
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Lebanon County Man Indicted for Child-Pornography OffensesRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Christian Tyler Harding, age 24, a resident of Annville, Pennsylvania, was indicted on May 28, 2025, by a federal grand jury for child-pornography offenses.
According to Acting U.S. Attorney John C. Gurganus, the indictment alleges that, on or about February 3, 2025, Harding attempted to produce child pornography, and coerced and enticed a minor to engage in a sexual activity for which a person can be charged with a criminal offense. The indictment further alleges that between on or about January 1, 2025, and February 27, 2025, Harding received and possessed child pornography.
This case was investigated by the Bowling Green Police Department in Ohio, the Western Lebanon County Regional Police Department, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorney K. Wesley Mishoe is prosecuting the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is life imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, a fine, and the imposition of a special assessment. A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by a court after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
Indictments are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
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Justice Department Announces Action Against Wisconsin Elections Commission for Lacking Complaint Procedure Required by Federal LawRead the Press Release
Today, the Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division sent a letter to the Wisconsin Elections Commission regarding its failure to provide a complaint process or hearing for Wisconsin voters, in violation of the Help America Vote Act (HAVA).
The letter states that the Wisconsin Elections Commission failed to meet HAVA’s requirement of a state-based administrative complaint procedure. Compliance with all federal elections laws is mandatory, and the receipt of federal funds under HAVA is conditioned on compliance with the Act.
Election integrity and compliance with federal elections laws are essential to protect our constitutional republic. Wisconsin’s refusal to give complainants any recourse to report violations they may have observed or experienced while voting is a significant violation of federal law, and a betrayal of the confidence of the American people.
“Courts across the land, including our highest court, have repeatedly defended measures to ensure election integrity,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division, “We have made it our highest priority to identify jurisdictions that fail to follow our elections laws and vigorously enforce the law by all means available.”
The letter issued today also notifies the U.S. Election Assistance Commission of Wisconsin’s unlawful actions and calls for the withholding of federal funds to Wisconsin for violating HAVA.
Jury convicts Edwardsville man of drug traffickingRead the Press Release
BENTON, Ill. – A federal jury returned a two-count guilty verdict for an Edwardsville man charged with distributing meth in Franklin and Perry counties.
Kevin D. Stewart, 59, was convicted of one count of conspiracy to distribute meth and one count of possession with intent to distribute more than 50 grams of meth.
Co-defendant Elizabeth J. Schwartzkopf, 43, of Pinckneyville, pleaded guilty in September to one count of conspiracy to distribute meth and one count of possession with intent to distribute meth and was sentenced to 48 months’ imprisonment on Wednesday.
"The collaboration between the ISP and the U.S. Attorney's Office is essential in dismantling drug trafficking networks,” stated ISP Director Brendan F. Kelly. “By combining investigative expertise with prosecutorial power, this partnership delivers justice more effectively, disrupting criminal operations and protecting the well-being of our communities."
According to court documents and evidence at trial, Illinois State Police officers conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle driven by Schwartzkopf with Stewart in the passenger seat in March 2024. Officers recovered 312 grams of methamphetamine, 924 grams of homemade THC gummies, and a scale from the vehicle.
Stewart’s sentencing hearing is scheduled for 9:30 a.m. on Sept. 16, 2025, at the federal courthouse in Benton. Possession with intent to distribute more than 50 grams of meth carries a mandatory minimum of 10 years’ imprisonment.
The Illinois State Police Drug Task Force led the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys David Sanders and Tom Leggans are prosecuting the case.
June Federal Grand Jury 2025-A Indictments AnnouncedRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Clint Johnson today announced the results of the June Federal Grand Jury 2025-A Indictments.
The following individuals have been charged with violations of United States law in indictments returned by the Grand Jury. The return of an indictment is a method of informing a defendant of alleged violations of federal law, which must be proven in a court of law beyond a reasonable doubt to overcome a defendant’s presumption of innocence.
Mitchell Lee Keene. Escape from Federal Custody. Keene, 63, of Rose, is charged with escaping federal custody and knowingly departing the Turley Residential Center without permission. The U.S. Marshal Service is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles Greenough is prosecuting the case. 25-CR-186
Jose Gledin Ramires-Lopez. Unlawful Reentry of a Removed Alien. Ramires-Lopez, 28, a Honduran national, is charged with unlawfully reentering the United States after having been previously removed in Aug. 2018. ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Dallas Field Office is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Valeria Luster is prosecuting the case.
25-CR-195Jose Luis Rodriguez Cornejo. Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute; Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute; Maintaining a Drug-Involved Premises; Unlawful Reentry of a Removed Alien. Rodriguez Cornejo, 43, a Mexican national, is charged with knowingly possessing more than 500 grams of cocaine and more than 50 grams of methamphetamine with intent to distribute. He is further charged with maintaining a residence to distribute cocaine and methamphetamine. Additionally, he is charged with unlawfully reentering the United States after having been previously removed in Feb. 2001. The Drug Enforcement Administration Tulsa Resident Office and the Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam McConney is prosecuting the case. 25-CR-187
Odell Carl Stokes; Arthur Lee Hudgens, Jr.; Roderick Dale Favors; Cornelius James Artis. Drug Conspiracy (Count 1); Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute (Counts 2 and 3); Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute. Stokes, 49, Hudgens, 46, Favors, 43, and Artis, 44, of Tulsa, are charged with conspiring to distribute methamphetamine from Oct. 2024 through May 2025. Hudgens, Favors, Artis, and Stokes are additionally charged with knowingly possessing methamphetamine with intent to distribute. Lastly, Stokes is charged with possessing cocaine with intent to distribute. The Drug Enforcement Administration Tulsa Resident Office, Tulsa County Sheriff’s Office, Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics, and the Oklahoma Highway Patrol are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney David Nasar is prosecuting the case. 25-CR-188
John Edgar Williams, IV; Jeremy Mindez Ruff; Savannah D’naisha May Gage; Nevaeh Charise Cox; Trinity Rinique Goudeau; Shavari Melton; Vanessa Lashay Bell; Ashley Charles. Conspiracy to Commit Sex Trafficking (Count 1); Transporting an Individual for Prostitution (Counts 2 & 3); Interstate Travel to Aid Racketeering (Count 4); Distribution of Child Pornography (Count 5). Williams, 38, Gage, 25, Cox, 39, Goudeau, 24, Melton, 20, Bell, 20, Charles, 37, of Tulsa, and Ruff, 39, of Dallas, Texas, are charged with conspiring with each other to recruit, entice, and harbor a person by threats of force to engage in a commercial sex act for payment. Williams and Gage are charged separately for transporting people to engage in prostitution and other sexual activities. Additionally, Williams, Ruff, Gage, Cox, Goudeau, Melton, and Charles are charged with using interstate and foreign commerce to promote and manage a business enterprise involving prostitution. Lastly, Cox is further charged with knowingly distributing visual images and videos depicting the sexual abuse of children. The Tulsa Police Department, Homeland Security Investigations, the Bureau of Indian Affairs, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Muscogee Creek Nation Lighthorse Police are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kenneth Elmore, John Brasher, and John W. Dowdell are prosecuting the case. 25-CR-197
Juan Rojo Yanez. Unlawful Reentry of a Removed Alien. Yanez, AGE, a Mexican national, is charged with unlawfully reentering the United States after having been previously removed in Mar. 1999. ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Dallas Field Office is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie Ihler is prosecuting the case. 25-CR-196
Jackson Man Sentenced to over 18 Years in Prison for Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute Cocaine and Possession with the Intent to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
Jackson, MS – A Jackson man, Marcus Guice, was sentenced on May 30, 2025 to 175 months in federal prison and 3 years of supervised release for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine and 175 months in federal prison and 5 years of supervised release for possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, both sentences and terms of supervised release to run concurrently. Since his criminal conduct was in violation of his federal supervised release, Guice was also sentenced to an additional 46 months in federal prison to run consecutive to the 175-month prison term.
According to court documents, in and around December 2019 and continuing through January 2020, communications between Guice and his coconspirators were intercepted wherein they negotiated and conducted the sale of marijuana, cocaine, cocaine base (commonly known as “crack”), and methamphetamine in the Jackson, Mississippi area. Guice and his coconspirators are responsible for over 69,000 kilograms of converted drug weight being sold in the Jackson, Mississippi area in a two-month period.
In addition to the prison sentence, Guice was ordered to pay a $1,500 fine.
Acting U.S. Attorney Patrick A. Lemon of the Southern District of Mississippi; and Special Agent in Charge Robert Eikhoff of the Federal Bureau of Investigation made the announcement.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Jackson Police Department and Ridgeland Police Department, and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Keesha Middleton.
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).
Illegal alien sentenced for assaulting law enforcementRead the Press Release
McALLEN, Texas – A 21-year-old El Salvadorian national has been sentenced for assaulting a Border Patrol (BP) agent, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Oscar Adilio Sanchez-Rivera pleaded guilty March 4.
U.S. District Judge Drew B. Tipton has now ordered Sanchez-Rivera to serve 36 months in federal prison. Not a U.S. citizen, he is expected to face removal proceedings following his imprisonment.
“The defendant here managed to turn a simple removal case to a multi-year federal sentence,” said Ganjei. “Let this case be an example to others who may wish harm on police or federal agents; assaulting law enforcement will not be tolerated.”
On Nov. 1, 2024, authorities conducted a traffic stop in Rio Grande City when Sanchez-Rivera notified them of his alien status. As the BP agent attempted to place him in a vehicle, Sanchez-Rivera attempted to evade arrest. He punched the agent in the face and grabbed the agent’s finger, causing a fracture that required surgery.
Sanchez-Rivera fled on foot but was soon apprehended.
He will remain in custody pending transfer to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
BP and FBI conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Amanda McColgan prosecuted the case.
Humbolt, Iowa, Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Federal Prison for Sexual Exploitation of a ChildRead the Press Release
Paul William Flett, age 44, from Humbolt, Iowa, was sentenced in federal court in Sioux City, Iowa, on June 3, 2025. Flett pled guilty January 23, 2025, to one count to sexual exploitation of a child.
Evidence in the case showed that Flett sent links and images of child pornography to underage girls and asked them to send images and videos of themselves to him. On June 6, 2024, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Flett’s home and in a consensual interview, Flett admitted to the conduct and that he threw his phone in a closet when law enforcement arrived because he knew they were there for him. Forensic analysis of Flett’s electronics and Kik account discovered a total of 16 videos and 60 images of child pornography including several that Flett had asked children to record of themselves. The images and videos contained material that portrayed sadistic or masochistic conduct, as well as prepubescent children, infants, and toddlers.
Sentencing was held before United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand. Flett was sentenced to 180 months’ imprisonment, ordered to pay $3,600 in restitution and assessments, and ordered to serve a term of supervised release of 5 years following imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. Flett remains in custody of the U.S. Marshals Service until he can be transported to a federal prison.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab “resources.”
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation Cyber-Crime Unit, and Webster County Sheriff’s Office in Missouri and was 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 24-CR-03036.
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Habitual offender sentenced to over 4 years in prison for domestic assault on Fort Belknap Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS – A Harlem man who assaulted his domestic partner was sentenced today to 51 months in prison to be followed by 3 years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Nicholas Dee Birdtail, 53, pleaded guilty in January 2025 to one count of domestic assault by habitual offender.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided.
The government alleged in court documents that Birdtail and Jane Doe had been in a dating relationship for over three years and were married in tribal court in 2022. On September 2, 2023, Birdtail slapped Jane Doe across the face. The responding law enforcement officers saw a fresh handprint on the left side of Doe’s face. Doe also showed the officer bruises on her arms from the night before that were caused by Birdtail. At the time of the assault, Birdtail was released on bond for previous domestic violence charges against Doe. A condition of his bond was to have no contact with Doe.
Prior to September 2, 2023, Birdtail was convicted of multiple misdemeanor domestic assaults in Billings municipal court, and he was convicted of felony partner family member assault in Yellowstone County District Court. He also has a misdemeanor conviction for partner family member assault from Idaho.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kalah Paisley prosecuted the case. The investigation was conducted by the FBI and Fort Belknap Law Enforcement Services.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.
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Guatemalan man pleads guilty, sentenced for making false statementRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, NY—U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Gendry Amilcar Niz-Niz, 25, a native of Guatemala, pleaded guilty to making a false statement before U.S. District Judge John L. Sinatra, Jr. Niz-Niz was then sentenced to time served and turned over to Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Sasha Mascarenhas, who handled the case, stated that on March 16, 2025, during a traffic stop, Niz-Niz provided a name and identification card, which did not match his true identity, to law enforcement. During the traffic stop, law enforcement learned, through fingerprint analysis and immigration checks, Niz-Niz’s identity.
This investigation is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
The plea and sentencing are the result of an investigation by the Lockport Police Department, under the direction of Chief Steven Abbott and U.S. Border Patrol, under the direction of Patrol Agent-in-Charge Martin B. Coombs.
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Guatemalan National Sentenced for Illegally Entering the US After a Prior RemovalRead the Press Release
PORTLAND, Maine: A Guatemalan national was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Portland for illegally entering the U.S. after a prior removal.
Chief U.S. District Judge Lance E. Walker sentenced Samuel Par-Lopez, 37, to time served (approximately 113 days). Par-Lopez pleaded guilty on March 14, 2025.
According to court records, on February 7, 2025, an officer from the Wiscasset Police Department observed Par-Lopez operating a vehicle with snow on the roof that had not been cleared (a violation of Maine motor vehicle law). Immigration records showed that he had previously been removed from the U.S. and did not have a visa or other documentation that would allow him to re-enter the country.
U.S. Border Patrol investigated the case with assistance from the Wiscasset Police Department.
Operation Take Back America: This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) and Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN).
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Guatemalan National Indicted for Illegal ReentryRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Guatemalan national has been indicted by a federal grand jury for unlawfully reentering the United States after deportation.
Edilsaro Romeo Mauricio Temaj, 26, was indicted on one count of unlawful reentry of a deported alien.According to the charging documents, on or about Dec. 14, 2024, Mauricio was found in the United States after having been deported from the United States to Guatemala on or about July 31, 2024.
The charge of unlawful reentry of a deported alien provides for a sentence of up to two years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. The defendant will also be subject to deportation upon completion of any sentence imposed. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Patricia H. Hyde, Field Office Director of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations in Boston made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren Maynard of the Major Crimes Unit is prosecuting the case.
The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Guatemalan National Indicted for Illegal ReentryRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Guatemalan national has been indicted by a federal grand jury for unlawfully reentering the United States after deportation.
Jasson Humberto Marroquin Moro, 29, was indicted on one count of unlawful reentry of a deported alien.According to the charging documents, on or about May 6, 2025, Mauricio was found in the United States after having been deported from the United States to Guatemala on or about June 3, 2014.
The charge of unlawful reentry of a deported alien provides for a sentence of up to two years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. The defendant is subject to deportation upon completion of any sentence imposed. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Patricia H. Hyde, Field Office Director of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations in Boston made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren Maynard of the Major Crimes Unit is prosecuting the case.
The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Georgia Resident Sentenced for Leading Bank Fraud and ID Theft SchemeRead the Press Release
ALBANY, Ga. – The final defendant and ringleader of a bank fraud and aggravated identity theft scheme involving stolen checks and a fake online recruiting website was sentenced to federal prison today.
Jalen Tylee Hill, aka “Roscoe Hill,” 26, of Americus, was sentenced to serve 81 months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release. The Court will determine restitution at a later date. Hill previously pleaded guilty to one count of bank fraud, one count of aggravated identity theft and one count of conspiracy to possess stolen mail on May 14, 2024. A codefendant, Victoria Lynn Carter, 25, of Americus, was sentenced to serve one year of supervised release after she previously pleaded guilty to one count of bank fraud. The sentences were handed down by Chief U.S. District Judge Leslie Abrams Gardner on June 4. There is no parole in the federal system.
“Schemes to defraud and steal from citizens will not be tolerated in the Middle District of Georgia,” said Acting U.S. Attorney C. Shanelle Booker. “This case serves as a reminder for all of us to be as vigilant as possible with what we share online and monitor our financial accounts. I commend the good investigative work of our local and federal law enforcement partners for helping to prevent any more people and businesses from falling victim to this fraud.”
“The sentencing of this defendant and co-defendants exemplifies the dedication of the investigative efforts which sends a strong message to individuals to consider the consequences of stealing mail and committing financial fraud,” said Rodney M. Hopkins, Inspector in Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), Atlanta Division. “I commend the hard work and countless hours put forth by all of the law enforcement agencies involved, which resulted in the dismantling of this criminal network.”
"The Sumter County Sheriff’s Office appreciates the support and assistance we received in investigating this case," said Sumter County Sheriff Eric Bryant. "Fraud crimes are on the rise in our area, and the strong partnerships we have with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies provide us with additional resources to address these types of crimes."
According to court documents and statements made in court, the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office received a complaint from a local church in December 2021 about mail theft and forged checks. During the investigation, law enforcement discovered that numerous checks had been stolen out of mailboxes at residential and commercial locations in Georgia. The checks were then forged and deposited into other bank accounts. Specifically, the checks were often altered by having the “Pay To” designation changed to an individual involved in the fraud. That individual would then
make a deposit into their banking account. Other times, the checks would be altered by computer software.
Investigators discovered that Hill directed the scheme and would recruit people via Facebook. Hill would often offer to deposit stolen, forged or duplicated checks into the bank accounts of the recruits on condition that they would split half the funds. Investigators were able to determine that in six months, Hill stole hundreds of pieces of mail, participated in at least 68 incidents of bank fraud, and unlawfully used debit cards belonging to other individuals at least 14 occasions. Hill then deposited, or attempted to deposit, the numerous stolen, forged or otherwise fraudulent checks of more than ten financial institutions into other bank accounts, resulting in an intended loss of approximately $165,743.68. As part of another scheme discovered by investigators, Hill created a fake solar panel installation company recruiting page online from which he stole the identities of 28 individuals, including their driver’s licenses, social security cards, birth certificates, instructional permits and other documents depicting personally identifiable information.
The following codefendants have been convicted for their participation in the crime:
Quontavius Markeese Hill, 34, of Americus, pleaded guilty to one count of bank fraud and after serving more than eight months in custody was sentenced to time served plus three years of supervised release and to pay $10,815.89 restitution on Nov. 8, 2023;
Accacia Renae Gordon, 24, of Americus, pleaded guilty to one count of bank fraud and was sentenced to serve four months in prison to be followed by four years of supervised release and to pay $14,970.35 restitution on Jan. 15, 2025;
Shaneria Sharae Murray, 33, of Americus, pleaded guilty to one count of bank fraud and was sentenced to serve 45 days in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release and to pay $2,000 restitution on Dec. 2, 2024;
Chelsea Ja'Nay Tullis, 29, of Americus, pleaded guilty to one count of bank fraud and was sentenced to serve one month in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release on March 15, 2024;
LaQuashia Nichole French, 24, of Americus, pleaded guilty to one count of bank fraud and was sentenced to serve 15 days in prison to be followed by four years of supervised release and to pay $2,227.91 restitution on Oct. 23, 2024;
Jazmon Lace Whitehead, 31, of Oglethorpe, Georgia, pleaded guilty to one count of bank fraud and was sentenced to serve three years of supervised release and to pay $7,658.59 restitution on March 17, 2025;
Chasity LaCole Wellons, 31, of Cordele, Georgia, pleaded guilty to one count of bank fraud and was sentenced to serve three years of supervised release and to pay $2,000 restitution on Jan. 22, 2025;
DeKeyvia Moasha Blackshear, 26, of Americus, pleaded guilty to one count of bank fraud and was sentenced to serve three years of supervised release on Aug. 16, 2024;
Janita Bre'Shaye Terry, 24, of Columbus, Georgia, pleaded guilty to one count of bank fraud and was sentenced to serve three years of supervised release on Dec. 2, 2024;
Kelbresha Danielle Thomas, 30, of Oglethorpe, pleaded guilty to one count of bank fraud and was sentenced to serve three years of supervised release on Dec. 2, 2024;
Jenetta Small, 29, of Americus, pleaded guilty to one count of bank fraud and was sentenced to serve two years of supervised release on March 14, 2025;
Tyavia Deashia Richardson, 24, of Americus, pleaded guilty to one count of bank fraud and was sentenced to one year of supervised release and to pay $4,740 restitution on Aug. 14, 2024; and
Kimbreyanna Andranique Peeples, 23, of Butler, Georgia, pleaded guilty to one count of bank fraud and was sentenced to serve one year of supervised release on Dec. 2, 2024.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) and the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office with assistance from the FBI and the U.S Secret Service (USSS).
Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Redavid prosecuted the case for the Government.
Georgia Narcotics Trafficker Sentenced to More Than 12 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
NEW BERN, N.C. – Jesus Anibal Gutierrez, a 27-year-old resident of College Park, GA was sentenced to 12.5 years in federal prison for distributing crystal methamphetamine in Goldsboro, NC. Gutierrez pled guilty on November 12, 2024.
According to the court documents and other information presented in court, the investigation began in July 2023, when law enforcement learned that a Mexico-based drug trafficker had arranged to send significant quantities of narcotics to the Eastern District of North Carolina. Law enforcement learned that a courier working on behalf of the Mexican drug trafficker was scheduled to arrive in the Goldsboro, NC area with a large shipment of methamphetamine on October 21, 2023.
With the assistance of a confidential informant, law enforcement located the courier’s car and conducted a traffic stop. A K-9 alerted to the presence of narcotics inside the car, and law enforcement seized approximately 20.74 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine, as well as three cellular telephones. Gutierrez was a passenger in the car and admitted to law enforcement that he coordinated the shipment of narcotics and was traveling to the Goldsboro area to deliver them. The driver, Rosendo Salazar, pled guilty to possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine on March 10, 2025.
Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge Louise W. Flanagan. The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and Goldsboro Police Department investigated the case, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer C. Nucci prosecuted the case. A copy of this press release is located on our website. Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for case number 5:24-CR-00149.
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Four Admit Fraudulently Registering Vehicles in MissouriRead the Press Release
ST. LOUIS –Four people, including three former employees of vehicle and driver license offices, have admitted fraudulently registering motor vehicles in Missouri.
Gary Wilds, 48, pleaded guilty Wednesday in U.S. District Court in St. Louis to one count of conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud, 22 counts of wire fraud, four counts of aggravated identity theft and six counts of making a false statement.
Three former employees of contract license offices have also pleaded guilty. Ashlyn Graeff, 39, pleaded guilty on March 5, 2024, to three counts of making a false statement. Megan Leone, 42, pleaded guilty on Dec. 11, 2024, to one count of conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud and one count of making a false statement. Michelle Boyer, 53, pleaded guilty on May 21 to one count of conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud.
Wilds’ business, Pinnacle Concierge, assisted customers in registering their vehicles with the Missouri Department of Revenue. Wilds admitted bribing employees of the motor vehicle license offices to falsely represent to the state that the vehicles had passed emissions and safety inspections and that those owners had paid their property taxes and had proof of insurance or other evidence of financial responsibility. Wilds also bribed employees into submitting forged documents claiming that vehicle owners were eligible for sales tax exemptions, thus reducing tax assessments from thousands of dollars per vehicle to as little as $11.
Some of Wilds’ customers knew that Wilds was going to use deceptive means to register their vehicles because their vehicles could not pass emissions tests, they had outstanding child support arrearages or they had been barred from registering vehicles by another state agency, the plea says. The customers who were unaware suffered financial losses because Wilds sent a fraction of the actual required taxes to the Department of Revenue, and the owners remain liable for those taxes.
As early as 2015, Boyer met Wilds at a contract licensing office and began assisting him in conducting the illegal motor vehicle transactions. Wilds knew Leone before 2017, when she began working for a licensing office in St. Charles County. After she started work as a title clerk, Wilds began paying her in exchange for her help registering vehicles and exempting vehicles from the payment of state and local taxes. When she was promoted to manager, Leone told Graeff, who was her subordinate and who began working at the office in 2018, to fraudulently complete vehicle registration documents on behalf of Wilds. Wilds paid Graeff $100 for each transaction. Graeff initially conducted one or two fraudulent registrations per week for Wilds but that eventually grew to as many as 10 per day. Graeff’s activities resulted in a loss of state tax revenue of $84,154.96.
Leone is scheduled to be sentenced on July 24 and Boyer on August 21. Graeff was sentenced July 17, 2024, to four years of probation and ordered to pay $84,554 in restitution.
Wilds is scheduled to be sentenced on September 2. The conspiracy and wire fraud charges each carry a potential penalty of up to 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, or both prison and a fine. The charge of making a false statement carries a potential penalty of up to five years in prison, a $250,000 fine, or both. Each aggravated identity theft charge is punishable by two years in prison, consecutive to any other charge.
The case was investigated by the Missouri Department of Revenue and the FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tracy Berry is prosecuting the case.
Federal Jury Finds Venezuelan National Guilty of Harboring Illegal Aliens in El Paso ApartmentRead the Press Release
EL PASO, Texas – A federal jury in El Paso convicted a Venezuelan national for conspiracy to harbor aliens.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Marcel Eliezer Zapata-Colmenarez, 26, opened the door of his residence on Jan. 30 to find agents from the U.S. Border Patrol and other federal law enforcement agencies present. With Zapata-Colmenarez’s consent, the agents entered and searched the residence, finding piles of clothes on the floor, wet and muddy clothing hanging in a closet, and other signs consistent with harboring and smuggling illegal aliens. Zapata-Colmenarez also granted consent for agents to search his cell phone, leading to the discovery of proof-of-life videos—videos sent by recently-crossed illegal aliens acknowledging that they had been smuggled with the assistance of a smuggling network. Zapata-Colmenarez later admitted that he accepted an offer to harbor illegal aliens in his apartment and was paid $50 per alien.
Zapata-Colmenarez was arrested Jan. 30 and indicted on Feb. 26 for one count of conspiracy to harbor aliens and one count of harboring aliens for financial gain. His sentencing hearing is currently scheduled for Aug. 26, 2025, and he faces up to 10 years in federal prison along with a fine of up to $250,000.
U.S. Attorney Justin R. Simmons for the Western District of Texas made the announcement.
The U.S. Border Patrol investigated the case with assistance from the FBI and Homeland Security Investigations.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Scott Wisniewski and Mathew Engelbaum are prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
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