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16 July 2025
Utah Man Indicted for First Degree Murder After Allegedly Killing Another Man with a Bow and ArrowRead the Press Release
SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – A federal grand jury in Salt Lake City returned an indictment today charging a Northeastern Utah man with first degree murder after he allegedly killed another man with a bow and arrow last month.
Leroy Casper Poowegup Reed, 42, of Whiterocks, Utah, was charged by complaint on June 27, 2025, and ordered detained by a U.S. Magistrate Judge.
According to court documents, on June 26, 2025, officers from the Bureau of Indian Affairs and the Uintah County Sheriff’s Office responded to a 911 call from an individual who reported a possible vehicle accident in the Whiterocks community. It was reported that an individual was inside the vehicle unconscious and not breathing, with an arrow sticking out of him. Officers at the scene observed a black GMC pickup with the sole occupant/victim inside. The victim had an arrow pierced into his neck just above the collar bone. Officers concluded he was deceased.
As alleged in court documents, officers located a male individual on a porch of a residence, who was yelling at law enforcement. Officers also found blood on the road in front of the residence. The resident on the porch was identified as Reed and was taken into custody. Officers also located and seized a bow and arrows, and other items. Law enforcement obtained surveillance video of the incident, which showed a black GMC truck pull up and park. The victim exited the truck and walked towards Reed’s residence. Reed was then observed walking across the driveway with a bow and arrow drawn. The victim put his hands up and the video showed Reed move closer to the victim and then release an arrow, which hit the victim in the neck above the collar bone. The victim turned and walked back to his truck and Reed turned and walked towards his residence. The arrows seized from Reed’s residence match the arrow found in the victim.
Reed is charged with murder in the first degree while within Indian Country. His initial appearance on the indictment is scheduled for July 17, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. in courtroom 8.4 before a U.S. Magistrate Judge at the Orrin G. Hatch United States District Courthouse in downtown Salt Lake City.
Acting United States Attorney Felice John Viti for the District of Utah made the announcement.
The case is being investigated jointly by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, the Uintah County Sheriff’s Office and the FBI Salt Lake City Field Office’s Vernal Resident Agency.
Assistant United States Attorneys Sam Pead and Victoria K. McFarland of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah 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 (OCDETF) and Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN).
An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
United States Files Complaint Against Myrtle Beach Office Furniture Supplier, Owner for Customs FraudRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, S.C. — The United States has filed a complaint against Global Office Furniture, LLC (GOF) and its owner Malcom E. Smith alleging that they violated the False Claims Act by knowingly and improperly underpaying customs duties owed on imported office chairs. GOF, located in Myrtle Beach, imports and sells office furniture manufactured overseas in the People’s Republic of China.
The United States’ complaint alleges that the defendants, in coordination with a Chinese manufacturer, engaged in a scheme to fraudulently avoid or decrease the payment of customs duties owed to the United States for merchandise imported between 2019 and 2023. The defendants allegedly employed a double-invoicing scheme by submitting false entry summaries and invoices to U.S. Customs and Border Protection that undervalued imported office chairs, thereby reducing the duties paid on the merchandise. The government further alleges that the defendants undertook efforts to destroy evidence of their fraudulent scheme after they were informed that the government was investigating their practices.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Austin McCullough and James Leventis are handling the matter, with assistance provided by U.S. Customs and Border Protection and Homeland Security Investigations. The case is United States ex rel. Joyce v. Global Office Furniture, LLC, et al., No. 2:20-cv-01223-DCN.
The claims asserted by the United States are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability.
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Two-Time Felon Convicted of Two More Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
A man who formerly operated a used appliance business in Marion, Iowa, was convicted by a jury today after a three-day trial in federal court in Cedar Rapids.
Cordell Maleec Mayfield, age 28, from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, was convicted of one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm and one count of possession of a firearm with an obliterated serial number. The verdict was returned this afternoon following about 35 minutes of jury deliberations.
The evidence at trial showed that Mayfield had a firearm with an obliterated serial number in his Marion business on September 19, 2024, when Marion Police arrived late in the evening to perform a welfare check. The welfare check was precipitated by a 911 call to Marion Police to have officers check on the caller’s daughter who was with Mayfield at his business. Officers saw the weapon in Mayfield’s hand and later recovered it in a search. Evidence further showed that a few months before the firearm seizure, Mayfield stated in a recording that he preferred firearms with obliterated serial numbers.
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.
Sentencing before United States District Court Chief Judge C.J. Williams will be set after a presentence report is prepared. Mayfield remains in custody of the United States Marshal pending sentencing. Mayfield faces a possible maximum sentence of 20 years’ imprisonment, a $500,000 fine, and 3 years of supervised release following any imprisonment.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Patrick J. Reinert and Ashley Corkery and was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Marion Iowa Police Department, Cedar Rapids Police Department, and the Linn County Sheriff’s Office.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 24-CR-00094.
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Two District Men Ordered to Be Held Without Bond in Violent Armed Kidnapping and CarjackingRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Damon Middleton, 32, and Michael Alston, 27, both of the District of Columbia, were ordered to be held without bond today following their arrests for armed kidnapping and carjacking, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro.
According to court documents, on May 9, 2025, a male victim was parking his Dodge Caravan at his home in the District when he was approached by two men who hit him on the head and demanded money. One of the subjects allegedly took the victim’s keys, entered his apartment, and ransacked it.
The two men then drove the victim in the victim’s Dodge Caravan to various Maryland ATMs to withdraw funds from the victim’s CashApp and bank accounts. The men eventually left the victim zip-tied in Hyattsville, Maryland, and drove off in his vehicle. Law enforcement later located the torched remains of the victim’s Dodge Caravan within the District.
Middleton and Alston were charged in an indictment, which was unsealed on July 11, 2025, on charges of federal kidnapping and transportation of a stolen vehicle, as well as District of Columbia charges of armed carjacking and possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime of violence.
This case is being investigated by the Metropolitan Police Department and the FBI Washington Field Office’s Violent Crimes Task Force. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sabena Auyeung and Mark Levy.
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Two Chinese nationals facing federal charges in southern Illinois for staffing massage parlors with prostitutesRead the Press Release
EAST ST. LOUIS, Ill. – A federal grand jury returned an indictment charging two Chinese nationals with offenses related to operating illicit massage businesses in southern Illinois and Indiana.
Jianhong Hu Allbright, 57, of Shoals, Indiana, and Yalong Cao, 25, of Schaumburg, Illinois, are each facing one count of conspiracy to commit an offense against the U.S. and one count of money laundering conspiracy related to employees engaging in prostitution at the Oriental Home Spa & Massage in Centralia, Sunflower Spa in Mount Vernon, Rose Spa in Harrisburg, Oasis Massage Spa in Vandalia and Oriental Massage Parlor in Corydon, Indiana.
Allbright is also facing one count of transporting an individual to engage in prostitution.
“Massage parlors engaged in prostitution are not the romanticized fantasy from the movie “Pretty Woman”—they are criminal enterprises that create and exploit financial dependency to trap immigrants and others, coercing them into degrading subjugation,” said U.S. Attorney Steven D. Weinhoeft. “The Justice Department will continue to vigorously prosecute sex trafficking and work to vindicate the rights of vulnerable victims across southern Illinois.”
According to court documents, the charged conduct occurred between March 2022 and June 2024 at five massage parlors in southern Illinois and Indiana.
“The Illinois State Police commitment to fighting human trafficking is unwavering,” said Illinois State Police Director Brendan F. Kelly. “We are dedicated to protecting the most vulnerable, pursuing traffickers with every available resource, and working hand in hand with our partners to dismantle the networks that exploit human lives. This is not just law enforcement—it’s a moral obligation.”
Allbright is accused of managing the parlors’ day-to-day operations including arranging transportation and providing supplies for the female employees to engage in commercial sex acts.
“HSI will not tolerate criminals who exploits vulnerable women under the guise of legitimate business,” said HSI Chicago Special Agent in Charge Matthew Scarpino. “We will continue working side by side with our law enforcement partners to dismantle trafficking networks and hold offenders accountable.”
Cao is facing charges for allegedly recruiting employees to engage in prostitution and collecting the proceeds.
“IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) is committed to tracing money trails to the door of anyone involved in human trafficking,” said IRS-CI St. Louis Special Agent in Charge William Steenson. “Partnering with other law enforcement agencies to destroy these networks is a top priority for our agency.”
The pair are accused of advertising the illicit acts at their massage parlors on websites.
An indictment is merely a formal charge against a defendant. Under the law, a defendant is presumed to be innocent of a charge until proved guilty beyond a reasonable doubt to the satisfaction of a jury.
Money laundering conspiracy convictions are punishable by up to 20 years’ imprisonment and fines up to $500,000. Convictions of transporting an individual to engage in prostitution are punishable by up to ten years’ imprisonment and fines up to $250,000, and convictions for conspiracy to commit an offense against the U.S. are punishable by up to 5 years’ imprisonment.
The Illinois State Police Trafficking Enforcement Bureau, Homeland Security Investigations, IRS Criminal Investigation and the Illinois Department of Revenue are working the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Karelia Rajagopal is prosecuting the case.
Trinitarios Leader Sentenced to 14 Years in Prison for Racketeering ConspiracyRead the Press Release
BOSTON – The former leader of the Lynn Chapter of the Trinitarios was sentenced today in federal court in Boston on RICO conspiracy charges.
Aaron Diaz Liranzo, a/k/a “Sosa,” 26, was sentenced by U.S. Senior District Court Nathaniel M. Gorton to 14 years in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release. In March 2025, Diaz Liranzo pleaded guilty to conspiracy to conduct enterprise affairs through a pattern of racketeering activity, more commonly referred to as RICO conspiracy. Diaz Liranzo was arrested and charged in February 2025 at which time he was the Leader of the Lynn Chapter of the Trinitarios.
The Trinitarios is a violent criminal enterprise comprised of thousands of members across the United States. The Trinitarios adhere to a Magna Carta, employ an internal hierarchy to or organize and execute violence, and undertaken extensive efforts to maintain the secrecy of the organization and its members.
In February 2025, federal racketeering charges were unsealed against 22 leaders and members of the Trinitarios. The charges were the result of a multi-jurisdictional investigation, which began in the aftermath of four murders as well as a series of attempted murders and shootings that took place in Lynn in 2023, allegedly committed by the Trinitarios criminal enterprise and its members.During a period from at least 2021 through 2025, Diaz Liranzo served as the Primera or Number One of the Lynn Chapter of the Trinitarios. Diaz Liranzo admitted to participating in a shooting that took place in March 2019 that targeted multiple rival gang members outside of a Lynn nightclub. The victims were lured there by another member, who posed as a woman who needed a ride. Equipped with a firearm and knowledge of the victim’s whereabouts and vehicle they were driving, the defendant travelled to the nightclub and opened fire on the vehicle, discharging at least six rounds. During the incident, Diaz Liranzo shot two of the three victims seated in the car. Both victims suffered life-threatening injuries, but ultimately survived the incident.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Michael J. Krol, Special Agent in Charge, Homeland Security Investigations in New England; Ted E. Docks, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division; Essex County District Attorney Paul F. Tucker; Massachusetts State Police Colonel Geoffrey D. Noble; and Lynn Police Chief Christopher P. Reddy made the announcement. Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Hampshire; U.S. Customs and Border Protection; the Suffolk District Attorney’s Office; the Rockingham County District Attorney’s Office (NH); and the Andover, Boston, Lawrence, Peabody and Salem Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorney Philip A. Mallard of the Organized Crime & Gang Unit is prosecuting the case.
The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The remaining defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.Three MS-13 Members Charged with Racketeering Conspiracy Involving MurderRead the Press Release
Three alleged members of the notorious gang La Mara Salvatrucha, commonly known as MS-13, made their initial appearance in the District of Maryland yesterday for their role in a racketeering conspiracy, including murder and drug trafficking.
“As alleged, the defendants are MS-13 members who carried out a brutal and senseless murder in exchange for promotions within the gang and drugs,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Their actions furthered MS-13’s reign of terror across communities in Maryland. The Criminal Division will continue to pursue charges against MS-13 members and associates and will not relent until this dangerous gang is eradicated from our streets.”
“The brutal retaliatory murder of this victim is a chilling reminder of the MS-13 gang’s callous disregard for human life,” said U.S. Attorney Kelly O. Hayes for the District of Maryland. “Those who assault and kill others must be brought to justice and ultimately held accountable for their actions. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland will continue to work relentlessly with our law enforcement partners to dismantle violent criminal organizations that terrorize our communities.”
“The FBI and our partners are committed to using every tool available to prevent violent criminals from terrorizing the communities they live in,” said Assistant Director Jose A. Perez of the FBI’s Criminal Investigative Division. “We will not let up. We will relentlessly pursue those who engage in violent activity like murder and drug trafficking until they are held accountable.”
According to court documents, on July 4, 2024, Maxwell Ariel Quijano-Casco, 24, of El Salvador; Daniel Isaias Villanueva-Bautista, 19, of El Salvador; and Josue Mauricio Lainez, 21, of Hyattsville, Maryland, allegedly killed a homeless man as part of their involvement with MS-13. On July 5, 2024, a passerby called 911 after seeing the victim sitting in a blue 2008 Dodge Caravan that was parked in a used car lot in Hyattsville, Maryland. When the police arrived, they found the deceased victim, who appeared to have been stabbed in the neck. Investigators obtained video surveillance from a nearby business that captured the incident.
The surveillance video shows that at approximately 11:35 p.m Quijano-Casco and another person approach the victim. The video shows the victim wielding what looks like a metal pole at Quijano-Casco, at which point Quijano-Casco and the other person flee on foot and the victim returns to the Dodge Caravan. About 15 minutes later, Quijano-Casco returns with co-defendants Villanueva-Bautista, Lainez, and another person. At approximately 11:48 p.m., the video surveillance shows all four of them approaching the blue Dodge Caravan.
The surveillance video then shows Quijano-Casco, Villanueva-Bautista, Lainez, and the unnamed person opening the van’s rear sliding driver’s side door, reaching inside, and moving as if striking someone.
The victim does not exit the blue Dodge Caravan after the attack.
On Aug. 23, 2024, Prince George’s County Police arrested Quijano-Casco and Villanueva-Bautista. Quijano-Casco was in possession of a black Ruger P95DC semi-automatic handgun and about eight grams of cocaine at the time of his arrest. Quijano-Casco and Villanueva both admitted that they were present for the altercation where the victim was murdered. Quijano-Casco allegedly admitted to Prince George’s County Police to stabbing the individual.
Quijano-Casco, Villanueva-Bautista, and Lainez are each charged with racketeering conspiracy, including the July 4, 2024, murder. If convicted, Quijano-Casco, Villanueva-Bautista, and Lainez face a maximum penalty of life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The FBI and Prince George’s County Police Department are investigating the case.
Trial Attorney Christina Taylor of the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Joel Crespo for the District of Maryland are prosecuting the case.
This operation is part of Summer Heat, the FBI’s nationwide initiative targeting violent crime during the summer months. As part of this effort, the FBI has launched a multi-pronged offensive to crush violent crime. By surging resources alongside state and local partners, executing federal warrants on violent criminals and fugitives, and dismantling violent gangs nationwide, we are aggressively restoring safety in our communities across the country.
An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Three Defendants Sentenced to Combined 24 Years in Federal Prison for Armed CarjackingRead the Press Release
CLEVELAND – The last of three defendants involved in a 2021 carjacking and kidnapping was sentenced this week. Anton Woodley, 22, Cashaun Woodley, 24, and Lavontay Johnson, 23, all of Cleveland, each previously pleaded guilty to carjacking after they used firearms to drive an individual around the city so they could steal his money and take his motor vehicle by force.
Court documents show that on Dec. 12, 2021, a male victim visiting downtown Cleveland met two women who suggested they visit a nearby apartment building. After arriving, one of the women contacted the defendants to tell them about the man she had just met. She then worked out a plan to help them rob him. The Woodley brothers and Johnson traveled to the apartment and waited outside for the male victim to exit the building. When the victim appeared and walked out to his vehicle, the Woodley brothers and Johnson ambushed him at gunpoint. They pressed a pistol up against the back of his head and ordered him into the backseat of his car. The defendants abducted the victim and entered the car, with the Woodley brothers flanking the victim with guns while Johnson drove away.
With a gun pressed into his side, the defendants demanded money from the victim. They forced him to transfer several hundred dollars out of his accounts and disclose his financial information on his cellphone. After some time driving around the east side of Cleveland, they released the victim on East 80th Street and then sped away in his vehicle.
The victim’s car was recovered later that month when Garfield Heights police chased Johnson. As he fled the stolen vehicle on foot, officers found a Glock 23, 40 caliber pistol in Johnson’s flight path.
U.S. District Court Judge Pamela A. Barker imposed the following sentences:
- Anton Woodley was sentenced July 15, 2025, to 78 months (6.5 years) in prison, followed by three years of supervised release after imprisonment.
- Lavontay Johnson was sentenced March 13, 2025, to 120 months (10 years) in prison, followed by three years of supervised release after imprisonment.
- Cashaun Woodley was sentenced Dec. 19, 2024, to 100 months (8.3 years) in prison, followed by three years of supervised release.
Each defendant was ordered to pay $1,240 in restitution. This investigation was conducted by the FBI Cleveland Division, Cleveland Division of Police, and the Garfield Heights Police Department.
Assistant United States Attorney Adam J. Joines prosecuted the case for the Northern District of Ohio.
Three Convicted Felons Sentenced for Illegal Reentry After DeportationRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – Three Mexican nationals were sentenced for illegally reentering the United States (U.S.) after previously being deported. At the time they were charged and sentenced in federal court, each had been previously convicted of multiple criminal offenses.
Ezequiel Andres-Antonio, 42, was sentenced to 12 months in prison for reentering the U.S. without permission following a prior removal after an aggravated felony conviction for possession with intent to sell or deliver cocaine. On March 14, 2025, Andres-Antonio pled guilty to illegally reentering the U.S. after removal. [Case No. 5:24-cr-00269-FL]
Edward Nunez, 45, was sentenced to 19 months in prison for reentering the U.S. after having been removed three times after multiple felony convictions, including conspiracy to commit robbery with a dangerous weapon and illegal reentry, as well as recent convictions for possession of cocaine and possession of methamphetamine. On February 3, 2025, Nunez pled guilty to the illegal reentry charge. [Case No. 7:25-cr-00011-FL]
Martin Reyes-Hernandez, 37, was sentenced to 13 months in prison for returning to the U.S. after being removed five times following convictions for larceny-related offenses and a recent conviction for assault with a deadly weapon. On April 4, 2025, Reyes-Hernandez pled guilty to illegal reentry. [Case No. 5:25-cr-00041-FL]
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. ICE investigated the cases, and the National Security Section of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of North Carolina prosecuted the cases.
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 the respective case numbers.
Three Co-Conspirators Charged with Conspiracy to Traffic Firearms from VirginiaRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – An indictment was unsealed today in the District of Columbia charging two Virginia residents and one Maryland resident with conspiracy to traffic firearms purchased from licensed firearm retailers in Virginia, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro and Special Agent in Charge Anthony Spotswood of the Washington Field Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF).
Moniqua Jefferson, 31 and Valentino Hall, 28, both of Richmond, and Derrick Boyd Jr., 32, of Capitol Heights, Maryland, were arrested at their homes this morning. They made their initial appearances today in U.S. District Court before Magistrate Judge Matthew Sharbaugh who ordered them to be held pending a detention hearing on July 17. This case is being prosecuted under the Make D.C. Safe Again initiative.
According to the indictment, from as early as September 2022, and continuing until September 2024, Jefferson and Hall determined what firearms were available from federally licensed firearm retailers in the Richmond area, and then allegedly sought customers who were prohibited from possessing the guns by law. Jefferson and Hall then purchased the firearms, and resold or transfered them to individuals, including Boyd, for a fee.
The indictment details how on May 31, 2024, and June 1, 2024, Hall and Jefferson allegedly communicated with a co-conspirator to purchase a firearm in Richmond for the co-conspirator. Thirty days later, the co-conspirator, who was prohibited by law from possessing firearms, allegedly was found in possession of the firearm purchased by Jefferson and Hall.
On June 6, 2024, Jefferson allegedly bought another firearm at a licensed retailer in Richmond. Just 17 days later, that firearm was recovered from an individual who could not lawfully possess a firearm in the District because that individual was under 21-years-old.
Subsequently, between August 14, 2024, and August 15, 2024, Boyd communicated with Hall and Jefferson to purchase a Ruger firearm. The next day, Boyd and Jefferson entered a licensed retailer in Richmond together and Jefferson purchased the gun. Boyd and Jefferson left the retailer together. Hall and Jefferson communicated about charging individuals $100 to purchase firearms, and on Aug. 16, 2024, Boyd sent a payment to Jefferson for an amount of $103.01 more than the price of the firearm purchased by Jefferson.
Finally, on Sept. 11, 2024, Jefferson, Hall, and another co-conspirator who was prohibited by law from possessing firearms traveled again to Richmond. The next day, Jefferson, Hall and the co-conspirator returned to the retailer, where Jefferson bought two identical firearms. Hall sent a payment to Jefferson for approximately the price of the firearms.
Ultimately, Hall and Jefferson allegedly purchased over 22 firearms between August 2022 and May 2025. Five of those firearms were recovered by law enforcement in Maryland and the District of Columbia from individuals who were not permitted by law to carry or possess those firearms.
Make D.C. Safe Again, under which this case is being prosecuted, is a law enforcement initiative in support of President Trump's Executive Order to Make D.C. Safe and Beautiful. The initiative aims to crack down on gun violence, prioritize federal firearms violations, pursue tougher penalties for offenses, and seek detention for federal firearms violators.
The charges in the indictment are merely allegations and every defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. The maximum penalty for conspiracy is 15 years. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes. If convicted of any offense, a defendant’s sentence will be determined by the court based on the advisory U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The ATF’s Washington Field Division is leading this investigation. The case is being prosecuted by the Federal Major Crimes Section of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia.
These charges are merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Texas man gets 10 years after fleeing to Mexico following failed drug and alien smuggling attemptRead the Press Release
McALLEN, Texas – A 28-year-old Sullivan City resident has been ordered to prison for alien and drug smuggling, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Carlos Alberto Salinas pleaded guilty Dec. 6, 2024.
U.S. District Judge Drew B. Tipton has now ordered Salinas to serve 120 months in federal prison. At the hearing, the court heard that Salinas demonstrated a disregard for the law and was undeterred by the sentences imposed in his prior alien smuggling and felony drug convictions. The court enhanced the sentence after finding Salinas was responsible for smuggling over 75 aliens and fled to Mexico in an attempt to evade law enforcement.
On July 24, 2024, Salinas attempted to pick up 10 illegal aliens and approximately 100 kilograms of marijuana from the Rio Grande River in Sullivan City. Authorities initiated a quick response to the event, at which time Salinas and several aliens swam across the river to Mexico in an attempt to elude law enforcement.
Border Patrol conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Devin V. Walker prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces and Project Safe Neighborhood.
Tennessee Resident Pleads Guilty After Driving to Clifton Park for Sexual Abuse of a MinorRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Donald Jenkins, age 37, of Clarksville, Tennessee, pled guilty on Monday to traveling across state lines to the Capital Region with the intent to engage in illicit sexual conduct with a minor. Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Erin Keegan, Special Agent in Charge of the Buffalo Field Office of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), made the announcement.
Jenkins admitted that in September 2024 he began communicating with an individual to discuss and plan his sexual abuse of someone he believed to be an 11-year-old child residing in Clifton Park, New York. Jenkins ultimately devised a plan to rent a car in Tennessee and drive to Clifton Park in order to sexually abuse the child. On November 19, 2024, Jenkins was arrested after arriving in Clifton Park at a prearranged meeting location. He admitted that he obtained a sexually transmitted disease (STD) test earlier in the day and brought numerous pairs of child’s underwear as a gift for the minor.
United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III stated: “No matter where you reside, if you try to prey on children in the Northern District of New York, we will find you, arrest you, and seek to convict you and punish you to the fullest extent of the law.”
HSI Special Agent in Charge Erin Keegan stated: “Donald Jenkins rented a car, obtained child’s underwear and STD testing kits, and traveled across state lines as part of his plan to sexually abuse someone whom he believed was an 11-year-old child. I thank personnel with HSI Albany, the Northern District of New York, and the New York State Police, for consistently taking proactive steps to protect the public from predators.”
Jenkins is scheduled to be sentenced by United States District Judge Anne M. Nardacci on November 12, 2025. He faces a maximum term of 30 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, a term of supervised release of at least 5 years and up to life, and mandatory registration as a sex offender. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statute the defendant is convicted of violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors.
HSI and the New York State Police investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney Benjamin S. Clark is prosecuting the case as part of Project Safe Childhood.
Launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice, Project Safe Childhood is led by United States Attorney’s offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS). Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
Spokane man pleads guilty to drug chargesRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS - A Spokane, Washington man accused of possessing controlled substances admitted to charges today, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
The defendant, Nicholas Benton Severns, 36, pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute controlled substances. Severns faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 5 years to 40 years, a $5,000,000 fine, and at least 4 years of supervised release.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided and will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing has been set for November 12, 2025. Severns was released on conditions pending further proceedings.
The government alleged in court documents that in 2023, Blackfeet Law Enforcement Services saw a white Chevy Malibu leave a known drug house in Browning and stopped it for speeding. The officer ran the driver through dispatch and determined he had no driver’s license, no insurance, and had a warrant for his arrest from Washington. Nicholas Severns, the passenger in the vehicle, and had an expired license.
As the traffic stop progressed, two other officers arrived and informed the driver and Severns they were going to run drug canine around the car. During a subsequent routine pat down for weapons, law enforcement saw a piece of foil used for smoking narcotics and arrested the driver and Severns. Both were searched incident and officers found a baggie of meth on the driver and burnt blue fentanyl on Severns. The car was sniffed, the canine indicated, and a state search warrant was obtained. During the search, law enforcement located 708 fentanyl pills in a fanny-pack belonging to Severns. During a subsequent interview, Severns admitted to dealing drugs, including dealing fentanyl in Browning.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case. The DEA and Blackfeet Law Enforcement Services conducted the 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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Spencer Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Drugs and GunsRead the Press Release
A man who was sentenced today, to more than 14 years in federal prison.
Dana Eugene Igou, age 41, from Spencer, Iowa, received the prison term after a January 22, 2025, guilty plea to one count of possession of firearms by a drug user and domestic abuse misdemeanant and one count of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.
During the course of the conspiracy Igou, and others conspired to distribute at least 500 grams of methamphetamine. Igou also possessed several firearms during the drug conspiracy. In December of 2023, Igou was stopped for a traffic violation and found in possession of a 9 mm handgun and a small amount of methamphetamine. Igou was prohibited from possessing firearms because of his prior felony convictions and his prior conviction of a crime of domestic violence. On March 14, 2024, law enforcement again arrested Igou, and he was again in possession of firearms, as well as ammunition, brass knuckles, and nearly 9 ounces of methamphetamine. Because of his prior convictions, Igou was determined to be a career offender.
Igou was sentenced in Sioux City by United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand. Igou was sentenced to 170 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a 5-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
Igou is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
The was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jack Lammers and was investigated by Estherville Police Department, Spirit Lake Police Department, Spencer Police Department, Dickinson County Sheriff’s Office, Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 24-CR-4018.
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South Texas residents ordered to prison for human smugglingRead the Press Release
BROWNSVILLE, Texas – Two 35-year-old Brownsville residents have been sentenced for smuggling three illegal aliens in the trunk of a vehicle, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Ofelia Christine Monares and Michael Rosa pleaded guilty April 1.
U.S. District Judge Rolando Olvera has imposed a 40-month term of imprisonment for Monares while Rosa received 25 months. Both must also serve one year of supervised release following their sentences.
Both received upward adjustments or increases in their calculated sentencing guideline range for placing the life of the aliens in jeopardy. Monares also received a sentencing enhancement for being a supervisor of the criminal activity.
At the time of their pleas, both Monares and Rosa admitted to knowingly smuggling three illegal aliens in the trunk of a Nissan Sentra.
On Feb. 24, law enforcement observed several suspected illegal aliens walking along a dirt road near the Rio Grande River. The group climbed into the trunk of a Nissan Sentra which then fled at a high rate of speed. Authorities stopped the vehicle at the Highway 4 checkpoint and found three Vietnamese nationals in the trunk. All appeared dehydrated and were sweating profusely.
Rosa was the driver. He said Victor Hugo Medrano-Medrano and Monares had recruited him, and that Medrano and Monares picked him up in a white Nissan Titan and drove him to the Sentra. Rosa said they were to pay him $10,000 to transport the aliens to a local convenience store in Brownsville.
Video surveillance revealed the Titan crossing the checkpoint shortly after Rosa’s arrest. Authorities later located the Titan at the convenience store with Monares driving and Medrano in the passenger seat.
Monares said she was also to be paid - $500 - for every alien transported.
Medrano-Medrano, 38, Brownsville, has also pleaded guilty and is set for sentencing in September. He remains in custody.
Both Monares and Rosa have also have been and will remain in custody pending transfer to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined at a later date.
Customs and Border Protection conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Angel Castro prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces and Project Safe Neighborhood.
South Bend Man Sentenced to 216 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Yesterday, Quadir Quiroz, 20 years old, of South Bend, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Cristal C. Brisco after pleading guilty to Hobbs Act robbery and brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence, announced Acting United States Attorney M. Scott Proctor.
Quiroz was sentenced to 216 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release.According to documents in the case, Quiroz robbed a person at gunpoint and stole the person’s car. Ten days later, Quiroz robbed a gas station in South Bend. During the robbery, Quiroz struck a gas-station employee in the head with his gun.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from the South Bend Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Joel Gabrielse.
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.
South Bend Man Found Guilty by JuryRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Today, Armon Shannon, 24 years old, of South Bend, Indiana, was found guilty of being a felon in possession of a firearm after a two-day jury trial presided over by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty, announced Acting United States Attorney M. Scott Proctor.
Sentencing is scheduled for October 30, 2025.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with assistance from the South Bend Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Joel Gabrielse and Joseph P. Falvey.
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.
Ship Manager Pleads Guilty to Dumping Oily Waste into U.S. Waters Off Coast of New OrleansRead the Press Release
Note: View factual basis here.
Eagle Ship Management LLC (ESM), based in Stamford, Connecticut, pleaded guilty yesterday to violating the Act to Prevent Pollution from Ships (APPS) by deliberately polluting U.S. waters off the coast of New Orleans from the M/V Gannet Bulker, a foreign-flagged bulk carrier. If approved by the court, ESM would pay a criminal fine of $1,750,000 and serve a four-year term of probation that includes external audits by an independent technical expert.
The chief engineer of the Gannet Bulker was prosecuted in a separate case and sentenced to serve a year and a day in prison for his role in the discharge of oil and obstructing justice.
The Coast Guard launched its investigation after a crew member sent a message via social media on March 14, 2021, indicating that the engine room had flooded and that the resulting oil-contaminated bilge waste had been deliberately pumped overboard at night. Flooded bilges can pose a serious threat to the safety of the ship and crew, including creating a risk of electrocution, loss of power, and inability to steer.
At the time, the Gannet Bulker was at an anchorage near the Southwest Passage of the Port of New Orleans, near the mouth of the Mississippi River. According to court records, the intentional overboard oily discharge into U.S. waters involved approximately 39 cubic meters (approximately 10,303 gallons), and was done without the use of required pollution prevention equipment or required recordkeeping
“The Department of Justice vigorously prosecutes violations of the laws that protect U.S. ports and waters,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Adam Gustafson of the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division (ENRD). “The criminal conduct involved here was serious, including intentional pollution and a deliberate coverup.”
“This announcement sends a clear message intended to deter deliberate pollution,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson for the Eastern District of Louisiana. “This office will continue to work with our agency partners to enforce the laws that were designed to protect U.S. ports and waters.”
“The United States Coast Guard and the Coast Guard Investigative Service remain steadfast in our commitment to enforcing maritime environmental laws to protect U.S. waters and ensure compliance with international regulations,” said Special Agent in Charge Damon J. Youmans of the Coast Guard Investigative Service’s Gulf Field Office. “We will continue to hold accountable those who violate these laws and endanger our marine environment.”
In pleading guilty, ESM admitted that its crew engaged in a variety of obstructive acts to conceal the internal flooding that was caused by a botched repair. The obstructive acts included retaliation against the whistleblower whose identity was known. Senior ship officers and crew also lied to the Coast Guard and destroyed evidence including a printout from the engine control room computer that contained key information. Additionally, senior ship officers created false and backdated personnel evaluations intended to discredit the whistleblower.
Sentencing has been scheduled for Oct. 16.
The Coast Guard Criminal Investigations Division and the Coast Guard Heartland District investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney G. Dall Kammer for the Eastern District of Louisiana and Senior Litigation Counsel Richard A. Udell of the ENRD’s Environmental Crimes Section are prosecuting the case.
Saugus Man Indicted for Role in Conspiracies to Distribute Thousands of Pills Containing Meth and FentanylRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Saugus man was charged in an eight-count indictment for his alleged role in a drug trafficking conspiracy involving thousands of counterfeit pills containing methamphetamine and fentanyl.
George Krabey, 46, was indicted by a federal grand jury on two counts of conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, involving 500 grams or more of methamphetamine; three counts of distribution of 50 grams or more of methamphetamine; one count of possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine; one count of possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine; and one count of distribution of methamphetamine and fentanyl. Krabey was initially arrested and charged by criminal complaint in May 2025.
According to charging documents, between December 2024 and April 2025, Krabey repeatedly met with a cooperating source working with law enforcement and sold the source thousands of counterfeit pills containing methamphetamine and fentanyl. On April 22, 2025, Krabey was a passenger in a vehicle stopped by law enforcement in Danvers. It is alleged that the Krabey was enroute to Salisbury to sell the cooperating source 4,000 counterfeit pills containing methamphetamine. During a search of the vehicle, a shoebox was located in the back seat area that contained 5,296 pills containing methamphetamine with a weight of approximately two kilograms.
The charges of conspiracy to distribute controlled substances involving 500 grams or more of methamphetamine, and possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine, each provide for a sentence of at least 10 years and up to life in prison, at least five years and up to a lifetime of supervised release and a fine of up to $10 million. The charges of distribution of 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine each provide for a sentence of at least five years and up to 40 years in prison, at least four years and up to a lifetime of supervised release and a fine of up to $5 million. The charge of distribution of methamphetamine and fentanyl provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, at least three years and up to a lifetime of supervised release and a fine of $1 million. 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 Jared A. Forget, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Division made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Massachusetts State Police and the Revere, Saugus and Peabody Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorney Samuel R. Feldman of the Narcotics & Money Laundering 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.
San Angelo man sentenced to 245 years in federal prison for sextorting minors and an adult across the United StatesRead the Press Release
A San Angelo man was sentenced to 245 years in federal prison for sextorting minors and an adult across the United States, announced Acting United States Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Nancy E. Larson.
Juelz Sincere Armstead, 21, was found guilty by a Lubbock, Texas jury in April 2025 on five counts of production of child pornography, two counts of attempted production of child pornography, and seven counts of cyber stalking, following a four-day jury trial. He was sentenced on July 15, 2025, to 2,940 months in federal prison by United States District Judge James Wesley Hendrix.
“The horrendous acts against each victim in this case warranted the substantial sentence imposed here,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Nancy E. Larson. “We hope that the lengthy incarceration of this defendant will assist the victims as they continue in the healing process and serve as a warning to like-minded predators that we will pursue swift justice and extensive punishment for these types of despicable crimes.”
“This sentence reflects the unspeakable harm Juel Armstead inflicted on innocent victims and the tireless commitment of law enforcement to bring predators like him to justice,” said HSI Dallas Special Agent in Charge Travis Pickard. “No amount of time can undo the trauma caused, but a 2,940-month sentence ensures this individual will never again have the opportunity to victimize a child. HSI Dallas and our law enforcement partners remain steadfast in our mission to protect the most vulnerable among us and hold those who exploit them accountable.”
According to evidence presented at trial, over the course of approximately three years, Armstead met his victims, nine minors and one adult, on various social media platforms. He cyberstalked and coerced them into sending him sexually explicit photographs and videos, routinely threatening to expose this material to family, friends, and others if they did not create and send him more sexual abuse material.
Testimony in the case revealed that the Tom Green County Sheriff’s Office arrested Armstead for his conduct in December 2022 and, upon his release from jail, Armstead obtained another cell phone and continued his sextortion scheme. Armstead continued to amass more victims until his second arrest in February 2024.
At trial, victims from across the United States testified about the abuse and the emotional trauma Armstead caused them. Many victims described how Armstead’s threats placed them in fear, that they felt their lives were over, and that they felt as if they were being raped by Armstead’s actions. In some cases, victims felt suicidal.
Graphic photographs and videos were discussed at trial, including of one 14-year-old victim with tears rolling down her cheeks as she created the sexually explicit video Armstead demanded. Another 18-year-old victim was so fearful of Armstead’s repeated threats to harm and expose her that she was manipulated into filming sexually explicit videos of her 13-year-old sister. The prosecution introduced tens of thousands of pages of messages between Armstead and the victims along with hundreds of photographs and video evidence.
At sentencing, Homeland Security Investigations Special Agent Mike Baker testified that there were additional victims who were too traumatized to prepare for and attend trial.
In issuing the 245-year sentence, Judge James Wesley Hendrix described Armstead’s conduct as “repeat, incessant terrorizing and bullying [of] these victims over and over again without any sign of mercy.” Judge Hendrix told Armstead: “You are an incredible danger. The protection of the public is at its apex here.”
Homeland Security Investigations—Abilene Office led the investigation, with the assistance of HSI San Angelo, the Tom Green County Sheriff’s Office, HSI Atlanta, HSI Dallas, HSI Waco, HSI San Antonio, HSI Newark, HSI Colorado Springs, HSI Eastern Shore MD, HSI Stockton, HSI Philadelphia, HSI Houston, HSI Wichita, HSI Raleigh, HSI Portland, Abilene Police Department, San Angelo Police Department, Mississippi Attorney General’s Office, Albany Police Department (Oregon), Clinton County Sheriff’s Office (Indiana), Salem Police Department (Oregon), and several additional federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies in Texas, Indiana, Oregon, California, New Jersey, Colorado, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Kansas, North Carolina, Georgia, and Mississippi.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Callie Woolam and Stephen Rancourt prosecuted the case with victim-witness assistance from Kelsea Martin and the Western District of Wisconsin’s victim-witness coordinator.
The case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative, which was launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice, to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals, who sexually exploit children, and identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit http://www.justice.gov/psc. For more information about internet safety education, please visit http://www.justice.gov/psc and click on the tab “resources.”
Sacramento County Man Convicted of Receiving Child Sex Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
After a one‑day trial, a jury found Kyle Travis Colton, 37, of Citrus Heights, guilty Tuesday of one count of receiving child pornography, Acting U.S. Attorney Kimberly A. Sanchez announced.
According to evidence presented at trial and in court documents, during a search of Colton’s home law enforcement recovered his laptop, which contained copious images and videos depicting the graphic sexual abuse of young children. The jury heard evidence that between July 2022 and December 2023, Colton downloaded these depictions of children engaged in sexually explicit conduct. The material was saved on Colton’s computer desktop and in his downloads folder, and he had user-created bookmarks linking to known child pornography websites.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorneys Whitnee Goins and Shea J. Kenny are prosecuting the case.
Colton is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Dale A. Drozd on Oct. 27, 2025. Colton faces a maximum statutory penalty of 20 years in prison and a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in prison, and a $250,000 fine. The actual sentence, however, will be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute those who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. Click on the “resources” tab for information about internet-safety education.
Six Illegal Aliens Convicted for Illegally Reentering Country After Prior RemovalsRead the Press Release
TALLAHASSEE & PENSACOLA – United States Attorney John P. Heekin announced today that six previously deported aliens were recently convicted for illegal reentry into the United States.
According to court records, the defendants had each been previously removed due to being unlawfully present in the country, and illegally reentered without seeking the necessary permission or approval from the United States.
Juan Gomez Perez, a Mexican national, was previously removed in September 2022. He was encountered in Tallahassee on May 29, 2025.
Baltazar R. Mixteco-Temaxtle, a Mexican national, was previously removed in June 2013 and December 2017. He was encountered in Pensacola on February 22, 2025.
Fredy Bravo Galvez, a Mexican national, was previously removed in March 2013 and March 2020. He was encountered in Tallahassee on June 14, 2025.
Jose Larios-Cortez, a citizen of Honduras, was previously removed in November 2014. He was encountered in Santa Rosa County on April 27, 2025.
Juan Carlos Hernandez Vallejos, a citizen of Nicaragua, was previously removed in 2006, twice in 2014, and again in 2015. He was encountered in Tallahassee.
Juan Rodolfo Martinez-Hernandez, a Mexican National, was previously removed in 2017 and in 2022. He was encountered in Pace on April 11, 2025.
U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “You will see a pattern in many of these cases: aliens who continue to return this country believing they will not face criminal consequences for violating our immigration laws. President Donald J. Trump and Attorney General Pam Bondi have promised to Take Back America by making the enforcement of our nation’s immigration laws a top priority, and my office will aggressively pursue these cases to ensure that those who continue to illegally enter our country are prosecuted and swiftly removed.”
The cases were investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations, with assistance state and local partners. Assistant United States Attorneys Justin M. Keen, Jeffrey Tharp, Jennifer H. Callahan, and Eric Mountin prosecuted the cases.
The cases are part of Operation Take Back America (https://www.justice.gov/dag/media/1393746/dl?inline ) a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
Repeat offender sentenced to 10 years for possessing drugs with intent to distribute while on paroleRead the Press Release
ANCHORAGE, Alaska – An Anchorage man was sentenced yesterday to 10 years in prison and, upon release, will serve five years on supervised release, for possessing drugs with the intent to distribute them following a refusal of a routine search of his residence while on parole.
According to court documents, on Oct. 20, 2022, two Alaska Department of Corrections parole officers visited Andrew Lee, 42, at his residence for a routine search pursuant to Lee’s conditions of parole release in a state criminal case where he was convicted of second-degree murder. Lee shared this residence with multiple family members.
Lee led the parole officers to a bedroom he claimed he shared with his father. During a search of this bedroom, the parole officers found no material evidence that Lee stayed in the bedroom The parole officers searched his vehicle and located two cell phones and a “tooter” straw, both of which are consistent with drug paraphernalia.
When parole officers attempted to determine who resided in the other three bedrooms in the residence, Lee claimed that two of the three were occupied by his aunt and mother, respectively, while the final bedroom was occupied by a different individual. Lee stated that this room was locked, and the parole officers were not allowed to enter. The parole officers spoke on the phone with the individual who allegedly lived in that bedroom. That individual said he was the owner of the residence, that he lived in Georgia and that the bedroom was Lee’s.
The parole officers asked Lee about inconsistencies in his statements and Lee immediately began yelling at his father in a different language. The parole officers informed Lee he was being detained and handcuffed him for their own safety. When the parole officers attempted to unlock the bedroom door, Lee’s father stopped them. The parole officers asked Lee whether we would comply with the search, and he started yelling at his father in a different language again. The parole officers decided to arrest Lee for refusing to submit to the search.
The parole officers remanded Lee to the Anchorage Correctional Complex. During in-processing, correctional officers located roughly $1,500 in cash and over 57 grams of pure methamphetamine, over 28 grams of heroin and nearly 5 grams of fentanyl packaged in multiple baggies on his person.
On Jan. 18, 2024, a federal grand jury indicted Lee, and on April 11, 2024, Lee pleaded guilty to possessing controlled substances with the intent to distribute.
“Mr. Lee participated in the dangerous drug trade while on parole for a violent felony—and will now spend 10 years behind bars for it,” said U.S. Attorney Michael J. Heyman for the District of Alaska. “Let this sentence serve as a clear message: our office, in partnership with law enforcement, will pursue drug traffickers and seek harsh penalties for those who threaten the safety of our communities.”
“While on parole, the defendant continued to threaten the safety of our communities by committing federal drug trafficking crimes,” said Special Agent in Charge Rebecca Day of the FBI Anchorage Field Office. “Following a collaborative investigation by the FBI’s Safe Streets Task Force, this sentencing reflects our continued commitment to hold drug traffickers accountable, while protecting Alaska’s communities from the dangers of illicit drug activity.”
The FBI Anchorage Field Office and Anchorage Police Department investigated the case as part of the FBI’s Safe Streets Task Force, with assistance from the Alaska Department of Corrections.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Cody Tirpak prosecuted the case.
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Romanian National Charged for ATM “Skimming” ConspiracyRead the Press Release
TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – Daniel Balan, 46, of Bacau, Romania, has been indicted in federal court for one count of conspiracy to commit bank fraud, five counts of bank fraud, five counts of aggravated identity theft, and one count of possessing fifteen or more access devices. John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida, announced the charges.
Balan is scheduled for trial before United States District Court Judge Mark Walker on August 18, 2025, at 8:30 a.m.
If convicted, Balan faces up to thirty years’ imprisonment on the conspiracy and bank fraud counts, two years’ imprisonment on the aggravated identity theft counts, and ten years’ imprisonment on the access device count.
Homeland Security Investigations, the Leon County Sheriff’s Office, and the Tallahassee Police Department are investigating the case. Assistant United States Attorneys Justin M. Keen and Eric W. Welch are prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation by a grand jury that a defendant has committed a violation of federal criminal law and is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial, during which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America (https://www.justice.gov/dag/media/1393746/dl?inline ) a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access available public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
Owners of Northern Arizona Businesses Arrested for Employment PracticesRead the Press Release
PHOENIX, Ariz. – Yesterday, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and other law enforcement agencies executed federal search warrants at five Colt Grill restaurants and 12 residences in two states after a three-year labor exploitation investigation and a five-count federal indictment against four individuals in Arizona.
On May 27, 2025, a grand jury in Phoenix returned an indictment against Robert and Brenda Clouston, both 61, of northern Arizona, and Luis Pedro Rogel-Jaimes, age 33, and Iris Romero-Molina, age 29, both Mexican nationals illegally present in the United States and residing in Cottonwood, Arizona, for Conspiracy to Transport Illegal Aliens, Conspiracy to Harbor Illegal Aliens, Conspiracy to Encourage and Induce an Alien to Unlawfully Enter the United States, and Pattern and Practice of Knowingly Employing Unauthorized Aliens.
The indictment alleges that Robert and Brenda Clouston operated four Colt Grill restaurants in the northern Arizona cities of Cottonwood, Prescott, Prescott Valley, and Sedona, and one Colt Grill in Foley, Alabama. In September of 2022, the Cloustons, along with Rogel-Jaimes and Romero-Molina, made a plan that Romero-Molina would create a cleaning company, R&R AZ Cleaning, that would operate as a staffing company for the Colt Grill restaurants. Rogel-Jaimes and Romero-Molina would then find undocumented workers to work at the restaurants, paying them through R&R AZ Cleaning with funds from Colt Grill. The undocumented workers were paid below minimum wage and were not compensated for overtime. The Cloustons, Rogel-Jaimes, and Romero-Molina benefited financially from the plan and did not pay proper employment taxes for the workers.
All four indicted individuals were arrested on July 15 without incident. While executing the warrants, law enforcement also arrested several undocumented illegal aliens for criminal or administrative immigration violations.
“Cooperation is the cornerstone for law enforcement in Arizona and this case demonstrates the great outcome that comes from federal and local law enforcement working together,” said United States Attorney Timothy Courchaine. “The United States Attorney’s Office is grateful to HSI for their hard work on this investigation and extremely appreciative to the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office for their support and willingness to keep their community safe from bad actors.”
“The success of this investigation is in large part due to the coordinated efforts of many law enforcement agencies working alongside HSI through the Homeland Security Task Forces,” said Ray Rede, acting special agent in charge for HSI Arizona. “This multiyear case involving several federal charges is a testament of our commitment to combatting crime that has true impact to communities. I thank everyone involved – this case was true team effort.”
“On behalf of the citizens of Yavapai County, I want to thank our federal partners at the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Homeland Security Investigations, and all our local agencies for their collaboration with the men and women of Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office in dismantling this criminal enterprise,” said Yavapai County Sheriff David Rhodes. “Coordinated, multi-agency enforcement actions like this one are essential to protecting our communities from the destabilizing impacts of organized crime. By working together, we will continue to leverage every available resource to safeguard the people of Yavapai County from those who seek to do harm.”
A conviction for Conspiracy to Bring Illegal Aliens to the United States Unlawfully, Conspiracy to Transport Illegal Aliens, Conspiracy to Harbor Illegal Aliens, and Conspiracy to Encourage and Induce an Alien to Unlawfully Enter the United States each carry a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and up to a $250,000 fine. A conviction for Pattern and Practice of Knowingly Employing Unauthorized Aliens carries a maximum penalty of six months in prison and up to a $3,000 fine per unauthorized employee.
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).
HSI, the U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General (DOL-OIG), and the IRS Criminal Investigation Phoenix Field Office are conducting the federal investigation in this case. The Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office assisted with execution of the search warrants. The United States Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, Phoenix, is handling the prosecution.
An indictment is a method by which a person is charged with criminal activity and raises no inference of guilt. An individual is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Clouston, et al IndictmentCASE NUMBER: CR-25-08086-PCT-SPL (ASB)
RELEASE NUMBER: 2025-119_Clouston, et al.# # #
For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on Twitter @USAO_AZ for the latest news.Oglala Man Sentenced to Nearly 10 Years in Federal Prison for Assaulting a Woman by Strangulation and for Failing to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier has sentenced an Oglala, South Dakota, man convicted of Committing a Crime of Violence While Failing to Register and Assault by Strangulation and Suffocation. The sentencing took place on July 11, 2025.
Aric Singing Goose, a/k/a Eric Sharpfish, age 37, was sentenced to nine years and nine months in federal prison, followed by eight years of supervised release, and ordered to pay $200 in special assessments to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
A federal grand jury indicted Singing Goose in December 2023. He pleaded guilty on April 9, 2025.
Singing Goose is required to register as a sex offender based on convictions secured in federal court in South Dakota for two counts of Sexual Abuse of a Minor in 2009. In July 2023, Singing Goose was living in Oglala, South Dakota, within the Pine Ridge Reservation, and knowingly failed to update mandatory registration as a sex offender with the Oglala Sioux Tribe Sex Offender Compliance Office.
Then, on the afternoon of October 31, 2023, Singing Goose was drinking with a 16-year-old female at Oglala. Following a bout of drinking, the two got into a verbal argument that turned physical. Singing Goose took the minor to a location near the Oglala Dam, threw her to the ground, got on top of her, and placed his hands around her throat. In doing so, he left his DNA on her neck. The victim’s circulation was cut off and she lost consciousness, but she later awoke.
This matter was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office because the Major Crimes Act, a federal statute, mandates that certain violent crimes alleged to have occurred in Indian country be prosecuted in Federal court as opposed to State court.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service and the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorney Megan Poppen prosecuted the case.
Singing Goose was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Newport News felon sentenced to four years in prison for illegally possessing a firearm while on supervised releaseRead the Press Release
NEWPORT NEWS, Va. – A Newport News man was sentenced today to four years in prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm.
According to court documents, on May 20, 2024, two police officers observed that James Earl Hooker, 35, appeared to have a firearm in his waistband as he was walking in downtown Newport News. When one of the officers attempted to speak with Hooker, he immediately fled on foot. During the pursuit, a loaded handgun fell from Hooker’s waistband. The officers recovered the firearm after apprehending Hooker.
Hooker has multiple prior federal convictions for conspiring to interfere with commerce by robbery, interference with commerce by robbery, possessing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence, and mail fraud. At the time of Hooker’s arrest, he was under federal court supervision for his 2022 conviction for pandemic-related mail fraud in the Eastern District of Virginia. As a previously convicted felon, Hooker cannot legally possess firearms or ammunition.
The four-year sentence for being a felon in possession of a firearm will be served consecutive to an eight-month sentence for his supervised release violations.
Erik S. Siebert, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; Damon E. Wood, Inspector in Charge of the Washington Division of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service; and Steve R. Drew, Chief of Newport News Police, made the announcement after sentencing by Senior U.S. District Judge Raymond A. Jackson.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Mack Coleman prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 4:25-cr-1.
Nevada Nurse Practitioner Pleads Guilty to Fraudulent Medicare Wound Care BillingRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Las Vegas nurse practitioner pleaded guilty today to conspiring to fraudulently bill Medicare for amniotic wound allografts for patients that were medically unreasonable and unnecessary in exchange for illegal health care kickbacks.
Mary Huntly, 67, was charged with one-count of conspiracy to defraud the United States and pay and receive health care kickbacks. United States District Judge James C. Mahan scheduled sentencing for October 15, 2025.
According to court documents and admissions made in court by Huntly, she applied medically unnecessary allografts to Medicare beneficiaries that were procured through illegal kickbacks and bribes. Huntly admitted that, from September 2022 through April 2024, her wound care company fraudulently billed Medicare approximately $14,333,550, and Medicare paid approximately $9,105,563 based on those false claims.
“The defendant applied medically unnecessary allografts for patients and received millions in illegal kickbacks from the fraudulent Medicare claims,” said United States Attorney Chattah for the District of Nevada. “We are committed to working with our partners at the FBI, HHS-OIG, and DCIS to pursue and hold criminal actors accountable for preying on vulnerable citizens and stealing from health care programs.”
“Medicare and Medicaid, crucial components of our nation's health care system, are funded by a limited pool of resources,” said Special Agent in Charge Amir Ehsaei for the FBI Las Vegas Division. “Mary Huntly admitted to exploiting the system and taking advantage of America’s most vulnerable populations. She was a trusted healthcare provider, focusing on wound care, and her abuse is significant. The FBI and our federal partners will continue to bring rapacious healthcare professionals like Huntly to justice.”
“Health care professionals who aim to enrich themselves by performing medically unnecessary procedures undermine the integrity of Federal health care programs and expose their patients to potential harm,” said Deputy Inspector General for Investigations Christian J. Schrank with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “HHS-OIG, working closely with our law enforcement partners, will continue to aggressively pursue those who commit health care fraud.”
At sentencing, Huntly faces a maximum statutory penalty of five years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine the sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada; Special Agent in Charge Amir Ehsaei for the FBI Las Vegas Division; Deputy Inspector General for Investigations Christian J. Schrank of the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General; and Acting Special Agent in Charge John E. Helsing for the Department of Defense Office of Inspector General, Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS), Western Field Office made the announcement.
This case was investigated by the FBI, HHS-OIG, and DCIS. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica Oliva of the District of Nevada and Trial Attorneys Monica Cooper of the Texas Strike Force and Shane Butland of the National Rapid Response Strike Force.
The Fraud Section leads the Criminal Division’s efforts to combat health care fraud through the Health Care Fraud Strike Force Program. Since March 2007, this program, currently comprised of nine strike forces operating in 27 federal districts, has charged more than 5,800 defendants who collectively have billed federal health care programs and private insurers more than $30 billion. In addition, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, working in conjunction with HHS-OIG, are taking steps to hold providers accountable for their involvement in health care fraud schemes. More information can be found at www.justice.gov/criminal-fraud/health-care-fraud-unit.
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Missouri Man Sentenced for Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
TULSA, Okla. – A Warrensburg, Missouri man was sentenced today for Possession of Child Pornography, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson.
U.S. District Judge Gregory K. Frizzell sentenced Jimmie Lloyd Skelton, 34, to 168 months imprisonment, followed by 15 years of supervised release. Upon his release, Skelton will also be required to register as a sex offender.
According to court documents, the Claremore Police Department responded to a report of child exploitation. The homeowner found Skelton masturbating to a video of a child under 12 years old. When law enforcement searched the home, they found several electronic devices owned by Skelton. Investigators found videos that Skelton recorded secretly of the child victim.
Skelton will remain in custody pending transfer to the U.S. Bureau of Prisons.
The FBI and the Claremore Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Scott Dunn and Stacey Todd prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC.
Mexican man sentenced for illegal reentryRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS – A Mexican man who entered the United States illegally four times since 2019 was sentenced today to a sentence of time served and remanded to U.S. Customs and Border Patrol upon release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Odilon Valdes-De Jesus, 55, pleaded guilty in May 2025 to one count of illegal reentry.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided.
The government alleged in court documents that Valdes first entered the country without authorization in 2019. On October 3, 2019, he was encountered by El Centro Sector Border Patrol agents, processed for expeditated removal, and removed from the United States on October 4, 2019, through the Calexico, California Port of Entry. He crossed the border illegally again on October 5, 2019, and was removed from the United States a second time on October 6, 2019. He illegally entered again two days later, on October 8, 2019, and was removed for the third time on October 9.
When law enforcement encountered Valdes in Havre, Montana on May 13, 2025, he admitted he had no immigration documents to be in the United States legally, and later admitted he entered without authorization a fourth time around July 15, 2020, near Eagle Pass, Texas.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Amanda Myers prosecuted the case. The investigation was conducted by the U.S. Border Patrol.
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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Mexican National Sentenced to 5 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Jose Flores-Clemente, 33 years old, of Mexico residing in Goshen, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Cristal C. Brisco after pleading guilty to felony reentry of removed alien, announced Acting United States Attorney M. Scott Proctor.
Flores-Clemente was sentenced to 5 months in prison.
According to documents in the case, Flores-Clemente’s criminal history includes a felony conviction for aggravated battery with a deadly weapon in Florida. He was previously removed from the United States in July 2010.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jerome W. McKeever.
Mexican National Sentenced for Possessing More than 65 Pounds of Methamphetamine and Seven FirearmsRead the Press Release
TULSA, Okla. – A Mexican national was sentenced today for Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute, Possession of Firearms in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime, and Unlawful Reentry of a Removed Alien, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson.
U.S. District Judge Gregory K. Frizzell sentenced Marcos Javier Suazo-Mancilla, 23, to 270 months imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release.
In October 2024, the Drug Enforcement Administration began investigating a drug trafficking organization believed to be responsible for trafficking methamphetamine and cocaine in the Tulsa area. When law enforcement conducted a search warrant at a residence, Suazo-Mancilla was present, and documentation showed that he was residing in the home. During a search of the residence, approximately 26 pounds of methamphetamine, 41 grams of cocaine, seven firearms, and more than $9k in cash were found. The investigation further revealed that this organization rented an auto body shop. When law enforcement searched that business, they found an additional 39 pounds of methamphetamine.
Suazo-Mancilla was previously removed from the United States in August 2018. He will remain in custody pending transfer to the U.S. Bureau of Prisons and is expected to face removal proceedings following the sentence.
The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Tulsa County Sheriff’s Office, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney David Nasar prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
Mexican National Sentenced for Illegally Reentering the United StatesRead the Press Release
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – A Mexican National illegally residing in Sedalia, Mo., was sentenced in federal court today for unlawful reentry after deportation.
Jesus Mendoza Cortes, 35, was sentenced by United States District Judge Stephen R. Bough to 14 months in federal prison without parole followed by one year of supervised release.
On Feb. 20, 2025, Mendoza Cortes pleaded guilty to unlawfully re-entering the United States after previously being removed. Mendoza Cortes was previously deported from the United States and had unlawfully re-entered the United States without obtaining the consent of the Attorney General and/or the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security to reapply for admission into the United States. Under federal law it is illegal for an alien to knowingly re-enter the United States without permission after being removed.
According to government filings, Mendoza Cortes had previously been removed from the country on eleven different occasions dating back to 2006. He unlawfully returned sometime in 2018 and was found in the Western District of Missouri after being arrested on June 1, 2024 by the Pettis County Sheriff’s Office for unlawful use of a weapon, assault in the second degree and armed criminal action. He was subsequently charged in Pettis County, Missouri for those acts and the charges remain pending.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Cecily L. Hicks. It was investigated by Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations.
Operation Take Back America
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. 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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Member of Drug Trafficking Organization That Distributed Controlled Substances Shaped to Resemble Candy Sentenced to 15 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Lynn man was sentenced yesterday in federal court in Boston for his role in a large-scale drug trafficking organization (DTO) on the North Shore of Massachusetts. In November 2023, millions of doses of fentanyl and methamphetamine laced pills and powder with street value estimated to be over $7 million, were seized from a stash location and clandestine laboratory used by organization.
Deiby Felix, 41, of Lynn, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Patti B. Saris to 15 years in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release. In February 2025, Felix pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to manufacture and distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl, 500 grams or more of methamphetamine, and other controlled substances; and one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Felix was arrested and charged along with Emilio Garcia and Sebastien Bejin in November 2023.
In July 2023, an investigation into an overdose death in Salem led investigators to a DTO led by Felix, Bejin and Garcia. On Nov. 1, 2023, searches were conducted at four locations in Lynn that resulted in what is believed to be one of the largest single-location seizures of fentanyl and methamphetamine in Massachusetts and the region. The seizure included nine kilograms (20 pounds) of pink heart shaped fentanyl-laced pills pressed to look like candy. Additional narcotics and five firearms were also seized. During the course of the investigation over 75 kilograms (198 pounds) of fentanyl and methamphetamine was seized, along with multiple additional kilograms of cocaine and dozens of kilograms of cutting agents, including xylazine, that is used to adulterate controlled substances.
In total, an estimated eight million individual doses of fentanyl and methamphetamine laced pills and powder was seized. The street value is believed to be upwards of $8 million.
Searches of Felix’s residence resulted in the seizure of more than three kilograms (6.6 pounds) of pressed pills containing methamphetamine and fentanyl, a firearm and a clandestine drug laboratory that had been built into a small room in the basement. Multiple industrial pill presses, mixing equipment and other manufacturing paraphernalia and equipment were also recovered.
Bejin was sentenced in May 2025 to 12 years in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release. In May 2025, Garcia was sentenced to 18 years in prison, to be followed five years of supervised release.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Ted E. Docks, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston; Colonel Geoffrey D. Noble, Superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police; and Essex County District Attorney Paul F. Tucker made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Massachusetts Attorney General’s Office and the Lynn, Lynnfield and Salem Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorney Philip A. Mallard of the Organized Crime & Gang Unit prosecuted the case.
Medford Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Coercing and Sexually Exploiting a Minor OnlineRead the Press Release
MEDFORD, Ore.—A Medford man was sentenced to federal prison today for using Snapchat and Kik Messenger, online social media and messaging platforms, to coerce and sexually exploit an Oregon child online.
Nicholas James Shaw, 38, was sentenced to 120 months in federal prison and a lifetime term of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay $66,000 in restitution to his victims.
According to court documents, in March 2022, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) received CyberTips from Snapchat and Kik Messenger regarding child sexual exploitation materials uploaded to their platforms between October 2021 and April 2022. Investigators traced the accounts to Shaw and learned that, for approximately eight months, Shaw had engaged in sexually explicit communications with a minor online and coerced the victim into producing and sending him sexually explicit photos and videos.
On June 28, 2022, HSI agents executed a federal search warrant on Shaw’s residence and seized several electronic devices which contained child sexual abuse material.
On June 29, 2022, Shaw was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with transportation, receipt, distribution, possession, and access with intent to view child pornography.
On January 21, 2025, Shaw pleaded guilty to coercion and enticement of a minor. As part of the plea agreement, Shaw agreed to pay restitution in full to his victims and forfeit criminally derived property used to facilitate his crimes.
This case was investigated by HSI with assistance from the Medford Police Department. It was prosecuted by John C. Brassell, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.
Anyone who has information about the physical or online exploitation of children are encouraged to contact HSI at (866) 347-2423 or submit a tip online at report.cybertip.org.
Federal law defines child pornography as any visual depiction of sexually explicit conduct involving a minor. It is important to remember child sexual abuse material depicts actual crimes being committed against children. Not only do these images and videos document the victims’ exploitation and abuse, but when shared across the internet, re-victimize and re-traumatize the child victims each time their abuse is viewed. To learn more, please visit the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children at www.missingkids.org.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Massachusetts Couple Pleads Guilty to Multi-Million Dollar Ponzi SchemeRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A couple from Randolph, Mass., have pleaded guilty to running a Ponzi scheme that defrauded dozens of individual investors out of millions of dollars.
Milendophe Duperier, 33, and Vanessa Joseph, 26, pleaded guilty to one count each of conspiracy to commit wire fraud. U.S. District Court Judge Myong J. Joun scheduled both sentencings for Oct. 14, 2025. Duperier and Joseph were charged in May 2025.
Duperier acted as an investment advisor, soliciting investments from individuals and advising them that their funds would be invested in the securities markets. Joseph was Duperier’s girlfriend and business partner. Between early 2018 and December 2022, Duperier and Joseph defrauded dozens of individual investors by falsely representing that Duperier would use the entirety of their investments to purchase securities. However, instead of investing the funds in the securities markets as promised, Duperier and Joseph used the funds to pay prior investors and for personal purchases and expenses – including payments for luxury vehicles and mortgage and credit card debt.
In total, the charging documents allege that Duperier and Joseph defrauded individual investors, some of whom had invested their life savings, of more than $3.2 million. As part of the scheme, Duperier and Joseph applied for and received small business loans for various entities and used the loan proceeds to pay purported investment returns to victim investors. In addition, Duperier made false statements and excuses to investors as to why he had not made promised interest payments and/or could not return the investors’ principal.
The charge of conspiracy to commit wire fraud provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000 or twice the gross gain or loss from the offense, whichever is greater. 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.
If you have questions, concerns or information about this case, please reach out to [email protected].
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Ted E. Docks, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division, made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mackenzie A. Queenin and Leslie A. Wright of the Criminal Division are prosecuting the case.
Man Convicted of Hiring Hitman to Murder a Federal Prosecutor, FBI Special Agent, Witnesses, and Victims Before the Start of his Federal Cyber Harassment TrialRead the Press Release
MIAMI – On July 11, 2025, a federal jury sitting in Ft. Lauderdale found Anthony Brillante II, age 36, guilty of attempted murder of an employee of the United States, solicitation to commit a crime of violence, use of interstate commerce facilities in the commission of murder-for-hire, witness tampering, and obstruction of justice. The charges stemmed from a plot engaged in by the defendant to murder the federal prosecutor and FBI Special Agent who investigated and prosecuted him for cyber harassment, by hiring a hitman to kill them. He was also found guilty of attempting to kill the witnesses and victims of his cyber harassment case before the start of his federal cyber harassment trial on October 30, 2023.
In August of 2022, the FBI arrested Brillante for cyber harassing his family in New York. Brillante, a student at FIU during most of the time of the crimes, spoofed hundreds of different phone numbers to send three victims—his cousin, her husband, and their 12-year-old daughter—tens of thousands of phone calls and text messages over a 15-month period between 2021 and 2022, including countless explicit threats to kill them. The messages included threatening to shoot them in the in the face and running them over with a car. The federal cyber harassment investigation established that Brillante was also sending similar threatening messages to another cousin and her husband, who both resided in Texas.
In October 2023, just before the start of his federal cyber harassment trial, Brillante directed and paid a total of $40,000 in furtherance of the murder plot. On October 29, 2023, the day before his cyber harassment trial was scheduled to begin, Brillante met with an undercover FBI agent, who was posing as a hitman, and enlisted him to commit the murders of the prosecuting Assistant United States Attorney, the investigating FBI special agent, and the victims of his cyber harassment case in order to obstruct his federal trial. Despite his efforts, Brillante was convicted in his first trial of cyber harassment and ultimately sentenced to nine years’ imprisonment.
Sentencing in the murder-for-hire case is scheduled for October 1, 2025.
U.S. Attorney Hayden P. O’Byrne for the Southern District of Florida and Special Agent in Charge Brett D. Skiles of the FBI, Miami Field Office made the announcement.
The FBI Miami Field Office investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lawrence D. LaVecchio and Deric Zacca from the Southern District of Florida are prosecuting the case. AUSA Daren Grove is handling asset forfeiture.
You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida at www.usdoj.gov/usao/fls.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or at http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov, under case number 24-cr-60204.
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Long Island MS-13 Gang Member Pleads Guilty to Role in Two 2016 Murders in Nassau CountyRead the Press Release
Earlier today, in federal court in Central Islip, Kevin Cuevas Del Cid, also known as “Creeper,” “Malcriado,” “Sombra,” “Vinky,” and “Dabura,” a member of the Sailors Locos Salvatruchas Westside (Sailors) clique of La Mara Salvatrucha, also known as the MS-13, a transnational criminal organization, pleaded guilty to racketeering charges in connection with his participation in the May 21, 2016 murder of Kerin Pineda and the October 10, 2016 murder of Javier Castillo, both of whom were killed in Freeport, New York, as well as a conspiracy to distribute cocaine and marijuana. The proceeding was held before United States District Judge Joan M. Azrack.
Joseph Nocella, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York; Christopher G. Raia, Assistant Director in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, New York Field Office (FBI); and Patrick J. Ryder, Commissioner, Nassau County Police Department (NCPD), announced the guilty plea.
“Today, the defendant pleaded guilty to the brutal killings of two young people, whose murders demonstrate the MS-13’s well-established obsession with committing extreme acts of violence and complete disregard for human life,” stated U.S. Attorney Nocella. “Our Office and our law enforcement partners remain steadfast in our commitment to hold violent gang members accountable for the fear, destruction, and death they bring to our communities.”
“Kevin Cuevas Del Cid, an MS-13 member, slaughtered two victims based on their assumed alliance with a rival gang. Del Cid’s attacks reflect the gang’s brutal rhetoric designed to intimidate and punish any perceived threat to its organization,” stated FBI Assistant Director in Charge Raia. “The FBI remains committed to collaborating with our local law enforcement partners to eradicate this senseless gang violence from continuing to terrorize our communities.”
“We are grateful to our federal partners for working together to take these dangerous criminals off our streets,” stated NCPD Commissioner Ryder. “We have no tolerance for gang violence in Nassau County and we will never stop working to protect our citizens from these violent elements.”
According to court filings and statements by the defendant at the guilty plea proceeding, the defendant participated in the murder of 20-year-old Kerin Pineda, who was killed because of his suspected membership in the 18th Street gang. Specifically, in May 2016, Del Cid and other MS-13 members devised a plan where Del Cid created a fake Facebook profile of a young female to communicate with Pineda in order to lure Pineda out to be killed. On May 21, 2016, Pineda went to a secluded wooded area near the Merrick-Freeport border believing that he was meeting the young female he had been communicating with on Facebook, who was, in fact, Del Cid. When Pineda arrived, he was surrounded and violently attacked by Del Cid and the other MS-13 members, each of whom took turns hacking and slashing him with machetes. Pineda’s body was then buried in a hole that had been dug in the ground the day before in anticipation of the murder. Del Cid is the last of six previously charged MS-13 members to plead guilty to the Pineda murder.
Del Cid also pleaded guilty to the murder of 15-year-old Javier Castillo, who, like Pineda, was killed because the MS-13 suspected him of being a member of the 18th Street gang. On October 10, 2016, members of the Sailors clique in Brentwood convinced Castillo, who lived in Central Islip, to go with them to Freeport – approximately 30 miles away – to smoke marijuana. Del Cid and the other MS-13 members took Castillo to an isolated marsh area along the water in Cow Meadow Park, in Freeport, where they attacked and killed him, taking turns hacking him with a machete. Thereafter, the MS-13 members dug a hole and buried Castillo’s body, which was not recovered until one year later, in October 2017. With Del Cid’s conviction, more than a half dozen MS-13 have been charged and pleaded guilty in connection with the Castillo murder.
Del Cid, who was 16 years old at the time of the Pineda and Castillo murders, initially was charged by a juvenile information filed under seal on May 20, 2020. The government subsequently filed a motion to transfer Del Cid to adult status for prosecution, and an evidentiary hearing was held on June 3, 2022. On July 6, 2022, United States Circuit Judge Joseph F. Bianco, sitting by designation, issued a Memorandum and Order granting the government’s motion, and ordering Del Cid be prosecuted as an adult.
Today’s guilty plea is the latest achievement in a series of federal prosecutions by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of New York targeting members of the MS-13, a violent transnational criminal organization. The MS-13’s leadership is based in El Salvador, Honduras, Guatemala, and Mexico, but the gang has thousands of members across the United States. With numerous branches, or “cliques,” the MS-13 is the most violent criminal organization on Long Island. Since 2003, hundreds of MS-13 members, including dozens of clique leaders, have been convicted on federal felony charges in the Eastern District of New York. A majority of those MS-13 members have been convicted on federal racketeering charges for participating in murders, attempted murders, and assaults. Since 2010, this Office has obtained indictments charging MS-13 members with carrying out more than 75 murders in the Eastern District of New York, resulting in the convictions of dozens of MS-13 leaders and members in connection with those murders. These prosecutions are the product of investigations led by the FBI’s Long Island Gang Task Force, which is comprised of agents and officers of the FBI, NCPD, Suffolk County Police Department, Nassau County Sheriff’s Department, Suffolk County Probation Office, Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office, the New York State Police, the Hempstead Police Department, the Rockville Centre Police Department, and the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision.
The case is part of Operation Take Back America, a Department of Justice initiative aimed at eradicating transnational criminal organizations, combating violent crime, and restoring the rule of law.
This prosecution is also 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.
The government’s case is being handled by the Criminal Section of the Office’s Long Island Division. Assistant United States Attorneys Paul G. Scotti, Justina L. Geraci, and Megan E. Farrell are in charge of the prosecution, with the assistance of Paralegal Specialist Kerry Ucci and Automated Litigation Specialist Michael Compitello.
The Defendant:
KEVIN CUEVAS DEL CID (also known as “Creeper,” “Malcriado,” “Sombra,” “Vinky,” and “Dabura”)
Age: 25
Freeport, New YorkE.D.N.Y. Docket No. 20-CR-251 (S-1) (JMA)
Local man sentenced to year in federal prison for COVID-19 relief fraudRead the Press Release
CINCINNATI – Herman Brunis, 62, of Cincinnati, was sentenced in U.S. District Court to 12 months and one day in prison for conspiring to commit wire fraud. Brunis was also ordered to pay nearly $300,000 in restitution.
According to court documents, in June and August 2020, Brunis submitted false applications for COVID-19 relief funds. Brunis applied for two Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) for two business entities, G Max Design and Construction and G Max LLC. Both entities were held in the name of his wife at the time, Gina Brunis.
Brunis used a co-conspirator in Texas to prepare the applications with a design towards maximizing the chances of approval. His applications contained false information about the businesses, their payroll and their financials. In total, Brunis received $299,800 in funds that he then spent on personal items.
Gina Brunis was also charged federally in the Southern District of Ohio. The application preparer in Texas has been identified and law enforcement in Texas is handling the criminal matters related to the co-conspirator’s larger fraud scheme.
Kelly A. Norris, Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio, and Karen Wingerd, Special Agent in Charge, Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Criminal Investigation, announced the sentence imposed on July 15 by Senior U.S. District Court Judge Susan J. Dlott. Assistant United States Attorney Timothy S. Mangan is representing the United States in this case.
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Little Rock Man Sentenced to 84 Months in Federal Prison After Committing Arson at Two Little Rock Fitness CentersRead the Press Release
LITTLE ROCK—Miles Andrew Caldwell will spend the next 84 months in federal prison after intentionally starting three fires at two different fitness centers in Little Rock, Arkansas. Jonathan D. Ross, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, announced the sentence, which was handed down today by United States District Judge James M. Moody, Jr.
An investigation revealed that on November 16, 2023, Caldwell, 20, of Little Rock, arrived at the Little Rock Athletic Club at approximately 11:00 a.m. Caldwell then walked down the hallway and entered the men’s restroom on the first floor. A few minutes later, he exited the restroom and walked down the hallway past the operating daycare center that was occupied by several children (mainly babies and toddlers) and staff members.
Caldwell then entered the basketball court. Later, after exiting the basketball court, Caldwell walked back to the daycare, looking through the large windows of the daycare center before taking the stairs to the second floor. Moments later, women in the tennis hallway reported the smell of smoke. The smoke filled the tennis hallway which caused the fire alarm to sound. Children, daycare staff, and other occupants of the tennis area exited the building through the smoke-filled hallway.
The investigation revealed that the fire was set in a paper towel dispenser in the first-floor men’s restroom. Caldwell also set fire to the paper towel dispenser, trash receptable, and toilet paper dispenser in the second-floor men’s restroom.
Later that same day, at approximately 3:49 p.m., the Little Rock Fire Department responded to 10 Fitness on North Rodney Parham Road, where its men’s restroom also sustained fire damage. Firefighters observed smoke present in the main gym, with thicker smoke in the area of the bathrooms. The Little Rock Fire Marshal determined that the toilet paper dispenser in the handicapped stall of the men’s restroom had been set on fire.
The investigation revealed that Caldwell scanned into 10 Fitness, entered the men’s restroom, remained for approximately one minute while no one else entered, and left the gym after a total of approximately five minutes, without using any equipment. After smoke became visible in the area between the gym and restroom, the fire department was called. In the parking lot, Caldwell remained in his vehicle for 10 additional minutes, waiting until after firefighters arrived to leave.
Investigators reviewed security footage from the Little Rock Athletic Club and located the suspect, later identified as Caldwell. Investigators also obtained security footage from 10 Fitness and identified an individual wearing the same clothes, shoes, and headphones as the suspect at the Little Rock Athletic Club.
Caldwell was later located at his residence. In the home and his vehicle investigators located shoes and a hooded sweatshirt consistent with what was observed on security footage.
On November 20, 2023, Caldwell was arrested on a federal complaint. On December 5, 2023, Caldwell was indicted by a federal grand jury on two counts of arson. Caldwell pleaded guilty to one count of arson committed at the Little Rock Athletic Club on February 4, 2025.
Judge Moody also sentenced Caldwell to three years’ supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
The investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with assistance from the Little Rock Fire Department and the Little Rock Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Erin O’Leary.
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Additional information about the office of the
United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, is available online at
https://www.justice.gov/edar
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Law Enforcement Officers and Louisiana Business Owner Indicted on Charges of Bribery, Conspiracy to Commit Visa Fraud, and Mail FraudRead the Press Release
LAFAYETTE, La. – Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook, Homeland Security Investigations Special Agent in Charge Eric Delaune, Federal Bureau of Investigation Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Tapp, and Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation Special Agent in Charge Demetrius Hardeman, announced that a federal grand jury in the Western District of Louisiana has returned an indictment charging five individuals, including law enforcement officers and a central Louisiana business owner, with conspiracy and fraud charges. Those charged in the indictment and a list of their charges are as follows:
Defendant NameChargesChandrakant Patel a/k/a “Lala,” of Oakdale, LAConspiracy to Commit Visa Fraud (1 count)
Bribery (1 count)
Mail Fraud (24 counts)
Money Laundering (8 counts)
Chad Doyle, Chief of Police for the City of Oakdale, LAConspiracy to Commit Visa Fraud (1 count)
Visa Fraud (6 counts)
Mail Fraud (6 counts)
Money Laundering (1 count)
Michael Slaney a/k/a “Freck,” Marshal of the Ward 5 Marshal’s Office in Oakdale, LAConspiracy to Commit Visa Fraud (1 count)
Visa Fraud (6 counts)
Mail Fraud (6 counts)
Money Laundering (2 counts)
Glynn Dixon, Chief of Police for the City of Forest Hill, LAConspiracy to Commit Visa Fraud (1 count)
Visa Fraud (6 counts)
Mail Fraud (6 counts)
Money Laundering (1 count)
Tebo Onishea, former Chief of Police for the City of Glenmora, LAConspiracy to Commit Visa Fraud (1 count)
Visa Fraud (6 counts)
Mail Fraud (6 counts)
The 62-count indictment alleges that from on or about December 26, 2015, and continuing until at least July 15, 2025, Patel, Doyle, Slaney, Dixon, and Onishea conspired together to commit Visa fraud, namely a nonimmigrant U-Visa, which defendants knew to be procured by means of false claims and statements and otherwise procured by fraud and unlawfully obtained by the defendants.
The indictment alleges that Patel, Doyle, Slaney, Dixon, Onishea, and others, authored, facilitated, produced and authenticated false police reports in several central Louisiana parishes. Each report listed several victims of purported armed robberies in the central Louisiana area and the defendants produced false police reports so that the purported victims of the robberies could apply for U-Visas.
Congress created the U nonimmigrant status (“U-Visa”) with the passage of the Victims of Trafficking and Violence Protection Act in October 2000. The legislation was intended to strengthen the ability of law enforcement agencies to investigate and prosecute crime while also protecting victims of crimes who are willing to help law enforcement authorities in the investigation or prosecution of the criminal activity. Foreign nationals are eligible for a U-Visa if they meet certain criteria, including but not limited to, if they were a victim of qualifying criminal activity that occurred in or violated laws of the U.S., or possessed information about the criminal activity. Qualifying crime victims could apply for U-Visa status by submitting a U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (“USCIS”) Form I-918, Petition for U Nonimmigrant Status; a Form I-918, Supplement B, U Nonimmigrant Status Certification (“I-918B”) (requires signature of an authorized official of a certifying law enforcement agency confirmation that individual was a victim of a qualifying crime); and evidence to establish each eligibility requirement.
The indictment alleges that as part of this conspiracy to defraud, individuals seeking U-Visas (“aliens”) would contact Patel, or another facilitator who would then contact Patel, to be named as “victims” in police reports alleging that an armed robbery had occurred, so that they could submit applications for U-Visas. The indictment also alleges that aliens paid Patel thousands of dollars to participate, and in exchange, Patel would ask his co-conspirators, including Doyle, Slaney, Dixon, and Onishea, to write false police reports naming the Aliens as victims of alleged armed robberies and provide certification and attestation of U-Visa I-918B supporting documents as representatives of their respective law enforcement agencies.
It is also alleged in the indictment that Patel did corruptly give, offer, and agree to pay an agent of the Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office the sum of $5,000 on February 18, 2025, intending to influence and reward said agent in exchange for a fraudulent police report from the Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office.
The indictment further alleges that from approximately September 27, 2023 until December 26, 2024, Doyle, Slaney, Dixon, and Onishea did knowingly submit false statements with respect to material facts in immigration applications by signing I-918B forms as certifying officials stating that individuals were cooperating victims of crimes, which statements the defendants knew to be false and that the individuals were never victims of the crimes alleged in the I-918B forms.
In addition, the indictment alleges that for the purpose of executing the above-described scheme and artifice to defraud, Patel, Doyle, Slaney, Dixon, and Onishea did commit mail fraud by knowingly placing or causing to be placed in an authorized depository for mail matter, to be sent and delivered by the U.S. Postal Service, a private interstate carrier, or a commercial interstate carrier false Form I-918B created and submitted to USCIS.
Also included in the indictment are money laundering charges and forfeiture allegations against each defendant seeking forfeiture of various bank accounts, real property, and vehicles.
If convicted, the defendants each face a sentence of up to 5 years in prison on the conspiracy charge; up to 10 years on the visa fraud charges; up to 20 years on the mail fraud charge; and Patel faces up to 10 years on the bribery charge. In addition, they could be ordered to pay a fine of up to $250,000 on each count.
This case is being investigated and prosecuted by the Homeland Security Task Force (“HSTF”) as part of Operation Take Back America. HSTFs, which were established by President Trump in Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion, are joint operations led by the Department of Justice and the Department of Homeland Security. Operation Take Back America is a nationwide federal initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
The case is being investigated by the Homeland Security Investigations, a division of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, and United States Citizenship and Immigration Services – Fraud Detection and National Security Division, and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys John W. Nickel and Danny Siefker.
An indictment is merely an accusation, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
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Attachment:
patel_chandrakant_et_al.indictment.pdfKC Sex Offender Sentenced to 12 Years for Illegal FirearmRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City, Mo. man was sentenced in federal court today for illegally possessing a firearm after officers found a firearm when they investigated him for driving while intoxicated.
Bryan A. Bay, 35, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Greg Kays to 12 years in federal prison without parole. Bay’s sentence was ordered to run consecutive to a state sentence for endangering the welfare of a child.
On Feb. 27, 2025, Bay pleaded guilty to one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm.
On July 7, 2023, Independence, Mo. Police Department officers were dispatched to investigate a report that the occupants of a Chevrolet Silverado were passed out. The officers contacted the occupants and identified Bay as the driver of the vehicle. Bay appeared to be under the influence of alcohol. A computer check of Bay showed that he is a registered sex offender and on supervision through Missouri Probation and Parole for endangering the welfare of a child in the first degree and domestic assault in the second degree. Officers located a Smith and Wesson, Model SD9, semi-automatic pistol. The firearm was loaded with a 12-round magazine with one round in the chamber.
On Oct. 4, 2023, Independence, Mo. Police Department officers were dispatched to a residence for an aggravated assault. The victim reported that Bay, her ex-boyfriend, refused to leave her residence and threatened her. She ran into the street to get away from Bay. Her cousin saw her and got into his vehicle to get away from Bay, and Bay’s ex-girlfriend got into the passenger seat. The victim reported that Bay opened the door where she was seated and pointed his 300 blackout AR-15 in the middle of her forehead. Investigators did not locate Bay and issued a pickup order for Bay.
On Nov. 10, 2023, Kansas City, Mo. Police Department officers conducted a car check on a Kia, which was bearing a license plate that belonged to a Saturn. Officers contacted Bay, who was standing between the Kia and his Chevrolet Silverado. Officers arrested Bay on a parole violation warrant and the stop order previously issued by the Independence, Mo. Police Department.
Officers searched Bay’s Chevrolet Silverado and found approximately 5.49 grams of a crystal substance and 7.67 grams of a powder substance. Both substances tested positive for methamphetamine. Officers also found an Anderson Manufacturing, Model AM-15, multi-caliber pistol.
Under federal law, it is illegal for anyone who is convicted of a felony to be in possession of any firearm or ammunition. Bay has two prior felony convictions for tampering with a motor vehicle and possession of a controlled substance and prior felony convictions for domestic assault, unlawful use of a weapon, and endangering the welfare of a child. Bay’s conviction for endangering the welfare of a child requires him to register as a sex offender.
This case was prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica L. Jennings. It was investigated by the Independence, Missouri Police Department and the Kansas City, Missouri Police Department.
Operation Take Back America
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. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
Jury convicts South Carolina woman of human smugglingRead the Press Release
LAREDO, Texas – A 46-year-old Columbia, South Carolina, resident has been found guilty of transporting illegal aliens, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
The jury deliberated for over five hours before convicting Sharon Thompkins following a two-day trial late July 15.
On April 26, a blue tractor trailer approached Border Patrol (BP) checkpoint 29 near Laredo. Ralph Young was driving with Tompkins as passenger.
An x-ray examination revealed anomalies in the vehicle. Upon further inspection, authorities discovered four illegal aliens sitting side-by-side on the bed in the sleeper compartment.
The jury heard that Thompkins agreed to help transport aliens with Young. Testimony revealed Thompkins instructed the aliens to sit on the bed in the sleeper compartment and closed the curtains in order to conceal them.
The defense attempted to convince the jury Thompkins was merely present and did not agree to illegally transport aliens. The jury did not believe those claims and found Thomkins guilty.
U.S. District Judge John A Kazen presided over the trial and set sentencing for September. At that time, Thompkins faces up to five years in federal prison as well as a possible $250,000 maximum fine.
She has been and will remain in custody pending that hearing.
Young, 62, Columbia, South Carolina, previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to transport illegal aliens and also remains in custody pending sentencing.
BP conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Manuel A. Cardenas Jr. and Tae Chon 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 and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces and Project Safe Neighborhood.
Inmate Sentenced for Threatening Federal OfficialsRead the Press Release
PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – Noah D. Stirn, 30, an inmate with the U.S. Bureau of Prisons, was sentenced to 37 months in federal prison after previously pleading guilty to making true threats to kill and injure a Federal District Judge, the Federal Clerk of Courts, and threatening the use of explosives against the Federal Public Defender’s Office. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
“The public should rest assured that my office will not tolerate repeat offenders threatening to endanger individuals for simply doing their jobs, especially those in public service. If you make true threats to federal officials, you should know that we will take them seriously,” said United States Attorney Heekin. “This sentence sends a strong message that we will protect our dedicated government employees, so that they may perform their jobs and serve the public without fear.”
Court documents reflect that Stirn mailed a letter threatening to kill a Federal District Judge for the Northern District of Florida and the Federal Clerk of Courts for the Northern District of Florida. Stirn also mailed a letter to the Federal Public Defender’s Office for the Northern District of Florida which contained threats involving the use of explosives and claimed al-Qaeda was inspiring and sponsoring the attack. Stirn was previously prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida for mailing similar threats, and he was sentenced to 110 months custody in the Bureau of Prisons on February 12, 2020. On July 10, 2025, U.S. District Judge T. Kent Wetherell sentenced Stirn to 37 months consecutive to his current 110-month sentence.
Greg Leljedal, Acting U.S. Marshal for the Northern District of Florida said: “Protecting the federal judiciary is a cornerstone of the U.S. Marshals Service. Perpetrators that threaten to physically harm federal officials can expect swift and serious consequences for these illegal actions.”
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigations and the United States Marshals Service. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Harley W. Ferguson.
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
Houston area men charged in murder-for-hire plotRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – Three people are expected to appear in federal court on charges related to a conspiracy to commit murder for hire and related offenses, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Michael Seery, 42, Katy, is set to appear before U.S. Magistrate Judge Yvonne Ho July 24 at 2 p.m. Ricardo Obando Jr., 51, and Matthew Rosas, 24, both of Houston, are currently in state custody on related charges and expected to make their appearances in federal court also at that time.
Seery was originally charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm and remains in custody. A federal grand jury returned the seven-count superseding indictment July 15. According to the charges, the trio plotted the murder over the course of months and executed their plan in the early morning of Feb. 4. They allegedly shot the victim several times as he was traveling on his way to work.
He survived but sustained several injuries.
If convicted of possession of a firearm silencer in furtherance of a crime of violence or discharging a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, all face up to life in prison with mandatory minimum sentences of 30 and 10 years, respectively. All three are also charged with conspiracy to use interstate commerce facilities in the commission of murder for hire and use of interstate commerce facilities in the commission of murder for hire resulting in personal injury which carry up to 20 years in federal prison. Seery and Obando are charged with transfer and receipt of a firearm for use in a felony and face up to 10 years, while Seery is also charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm which carries another 15-year-maximum sentence.
The FBI, Harris County Sheriff’s Office and Texas Department of Public Safety conducted the investigation with the assistance of Harris County District Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Hunter Brown is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.
Honduran National Charged with Resisting, Assaulting, and Injuring ICE Officer During Traffic StopRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – Today, JOSE MELGAR-RIVAS, 34, of Honduras, was charged by Complaint with assaulting, resisting, or impeding a federal officer resulting in bodily injury, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
According to the Complaint, on July 15, 2025, officers with the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) pulled over a vehicle on NW 23rd Street in Oklahoma City. The driver, Melgar-Rivas, was a Honduran national and an ICE fugitive. The Complaint alleges that Melgar-Rivas refused the officer’s demands to exit the vehicle, and, as officers attempted to remove Melgar-Rivas from the vehicle, a struggle ensued. During the struggle, Melgar-Rivas put the vehicle into drive and fled the scene. As the vehicle accelerated, an ICE officer became trapped in the door of the vehicle, which caused the officer to be dragged down the road. The officer ultimately freed himself from the vehicle but sustained several injuries. Melgar-Rivas, who fled the scene, was arrested several hours later.
“Ensuring the safety of law enforcement personnel in executing their lawful duties is paramount, and it remains a top priority of the Justice Department,” said United States Attorney Robert J. Troester. “Those who assault or interfere with members of law enforcement for simply doing their job enforcing the law must and will be held accountable.”
“Those who assault federal officers will face swift and stern accountability for their actions,” said Travis Pickard, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Dallas Special Agent in Charge over North Texas and Oklahoma. “Violence and any threats of violence to a federal officer in the performance of their duties will result in an immediate and collaborative law enforcement response to track down the perpetrator.”
“Assaults on federal agents will not be tolerated by the FBI,” said FBI Oklahoma City Acting Special Agent in Charge Joe Ogden. “We will continue to aggressively support and defend our fellow public servants so they can safely carry out their sworn duties.”
If found guilty, Melgar-Rivas faces up to 20 years in federal prison, and a fine of up to $250,000.
Melgar-Rivas appeared today in U.S. District Court in Oklahoma City and was ordered to be detained in federal custody pending further proceedings.
The public is reminded this charge is merely an allegation, and that Melgar-Rivas is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case is the result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, the FBI Oklahoma City Field Office, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Removal Operations, and the Oklahoma City Police Department, with assistance from the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tiffany Edgmon is prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Harnett County Felon Sentenced for Possessing Firearms During Search for Missing ChildRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – A Harnett County man was sentenced to 37 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release, for illegally possessing multiple firearms as a convicted felon. On May 17, 2024, Joe Levaughn Smith, Sr., 63, pled guilty to the charge.
“This case highlights the power of strong law enforcement partnerships to make our communities safer across the board,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Bubar. “A missing child was safely recovered, and an armed felon was held accountable. We remain committed to protecting public safety and pursuing justice.”
“The successful recovery of a missing child, seizure of multiple firearms, and the prosecution of this individual responsible for violations of federal law demonstrates the unwavering dedication of our Deputy U.S. Marshals and law enforcement partners,” said Glenn M. McNeill, Jr., U.S. Marshal for the Eastern District of North Carolina. “The outstanding collaboration between federal, state, and local authorities during this investigation is unparalleled. We remain committed to pursuing individuals who prey on the vulnerable and ensuring those responsible are brought to justice.”
According to court documents and other information presented in court, on January 25, 2022, law enforcement executed a search warrant at a residence in Bunnlevel in connection with the recovery of a mother and child who had been missing from Fayetteville since 2016. Investigators with the U.S. Marshal’s Service (USMS), the Fayetteville Police Department, the Harnett County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO), ATF, and other agencies located the individuals at Smith’s residence. Smith became irate and noncompliant during the search, stating he had COVID-19 and intentionally coughing in the direction of the officers as they attempted to detain him.
Smith had previously threatened a government employee and law enforcement in 2021 during an attempted welfare check.
A search of the residence led to the seizure of four firearms: a .22 caliber rifle, a sawed-off 12-gauge shotgun, a 12-gauge shotgun, and a 9mm handgun. Smith, a convicted felon, was prohibited from possessing any firearms under federal law.
Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge James C. Dever III. The USMS, the Fayetteville Police Department, and the HCSO investigated the case and Assistant U.S. Attorney Ashley Foxx prosecuted the case.
Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 5:22-CR-00017-D.
Honduran Man Pleads Guilty to Illegally Reentering the Country After Multiple DUI ArrestsRead the Press Release
PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – Herixson Rene Rodriguez-Perez, 34, pleaded guilty in federal court to illegal reentry by a removed alien. The plea was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “This criminal alien has demonstrated a flagrant disregard for our national and state laws, and his repeated drunk driving poses a threat to our community. He must be held accountable to the fullest extent of the law, and removed from our country immediately thereafter. Let it be clear: violations of our nation’s immigration laws will be aggressively prosecuted by my office.”
Court documents reflect that Rodriguez was deported in 2019 after pleading guilty to a 2016 driving under the influence charge in Tennessee. He returned to the United States and was arrested in 2022 under a false identity for driving while intoxicated in Texas. Rodriguez failed to appear on his Texas charges and has an active warrant. In May 2025, the Pensacola Police Department arrested Rodriguez for driving under the influence following a traffic stop.
Rodriguez faces up to two years in prison followed by removal from the United States.
The case was investigated by U.S. Immigrations and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations. Assistant United States Attorney Brooke DiSalvo is prosecuting the case.
Rodriguez’s sentencing is scheduled for July 16, 2025, at 11:30 am at the United States Courthouse in Pensacola before United States District Judge M. Casey Rodgers.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America (https://www.justice.gov/dag/media/1393746/dl?inline ) a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
Guatemalan National Charged with Assaulting Federal OfficersRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE – A Guatemalan national who entered the United States without inspection in 2006, and who is on bail awaiting trial in Rhode Island state court on felony domestic assault charges and for violation of a protective order has been ordered detained in federal custody on a federal criminal complaint charging him with assault, resisting, and impeding a federal law enforcement officer in performance of official duties, announced Acting United States Attorney Sara Miron Bloom.
According to court documents, on July 15, 2025, ICE Enforcement and Removal officers, a DEA agent, and a Deputy U.S. Marshal approached Cristian Aroldo Pineda Diaz, 37, pursuant to an immigration arrest warrant. Attempting to avoid arrest and flee, Diaz tackled the DEA agent, causing serious injury to the agent. Diaz continue to struggle as the ICE agents and Deputy U.S. Marshal worked to subdue him. An immigration officer and a DEA agents suffered injuries during the scuffle requiring medical attention.
Court records reflect that on February 5, 2023, Diaz was arrested in Central Falls on domestic breaking and entering, domestic disorderly conduct, and resisting arrest charges. A no-contact order was issued prohibiting Diaz from contacting the complainant. On February 16, 2023, an arrest warrant was issued after Diaz allegedly violated the no-contact order by texting and calling the complainant. It is further alleged that on that date, Diaz followed the complainant’s car and struck the vehicle numerous times while with his vehicle. An arrest warrant was issued for Diaz charging him with six counts of felony domestic assault and violation of a protective order.
Diaz was arrested on March 4, 2023, and detained at the ACI. He was released on bail on April 3, 2023.
The federal assault case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S Attorney G. Michael Seaman.
The matter was investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
A criminal complaint is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Guatemalan National Charged with Illegal ReentryRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Guatemalan national unlawfully residing in Springfield, Mass. has been charged with illegally reentering the United States after deportation.
Noe Yonildo Ambrocio-Perez, 38, a/k/a “Noe Perez,” “Noe Ambrocio,” Noel Perez,” Wilder Noel Perez,” “Noe Velazquez Ambrocio-Perez,” and “Rodolfo Lopez Velasquez,” was charged with one count of unlawful reentry of a deported alien. Ambrocio-Perez was arrested on July 3, 2025 and, following an initial appearance in federal court in Springfield, the Court took the matter of detention under advisement. Ambrocio-Perez remains in federal custody.
According to court filings, Ambrocio-Perez illegally entered and was subsequently removed from the United States three times. The defendant was first encountered by immigration authorities in 2002, after he entered the United States illegally using the alias “Rodolfo Lopez-Velazquez,” and was processed for a voluntary removal.
It is alleged that sometime thereafter, Ambrocio-Perez illegally reentered the United States for the second time. In July 2008, he was arrested in Springfield, Mass. for assault and battery after he allegedly became drunk and punched his girlfriend in the face with a closed fist. The arrest report listed another alias for the defendant, “Wilder Noel Perez.” It is further alleged that Ambrocio-Perez was arrested again in Springfield in 2009, after he was involved in an accident while operating a motor vehicle that was both uninsured and unregistered. Ambrocio-Perez allegedly identified himself to police with another alias, “Noel Perez.” In 2010, in Springfield, he was allegedly placed into protective custody when law enforcement encountered him “too drunk to walk or care for himself,” and allegedly used a fourth alias, “Noe Yonildo Perez.”
According to court records, in 2012 Ambrocio-Perez was arrested for driving in an erratic and dangerous manner. During the arrest, he identified himself with a fifth alias, “Neri Perez,” and provided breath alcohol test samples of .255, .077, and .245. He was later convicted of motor vehicle crimes in 2013 and sentenced to a period of confinement. Following his release from state custody, Ambrocio-Perez was arrested by immigration authorities and ultimately released on order of recognizance that directed him to appear for immigration proceedings later that year. After the he failed to appear, an Immigration Judge ordered Ambrocio-Perez to be removed to Guatemala in absentia.
Two years later, in 2015, Ambrocio-Perez was arrested in West Palm Beach, Fla., for driving erratically and speeding. According to court records, at the time of the arrest, Ambrocio-Perez presented a Guatemalan consular identification card in the name of one of his aliases, “Noe Perez,” which had two outstanding warrants for two separate motor vehicle cases. Ambrocio-Perez subsequently pleaded guilty to driving without a license, was sentenced to three days in jail and was later remoted to Guatemala for the second time.
It is alleged that sometime thereafter, Ambrocio-Perez illegally entered the United States for the third time. In 2018, he was again arrested in West Palm Beach, Fla., for driving away from the scene of an accident and operating a motor vehicle beyond his normal faculties. In a subsequent case brought in the Southern District of Florida, Ambrocio-Perez pleaded guilty in federal court to one count of illegal reentry and was removed from the United States in 2019.
At some point after his 2019 removal, it is alleged that Ambrocio-Perez illegally entered the United States for the fourth time. According to court documents, he was arrested in May 2025 in Springfield, Mass. after he crashed his motor vehicle and attempted to drive away from the scene.
The charge of unlawful reentry of a deported alien provides for a sentence of up to 10 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 Steven H. Breslow of the Springfield Branch Office 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.