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Thursday 24 April 2025
Six Individuals Indicted on Charges of Criminal Conspiracy Involving Illegal Drugs and FirearmsRead the Press Release
Yakima, Washington – The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Washington announced today that six people are in federal custody following the return of an indictment alleging 20 criminal counts involving drug trafficking and firearms.
On April 22, 2025, the Drug Enforcement Administration; Federal Bureau of Investigation; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; Homeland Security Investigations, and the Moses Lake Police Department executed a number of federal search warrants at several locations, seizing nine firearms. The guns were seized as part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation into a drug trafficking network operating in Eastern Washington.
According to unsealed charging documents, the following individuals have been charged in connection to the investigation. In addition, the names of others indicted in connection with this investigation will be unsealed upon the arrest of those individuals.
- Jose Luis Martinez-Parra, charged with Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine and Fentanyl, Distribution of 50 Grams or More of Actual (Pure) Methamphetamine, Distribution of Fentanyl, Distribution of 40 Grams or More of Fentanyl
- Alexander Martinez-Mendoza, 18, charged with Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine and Fentanyl, Distribution of 40 Grams or More of Fentanyl
- Luis Martin Navarro-Ceballos, 29, charged with Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine and Fentanyl, Distribution of 50 Grams or More of Actual (Pure) Methamphetamine, Carrying Firearm During Drug Trafficking, Alien in Possession of a Firearm
- Maria Zamora-Cuevas, 33, charged with Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine and Fentanyl
- Rosa Zamora, 41, charged with Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine and Fentanyl
- Triston David Duplichan, 29, Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine and Fentanyl, Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl
The individuals were arraigned at the Yakima Federal Courthouse on Wednesday, April 23, 2025.
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).
The Drug Enforcement Administration, Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Moses Lake Police Department investigated this case. Additional assistance was provided by the Yakima Police Department, the U.S. Marshals Service and the Bureau of Indians Affairs. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Benjamin D. Seal.
An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
1:25-CR-2049-SAB
Seattle man who carjacked a BMW near Lumen Field pleads guilty in federal courtRead the Press Release
Seattle – A 32-year-old Seattle man pleaded guilty today in U.S. District Court in Seattle to carjacking and using a firearm during a crime of violence, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Teal Luthy Miller. Louis Montel De’Andre Dowers was arrested June 9, 2024, hours after he carjacked a BMW outside the Seattle Team Shop on Occidental Avenue South in the Pioneer Square neighborhood. Dowers faces a mandatory minimum five years in prison and up to life in prison when sentenced by U.S. District Judge John H. Chun on August 4, 2025.
According to the plea agreement, a man was waiting for his wife, sitting in the driver’s seat of his car outside a business on Occidental Avenue South. Dowers approached the car from behind, pulled out a distinctive firearm, pointed it at the victim, and ordered him out of the car saying “It’s mine now. Get out.” The victim was able to get his dog out of the car before Dowers drove off. The victim’s wife came out of the store and was nearly hit by the car as it raced away.
Police were able to track the car to Auburn, Washington – near a middle school. Working with a description of the alleged carjacker, a King County Sheriff’s deputy located Dowers walking nearby. When searched, Dowers possessed a semi-automatic firearm that had been privately manufactured – a so-called ‘ghost gun.’ The firearm was fully loaded with a round in the chamber. In his plea agreement Dowers admits he used the gun in the carjacking
Carjacking is punishable by up to 15 years in prison. Using a firearm during a crime of violence, as described in the plea agreement, is punishable by a mandatory minimum five years in prison and up to life in prison. Under the terms of the plea agreement, prosecutors will recommend no more than seven years in prison. The defense can recommend no less than five years and a day in prison. Judge Chun is not bound by the recommendations and can impose any sentence allowed by law after considering the sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors.
The case was investigated by the federal carjacking task force made up of the Seattle Police Department, the Kent Police Department, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF) and the FBI. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Todd Greenberg who leads the Western District of Washington Carjacking Task Force.
Savannah Resident Convicted at Trial of Machinegun and Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
SAVANNAH, GA: A Savannah resident has been found guilty at trial of drug trafficking and weapons charges.
Malik Javier McKenzie, 27, of Savannah, was convicted after a two-day trial in U.S. District Court on charges of Possession of Controlled Substances With Intent to Distribute, Possession of a Machinegun in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime, and Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon, said Tara M. Lyons, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Georgia. The convictions subject McKenzie to a statutory minimum penalty of 30 years and a maximum penalty of life in prison, followed by a period of supervised release upon completion of any prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
As described at trial, McKenzie was the driver of a motor vehicle that recklessly avoided police after an attempted traffic stop. Following a crash of McKenzie’s vehicle, McKenzie led law enforcement on a foot chase that resulted in a physical struggle. A search of McKenzie’s person following the struggle revealed a Glock handgun in his pants pocket and a fanny pack containing distributable quantities of Cocaine, Fentanyl, Carfentanil, and Methamphetamine.
Later testing by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) confirmed the presence of the various controlled substances. Testimony at trial noted that Carfentanil is a more potent, and dangerous, version of Fentanyl. Testing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) revealed that the recovered handgun bore a “machinegun conversion device” (commonly referred to as a “Glock switch”) which illegally allowed the firearm to function as a machinegun in that it expelled multiple rounds of ammunition with one sustained pull of the trigger.
McKenzie was prohibited from possessing any firearm because of previous convictions in both the U.S. District Court and the Superior Court for the Eastern Judicial Circuit of Georgia.“I am extremely proud of our officers, investigators, and our federal partners involved in this case,” said Tracey Howard, Hinesville Chief of Police. “Due to their hard work and expertise, Mr. McKenzie is being held accountable for his actions.”
“Machinegun conversion kits are turning up more and more in our streets and at crime scenes,” said Assistant Special Agent in Charge Beau Kolodka. “These conversion devices are illegal, dangerous, and pose a serious threat to the community. ATF is working closely with our law enforcement partners to keep these devices off our streets.”
“Guns, drugs, and violence are unfortunately all too common tools of the drug traffickers operating in our communities,” said Jae W. Chung, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Atlanta Division. “Today’s announcement demonstrates DEA’s emphatic commitment to attacking the drug dealers responsible for the devastation.”
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 Neighborhoods (PSN).
This investigation took place under the umbrella of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program that has been successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer.
The case was being investigated by the ATF, DEA, and the Hinesville Police Department and prosecuted for the United States by Assistant U.S. Attorney Bradley R. Thompson and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah N. Brettin.
San Antonio Woman Sentenced to Federal Prison for Cocaine TraffickingRead the Press Release
SAN ANTONIO – A San Antonio woman was sentenced in federal court to 50 months in prison for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute five kgs or more of cocaine.
According to court documents, Gisselle Cabrera Rodriguez, 25, was pulled over by Bexar County Sheriff’s Office deputies on Feb. 6, 2024, for committing multiple traffic violations. A search of her vehicle resulted in the discovery of 1.2 kgs of cocaine located in the front passenger compartment. Two cell phones were also seized in the search. Rodriguez was arrested and a federal search warrant was executed on her residence, leading to the discovery of another 2.3 kgs of cocaine packaged in two bundles. Agents also located $45,700 in cash, which was determined to be proceeds from Rodriguez’s drug trafficking activity. Rodriguez also admitted to trafficking at least five kgs of cocaine per week during the five to six months leading up to her arrest.
Rodriguez pleaded guilty to one count of a two-count indictment. In addition to the imprisonment, Rodriguez was ordered to forfeit the $45,700 located in the search warrant.
Acting U.S. Attorney Margaret Leachman for the Western District of Texas made the announcement.
The FBI investigated the case with valuable assistance from BCSO and the San Antonio Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney John Fedock prosecuted the case.
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Romanian National Arrested for Possession of A Firearm by an Alien Unlawfully in the United StatesRead the Press Release
Tampa, FL - United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces the arrest and filing of a criminal complaint charging Andrei Saplacan (35, Tampa) with possessing a firearm as an alien unlawfully in the United States. If convicted, Saplacan faces up to 15 years in federal prison.
According to the complaint, earlier this month, Saplacan attempted to purchase a firearm from a local Federal Firearms Licensee. Saplacan incorrectly answered one of the questions on the form regarding his immigration status, failing to disclose that he had been admitted to United States under a non-immigrant visa. Saplacan’s application to purchase the firearm was denied.
Further investigation revealed that Saplacan entered the United States in September of 2014 on an H2B visa with authorization to remain in the United States until June 10, 2015, and has overstayed for nearly 10 years. As such, he is prohibited from legally purchasing or possessing a firearm or ammunition.
A search warrant was executed at Saplacan’s home on April 21, 2025. In Saplacan’s bedroom, law enforcement located five firearms, various rounds of ammunition, a gas mask, and bullet proof vest.
This case is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Homeland Security Investigations. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Samantha Newman.
A complaint is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
This case 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 Neighborhoods (PSN).
Rogersville Man Sentenced for Illegal FirearmRead the Press Release
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Rogersville, Mo., man was sentenced in federal court today for illegally possessing a firearm.
Lloyd Eugene Mathis, 37, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge M. Douglas Harpool to 84 months in federal prison without parole.
On Nov. 13, 2024, Mathis pleaded guilty to one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm.
On Feb. 21, 2024, deputies with the United States Marshals Service, who were searching for Mathis in relation to outstanding warrants out of Oklahoma, located Mathis in the parking lot of a strip mall in Springfield, Mo. When the marshals identified themselves and approached Mathis he attempted to flee on foot. The deputies tackled Mathis and attempted to take control of his arms. Mathis physically resisted, ignored commands and reached under his body. During the struggle, deputies observed a firearm in the Mathis’s waistband. The firearm, an SCCY, model CPX-2, 9mm pistol, was loaded with eight rounds of live ammunition.
According to court records, Mathis continued to physically resist and was verbally combative with officers. Mathis threatened to headbutt officers as they attempted to place him in the patrol vehicle.
Under federal law, it is illegal for anyone who is convicted of a felony to be in possession of any firearm or ammunition. Mathis has prior felony convictions for automobile theft, burglary, arson, assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, domestic assault, attempting to elude a police officer, and driving under the influence of drugs.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie Wan. It was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Greene County, Mo., Sheriff’s Office, and the United States Marshals Service.
Project Safe Neighborhoods
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.
Retired Police Officer Sentenced to 60 Months in Federal Prison for Obstructing JusticeRead the Press Release
Hagåtña, Guam – SHAWN N. ANDERSON, United States Attorney for the Districts of Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands, announced that defendant, John T. Mantanona, age 67, was sentenced by designated Senior District Judge John C. Coughenour in the District Court of Guam to 60 months imprisonment for Obstructing Justice by Endeavoring to Influence a Juror, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1503. The Court also ordered two years of supervised release, a $30,000 fine, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.
From October 12, 2018, through November 13, 2018, Chief Judge Frances Tydingco-Gatewood conducted a federal jury trial in the criminal case of United States v. Raymond Martinez and Juanita Moser, 15-CR-00031. Mantanona was retired from the Guam Police Department, including work as an FBI task force officer. Martinez and Moser hired him as an investigator during the trial. Mantanona tried to influence Gregorio Tyquiengco while Tyquiengco served as a juror in the case. During the trial, and prior to jury deliberations, Mantanona contacted Tyquiengco to discuss what verdict Tyquiengco would render and to influence him to vote “NG” (not guilty) despite the evidence against Martinez and Moser. Mantanona also wanted Tyquiengco to persuade other jurors to do the same, with the intent to cause a hung jury and mistrial. A mistrial was declared on November 13, 2018. Mantanona met with Tyquiengco and gave him $1,000, in addition to $100 afterward.
Tyquiengco pled guilty to Contempt of Court, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 401(3). He was sentenced to 30 days imprisonment and one year of supervised release. Tyquiengco was also ordered to reimburse the district court for any money he received for serving as a federal juror.
William Topasna Mantanona pled guilty to False Statement to Government Agent, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1001(a)(2). During a wiretapped telephone conversation, he communicated with his brother, John T. Mantanona, to facilitate the above-described scheme. He later falsely denied this conduct during an investigative interview with a special agent from Homeland Security Investigations. On August 26, 2021, the district court sentenced William Topasna Mantanona to six months imprisonment, two years of supervised release, and a mandatory $5,000 fine.
“The public should have faith in our justice system, which includes fair and impartial court proceedings. Mantanona violated this fundamental concept of trial by jury. The Department of Justice will hold accountable those who obstruct justice," stated United States Attorney Anderson. "I applaud our law enforcement partners for pursuing an investigation beyond the initial crimes by Martinez and Moser.”
"Great trust is placed in those who call law enforcement their mission," said Homeland Security Investigations Hawaii Special Agent in Charge Lucy Cabral-DeArmas. "Violating that trust by working to dilute the integrity of our judicial process is a complete betrayal of that mission and brings down every person who seeks to serve the public. This sentence sends a clear message to those currently in or retired from law enforcement that if you break that trust, there will be consequences."
“The FBI’s anti-corruption work remains one of our highest priorities. Those who criminally influence jurors and their deliberations through bribery strike at the very foundation of our criminal justice system,” said FBI Honolulu Special Agent in Charge David Porter. “Mr. Mantanona tampered with the integrity of our legal process, and in so doing, attempted to deny our community the justice it deserves. As reflected by this investigation, the FBI is committed to protecting our legal system and will bring to justice those who act to corrupt it.”
“While this conviction is for obstructing justice, this is a direct result of a firearms trafficking case from a number of years ago in which we seized more than $1.2 million in cash, $2 million more in additional seizures, and 67 firearms,” said ATF Seattle Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Blais. “It’s discouraging to see that a retired law enforcement officer was involved in these illegal actions, but we are glad to see the passing of this sentence.”
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives.
Assistant United States Attorney Rosetta L. San Nicolas prosecuted the case in the District of Guam.
The case was investigated under the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF). OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. For more information about Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces, please visit Justice.gov/OCDETF.
Prolific fraudster sentenced to 10 years for series of schemes costing victims millionsRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – A 39-year-old Manvel resident who used his veteran status to perpetuate several financial crimes has been ordered to federal prison, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Antonio Jackson Jr. pleaded guilty Feb. 4.
U.S. District Judge Lee Rosenthal has now ordered Jackson to serve 120 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by three years of supervised release. The court also ordered Jackson to pay a total of $1,974,145.63 in restitution to four different victims.
At the hearing, the court heard additional evidence about the various methods Jackson used to exploit his victims, including creating fake companies, submitting bogus tax records and even faking signatures of government officials and copying official government seals and emblems. In handing down the sentence, Judge Rosenthal highlighted Jackson’s wide-ranging criminal conduct and his ongoing commitment to defrauding both public and private victims. The court also noted that Jackson exploited his brief stint in the U.S. Army, which ended in a court-martial, as a way to deceive others under the guise of service.
From July 2020 to May 2021, Jackson submitted four false Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan applications. He claimed his business earned millions in revenue and paid hundreds of thousands in wages to more than 20 employees. In reality, Jackson fabricated tax returns, bank statements and other business records to support his false claims. The scheme resulted in losses of approximately $480,000.
While awaiting trial, authorities uncovered three additional schemes Jackson committed. As part of his plea agreement, he admitted to defrauding a Washington D.C.-based federal credit union through a series of scam home improvement loans. Jackson also made false statements to obtain a Department of Veteran’s Affairs (VA)-backed loan. In addition, he defrauded Brazoria County taxpayers by falsely claiming disabled veteran status to receive property tax relief on his Manvel residence.
He will remain in custody pending transfer to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
The Small Business Administration and the Department of Veteran’s Affairs- Office of Inspector General conducted the investigation with the assistance of several local police departments. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Andrew Swartz and Thomas Carter prosecuted the case.
Previously Convicted Felon Sentenced for Federal Firearm and Narcotics Trafficking OffensesRead the Press Release
Baltimore, Maryland – Judge Brendan A. Hurson sentenced Hugh Emerson Berry, Jr., 41, of Hagerstown, Maryland, to 78 months in federal prison for his role in a narcotics and firearm trafficking network. In January 2025, Berry pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute heroin, fentanyl, and methamphetamine along with possession with intent to distribute fentanyl.
Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the sentence with Special Agent in Charge Toni M. Crosby, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF); Special Agent in Charge Michael S. McCarthy, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Frederick; Postal Inspector in Charge Damon Wood, U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) – Washington Division; Roland L. Butler, Jr. Superintendent, Maryland State Police (MSP); and Colonel Paul Joey Kifer, Chief of Police, Hagerstown Police Department (HPD).
In May 2023, the ATF, HSI, and MSP began investigating a drug and firearm trafficking network spanning the mid-Atlantic of the United States. During the investigation, ATF, HSI, and MSP investigators discovered that Berry and his co-conspirators were selling both illegal narcotics and firearms throughout Maryland. Additionally, the ATF used an undercover investigator to participate in multiple controlled drug purchases. The drugs included heroin, fentanyl, and methamphetamine aka “crystal meth.” Berry, a convicted felon who cannot possess firearms or ammunition, also offered firearms and a machine-gun conversion device.
Between May and October 2023 — over the course of approximately 10 meetings — Berry sold an undercover detective heroin, fentanyl, and methamphetamine. The defendant also sold an undercover detective numerous firearms, including eight polymer 80 firearms aka “Ghost Guns,” three firearm magazines, and a machine-gun conversion device.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
This case is part of a Strike Force Initiative, which provides for the establishment of permanent multi-agency task force teams that work side-by-side in the same location. This co-located model enables agents from different agencies to collaborate on intelligence-driven, multi-jurisdictional operations to disrupt and dismantle the most significant drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations. The specific mission of the Baltimore Strike Force is to identify, disrupt, and dismantle violent drug trafficking, money laundering, and transnational criminal organizations to reduce drug-related and/or gang violence in the Baltimore metropolitan and surrounding areas. The Baltimore Strike Force is comprised of agents and officers from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Department of Homeland Security, the United States Marshals Service, the United States Secret Service, United States Postal Inspection Service, the Maryland State Police, the Baltimore Police Department, the Baltimore Sheriff’s Office, the Baltimore County Police Department, the Maryland Transportation Authority, and the Maryland Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services. The prosecution is being led by the Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Maryland.
U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the ATF, HSI, USPIS, MSP Criminal Enforcement Division, and HPD for their work in the investigation. Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Simpkins who prosecuted the case.
For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to report fraud, visit www.justice.gov/usao-md and https://www.justice.gov/usao-md/community-outreach.
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Payroll Services Company Owner Sentenced to PrisonRead the Press Release
Defendant Defrauded the United States of More than $20M in Taxes While Amassing a Large Collection of Luxury Goods Including 27 Ferraris
MIAMI – A Florida man was sentenced today to 50 months in prison for not paying taxes withheld from his employees’ wages and filing a false tax return.
The following is according to court documents and statements made in court: Matthew Brown, of Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, owned and operated multiple businesses in and around Martin County, Florida. One of these businesses was a payroll services company known as Elite Payroll. Elite Payroll provided payroll services to small businesses in and around St. Lucie, Martin, and Palm Beach Counties. Elite Payroll was hired by its clients to collect and pay over the Social Security, Medicare, and federal income taxes withheld from clients’ employees’ wages and to pay over those funds to the IRS each quarter. The timely payment of these taxes is critical to the functioning of the U.S. government, including because they are the primary source of funding for Social Security and Medicare. The federal income taxes that are withheld from employees’ wages also account for a significant portion of all federal income taxes collected each year.
Between 2014 and 2022, Brown did not pay over $20,000,000 in taxes withheld from the wages of employees of clients of Elite Payroll and from other businesses he controlled and instead enriched himself. To effectuate his scheme, Brown charged his clients the full amount of their tax liabilities but then filed false employment tax returns with the IRS that substantially underreported their liabilities, and pocketing the difference. For example, for one quarter in 2021, a client owed approximately $219,000 in taxes. Elite Payroll collected that amount from the client but filed a false tax return with the IRS claiming that the client only owed approximately $32,000, which Elite paid. Brown then kept the remaining approximately $190,000.
Instead of paying over the funds, Brown purchased commercial and residential real estate, including his multimillion-dollar home, a Valhalla 55 Sport Yacht, a Falcon 50 Aircraft, and a large collection of cars including Porsches, Rolls Royces, and 27 Ferraris.
In addition to his prison sentence, U.S. District Judge Aileen M. Cannon for the Southern District of Florida ordered Brown to serve two years of supervised release and to pay $22,401,585 in restitution, and a $200,000 fine to the United States.
U.S. Attorney Hayden O’Bryne of the Southern District of Florida and Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney Karen E. Kelly of the Justice Department’s Tax Division made the announcement.
IRS Criminal Investigation investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Porter for the Southern District of Florida and Trial Attorney Andrew Ascencio of the Tax Division prosecuted the case.
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.justice.gov/usao-sdfl.
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-14045.
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Payroll Services Company Owner Sentenced to PrisonRead the Press Release
A Florida man was sentenced today to 50 months in prison for not paying taxes withheld from his employees’ wages and filing a false tax return.
The following is according to court documents and statements made in court: Matthew Brown, of Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, owned and operated multiple businesses in and around Martin County, Florida. One of these businesses was a payroll services company known as Elite Payroll. Elite Payroll provided payroll services to small businesses in and around St. Lucie, Martin, and Palm Beach Counties. Elite Payroll was hired by its clients to collect and pay over the Social Security, Medicare, and federal income taxes withheld from clients’ employees’ wages and to pay over those funds to the IRS each quarter. The timely payment of these taxes is critical to the functioning of the U.S. government, including because they are the primary source of funding for Social Security and Medicare. The federal income taxes that are withheld from employees’ wages also account for a significant portion of all federal income taxes collected each year.
Between 2014 and 2022, Brown did not pay over $20,000,000 in taxes withheld from the wages of employees of clients of Elite Payroll and from other businesses he controlled and instead enriched himself. To effectuate his scheme, Brown charged his clients the full amount of their tax liabilities but then filed false employment tax returns with the IRS that substantially underreported their liabilities, and pocketing the difference. For example, for one quarter in 2021, a client owed approximately $219,000 in taxes. Elite Payroll collected that amount from the client but filed a false tax return with the IRS claiming that the client only owed approximately $32,000, which Elite paid. Brown then kept the remaining approximately $190,000.
Instead of paying over the funds, Brown purchased commercial and residential real estate, including his multimillion-dollar home, a Valhalla 55 Sport Yacht, a Falcon 50 Aircraft, and a large collection of cars including Porsches, Rolls Royces, and 27 Ferraris.
In addition to his prison sentence, U.S. District Judge Aileen M. Cannon for the Southern District of Florida ordered Brown to serve two years of supervised release and to pay $22,401,585 in restitution, and a $200,000 fine to the United States.
Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney Karen E. Kelly of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and U.S. Attorney Hayden O’Bryne of the Southern District of Florida made the announcement.
IRS Criminal Investigation investigated the case.
Trial Attorney Andrew Ascencio of the Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Porter for the Southern District of Florida prosecuted the case.
Orleans Parish Man Indicted for Firearm and Narcotics ViolationsRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LA – KEITH CALDWELL (“CALDWELL”), age 41, of New Orleans, was charged on January 31, 2025, in a recently unsealed, three-count indictment, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson. Count 1 charged CALDWELL with Possession with the Intent to Distribute Controlled Substances, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(C), and 841(b)(1)(D). Count 2 charged him with possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A)(i). Count 3 charged him with being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8).
According to the indictment, on September 28, 2024, Louisiana State Police troopers and federal agents arrested CALDWELL for violations of the Federal Controlled Substances Act while he was in possession of firearms. Further investigation determined that CALDWELL was prohibited from possessing firearms due to his prior felony conviction(s).
If convicted, CALDWELL faces up to 20 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $1,000,000, at least 3 years of supervised release for Count 1; a mandatory minimum of 5 years up to life imprisonment to run consecutive to any other sentence imposed , up to a $250,000 fine, and at least 5 years of supervised release for Count 2; and up to 15 years imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to 3 years of supervised release for Count 3. CALDWELL also faces payment of a $100 mandatory special assessment fee as to all three counts.
Acting United States Attorney Simpson reiterated that the indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the Louisiana State Police. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Troy L. Bell of the Violent Crimes Unit.
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).
Omaha Man Sentenced for Possession with Intent to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
Acting United States Attorney Matthew R. Molsen announced that Jesus Martinez-Garcia, 27, of Omaha, Nebraska, was sentenced on April 23, 2025, in federal court in Omaha for possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of actual methamphetamine. United States District Judge Brian C. Buescher sentenced Martinez-Garcia to 200 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After Martinez-Garcia is released from prison, he will begin a 5-year term of supervised release.
On March 11, 2020, Martinez-Garcia sold a confidential informant 372 grams of lab confirmed actual methamphetamine in Omaha. During the controlled drug transaction, Martinez-Garcia also possessed three firearms.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and Omaha Police Department. This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
Olive Branch Woman Sentenced to Five Years and Ordered to Pay Millions after PPP Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
Oxford, MS – Zipora Hudson, of Olive Branch, Mississippi, was sentenced today by U.S. District Court Judge Michael P. Mills to five years in prison for conspiracy to commit wire fraud and conspiracy to commit money laundering following her trial conviction in January.
Judge Mills sentenced Zipora Hudson to a 60-month jail sentence followed by five years of supervised release for her role in a PPP fraud scheme that was presented to a federal jury and resulted in a guilty verdict on January 17, 2025. Hudson was also ordered to pay $3,526,517 in restitution.
The Paycheck Protection Program (“PPP”) was a COVID-19 pandemic relief program administered by the Small Business Administration (“SBA”) to provide funding for small businesses affected by the economic downturn associated with the Coronavirus Pandemic. According to court documents, Zipora Hudson, her son, Montreal Hudson, and Deandre Jones utilized Zippy Bee, LLC as a tax preparation business in Charleston, MS, to create and file hundreds of PPP loan applications on behalf of borrowers that were not eligible to receive the loans. The defendants created fraudulent Schedule C tax documents to claim gross income amounts that far exceeded the real income for a particular business or claimed gross income amounts for businesses that never existed. The documents were created in order to receive PPP loans in amounts ranging from $19,000 to $20,833 per loan. For their efforts, the defendants required the borrowers to pay them a kickback out of the proceeds of each loan. The defendants used the illegally obtained money to purchase luxury vehicles and real estate, among other things.
“By exploiting a government program designed to aid businesses during a national crisis, Zipora Hudson stole millions of dollars from American taxpayers,” said U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner. “The sentence imposed today should send a message to those responsible for pandemic fraud that we will continue to work alongside our law enforcement partners to ensure justice is served.”
“Zipora Hudson committed PPP loan fraud and is now paying the price for her crime,” said Assistant Special Agent in Charge Lisa Fontanette of the IRS Criminal Investigation Atlanta Field Office. “She is one of many individuals being held accountable for defrauding a program intended to assist small businesses economically survive the COVID-19 pandemic.”
Montreal Hudson was convicted alongside Zipora Hudson in the January jury trial, and he is set to be sentenced on June 26, 2025. Deandre Jones, also of Olive Branch, MS, previously pled guilty in the case.
The scheme was initially uncovered during the course of a civil investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Scott Leary and Assistant U.S. Attorney Sam Wright prosecuted the case on behalf of U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Mississippi. The case was investigated by the IRS Criminal Investigation Division along with investigators from the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
On May 17, 2021, the Attorney General established the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force to marshal the resources of the Department of Justice in partnership with agencies across government to enhance efforts to combat and prevent pandemic-related fraud. The Task Force bolsters efforts to investigate and prosecute the most culpable domestic and international criminal actors and assists agencies tasked with administering relief programs to prevent fraud by augmenting and incorporating existing coordination mechanisms, identifying resources and techniques to uncover fraudulent actors and their schemes, and sharing and harnessing information and insights gained from prior enforcement efforts. For more information on the department's response to the pandemic, please visit Justice.gov/Coronavirus and Justice.gov/Coronavirus/CombatingFraud.
Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice's National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline via the NCDF Web Complaint Form.
Oklahoma City Man Sentenced to Serve Six Years in Federal Prison after Domestic Violence Call Leads to Illegal Firearm and Ammunition Possession ConvictionRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – TRAYVEON RAMON CALDWELL, 34, of Oklahoma City, has been sentenced to serve 72 months in federal prison for illegal possession of ammunition and a firearm after a previous felony conviction, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
On July 2, 2024, a federal Grand Jury returned a three-count Indictment against Caldwell, charging him with two counts of being a felon in possession of ammunition and one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. According to public record, on August 28, 2023, officers with the Oklahoma City Police Department responded to Caldwell’s home on a reported domestic violence incident. The victim told OCPD Caldwell threatened to kill her, attempted to choke her, struck her head, and fired a gun near her head inside the home. Officers searched the home, found a spent shell casing on Caldwell’s bed, and arrested Caldwell on domestic abuse allegations. That same day, OCPD executed a search warrant on Caldwell’s home following two controlled purchases of crack cocaine from the house. During the search, OCPD seized a handgun and several live rounds of ammunition.
On December 12, 2024, Caldwell pleaded guilty to the Indictment, and admitted he possessed a firearm, spent shell casing, and other live rounds of ammunition despite his previous felony convictions.
At the sentencing hearing on April 23, 2025, U.S. District Judge Scott L. Palk sentenced Caldwell to serve 72 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release. In announcing the sentence, the Court noted the violent circumstances surrounding the offense and Caldwell’s criminal history. Public record reflects that Caldwell has felony convictions in Oklahoma County District Court for possession of crack cocaine with intent to distribute, possession of drug proceeds, and possession of an offensive weapon while committing a felony in case number CF-2011-331, and possession of a controlled dangerous substance in case number CF-2012-4320.
This case is the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and OCPD. Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel Gridley prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a Department of Justice program to reduce violent crime. In October 2017, the Department announced the reinvigoration of PSN and directed U.S. Attorney’s Offices to develop crime-reduction strategies that incorporate lessons federal law enforcement have learned since the program’s launch in 2001. This case is also part of “Operation 922,” the Western District of Oklahoma’s implementation of PSN, which prioritizes prosecution of federal crimes connected to domestic violence. For more information about PSN, please visit https://justice.gov/psn and https://justice.gov/usao-wdok.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Norwalk Man Sentenced to 22 Months in Federal Prison for Trafficking CocaineRead the Press Release
Marc H. Silverman, Acting United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that CHRISTOPHER ADAMS, 58, of Norwalk, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Michael P. Shea in Hartford to 22 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for trafficking cocaine in southwestern Connecticut.
According to court documents and statements made in court, the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Bridgeport High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) Task Force and Stamford Police Department identified Rodney Canada, also known as “Supreme,” as the leader of a drug trafficking organization that was distributing large quantities of fentanyl, heroin, cocaine, and crack cocaine in Stamford and elsewhere in southwestern Connecticut. The investigation, which included court-authorized wiretaps and controlled purchases of narcotics, revealed that Canada and others coordinated the street level distribution of narcotics, and that Canada sold bulk quantities of cocaine to Adams for further distribution.
On March 8, 2024, Adams was arrested on related state charges after a court-authorized search of a Norwalk hotel room where he was living revealed approximately 80 grams of cocaine. After Adams was released on bond in his state case, he resumed his narcotics trafficking activity.
Canada and several other members of the conspiracy were arrested federally on May 14, 2024. On that date, investigators conducted court-authorized searches at locations in Stamford, Norwalk, Bridgeport, and Darien and seized approximately three kilograms of cocaine, nearly 400 grams of raw fentanyl, more than 500 bags of fentanyl, five firearms, a bulletproof vest, and seven vehicles.
Adams was arrested federally on May 18, 2024. On December 10, 2024, he pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute cocaine. He has been detained since his arrest.
Canada has pleaded guilty and awaits sentencing.
This investigation is being conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Bridgeport High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) Task Force, the Stamford Police Department, the Bridgeport Police Department, and the U.S. Marshals Service, with the assistance of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Connecticut State Police, and the Norwalk, Danbury, and Darien Police Departments. The DEA HIDTA Task Force includes personnel from the DEA Bridgeport Resident Office, the Connecticut State Police, and the Norwalk, Stamford, Stratford, Milford, and Danbury Police Departments.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Patricia Stolfi Collins and Geoffrey M. Stone through the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Program. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations through a prosecutor-led and intelligence-driven approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
New York Man Charged with Immigration Fraud for Concealing Role as Perpetrator of Rwandan GenocideRead the Press Release
A federal grand jury in Central Islip, New York, returned an indictment April 22 and unsealed today charging a New York man with lying on his applications for a green card and United States citizenship by concealing his past role as a leader and perpetrator of the genocide in Rwanda in 1994.
According to court documents, Faustin Nsabumukunzi, 65, of Bridgehampton, New York, was a local leader with the title of “Sector Counselor” in Rwanda in 1994 when the genocide began. Between April and July of that year, members of the majority Hutu population persecuted the minority Tutsis, committing acts of violence including murder and rape. An estimated 800,000 ethnic Tutsis and moderate Hutus were killed during the three-month genocide. Nsabumukunzi was arrested this morning on Long Island and is scheduled to be arraigned at 1:30 p.m. ET before U.S. District Judge Joanna Seybert for the Eastern District of New York.
“As alleged, the defendant participated in the commission of heinous acts of violence abroad and then lied his way into a green card and tried to obtain U.S. citizenship,” said Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “No matter how much time has passed, the Department of Justice will find and prosecute individuals who committed atrocities in their home countries and covered them up to gain entry and seek citizenship in the United States.”
“As alleged, Nsabumukunzi repeatedly lied to conceal his involvement in the horrific Rwandan genocide while seeking to become a lawful permanent resident and citizen of the United States,” said U.S. Attorney John J. Durham for the Eastern District of New York. “For over two decades, he got away with those lies and lived in the United States with an undeserved clean slate, a luxury that his victims will never have, but thanks to the tenacious efforts of our investigators and prosecutors, the defendant finally will be held accountable for his brutal actions.”
“This defendant has been living in the United States for decades, hiding his alleged horrific conduct, human rights violations, and his role in these senseless atrocities against innocent Tutsis,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Darren B. McCormack of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) New York. “The depraved conduct of which the defendant is accused represent the worst of humanity. As demonstrated through the tireless work of HSI New York agents, analysts, and task force officers, we will never tolerate the safe-harboring of individuals linked to such unimaginable crimes.”
As alleged in the indictment, Nsabumukunzi used his leadership position to oversee the violence and killings of Tutsis in his local area and directed groups of armed Hutus to kill Tutsis. He is alleged to have set up roadblocks during the genocide to detain and kill Tutsis and to have participated in killings. According to court filings, Nsabumukunzi was subsequently convicted in absentia by a Rwandan court for genocide.
As further alleged, Nsabumukunzi applied for refugee resettlement in the United States in 2003, applied for and received a green card in 2007, and later submitted applications for naturalization in 2009 and 2015. Nsabumukunzi is alleged to have lied to U.S. immigration officials in his immigration applications, including by falsely denying any involvement as a perpetrator of the Rwandan genocide. As a result of his ongoing efforts to conceal his actions during the genocide, Nsabumukunzi has been able to live and work in the United States since 2003.
Nsabumukunzi is charged with one count of visa fraud in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1546(a) and two counts of attempted naturalization fraud in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1425 (a) and (b). If convicted, he faces a statutory maximum penalty of 30 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
HSI Long Island is investigating the case, with assistance from the Interagency Human Rights Violators and War Crimes Center.
Trial Attorney Brian Morgan of the Justice Department’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section (HRSP) and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Samantha Alessi and Katherine P. Onyshko for the Eastern District of New York are prosecuting the case, with assistance from HRSP Analyst/Historian Dr. Christopher Hayden and the Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs.
Members of the public who have information about former human rights violators in the United States are urged to contact U.S. law enforcement through the HSI tip line at 1-866-DHS-2-ICE (1-866-347-2423) or internationally at 001-1802-872-6199. They can also email [email protected] or complete its online tip form at www.ice.gov/exec/forms/hsi-tips/tips.asp.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
New Orleans Man Indicted for Federal Drug and Machinegun OffensesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that RALPH PRICE, age 27, was charged by a federal grand jury on April 4, 2025, in a three-count indictment for violations of the Federal Gun Control Act and Federal Controlled Substances Act.
PRICE is charged in Count 1 with possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, Suboxone, and marijuana, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(C), 841(b)(1)(D), and 841(b)(1)(E). He is charged in Count 2 with possessing a machinegun in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(B)(ii). He is charged in Count 3 with possession of a machinegun, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(o) and 924(a)(2).
As to Count 1, PRICE faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, up to a $1,000,000 fine, and at least three years of supervised release. As to Count 2, he faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 30 years in prison up to a maximum sentence of life in prison, which must run consecutive to any other sentence, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to five years of supervised release. As to Count 3, he faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison, up to a $10,000 fine, and up to three years of supervised release. Each count also carries a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.
According to the indictment, on or about March 13, 2025, PRICE possessed methamphetamine, Suboxone, and marijuana with the intent to distribute those substances. PRICE also possessed a Glock Model 19 pistol, equipped with a machinegun conversion device, in furtherance of that drug trafficking crime.
Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson reiterated that the indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney David Berman of the Violent Crime Unit is in charge of the prosecution.
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).
New Haven Pharmacy Pays $192K to Resolve Controlled Substances Act AllegationsRead the Press Release
Marc H. Silverman, Acting United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and Stephen P. Belleau, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration for New England, today announced that Community Health Pharmacy, LLC, a retail pharmacy located on Dixwell Avenue in New Haven, has entered into a civil settlement agreement with the federal government and has paid $192,000 to resolve allegations that it violated the civil provisions of the Controlled Substances Act (“CSA”).
In passing the CSA, Congress took steps to create “a closed system” of distribution for controlled substances in which every facet of the handling of the substances – from their manufacture to their consumption by the ultimate user – was to be subject to intense governmental regulation. This mission was taken against the backdrop of trying to prevent the diversion and abuse of legitimate controlled substances, while still ensuring that an adequate supply of those substances meet the medical and scientific needs of the United States. Accordingly, the CSA requires entities that dispense controlled substances to maintain certain records and to conduct periodic inventories to prevent against diversion of controlled substances.
The settlement resolves allegations that between January 1, 2022, and May 14, 2024, Community Health Pharmacy failed to keep complete and accurate records regarding the receipt and dispensing of controlled substances. The government contends that the pharmacy failed to perform a biennial inventory, failed to execute a valid power of attorney, and allowed an unauthorized individual sign DEA Form 222s (order forms) on at least eight occasions. The government also alleges that Community Health Pharmacy did not retain required copies of order forms, invoices, and other records related to controlled substances, and did not record certain required information on DEA Form 222s.
“Pharmacies play a unique role in ensuring that controlled substances are properly handled, accounted for, and dispensed,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Silverman. “It is vital that pharmacies comply with the recordkeeping requirements of the Controlled Substances Act to help prevent diversion and keep our communities safe. This settlement highlights our office’s continued efforts to hold pharmacies accountable for their responsibilities under federal law.”
“DEA registrants are responsible for handling controlled substances responsibly and ensuring that complete and accurate records are being properly kept and accounted for in compliance with the Controlled Substance Act,” said Acting DEA Special Agent in Charge Belleau. “We are committed to working with our law enforcement and regulatory partners to ensure that these rules and regulations are followed.”
As part of the settlement, Community Health Pharmacy has agreed to enter into a three-year Memorandum of Agreement with the DEA that is designed to ensure future compliance with the requirements of the CSA and its implementing regulations.
This investigation was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Office of Diversion Control with the assistance of the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection, Drug Control Division. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sara Kaczmarek.
Nashville Man on Probation for Attempted Murder Charged with Being a Felon in Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
NASHVILLE – Latreavias Burns, 28, of Nashville, has been charged by criminal complaint with being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced Acting United States Attorney Robert E. McGuire for the Middle District of Tennessee.
“We will not permit those who have committed violent crimes to carry firearms, especially when they are on release in our community,” said Acting United States Attorney Robert E. McGuire. “Our Operation Bond Watch program works every day with our law enforcement partners to keep violent felons from carrying guns and hold those who do accountable for their actions.”
According to court documents, on April 17, 2025, Metropolitan Nashville Police Department detectives were conducting surveillance using Metropolitan Development and Housing Agency (MDHA) cameras in the area of South 6th Street and Summer Place in Nashville. Detectives observed a group of individuals congregating and identified one of the individuals as Latreavias Burns, who had active state warrants.
Detectives responded to the area and attempted to make contact with Burns, who ran away. The detectives caught Burns, and during a search incident to arrest, they found a Smith and Wesson, Model: SD9; Caliber: 9mm pistol loaded with 19 rounds of ammunition in Burns’ left pant leg, and a digital scale with marijuana residue.
Burns has multiple prior felony convictions in Davidson County, Tennessee, including Attempted Second Degree Murder and Assault Resulting in Death and Accessory After the Fact. According to the Tennessee Department of Corrections, Burns had absconded from his community corrections program prior to this incident.
If convicted, Burns faces a maximum of 15 years in federal prison and a maximum fine of $250,000.
This case is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Rachel M. Stephens is prosecuting 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 complaint is merely an allegation. The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Missoula woman sentenced to 8 years in prison for trafficking fentanyl and methamphetamineRead the Press Release
MISSOULA – A Missoula woman who distributed significant amounts of fentanyl and methamphetamine was sentenced today to 96 months in prison to be followed by five years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Taylor Gale Penny, 35, pleaded guilty in December 2024 to possession with intent to distribute controlled substances.
U.S. District Judge Dana Christensen presided.
The government alleged in court documents that law enforcement investigated Penny and her co-defendant for distribution of fentanyl and methamphetamine from November 2023 through her September 2024 arrest. In a series of vehicle searches, law enforcement recovered over 1,000 fentanyl pills and 1.5 ounces of methamphetamine. Law enforcement received information that Penny and her co-defendant were moving over 100,000 fentanyl pills and pounds of methamphetamine. Confidential sources stated they were the biggest dealers in the Missoula area.
After her arrest on September 3, 2024, Penny told law enforcement she began distributing fentanyl in January 2024 to support her habit. By March 2024, she was distributing approximately 5,000 fentanyl pills per week in the Missoula area. In total, she admitted to distributing well over 120,000 pills during the nine months preceding her arrest. This amount was corroborated by a confidential source who told law enforcement Penny had distributed approximately 120,000 fentanyl pills and six ounces of fentanyl powder over six months.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case, and the investigation was conducted by the FBI’s Montana Regional Violent Crime Task Force.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.
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Mississippi Man Guilty of Possession of Machine GunsRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – JAMES HARRIS (“HARRIS”), age 33, of Mississippi, pled guilty on April 23, 2025, before United States District Judge Sarah S. Vance, to being in possession of machine guns, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(o)() and 924(a)(2), announced Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson.
According to court documents, special agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (“ATF”) identified individuals involved in trafficking firearms in New Orleans. Between September 2023 and November 2023, agents communicated with HARRIS about purchasing machine guns and firearms. On November 15, 2023, HARRIS sold machine guns and firearms to undercover ATF agents in the eastern District of Louisiana.
HARRIS is scheduled for sentencing on August 13, 2025. HARRIS faces up to ten (10) years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000.00, up to three (3) years of supervised release following imprisonment and, a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.
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).
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. The prosecution is being handed by Assistant United States Attorney Lynn E. Schiffman of the Narcotics Unit.
Mississippi Man Guilty of Attempted Receipt of Materials Involving the Sexual Exploitation of MinorsRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LA – AVERY FREEL (“FREEL”), age 23, of Ocean Springs, MS, pled guilty on April 10, 2025, before U.S. District Judge Eldon E. Fallon, to Attempted Receipt of Materials Involving the Sexual Exploitation of Minors, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 2252(a)(4)(B) and (b)(2), announced Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson.
FREEL faces a mandatory minimum sentence of five (5) years, up to a maximum of twenty (20) years imprisonment, and/or a fine of up to $250,000.00. In addition, FREEL faces a term of supervised release of no less than five (5) years and up to life, after his release from prison, as well as a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by United States Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office would also like to acknowledge the assistance of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, the Hammond Police Department, and the Louisiana Bureau of Investigations with this matter. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian M. Klebba, Chief of the Financial Crimes Unit.
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Miramar Mayoral Candidate Pleads Guilty to Covid-19 Relief FraudRead the Press Release
MIAMI – The owner of Theophin Consulting LLC has pleaded guilty to wire fraud for fraudulently obtaining Covid-19 relief loan proceeds under the Paycheck Protection Program (“PPP”) program.
Rudy Theophin, 41, of Miramar, Fla., was the president and sole owner of Theophin Consulting LLC. In June 2020, Theophin submitted an online PPP loan application for $123,675 through the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) to provide relief for the economic effect caused by the Covid-19 pandemic. The loan application and supporting documentation falsely stated the number of employees and the average monthly payroll for Theophin Consulting. Once approved, Theophin transferred a portion of the funds to another person, another portion to an investment account in his name, and he used the remaining funds toward the purchase of a condominium. Theophin ran for mayor of Miramar in 2023.
A sentencing hearing is set on July 15 in Fort Lauderdale before U.S. District Court Judge Rodney Smith. Theophin faces up to 20 years in prison.
U.S. Attorney Hayden P. O’Byrne for the Southern District of Florida and Special Agent in Charge Emmanuel Gomez of the IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI), Miami Field Office, made the announcement.
IRS-CI investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Killoran is prosecuting the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jorge Delgado is handling asset forfeiture.
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-60233.
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Mexican National Sentenced to 57 Months for Distributing MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
Acting United States Attorney Matthew R. Molsen announced that Martin Omar Rodriguez Vega, 56, of Sinaloa, Mexico, was sentenced on April 23, 2025, in federal court in Omaha, Nebraska, for distributing more than 50 grams of pure methamphetamine. United States District Judge Brian C. Buescher sentenced Vega to 57 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After his release from prison, he will begin a five-year term of supervised release.
On September 16, 2022, an undercover trooper with the Nebraska State Patrol arranged to purchase one pound of methamphetamine with an individual located in Mexico. The Mexican source directed the undercover trooper to Hickman, Nebraska, to meet someone to pick up the pound of methamphetamine. At the meet location, the undercover trooper met Martin Omar Rodriguez Vega who delivered 420 grams of pure methamphetamine to the trooper.
This case was investigated by the Nebraska State Patrol and Lincoln Police Department.
Mexican National Pleads Guilty to Illegal ReentryRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Mexican national has pleaded guilty in federal court in Boston to unlawfully reentering the United States after deportation.
Luis Fernando Lara Uribe, 49, pleaded guilty on April 22, 2025 to one count of unlawful reentry of a deported alien. U.S. Senior District Court Judge William G. Young scheduled sentencing for July 15, 2025. Lara Uribe was indicted by a federal grand jury in August 2024.
Lara Uribe was previously deported five times, the last being in February 2015. Sometime after his removal in 2015, Lara Uribe unlawfully reentered the United States.
The charge of unlawful reentry of a deported alien provides for a sentence of up to 20 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 on the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes that 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 Robert E. Richardson of the Major Crimes Unit is prosecuting the case.
Mexican National Guilty of Illegal Re-entryRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – ActingUnited States Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that CESAR RUIZ-AGUILAR (“RUIZ-AGUILAR”), age 38, a native of Mexico, pleaded guilty today to illegal reentry of a previously removed alien, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1326(a).
According to court documents, RUIZ-AGUILAR was previously removed from the United States on March 13, 2010 and May 17, 2017. He was later found in the Eastern District of Louisiana on February 1, 2024 and had not received permission from the Attorney General of the United States or the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security to reenter. United States District Court Judge Nannette Jolivette Brown set sentencing for June 5, 2025.
RUIZ-AGUILAR faces a maximum term of imprisonment of two (2) years, a fine of up to $250,000, up to one year of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.
Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson praised the work of United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations, and the Tangipahoa Sheriff’s Office, in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Jon Maestri of the General Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.
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 Guilty of Illegal Re-entryRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – ActingUnited States Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that SANTIAGO PUENTE-GARCIA (“PUENTE-GARCIA”), age 25, a native of Mexico, pled guilty on April 11, 2025 for illegal reentry of a removed alien, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1326(a).
According to the indictment, PUENTE-GARCIA was previously removed from the United States on February 4, 2022. He was later found in the Eastern District of Louisiana on October 29, 2024 and had not received permission from the Attorney General of the United States or the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security to reenter.
PUENTE-GARCIA faces a maximum term of imprisonment of two (2) years, a fine of up to $250,000, up to one year of supervised release, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee. U.S. District Judge Lance M. Africk set sentencing for
Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson praised the work of the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations, in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Jon Maestri of the General Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.
Mexican Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Assaulting Border Patrol AgentRead the Press Release
DEL RIO, Texas – A Mexican national was sentenced in a federal court in Del Rio to 45 months in prison for assaulting a U.S. Border Patrol agent.
According to court documents, Mario Alonso Torrijos-Perez was apprehended on Dec. 14, 2021by USBP agents in Carrizo Springs with five other illegal aliens. While being escorted to the Border Patrol station for processing, Torrijos-Perez attempted to escape on foot. An agent caught Torrijos-Perez, who physically resisted and demanded the agent let him go despite the agent instructing him in Spanish and English to stop resisting and show his hands. Torrijos-Perez forcefully struck the agent with his right elbow, causing the agent to lose balance and fall to the ground. After further resistance, the agent gained control and handcuffed Torrijos-Perez.
The USBP agent sustained a contusion to his right shoulder, redness in the upper-arm area, scratches on both hands and both wrists, along with pain and discomfort in the aforementioned areas.
Acting U.S. Attorney Margaret Leachman for the Western District of Texas made the announcement.
USBP investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Brett Miner prosecuted the case.
These cases are part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
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McAlester Resident Pleads Guilty to Theft of Property from A Government InstallationRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Garland Leon Seay, age 38, of McAlester, Oklahoma, entered a guilty plea to two counts of Theft of Government Property, punishable by a term of imprisonment of up to 10 years and a $250,000.00 fine, and one count of Entering a Military Installation for a Purpose Prohibited by Law, punishable by a term of imprisonment of up to six months and a fine of up to $5,000.00.
The Indictment alleged that on July 22, 2024, Seay willfully and knowingly stole property of the United States belonging to the McAlester Army Ammunition Plant in value exceeding $1,000.00, including an inert training missile, telescope spotlights, electronic tablets, tools, and a Nikon camera.
The Indictment also alleged that between July 2023 and September 4, 2024, Seay willfully and knowingly stole property of the United States belonging to the McAlester Army Ammunition Plant in value exceeding $1,000.00, including computer hard drives, spools of cable, bags of heavy machinery tools, and miscellaneous tools and equipment.
Finally, the Indictment alleged that beginning on July 11, 2024, and continuing until July 16, 2024, Seay knowingly and unlawfully entered the property of McAlester Army Ammunition Plant, a military installation, in order to steal property belonging to the United States.
The charges arose from an investigation by the McAlester Army Ammunition Plant Police Department, Pittsburg County Sherriff’s Office, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
The Honorable Gerald L. Jackson, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.
A U.S. District Court Judge will determine the sentence to be imposed after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael E. Robinson represented the United States.
Marion County Man Admits to Methamphetamine, Firearms ChargesRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Vincent Irving Jones, 33, of Fairmont, West Virginia, has admitted to the possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and the unlawful possession of a firearm.
According to the court documents, Jones possessed a quantity of methamphetamine in Marion County which he intended to unlawfully distribute, as well as a firearm. Jones is prohibited from having firearms because of prior felony convictions.
Jones faces up to 20 years in federal prison for the drug charge and faces up to 15 years for the firearms charge. A federal district court judge would determine the sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Will Rhee is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Fairmont Police Department.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Man Who Defrauded Investors with Sham Technology Company Found Guilty of Wire Fraud and Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
SAN FRANCISCO – A federal jury today convicted Ramesh Kris Nathan on six counts of wire fraud and two counts of money laundering in connection with fraudulently obtaining investors’ money for a company that had no legitimate business activities. The guilty verdict followed an eight-day jury trial before U.S. District Judge Vince Chhabria.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Nathan, 43, a U.S. national, promised investors that their money would fund Relativity Research Fund, Inc., a company for which Nathan set up a bank account in San Francisco. He promoted Relativity as being involved in the research and development of advanced technologies, including prototype spacecraft and space-related propulsion systems. He also made false promises of future trading of the company’s shares on the Nasdaq Private Market.
“Ramesh Nathan spun fantastic tales about space travel technology and advanced robotics to entice investors into funding his company, but all he had to offer was science fiction. He deceived his investors, many of whom were veterans, about a nonexistent business. Then he used the ill-gotten funds to line his own pockets,” said Acting United States Attorney Patrick D. Robbins. “Thanks to the jury’s verdict, Mr. Nathan is being held accountable for the harms he caused to multiple victims.”
“Ramesh Nathan orchestrated a scheme rooted in deception, betraying the trust of investors for his own gain,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Sanjay Virmani. “Today’s guilty verdict reflects the seriousness of his crimes and brings justice to the victims he defrauded. The FBI remains committed to holding financial criminals accountable and protecting the public from fraud.”
The evidence presented at trial showed that Nathan induced potential investors to provide funds by making false and misleading statements on his company’s website, in promotional materials, and in emails to potential investors. For example, Nathan claimed that the company was developing numerous technology-related enterprises, including advanced robotics and space travel technology. Nathan also represented that the company had significant capital investments, worldwide offices with over 15,000 employees, and tens of billions of dollars in profits and revenue.
The jury also found that Nathan laundered investor funds through various bank accounts, and then used the funds for his personal expenses and transfers to his mother and his then-girlfriend. Nathan carried out his fraudulent scheme by recruiting an intermediary to share his lies with investors, many of whom were veterans of the United States military and friends and family of veterans.
The defendant will next appear in court on June 13, 2025, for further proceedings. Nathan faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison for each count of wire fraud and 10 years in prison for each count of money laundering, and forfeiture of all property that is traceable to his wire fraud and money laundering violations. Any sentence will be imposed by the Court after consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and the federal statute governing the imposition of a sentence, 18 U.S.C. § 3553.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Roland Chang and Sara Henderson are prosecuting the case, with the assistance of Tina Rosenbaum. The prosecution is the result of an investigation by the FBI.
Man Sentenced for Firearm and Drug Trafficking CrimesRead the Press Release
Acting United States Attorney Matthew R. Molsen announced that Robert Johnson, age 40, of Omaha, Nebraska, was sentenced on April 24, 2025, in federal court in Omaha for possessing with the intent to distribute methamphetamine and possessing a firearm during a drug trafficking crime. United States District Judge Brian C. Buescher sentenced Johnson to 240 months’ imprisonment on the drug charge and a consecutive 60 months’ imprisonment on the firearm charge, for a total sentence of 300 months. Seven-thousand dollars was forfeited to the United States as drug proceeds. There is no parole in the federal system. After Johnson is released from prison, he will begin a 5-year term of supervised release.
On January 17, 2023, Omaha DEA received an anonymous tip that Robert Johnson (“RJ”) was selling fentanyl pills and methamphetamine in the Omaha area. On April 19, 2023, a federal search warrant was executed on Johnson’s home in Omaha that he shared with codefendant Whitney Washington. Law enforcement recovered methamphetamine, fentanyl pills, a Taurus 9mm handgun, $7,000 in drug proceeds and narcotics trafficking paraphernalia. Investigators determined that Robert Johnson, along with Tijuana L. Johnson, were mailing the narcotics from Arizona to Omaha to be distributed.
Codefendant Tijuana L. Johnson was sentenced on January 29, 2025, to 120 months’ incarceration after pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl.
Codefendant Whitney Washington was sentenced on March 27, 2025, to 63 months’ incarceration after pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl.
This case was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service and Drug Enforcement Administration.
Man Charged with Armed Robbery of Westfarms Mall StoreRead the Press Release
Marc H. Silverman, Acting United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and James Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge, ATF Boston Field Division, today announced that a federal grand jury in New Haven has returned an indictment charging WILLIE WHITE, 58, formerly residing in Bristol, New Britain, and Hartford, with offenses stemming from an armed robbery at the Westfarms Mall.
The indictment was returned on April 16, 2025. White appeared yesterday in New Haven federal court and pleaded not guilty to the charges. He has been detained since his arrest on related state charges on July 15, 2024.
The indictment alleges that, on July 15, 2024, White robbed the Sunglass Hut at the Westfarms Mall in West Hartford. He stole multiple pairs of designer sunglasses and brandished a Glock pistol during the robbery.
It is further alleged that White’s criminal history includes more than 15 felony convictions for drug, robbery, burglary, and other offenses. It is a violation of federal law for a person previously convicted of a felony offense to possess a firearm or ammunition that has moved in interstate or foreign commerce. White was on state supervision, including GPS monitoring, at the time of the offense.
The indictment charges White with one count of interference with commerce by robbery (Hobbs Act robbery), which carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years; one count of brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, which carries a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of seven years and maximum term of imprisonment of life; and one count of unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 15 years.
Acting U.S. Attorney Silverman stressed that an indictment is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This matter is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), with the assistance of the West Hartford Police Department and the New Britain Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Shan Patel.
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 Neighborhood (PSN).
Lookout found guilty for role in armed robberyRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – A jury has convicted a 20-year-old Houston resident for aiding and abetting a robbery, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
The jury deliberated for four hours before finding Patrick Norman guilty following a three-day trial.
On Jan. 29, 2024, Norman acted as a lookout while Danial Starr, 20, Houston, entered the Spring Smoke Shop on Veteran’s Memorial Drive, brandished a firearm at an employee and stole cash and smoke products. The pair then fled the scene.
An eyewitness identified Norman which led to his subsequent arrest.
At that time, he claimed not to know Starr at all. However, the jury heard testimony as to how authorities saw surveillance footage implicating Norman and phone records that showed communication between him and Starr prior to the robbery.
During trial, the jury heard the testimony from the victim store clerk who was robbed.
The defense attempted to convince the jury Norman never intended to aid and abet a robbery. They did not believe those claims and found him guilty.
U.S. District Judge David Hittner will impose sentencing at a later date, at which time Norman faces up to 20 years in federal prison.
Previously released on bond, Norman was taken into custody April 21 after arriving late for trial. He will remain there pending sentencing.
Starr had pleaded guilty prior to trial and awaits sentencing as does another Houston resident charged in relation to the case, Calvin Deshazo, 19, who had admitted to aiding and abetting the brandishing of a firearm during two other robberies which took place on another date.
Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Harris County Sheriff’s Office and Texas Department of Public Safety conducted the joint investigation.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Francisco J. Rodriguez and Anh-Khoa Tran are prosecuting the case.
Lee County Man Indicted and Detained for Armed Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
LEXINGTON, KY- A Rogers, Ky., man, Robert Lutes, 50, was indicted on April 17 by a grand jury sitting in Lexington for four counts of distributing fentanyl, two counts of distributing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, one count of possessing with the intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, one count of possessing with the intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl, and one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking.
The indictment alleges that from February 6 to March 26, 2025, Lutes possessed and distributed fentanyl and methamphetamine in Lee County. The indictment also alleges that on March 26, 2025, he possessed a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
Paul McCaffrey, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; John Nokes, Special Agent in Charge, ATF, Louisville Field Division; Phillip J. Burnett, Jr., Commissioner of the Kentucky State Police, jointly announced the indictment.
The investigation preceding the indictment was conducted by the ATF and KSP. The indictment was presented to the grand jury by Assistant U.S. Attorney Paco Villalobos.
Lutes was detained in custody on April 17, as he awaits a trial scheduled for June 25, 2025. He faces a minimum of 15 years and a maximum of life in prison. However, any sentence following a conviction would be imposed by the Court after consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and the federal sentencing statutes.
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
Any indictment is an accusation only. A defendant is presumed innocent and is entitled to a fair trial at which the government must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
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Lackawanna County Man Sentenced to Six Years’ Imprisonment for Drug Trafficking OffenseRead the Press Release
SCRANTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Corey Wylam, age 34, of Scranton, Pennsylvania, was sentenced today to six years of imprisonment and four years of supervised release by Senior United States District Judge Robert D. Mariani for one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 50 grams and more of methamphetamine.
According to Acting United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, Wylam previously pleaded guilty to conspiring with others to distribute and possess with intent to distribute over 50 grams of a mixture or substance containing methamphetamine between June and July of 2021, in Luzerne County, Pennsylvania, and elsewhere. Wylam arranged the transfer of a firearm to another conspirator in exchange for a quantity of methamphetamine and the forgiveness of a drug debt.
The matter was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the Kingston Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney James M. Buchanan prosecuted the case.
This case is being prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
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KC Man Sentenced to 5 Years for Fentanyl ConspiracyRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City, Mo., man was sentenced in federal court today for his role in a conspiracy to distribute fentanyl.
Colt Justin Draggoo, 22, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Roseann Ketchmark to five years in federal prison without parole.
On September 12, 2024, C. Draggoo plead guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute fentanyl.
C. Draggoo admitted that he sold fentanyl pills and collected drug money for his brother and co-defendant, Tiger Dean Draggoo. Between December 29, 2021, and October 22, 2022, C. Draggoo either brokered or sold approximately 263 pills containing fentanyl on behalf of his brother.
C. Draggoo is the third defendant in this case to be sentenced. On Oct. 16, 2024, Tiger Dean Draggoo plead guilty to his role in the fentanyl conspiracy and to three counts of distributing fentanyl resulting in death. Three additional defendants have plead guilty and await sentencing.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brad K. Kavanaugh and Robert Smith. It was investigated by the Jackson County Drug Task Force, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Belton, Mo., Police Department, the Raymore, Mo., Police Department, the Cass County, Mo., Sheriff’s Department, and the FBI.
Jury convicts Cahokia Heights man of drug distribution, gun chargesRead the Press Release
EAST ST. LOUIS, Ill. – A southern Illinois jury convicted a Cahokia Heights man of possessing cocaine base with intent to distribute and a firearm to further the drug operation.
The jury found Demarkee D. Jimerson, 45, guilty of one count of one count of possession with intent to distribute cocaine base, one count of felon in possession of a firearm and one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
“Armed drug dealers belong in federal prison,” said U.S. Attorney Steven D. Weinhoeft. “Demarkee Jimerson was a gun toting felon pedaling crack cocaine and methamphetamine, and he’s heading to federal prison, where he belongs. I appreciate the work of our attorneys who tried the case and the law enforcement professionals who investigated the case. Their work has made our community safer.”
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, law enforcement agents executed a warrant to search Jimerson’s house in Cahokia Heights in July 2021. Agents recovered approximately 88 grams of cocaine base, meth, MDMA, marijuana, nine firearms and ammunition.
“Drug traffickers rely on weapons, including firearms, to feel empowered,” Drug Enforcement Administration St. Louis Division Special Agent in Charge Michael Davis said. “They inflict fear in communities while pushing poisonous products that destroy lives and hurt families. Demarkee Jimerson now faces several years in prison to reflect on his actions and the pain he has caused so many people around him.”
Jimerson had previously been convicted of felony drug distribution offenses and therefore unable to legally possess firearms.
The drug possession charge is punishable by up to 20 years’ imprisonment. Felon in possession of a firearm convictions can earn up to 10 years’ imprisonment and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime is a mandatory five years in federal prison. Jimerson’s sentencing hearing is scheduled for Aug. 27 at the federal courthouse in East St. Louis.
DEA led the investigation, and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Karelia Rajagopal and Tom Leggans are prosecuting the case.
Jasper County man sentenced to 22 years in federal prison for drug trafficking in Newton CountyRead the Press Release
BEAUMONT, Texas – A Jasper man has been sentenced to 22 years in federal prison for drug trafficking violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Abe McGlothin, Jr.
Jeremy O’Quinn Brown, 34, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and was sentenced to 264 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Marcia A. Crone on April 17, 2025.
According to information presented in court, in October 2023, Brown was identified by law enforcement as a drug trafficker distributing large amounts of methamphetamine, cocaine, and marijuana in Newton County. A search warrant was executed at Brown’s residence resulting in the discovery of methamphetamine; cocaine; $94,997 in U.S. currency; and two firearms. Brown is believed to have been responsible for distributing 497.44 grams of “actual” methamphetamine.
This case was investigated by the FBI, Texas Department of Public Safety, Jasper Police Department, Newton County Sheriff’s Office and U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan Lee.
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Illinois Man Sentenced to 16 Years in Federal Prison for Armed RobberiesRead the Press Release
Richard G. Frohling, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on April 23, 2025, Jamal White (age 34) was sentenced to 16 years in federal prison for his role in five armed robberies in southeastern Wisconsin.
According to court records, White robbed five commercial businesses between May 19 and May 21, 2023. During each robbery, White brandished a firearm and demanded money from the store cashiers. White robbed a West Allis Speedway gas station, a West Allis BP gas station, a Milwaukee Walgreens, a Greenfield Speedway gas station, and a Kenosha Kwik Trip. At his sentencing hearing, Chief United States District Judge Pamela Pepper also considered White’s role in two uncharged robberies in northern Illinois on May 21, 2023, which occurred at a Waukegan Walgreens and a Chicago Walgreens. At the time of the robberies, White was on parole with the Illinois Department of Corrections after serving approximately six years in Illinois state prison for armed robbery. White also had outstanding warrants for armed robbery in Indiana. Following his term of imprisonment, White will spend three years on supervised release. He was also ordered to pay restitution.
This case was investigated by the FBI’s Milwaukee Area Violent Crimes Task Force, Milwaukee Police Department, Greenfield Police Department, West Allis Police Department, Kenosha Police Department, Waukegan Police Department, and Chicago Police Department.
It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Abbey M. Marzick and Michael C. Schindhelm.
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For additional information contact:
Public Information Officer Kenneth Gales
(414) 297‑1700
Illegal alien’s “sole” mistake during armed robbery lands him nearly 13-year prison sentenceRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – A 21-year-old Honduran man illegally residing in Houston has been sentenced for his role in the armed robbery of a local Family Dollar store, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Carlos Gonzalez-Vargas pleaded guilty Feb. 7 to discharging a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence.
U.S. District Judge Lee Rosenthal has now ordered Gonzalez-Vargas to serve 150 months in federal prison. Not a U.S. citizen, he is expected to face removal proceedings following his imprisonment. At the hearing, the court heard he was affiliated with a gang, posted Instagram selfies with the firearm and fired the weapon at a 13-year-old child one month after the robbery. In handing down the sentence, the court noted that the mandatory minimum sentence does not adequately address the seriousness of his conduct.
On Jan. 16, 2023, Gonzalez-Vargas entered the discount store along with three others, brandished a firearm and demanded cash from the register. When the employee did not act fast enough, Gonzalez-Vargas shot her in the leg. They stole cash from the register and fled on foot. Surveillance captured Gonzalez-Vargas wearing a distinctive pair of sneakers.
Approximately one month later, Gonzalez-Vargas fired the same weapon used in the robbery during a street fight with a 13-year-old minor. Law enforcement took him into custody, at which time he was wearing the same distinctive sneakers seen in the robbery footage.
He has been and will remain in custody pending transfer to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) conducted the investigation with the assistance of the Houston Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stuart Tallichet prosecuted the case.
This case was made possible by investigative leads generated from ATF’s National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN). NIBIN is the only national network that allows for the capture and comparison of ballistic evidence to aid in solving and preventing violent crimes involving firearms. NIBIN is a proven investigative and intelligence tool that can link firearms from multiple crime scenes, allowing law enforcement to quickly disrupt shooting cycles.
Houston man pleads guilty to "jugging" robbery of ATM technician in MidlothianRead the Press Release
A Houston, Texas man pleaded guilty to the “jugging” robbery of an ATM technician that occurred on July 3, 2024, announced Acting United States Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Chad E. Meacham. A “jugging” robbery is a type of theft where thieves follow a victim as they service or withdraw cash from ATMs or banks and then rob them.
In December 2024, Houston residents Johnny Juwan Clark, 32, Corey Dashun Holloway, Tierra Toneisha Brandyberg, and Roosevelt Ford Valentine were charged in a superseding indictment for their roles in a jugging robbery in Midlothian, Texas. On April 22, 2025, Clark pleaded guilty to interference with commerce by robbery before Senior United States District Judge Barbara M.G. Lynn.
Clark, Brandyberg, Holloway, and Roosevelt have been linked to a Houston-based criminal organization called the “Hiram Clarke Money Team.” HCMT members are known to routinely travel to areas outside of Houston and engage in “jugging” style robberies and other forms of theft.
Clark admitted that at approximately 5:35 p.m. on July 3, 2024, he approached the ATM technician as he was servicing an ATM at a Chase Bank located in Midlothian, Texas. Clark was wearing a hoodie and face covering to disguise his appearance. Clark approached the technician from behind and forced him to the ground. Clark kept his fist to the back of the victim’s head as cannisters containing United States currency were removed from the ATM by codefendants. Approximately $247,000 in United States currency was taken during the robbery. According to court documents, Clark admitted that he was the individual forcing the technician to the ground, captured in a security photo.
After the robbery, Clark and two of his codefendants fled from the Chase Bank in the rental car and met a fourth accomplice at an apartment complex in close proximity to the bank. The stolen money was loaded into a Range Rover and driven back to Houston, Texas.
Clark’s sentencing is scheduled for July 28, 2025. He faces a sentence of up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. Codefendant Tierra Toneisha Brandyberg has filed documents advising the court of her intention to plead guilty. A rearraignment date for Brandyberg has not been set. Codefendants Holloway and Valentine are set for jury trial in September 2025.
The FBI (Dallas Division) investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Rick Calvert is prosecuting the case.
Honduran National Guilty of Illegal Re-Entry of Removed Alien, Faces Enhanced Penalty for Prior Felony ConvictionRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – CESAR A. LOBO-RAMOS (“LOBO-RAMOS”), age 38, a native of Honduras, pled guilty on April 22, 2025, to illegal re-entry of a removed alien, in violation of Title 8 United States Code, Section 1326(a), announced Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson.
According to court documents, LOBO-RAMOS reentered the United States after being previously deported on April 10, 2018. LOBO-RAMOS came to the attention of Immigration and Customs Enforcement after he was arrested by the Kenner Police Department on November 2, 2023 for resisting arrest and obstruction of police.
LOBO-RAMOS faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 2 years, up to 1 year of supervised release, up to a $250,000 fine and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee. He also faces a sentencing enhancement of 20 years because of a prior felony conviction for sexual battery in Jefferson Parish in 2010.
Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson praised the work of the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency and the Kenner Police Department in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Carter K.D. Guice, Jr. of the General Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.
Honduran National Arrested and Charged for Unlawful ReentryRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Honduran man residing in Brockton has been arrested and charged with unlawfully reentering the United States after deportation.
Oscar Lopez, 41, also known as “Luis Maldonado” and other names, is charged in U.S. District Court in Boston with one count of unlawful reentry of a deported alien. Lopez was arrested on April 16, 2025 and ordered detained pending trial.
According to the charging documents, Lopez is a citizen of Honduras who entered the United States illegally in 2003. Lopez did not appear for an Immigration Court date in 2003 and was ordered to be removed from the United States. Immigration and Customs Enforcement were not able to remove Lopez until January 2013. It is alleged Lopez returned to the United States just a few months later without permission and was removed again in May 2013. At some point, Lopez allegedly returned again and Immigration and Customs Enforcement became aware of Lopez’s unlawful presence in the United States following arrests in March and April 2024.
The charge of unlawful reentry of a deported alien in this case provides for a sentence of up to two years in prison, one year of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. The defendant is subject to deportation upon completion of any sentence imposed. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Patricia H. Hyde, Field Office Director, Boston, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney John J. Reynolds of the Criminal Division 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.
Hillsville Man Arrested for Sexual Exploitation of ChildrenRead the Press Release
ROANOKE, Va. – Michael Tibbs, 24, of Carroll County, Virginia, was arrested by FBI agents last week on a criminal complaint charging him with sexual exploitation of children. Earlier this week, Tibbs appeared before a U.S. magistrate judge who ordered him detained without bond.
Based on evidence presented at Tibbs’ detention hearing, in April 2023, a then-15-year-old minor victim submitted a tip to the FBI’s National Threat Operations Center, reporting that a man had been grooming her for approximately one year and continually requesting nude images.
FBI agents identified Tibbs as the victim’s groomer and obtained records of his Discord messages. The Discord records revealed that beginning as early as November 2022, Tibbs engaged in sexual chats with several minor girls and paid them to record and send him sexually explicit images and videos. Agents were able to identify and interview some of the minor victims, who confirmed that Tibbs paid them to record sexually explicit content for him.
On July 18, 2024, agents executed a search warrant at Tibbs’ home and seized his phone, which contained many sexually explicit images and videos of women with indeterminate ages. Agents were able to identify one of the minor victims, 13 years old, depicted in two of those videos. Tibbs’ phone also held hundreds of computer-generated and animated images of children, including toddlers, being graphically, sexually abused.
Agents interviewed Tibbs, who admitted to using Discord to purchase sexual content from minors. He estimated that he purchased from 10 to 15 underage girls. Tibbs explained that he developed an interest in purchasing sexual content from minors after viewing child pornography on TikTok.
Acting U.S. Attorney Zachary T. Lee and Stanley M. Meador, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Richmond Division, made the announcement.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation is investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Drew Inman is prosecuting the case.
The case is brought as part of Project Safe Childhood. In 2006, the Department of Justice created Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identity and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov/.
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Harrisville Man Plead Guilty to Possessing Child Sexual Abuse Material While on Federal Supervised ReleaseRead the Press Release
CONCORD – A Harrisville man pleaded guilty today in federal court for possessing child sexual abuse material (CSAM), Acting U.S. Attorney Jay McCormack announces.
Ryan Vallee, age 31, pleaded guilty in federal court to one count of possession of child pornography. U.S. District Court Judge Samantha D. Elliott scheduled Vallee’s sentencing for August 18, 2025.
According to the charging documents and statements made in court, on June 6, 2024, law enforcement executed a search warrant on Vallee’s home, car, and electronics. During the search, law enforcement found a cellphone that contained four videos of CSAM and 175 images of CSAM, and an SD card that contained 11 videos of CSAM. At the time, Vallee was on federal supervised release following prior convictions in 2017 for interstate threats, computer fraud and abuse, aggravated identity theft, and cyberstalking.
The charging statute provides for a sentence of up to 10 years of imprisonment, but if any image of child pornography involved in the offense involved a prepubescent minor or a minor who had not attained 12 years of age, the maximum penalty is increased to 20 years of imprisonment. The statute provides for a supervised release term of not less than 5 years and up to life, and a maximum fine of $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.
The Department of Homeland Security led the investigation. The New Hampshire Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, the Merrimack County Sheriff’s Office, the Harrisville Police Department and the Belmont Police Department provided valuable assistance. Assistant U.S Attorney Anna Z. Krasinski is prosecuting 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 the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
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Hardin man sentenced to 3 years in prison for using a phone to promote prostitution with a minorRead the Press Release
BILLINGS – A Hardin man who promoted prostitution with a minor was sentenced today to 36 months in prison to be followed by 3 years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
William Serges Joseph, 75, pleaded guilty in November 2024 to use of facility in interstate commerce in aid of racketeering.
U.S. District Judge Susan Watters presided.
The government alleged in court documents that in March 2023, Jane Doe, a juvenile female, disclosed to law enforcement that, commencing in approximately September 2022, she began showing her breasts to the Joseph. The two messaged each other on Facebook and Joseph was aware of she was a juvenile. Jane Doe said she allowed Joseph to touch her in exchange for alcohol and he also asked her for naked pictures.
Jane Doe was interviewed again in June 2023. She added that Joseph continued to message her and offered her $50 for sexual contact. A review of her cell phone reflected, among other communications, a February 2023 message from Joseph with a picture of male genitalia. Joseph was interviewed in February 2024. He admitted providing alcohol to Jane Doe in exchange for pictures of her breasts. At the time of the offense, prostitution was illegal under the laws of Montana and Sex Trafficking was illegal under the laws of the United States.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case, and the investigation was conducted by the FBI.
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.
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Guatemalan National Indicted for Unlawful ReentryRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Guatemalan national has been indicted by a federal grand jury for illegally reentering the United States after deportation.
Mario Lopez, 35, was charged with one count of unlawful reentry of a deported alien. Lopez was arrested and charged by criminal complaint in March 2025 and has been detained pending trial.
According to the charging documents, Lopez was deported from the United States on Dec. 8, 2010 after an assault conviction in Maryland. It is alleged that sometime after his removal, Lopez attempted to return to the United States twice in 2022 but was denied entry. Sometime after that, Lopez unlawfully reentered the United States. Immigration and Customs Enforcement became aware of Garcia’s unlawful presence in the United States following arrests in November 2023, March 2024 and December 2024.
The charge of unlawful reentry of a deported alien in this case 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, Boston, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney John J. Reynolds of the Criminal Division 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.
Grand jury indicts former Whitehall car dealership owner for odometer fraudRead the Press Release
COLUMBUS, Ohio – A Columbus man has been charged with altering the odometers on vehicles he sold at his former Whitehall car dealership.
Simon C. Nwaru, Jr., 38, who owned and operated S. Automotive Ltd., was indicted by a federal grand jury today.
According to the eight-count indictment, between November 2020 and May 2022, Nwaru knowingly disconnected, reset and altered the mileage registered by the odometer on vehicles, changing them from high mileage to lower mileage, before selling them to customers.
The charging document details eight vehicles that allegedly had their mileage illegally reduced by approximately 80,000 to 100,000 miles.
Odometer fraud is a federal crime punishable by up to three years in prison.
Kelly A. Norris, Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio, announced the charges returned today. Assistant United States Attorney Timothy D. Prichard is representing the United States. This case was investigated by the United States Department of Transportation, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s Office of Odometer Fraud Investigation and the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles Investigations Section.
NHTSA estimates that odometer fraud in the United States costs consumers more than $1 billion annually. NHTSA encourages the public to report odometer fraud by emailing [email protected] or calling 800-424-9393.
An indictment merely contains allegations, and defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.
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