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20 May 2025
Salvadoran National Sentenced to 30 Months in Federal Prison for Immigration OffenseRead the Press Release
BOISE – Jorge Humberto Caballero-Umana, 37, a Salvadoran national, was sentenced to 30 months in federal prison for being a deported alien found in the United States, Acting U.S. Attorney Justin Whatcott announced today.
According to court records, Caballero-Umana is a native and citizen of El Salvador. The United States lawfully removed Caballero-Umana from the country in January 2018 and January 2020. After his removal from the United States, Caballero-Umana again re-entered the United States illegally and without lawful authority. Special agents with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) encountered Caballero-Umana in Ada County in June 2024. Caballero-Umana has a history of state felony convictions in Utah, as well as federal convictions in 2018 and 2019 for being a deported alien found in the United States.
Acting U.S. Attorney Whatcott commended the efforts of Immigration and Customs Enforcement, (ICE) Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) for their work on this investigation.
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Salvadoran National Pleads Guilty to Illegal ReentryRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Salvadoran national pleaded guilty yesterday to illegally reentering the United States after deportation.
Juan Alberto Orellana Pena, 52, pleaded guilty to one count of unlawful reentry of a deported alien. U.S. District Court Judge Margaret R. Guzman scheduled sentencing for Sept. 4, 2025. Orellana Pena was arrested on a criminal complaint and subsequently indicted by a federal grand jury in October 2024. Orellana Pena has remained in custody since.
Orellana Pena unlawfully entered the United States on an unknown date. In 1998, he was convicted of indecent assault and battery on a person 14 years of age or older, in
Worcester District Court. He was later removed from the United States in May 2008.Sometime after his May 2008 removal, Orellana Pena unlawfully reentered the United States. In August 2012, in Uxbridge, Orellana Pena was stopped for speeding resulting in Orellana Pena being indicted for illegal reentry of a deported alien in October 2012. Orellana Pena was sentenced to a term of one year and a day in federal prison. In November 2013, upon completion of this sentence, Orellana Pena was removed from the United States.
On an unknown date after his November 2013 removal, Orellana Pena reentered the United States. Federal authorities became aware of Orellana Pena’s return to the United States after he was arrested in Worcester for assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, assault and battery on a family household member and assault and battery on or about June 16, 2024.
The charge of unlawful reentry of a deported alien provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, up to three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. The defendant is subject to deportation proceedings upon completion of an imposed sentence. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Patricia H. Hyde, Acting Field Office Director, Boston, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Danial E. Bennett of the Worcester Branch Office is prosecuting the case.
Rice Lake Man Sentenced to 7 ½ Years for Possessing Methamphetamine Intended for DistributionRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Timothy M. O’Shea, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that David Anderson Jr., 34, Rice Lake, Wisconsin was sentenced today by Chief U.S. District Judge James D. Peterson to 7 ½ years in prison for possessing methamphetamine intended for distribution. The term of imprisonment will be followed by 7 ½ years of supervised release. Anderson pleaded guilty to this charge today.
In April of 2024, law enforcement used a confidential informant to conduct two controlled buys of methamphetamine from Anderson. After the two controlled buys, law enforcement searched Anderson’s home and seized over 200 grams of methamphetamine prepackaged for distribution in different quantities.
At sentencing, Judge Peterson emphasized the seriousness of Anderson’s crime. Judge Peterson balanced Anderson’s conduct and criminal history with his difficult upbringing and periods of Anderson’s life when he was law abiding.
The charges against Anderson were the result of an investigation conducted by the Barron County Sheriff’s Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Louis Glinzak prosecuted this case.
Prior felon pleads guilty to new child pornography chargeRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Nicholas Mangione, 44, of Buffalo, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo to possession of child pornography following a prior conviction, which carries a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years in prison, a maximum of 20 years, and a fine of $250,000.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron J. Mango, who handled the case, stated that in April 2013, Mangione was convicted of possession of child pornography and sentenced to serve 48 months in prison. On August 15, 2024, a federal search warrant was executed at Mangione’s residence after it was discovered he uploaded a file containing child pornography to the Snapchat server. During the search, Mangione’s cellular telephone was seized. An examination of the device uncovered approximately 20 images and 52 videos of child pornography. It was also determined that Mangione distributed child pornography to other individuals using the Telegram application in exchange for other child pornographic files.
On August 16, 2024, the defendant was arrested on New York State charges and was found to be in possession of an additional cell phone, which also contained images and videos of child pornography. Some of the child pornography possessed by Mangione depicted the sexual exploitation of an infant or toddler and depictions of violence against children.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia, and the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Amie Feroleto.
Sentencing is scheduled for September 30, 2025, at 9:30 a.m. before Judge Vilardo.
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Portland, Oregon man sentenced to four years in prison for traveling to Seattle believing he would sexually assault childrenRead the Press Release
Seattle – A 64-year-old Portland, Oregon, man was sentenced today to four years in prison for traveling with the intent to engage in a sexual act with a minor, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Teal Luthy Miller. Marc David McCool was arrested May 16, 2024, when he arrived at a Seattle area hotel, allegedly intending to sexually abuse fictitious 7 and 11-year-old children. U.S. District Judge John C. Coughenour imposed 15 years of supervised release to follow the prison term.
According to records filed in the case, McCool responded to an ad posted on social media by an undercover law enforcement agent. Over more than six weeks of “chats” via the Kik Messenger App, McCool described his sexual interest in children. Ultimately, McCool arranged to travel to Seattle believing he would sexually abuse two young children. He was arrested after he traveled by train and a rideshare to the meet location. At the time of arrest, he had various items reflective of his sexual interest in abusing children: condoms, baby oil, rope, and stuffed animals.
Speaking at sentencing McCool said his life has been forever changed. He said he has lost everything and damaged his relationships with everyone he loves. He hopes to get treatment while incarcerated.
Judge Coughenour commended the resolution of the case.
The case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigation as part of the Seattle Police Department Internet Crimes against Children Task Force (ICAC).
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Cecelia Gregson.
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 Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Pittsburgh-Area Nursing Home Companies Ordered to Pay More Than $15 Million in Restitution for Health Care FraudRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. – Companies operating two Pittsburgh-area nursing homes have been sentenced in federal court to pay a total of more than $15 million in restitution for their convictions of making false statements in connection with the payment of health care benefits and for the purpose of obstructing and impeding the investigation and proper administration of a matter within the jurisdiction of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today. Comprehensive Healthcare Management Services, LLC, d/b/a Brighton Rehabilitation and Wellness Center (Brighton) and Mt. Lebanon Operations, LLC, d/b/a Mount Lebanon Rehabilitation and Wellness Center (Mt. Lebanon) were found guilty on six and four counts, respectively, by a federal jury in December 2023 (read the verdict news release here).
United States District Judge Robert J. Colville imposed the sentences, ordering Brighton to pay $12,629,257.46 in restitution to the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services in addition to serving five years of probation and Mt. Lebanon to pay $2,721,312.10 in restitution and to serve one year of probation.
“Protecting the health, safety, and dignity of the residents of these nursing facilities and ensuring adequate staff to care for these vulnerable resident populations has been our office’s primary focus and objective throughout this prosecution,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Rivetti. “Choosing to prioritize profits over patient care, these facilities lied and falsified records regarding meeting minimum requisite staffing levels to avoid sanctions and to continue to receive federal funding, all the while failing to provide residents with the level and quality of care they deserved.”
“Families counted on these facilities and their operators to care for their loved ones with honesty, integrity, and compassion. Instead, these facilities put profits over people,” said FBI Pittsburgh Special Agent in Charge Kevin Rojek. “Nursing home operators who lie to the government agencies providing oversight and keeping watch endangers lives and erodes public trust. These facilities failed their residents, and today’s outcome is a step toward justice.”
“Safeguarding residents from harm and ensuring nursing facilities comply with CMS staffing levels is a top priority,” said Special Agent in Charge Maureen Dixon, for the Department of Health and Human Services-Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “Healthcare providers are required to provide accurate and truthful information, and false claims to CMS for healthcare services will not be tolerated. HHS-OIG will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to prevent patient harm and fight fraud, waste, and abuse in federal healthcare programs.”
Evidence presented at the December 2023 trial established that, acting through high-level personnel and other employees, Brighton and Mt. Lebanon falsified staffing information provided to the Pennsylvania Department of Health and CMS to show that the facilities were in compliance with the conditions of participation in Medicare and Medicaid. The false certifications—which included, for example, various employees adding the names of individuals who were not actually working, not providing direct patient care, and, in some cases, not even in the building, to staffing sheets to make it appear that the requisite minimum staffing ratio was being met—enabled the corporations to evade penalties for failing to provide sufficient staffing to meet the needs of the residents. Testimony also established that the facilities continued to push for new patient admissions despite low staffing levels and nurses at the facilities advising that they could not adequately care for additional residents.
Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Colville heard testimony and received impact statements from family members of several former residents of the facilities, including a female resident who was seriously injured from a violent physical assault by a male resident when no nursing home staff were present to prevent the abuse or come to the victim’s aid. These family members described a significant decline in staffing following acquisition of the nursing homes by the defendant companies and detailed how decreased staffing levels negatively impacted their relatives’ care, treatment, health, well-being, and hygiene.
In imposing sentence, Judge Colville described the defendants’ actions as “a tragic set of events” that not only increased the risk of inadequate care for the facilities’ patients but also impacted the lives of the facilities’ employees and the general public, who expect that health care facilities will operate lawfully. Judge Colville noted that the nursing facilities’ actions resulted in the government and taxpayers being defrauded and the loss of care to patients.
Assistant United States Attorneys Nicole A. Stockey and Jacqueline C. Brown, along with Special Assistant United States Attorney Aaron McKendry, prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Department of Health & Human Services–Office of Inspector General, the Internal Revenue Service–Criminal Investigation, and the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of the facilities.
Philadelphia Man Sentenced to 17 Years for Role in Violent Armed Robbery and the Planning of an Attempted Armed Home InvasionRead the Press Release
PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney David Metcalf announced that Willie Singletary, aka “Woo,” 33, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was sentenced today by United States District Court Judge Cynthia M. Rufe to 17 years in prison and 3 years’ of supervised release for his role in a violent armed robbery and the planning of an attempted armed home invasion. The sentence will run consecutive to a 10 to 30 year sentence the defendant is already serving in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
In October of last year, the defendant pleaded guilty to a four-count information charging him with conspiracy to commit robbery which interferes with interstate commerce (Hobbs Act robbery), Hobbs Act robbery, attempted Hobbs Act robbery, and using, carrying, and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence.
As detailed in court filings and admitted to by the defendant, on November 20, 2019, Singletary, Shaquan Brown, and another co-conspirator set out to rob a Philadelphia laundromat and the attached residence.
At about 7:30 that morning, the three offenders, each armed with a firearm, encountered a laundromat employee. At gunpoint, they forced him inside the business and downstairs into its basement. At least one of the robbers repeatedly punched the victim, still at gunpoint, while the victim screamed for help. One of the offenders restrained the victim, tying his hands together behind his back.
Singletary and Brown then went upstairs into the laundromat owner’s residence. Upon encountering the owner, the defendant repeatedly punched him, and Brown assaulted a female victim who was also upstairs. The robbers stole approximately $30,000, which was to be used to renovate the business, then fled the scene.
Singletary subsequently provided information to Brown about an individual whom the defendant believed had substantial amounts of cash. Singletary instructed Brown to install a GPS tracker on their intended victim’s vehicle, to figure out where he lived, and Brown did so. The defendant directed Brown that Brown shouldn’t be afraid to get “grimy” and that “nothing is off limits” during the robbery.
On the morning of January 3, 2020, Brown and another person attempted to break into their target’s Chester County, Pa., residence to commit an armed home invasion robbery. When the home security alarm system went off, the police responded and arrested Brown after a foot chase, recovering duct tape, zip ties, and a firearm from Brown’s backpack.
“What Singletary and his buddies put their victims through was terrifying,” said U.S. Attorney Metcalf. “Being menaced at gunpoint and then physically assaulted is something they’ll likely never forget. All because the defendant would rather steal other people’s money than make an honest living of his own. As this case shows, we simply will not permit criminals to terrorize innocent people for profit.”
“Willie Singletary led a vicious robbery of a Philadelphia Laundromat, threatening their victims’ lives at gunpoint and brutalizing them,” said Eric DeGree, Special Agent in Charge of the ATF’s Philadelphia Field Division. “Having directed a further attempted robbery, Singletary is now going to federal prison where he will no longer endanger his neighborhood. ATF Philadelphia Field Division’s has a long history of partnership with the Philadelphia Police Department and U.S. Attorney’s Office, and we will continue to work tirelessly together to ensure justice for the victims and to make our communities safer.”
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
The case was investigated by the ATF and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Anthony J. Carissimi and J. Jeanette Kang.
Pagan’s Motorcycle Club Member Pleads Guilty for Armed Assault and Attempted Assault Against RivalsRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A member of the Pagan’s Motorcycle Club pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Greg Kays for his involvement in an armed assault and an attempted armed assault against members of rival motorcycle clubs.
Jeremiah Z. Hahn, also known as “Pass Out,” 42, of Cameron, Mo., pleaded guilty today to one count of assault with a dangerous weapon in aid of racketeering, one count of attempting to commit assault with a dangerous weapon in aid of racketeering, and one count of felon in possession of a firearm.
On May 30, 2022, Hahn and other members of the Pagan’s and their support club, assaulted a lone rival motorcycle gang member at a business in Grain Valley, Mo. In addition to fists, Hahn used an axe handle during the assault, causing physical injury to the victim.
On Sep. 3, 2022, Hahn and other members of the Pagan’s and their support club, travelled to Topeka, Ks., to carry out a revenge attack against another rival motorcycle gang. The plan was to “catch a stray” and “smash on sight” any rival member they saw. The Pagan’s were aware that the rival motorcycle gang were having an event in Topeka that day, and the plan was to use either an axe handle or a gun on one of the rival gang members. After arriving in Topeka, a rival member was spotted in a hotel parking lot. As Hahn, who was armed with a gun, prepared to shoot the rival, a disagreement occurred among members, and the group returned to the Kansas City area.
Following both events, Hahn and others present were awarded patches for their participation.
On May 3, 2023, Hahn was stopped by a Missouri State Highway Patrol Trooper on eastbound Highway 36 in Dekalb County, Mo., for speeding. Hahn, who was riding a black, 2012 Harley Davidson motorcycle, had passed the trooper, traveling 98 mph in a 65-mph zone. Initially, Hahn attempted to flee the trooper and reached speeds ranging from 100-102 mph before stopping. Following Hahn’s arrest, the trooper discovered a Smith and Wesson, model M&P Shield, .40 caliber semi-automatic handgun, in Hahn’s front pants’ pocket. Hahn, who had felony convictions out of Oklahoma, Kansas, and Missouri, stated that he had stolen the gun approximately a week and a half earlier from a member of a rival motorcycle club in St. Joseph, Mo.
Under federal statutes, Hahn is subject to a sentence of up to twenty years in prison without parole. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Bradley K. Kavanaugh and Robert Smith. It was investigated by the FBI, the Independence, Mo., Police Department, the Blue Springs, Mo., Police Department, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Kansas City, Mo., Police Department.
Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force
This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
Pablo man and woman sentenced to 10 years each in prison for drug traffickingRead the Press Release
MISSOULA – A Pablo man and woman who both admitted trafficking fentanyl and methamphetamine were sentenced today, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Thomas Joseph Spotted Eagle, 42, was sentenced to 121 months in prison and five years of supervised release. His co-defendant, Veronica Egan Partida, 40, was sentenced to 120 months in prison and five years of supervised release. Both defendants pleaded guilty in January 2025 to possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and methamphetamine.
U.S. District Judge Donald W. Molloy presided.
The government alleged in court documents that On April 17, 2024, Flathead Tribal Police and the Northwest Montana Drug Task Force stopped Thomas Spotted Eagle when he left his residence in a vehicle. Spotted Eagle had an outstanding arrest warrant and was on federal supervision. The officers saw him ducking and reaching around frantically as he was stopping his car. The vehicle was searched, and law enforcement seized a black fanny pack under the driver’s seat that had several sandwich baggies with methamphetamine, a glass pipe, a blue fentanyl pill, and $934. Spotted Eagle said the methamphetamine was not his but admitted to attempting to hide it.
Officers then searched Spotted Eagle’s and co-defendant Veronica Partida’s residence. They found Partida, along with a digital scale with drug residue, a shotgun inside a baby crib, approximately 390 grams of methamphetamine, a bag with four blue fentanyl pills, a measuring spoon, small, empty baggies, a wallet with Partida’s identification and $1,710 cash. In another room officers located more methamphetamine, $140 cash, approximately 195 fentanyl pills and powder. Partida admitted she and Spotted Eagle shared the room in the house where the large amount of methamphetamine was found. She stated it was all hers and admitted that she intended to sell the drugs.
Officers spoke to Spotted Eagle’s work supervisor, who admitted to obtaining methamphetamine daily from Spotted Eagle since winter of 2023. He said the last time he obtained meth from Spotted Eagle was on April 16, 2024, and reported seeing Spotted Eagle on three different occasions with a gallon sized Ziploc bag containing a large amount of methamphetamine. He also was aware Spotted Eagle supplied methamphetamine to another person on four different occasions.
The United States Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case. The investigation was conducted by the Northwest Montana Drug 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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North Fort Myers Man Charged with Illegally Possessing Firearms as A Convicted FelonRead the Press Release
Fort Myers, Florida – United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces the filing of a criminal complaint charging Jessie William Korff (30, North Fort Myers) with being a felon in possession of firearms. If convicted, Korff faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in federal prison.
According to the complaint, Fort Myers Police Department (FMPD) officers responded to a Fort Myers residence, where they declared a suspected hostage situation. Officers entered the lanai of the residence and saw a firearm appear during a scuffle with a male and female. Officers separated the male from the female and tried to detain the male. The male was later identified as Jesse William Korff.
Officers observed what appeared to be a bomb on Korff’s person when trying to detain him. Korff spontaneously said, “I have bombs” when being detained. In addition to the firearm, officers observed a bulge with wires coming out of Korff’s pocket and another object next to Korff, along with loaded magazines. A federal warrant was obtained for Korff’s vehicle and agents located an AR-style firearm, multiple suspected silencers, ammunition, and a tactical-style vest.
Korff was previously convicted on February 19, 2015, of multiple felonies, including the transfer and possession of a toxin for use as a weapon, smuggling toxins from the United States, and conspiracy to kill, maim, or injure a person in a foreign country. Therefore, he is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition under federal law.
A criminal 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 was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mark Morgan.
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.
Criminal ComplaintNew Orleans Man Sentenced for Federal Firearms OffenseRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – LaMICHAEL JACKSON (“JACKSON”), age 26, was sentenced on May 8, 2025 by U.S. District Judge Eldon E. Fallon to thirty-nine (39) months in prison followed by three years of supervised release, along with a $100 mandatory special assessment fee, after previously pleading guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8).
According to court documents, New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) officers on patrol in Hollygrove saw JACKSON crossing the street holding a Palmetto State Armory Model PA-15 pistol. JACKSON fled in a vehicle before being cut off by an NOPD patrol car. Inside the vehicle, officers recovered a second gun belonging to JACKSON, a Glock Model 43x, nine-millimeter handgun. Both firearms were loaded when they were recovered. JACKSON is prohibited from possessing a firearm by prior felony convictions for aggravated assault with a firearm, and possession of a firearm with an obliterated serial number.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
The case was investigated by the New Orleans Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David Berman of the Violent Crime Unit.
New Orleans Man Caught on Video Firing Gun and Driving Stolen Car Sentenced to 15 Years in Prison for Machinegun and Drug Trafficking CrimesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – RENARD SANTIAGO (“SANTIAGO”), age 19, was sentenced on May 13, 2025 by U.S. District Judge Wendy B. Vitter to fifteen (15) years in prison, followed by four (4) years of supervised release, along with a mandatory $400 special assessment fee, after previously pleading guilty to conspiracy, and possession with the intent to distribute, marijuana, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(D), and 846; 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); and possession of a machinegun, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(o) and 924(a)(2).
According to court documents, in 2024, SANTIAGO was wanted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”) and the New Orleans Police Department. Specifically, an arrest warrant had been issued for SANTIAGO for an armed robbery committed on October 10, 2023. On December 25, 2023,he was captured on surveillance video firing a handgun with a drum magazine attached and then driving away in a stolen SUV. During their investigation into his whereabouts, law enforcement officers saw stories on SANTIAGO’s social media account showing SANTIAGO in possession of a handgun equipped with a machinegun conversion device, posing with large amounts of cash, and advertising the sale of marijuana. The next day, officers executed a search warrant at SANTIAGO’s residence. SANTIAGO hid in the attic for four hours before he was finally forced out of the house. Inside the attic, officers found SANTIAGO’s handgun, with the machinegun conversion device still attached, a distributable quantity of marijuana, and over $400 in cash.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the New Orleans Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David Berman of the Violent Crime Unit.
Montgomery County Felon Sentenced to 135 Months in Prison for Gun and Drug OffensesRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Joseph Mitchell, age 38, of Nelliston, New York, was sentenced today to 135 months in prison for conspiring to distribute methamphetamine and possession of a firearm as a previously convicted felon. United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Special Agent in Charge Frank A. Tarentino III of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), New York Field Division, made the announcement.
United States Attorney Sarcone stated: “Montgomery County will be safer with this defendant off the streets. We will continue to aggressively investigate and prosecute drug dealers and felons who possess firearms.”
DEA Special Agent in Charge Frank A. Tarentino III stated: “As we often see, drugs and weapons go hand in hand. Today’s sentencing is a reminder that justice will be delivered to those who push illicit narcotics into our communities. The DEA remains committed to working with our law enforcement partners in protecting our communities and enhancing public safety.”Mitchell admitted to working with another person to distribute more than 350 grams of methamphetamine throughout August 2024. A search warrant executed at Mitchell’s home on September 5, 2024, led to the recovery of two rifles and one shotgun. As a result of his prior felony convictions for attempted robbery and narcotics possession, Mitchell could not lawfully possess firearms.
United States District Judge Mae A. D’Agostino also ordered Mitchell to serve 5 years of supervised release and to forfeit the seized firearms.
The DEA investigated the case with assistance from the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan S. Reiner prosecuted the case.
Missouri Registered Sex Offender Charged with Distributing and Receiving Child PornographyRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City, Mo., man was indicted by a federal grand jury on charges related to child pornography.
According to an indictment returned this week, Jeffrey Lynn Petrie, 40, of Kansas City, Mo., was charged with one count of distributing child pornography over the internet in May 2024, and one count of receiving child pornography from Dec. 9, 2024, to Dec. 10, 2024.
The indictment replaces a complaint originally filed on Friday, April 25, 2025. According to an affidavit filed in support of the criminal complaint, law enforcement officers received a Cybertip reporting that a user, “kinkypopper69,” was uploading video files depicting child sexual abuse materials. Petrie was later identified as the user “kinkypopper69.”
On April 24, 2025, the FBI conducted a search at Petrie’s residence and seized a cell phone and other electronic devices.
Petrie is a registered sex offender in Missouri based on prior convictions for child molestation in the 2nd degree.
The charges contained in this indictment are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.
Under federal statutes, if convicted of distribution and receipt of child pornography, a prison sentence of not less than 15 years and not more than 40 years and a fine of up to $250,000 is authorized on each count. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Teresa A. Moore. This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Franklin County, Missouri Sheriff’s Office.
Project Safe Childhood
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about Internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab "resources."
Missouri Man Sentenced to 230 Months in Prison for Transporting Minor for SexRead the Press Release
ST. LOUIS – U.S. District Henry E. Autrey on Tuesday sentenced a man who admitted transporting a minor across state lines for sex to 230 months in prison.
Scott M. Arnold-Micke, 48, of Rolla, Missouri met the 17-year-old victim in 2021 and took him to Chicago, where they used drugs and engaged in sexual acts. Arnold-Micke engaged in drug use with the victim on an almost daily basis after Arnold-Micke moved from Sullivan, Missouri to Rolla.
Arnold-Micke, 48, pleaded guilty in January to one count of transportation of a minor to engage in a criminal sex act.
The case was investigated by the FBI and the Rolla Police Department with assistance from the Phelps County Sheriff’s Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Dianna Edwards prosecuted the case.
“The FBI is unrelenting when it comes to protecting children,” said Special Agent in Charge Chris Crocker of the FBI St. Louis Division. “I commend those who brought this crime to light in order to get this child predator off the streets and in prison where he belongs.”
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Department of Justice Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Missouri Man Admits Contacting Minor OnlineRead the Press Release
ST. LOUIS – A man from Jefferson County, Missouri on Tuesday admitted sending sexual messages to an FBI special agent pretending to be a 13-year-old girl.
Jamal W. Kimball, 31, of Jefferson County, Missouri pleaded guilty to one count of transferring obscene material to a minor.
Kimball contacted an undercover FBI special agent posing as a 13-year-old girl on Kik Messenger, and the two communicated between December 2022 and May 2023. Kimball sent sexual communications and images of his genitals to the agent. The Kansas City office of the FBI alerted the St. Louis office in July of 2013, and a court-approved search of Kimball’s home found his cellular telephone and other electronic items. A search of the phone revealed that Kimball had solicited and received child sexual abuse material from a 15-year-old in Ohio via Snapchat.
Kimball is scheduled to be sentenced on August 20.
The FBI investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jillian Anderson prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Department of Justice Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Mexican, Ecuadorian Nationals Sentenced for Illegally Reentering the United States After DeportationRead the Press Release
PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney David Metcalf announced that two men convicted of illegally reentering the United States after having been deported in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania were sentenced today.
Yovany Basurto, aka Yovany Basurt Leal, 33, a Mexican national, was sentenced this morning by United States District Court Judge Joseph F. Leeson Jr. to time served, exactly three months for illegally reentering the U.S. after having been deported.
In February of this year, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) received electronic notification that Basurto had been arrested and processed by the Bridgeport Borough (Pa.) Police Department on a charge of driving under the influence (DUI).
He was arrested by ICE on a federal complaint and warrant, indicted in March, and pleaded guilty to illegal reentry last month.
The defendant had previously been arrested by ICE in October of 2018 for being in the U.S. without authorization and was removed from the country in February 2019. In June of the same year, the U.S. Border Patrol arrested Basurto in Laredo, Texas, after he illegally reentered the United States once again. That July, Basurto was removed from the U.S. for the second time. After serving the sentence imposed today, he will again be removed from the country.
Cristhian Vega-Guerra, 34, an Ecuadorian national, was sentenced this afternoon by United States District Court Judge Mitchell S. Goldberg to time served, approximately three months and for illegally reentering the U.S. after having been deported.
After receiving and investigating information that the defendant may be illegally residing in Lehigh County, ICE arrested Vega-Guerra on a federal complaint and warrant in January 2025. He pleaded guilty last month to a superseding information charging him with illegal reentry.
In March 2023, the U.S. Border Patrol had encountered Vega-Guerra near Eagle Pass, Texas, and arrested him for entering the U.S. without authorization. He was ordered removed and deported from the country that August. After serving the sentence imposed today, he will again be removed from the country.
“Illegal immigration strains our public services, endangers our citizens, and insults the rule of law,” said U.S. Attorney Metcalf. “If you keep coming into this country illegally, know that we will keep prosecuting you, and the penalties will keep getting steeper.”
“Yovany Basurto and Cristhian Vega-Guerra showed complete disregard for our nation’s immigration laws by repeatedly violating them and are therefore subject to removal,” said ICE ERO Philadelphia Field Office Director Brian McShane. “These sentences send a clear message that aliens who dismiss an immigration judge’s order of removal by illegally reentering the United States after being deported are committing a criminal offense.”
These cases were investigated by ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations and are being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Robert Schopf and Rebecca Kulik.
Mexican National with Two Prior Deportations Sentenced to Prison for Illegally Reentering the United StatesRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Mexican national was sentenced Monday by United States District Judge Cristina D. Silva to 17 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release for illegally reentering the United States after being removed from the country on two prior occasions.
According to court documents, Cristian Alberto Nunez-Hipolito was found by immigration officials on September 29, 2024, after he was previously deported on or about September 17, 2018, and January 10, 2020. Nunez-Hipolito came into ICE custody on September 30, 2024, from the Clark County Detention Center on an immigration detainer after being arrested by state law enforcement on unrelated charges.
Nunez-Hipolito pleaded guilty to one count of Deported Alien Found in the United States. This was his second such conviction, as he was convicted in 2019 in the Southern District of Arizona for the same crime. Nunez-Hipolito also has a 2017 Robbery conviction out of the Superior Court of California, County of Los Angels.
United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada and Salt Lake City Field Office Director Michael Bernacke made the announcement.
The ICE Salt Lake City, Las Vegas Sub-Office investigated the case; and the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Nevada prosecuted the case.
Members of the public can report crimes and suspicious activity by dialing 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or completing the online tip form.
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Mexican National Pleads Guilty to Unlawfully Returning to United States After Removal Following a Conviction for an Aggravated FelonyRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Mexican national has pleaded guilty in federal court today to illegally reentering the United States after having been previously removed following his 2007 conviction for Aggravated Indecent Liberties with a Child Under 14.
Marcos Martinez-Jimenez, 42, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Greg Kays to one count of unlawfully returning to the United States after removal subsequent to being convicted of an aggravated felony. Martinez-Jimenez was previously convicted of Aggravated Indecent Liberties with a Child Under 14 in Johnson County, Ks. in 2007. He was sentenced to a term of imprisonment of 61 months and he was deported to Mexico in 2011 upon completion of his sentence.
On Feb. 11, 2025, he was arrested in Kansas City, Mo., by Immigration & Customs Enforcement, Enforcement & Removal Operations following a vehicle stop.
Martinez-Jimenez faces up to twenty years in federal prison and a maximum fine of $250,000. U.S. District Judge Greg Kays will impose sentencing on a date to be determined.
He has been and will remain in custody pending his sentencing hearing.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brent Venneman. It was investigated by Immigration & Customs Enforcement, Enforcement & Removal Operations.
Operation Take Back America
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
Mexican National Arrested in Waco for Fraudulent Permit, Failure to Notify Change of AddressRead the Press Release
WACO, Texas – A Mexican national was arrested in Temple on criminal charges related to her alleged possession of a fraudulent Permanent Resident Card and failing to report her change of address.
According to court documents, Juana Maria Garcia-Rosales, was found in Temple on May 15, after Temple Police executed a search warrant at her residence. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Fugitive Operations Officers subsequently arrested Garcia-Rosales for being in possession of a Permanent Resident Card with an Alien Number that had not been issued. A criminal complaint alleges that Garcia-Rosales admitted to purchasing the card from someone in Florida via social media. Further investigation revealed that Garcia-Rosales was previously admitted into the U.S. with a Border Crosser Card in July 2012 and the Form I-94 documenting her arrival listed her address as a location in Bryan—not Temple.
Garcia-Rosales is charged with one count of possession of a fraudulent Permanent Resident Card and one count of failure to notify of change of address. If convicted, she faces up to 10 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Acting U.S. Attorney Margaret Leachman for the Western District of Texas made the announcement.
ICE is investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Frazier is prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
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.
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Memphis Man Indicted for Distributing Fentanyl Which Caused DeathRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – Andrew Starks, 44, has been arrested and charged with distributing fentanyl which caused the death of one victim. Joseph C. Murphy, Jr., Interim United States Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the indictment today.
“This indictment is the result of intentional and strategic collaboration between the Memphis Police Department and our federal partners. We remain committed to investigating and prosecuting those who distribute fentanyl and other illegal drugs that put lives at risk,” said Chief Cerelyn ‘CJ’ Davis, Memphis Police Department.
On May 15, 2025, a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Starks. The indictment alleges that on or about December 22, 2022, Starks distributed fentanyl that resulted in the death of one person. If convicted, Starks faces a term of federal imprisonment of not less than 20 years and not more than life. Additionally, Starks could be fined up to $1,000,000 and sentenced to a term of supervised release of at least three years after his time in custody. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was investigated by the Memphis Police Department’s Organized Crime Unit Heroin Opiate Response Team (HORT).
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Wendy K. Cornejo.
The charges and allegations contained in the indictment are merely accusations of criminal conduct, not evidence. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt and convicted through due process of law. If convicted, the defendant’s sentence will be determined by the Court after review of the factors unique to the case, including the defendant’s prior criminal records (if any), the defendant’s role in the offense, and the characteristics of the violation.
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For more information, please contact the media relations team at [email protected]. Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office on Facebook or on X at @WDTNNews for office news and updates.
Members of a Drug Trafficking Organization Run by Murder Convict at the Spokane County Jail Sentenced to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Yakima, Washington – Acting United States Attorney Richard R. Barker announced that United States District Judge Mary K. Dimke sentenced Alexandro Aguilar 33, to 30 years in prison, Kassandra M. Montelongo, 27, to 10 years in prison, and Luis Lara, 25, to 10 years in prison on drug trafficking charges.
According to court documents and information presented at the sentencing hearing, in August 2022, Aguilar was being held at the Spokane County Jail, following state court conviction for murder. Deputies with the Spokane County Sheriff’s Office developed information Aguilar was regularly communicating from jail with Montelongo, who was acting as his agent for a drug trafficking operation on the outside. Investigators also developed information that Lara and another man, Jose Garcia, were also involved in the drug operation.Between December 2022 and January 2023, agents conducted several controlled drug purchases in Spokane Valley, from Aguilar’s drug operation totaling 7,700 fentanyl pills and more than 7 pounds of methamphetamine. Federal law enforcement additionally obtained cocaine through these controlled purchases, which involved convert purchases under law enforcement supervision of illegal drugs to use as evidence against the defendants.
On June 7, 2023, federal agents executed a search warrant at Montelongo’s home in Sunnyside, Washington. During the search, agents located approximately 11 pounds of methamphetamine, a small scale, and ziplock bags. Additionally, agents located multiple high-capacity magazines, bulk ammunition in various calibers, one AR-15 style rifle, two pistols, and cash.
On January 24, 2025, Garcia was sentenced to 10 years in prison on one count of methamphetamine distribution.
“Drug trafficking continues to devastate families and communities across Eastern Washington, especially in our most vulnerable and underserved areas,” stated Acting United States Attorney Rich Barker. “Our office will continue to pursue those who profit of off addiction and violence, and we will continue to support law enforcement efforts to stop the flow of deadly narcotics like fentanyl and protect the people we serve.”
"Dangerous drugs, such as those circulated by this trafficking organization, have the potential to destroy lives and devastate entire populations whether by the pill or by the pound.” said W. Mike Herrington, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Seattle field office. “Mr. Aguilar ran the conspiracy from behind bars and I am thankful for the work of our investigators and local partners putting an end to it. The FBI remains committed to holding accountable all those responsible for enabling, supporting, and profiting from the distribution of these poisons within our community.”
This case was investigated by the FBI Spokane Regional Safe Streets Task Force and the Spokane County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Nowles H. Heinrich and Patrick J. Cashman.
1:23-cr-02039-MKD
Lexington Attorney Agrees to Plead Guilty to Embezzling More Than $3 Million from Companies and RelativesRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Lexington, Mass. attorney has been charged and agreed to plead guilty in connection with alleged schemes to defraud Massachusetts victims, including two of his own relatives.
David Smerling, 75, has agreed to plead guilty to a Superseding Information charging him with four counts of wire fraud, two counts of money laundering and one count of aggravated identity theft. Smerling was previously indicted in January 2025 on charges of embezzling from a business partner.
“The alleged multi-million-dollar embezzlement that Mr. Smerling was originally charged with was, unfortunately, just the tip of the iceberg. Today’s charges allege that Mr. Smerling also preyed on a family member with special needs and another with dementia, allegedly stealing money these victims needed for their own care,” said United States Attorney Leah B. Foley.
“For anyone with elderly and vulnerable loved ones, these are frightening allegations,” said Kimberly Milka, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division. “David Smerling allegedly betrayed the trust of his victims and took full advantage – embezzling from them to line his own pockets while trying to cover up his crimes. The FBI will never stop working to protect the public from criminals like this, and we’re gratified to see him brought to justice.”
According to court filings, between January 2016 and May 2020, Smerling embezzled more than $2.5 million from three Massachusetts companies for whom he worked as a bookkeeper. Specifically, it is alleged that Smerling transferred funds from the victim companies into a separate bank account that he controlled, before moving the money to bank accounts in his own name or directly from the companies’ accounts to bank accounts in his own name. Smerling allegedly concealed his scheme by changing the mailing address on victims’ bank statements to his home address and refusing to share the online banking password for the victims’ accounts.
Court filings further allege that, between May 2020 and August 2021, Smerling embezzled more than $470,000 from a trust established for the benefit of a relative with special needs for which Smerling served as the trustee. Smerling allegedly transferred trust funds to bank accounts he controlled before sending the funds to bank accounts in his wife’s name or using the funds to pay for personal expenses. It is alleged that Smerling concealed his scheme by making lulling payments to the beneficiary so he would not discover the trust had been depleted.
Court filings also allege that, between May 2023 and April 2025, Smerling embezzled more than $150,000 from a relative with dementia for whom Smerling served as the financial power of attorney. Specifically, Smerling allegedly transferred funds from the victim’s accounts to accounts he controlled, used a credit card in the victim’s name for personal purchases and took out a loan in the victim’s name. To conceal this scheme, Smerling allegedly misrepresented the purpose of the transfers to the financial institutions in which the victim’s accounts were held.
The charge of wire fraud provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000 or twice the gross gain or loss, whichever is greater. The charge of money laundering provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $500,000 or twice the value of the property involved in the transaction, whichever is greater. The charge of aggravated identity theft provides for a mandatory sentence of two years in prison to be served consecutive to any sentence imposed on the wire fraud and money laundering charges. 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.
U.S. Attorney Leah B. Foley and FBI Acting SAC Milka made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kristen A. Kearney of the Securities, Financial & Cyber Fraud Unit is prosecuting the case.
The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Kenner Woman Guilty of Federal Controlled Substances Act ViolationsRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – SHAWNA MARTIN (“MARTIN”) age 56, a Kenner resident, pled guilty on May 8, 2025, before United States District Judge Barry W. Ashe to an indictment charging her with distribution of a quantity of fentanyl (Count 1), distribution of forty grams or more of fentanyl (Count 2), and possession with intent to distribute forty grams or more of fentanyl (Count 3), in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(B), and ), 841(b)(1)(C), announced Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson.
According to court documents, on August 24, 2025, and September 6, 2025, MARTIN distributed, and possessed with intent to distribute, quantities of fentanyl pills, 220 pills with a net weight of 30.7 grams, and 500 pills with a weight of 67 grams, within the Eastern District of Louisiana. At the time of arrest on September 20, 2025, MARTIN also possessed 861 pills with a net weight of 114.86 grams.
For Count 1, MARTIN faces up to 20 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $1,000,000.00, at least three years of supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100. For Counts 2 and 3, MARTIN faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 5 years up to a maximum term of 40 years, a fine of up to $5,000,000.00, at least four years of supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100 on each count.
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lynn E. Schiffman of the Narcotics Unit.
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KC Man Sentenced to 30 years for Fentanyl and Methamphetamine 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, methamphetamine, and heroin and for possession of firearms in furtherance of that conspiracy.
Codi J. Monteer, 38, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge D. Greg Kays to 30 years in federal prison without parole.
On Oct. 8, 2024, Monteer pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute fentanyl, methamphetamine, heroin, and marijuana; one count of maintaining a drug involved premises; one count of possession of firearms in furtherance of the drug conspiracy; and one count of being a felon in possession of firearms.
Monteer’s participation in the drug trafficking conspiracy lasted approximately one year and he was responsible for conspiring with others to distribute at least 124 kilograms of methamphetamine; 700 grams of fentanyl (powder and pills); and 1.58 kilograms of heroin. He was also in possession of several firearms used in furtherance of his drug trafficking.
On one occasion, in March 2021, Monteer led members of the Kansas Highway Patrol on a high-speed pursuit that reached speeds of approximately 145 miles per hour. The pursuit did not conclude until two of the tires came off Monteer’s vehicle. During the pursuit, drugs were thrown from the vehicle.
Monteer was an associate of Autumn Dicks, Ian Hazel, They Kelley, Marc Downs, and Jamison Hopson-Stephens. Those individuals have already been sentenced for their roles within the conspiracy. Monteer was also an associate of Davion Williams, Curtis Lewis, Daniel Anderson, and Aaron Dorsey in this conspiracy. Those individuals have all pleaded guilty and are awaiting sentencing.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ashleigh A. Ragner. It was investigated by the Kansas City, Mo. Police Department, FBI, United States Postal Inspection Service, and the Kansas State Highway Patrol.
KC Man Pleads Guilty to Bank Fraud in Stolen U.S. Treasury Check SchemeRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City, Mo., man pleaded guilty to bank fraud involving a scheme to alter and forge stolen United States Treasury checks.
According to court documents, Jevon P. Crudup, Jr., 28, schemed to defraud financial institutions by passing stolen United States Treasury checks that had been altered and forged. The defendant deposited the altered and forged Treasury checks at ATMs using the bank accounts of other persons he met online. These persons provided the defendant with their account information including debit cards and PIN numbers because they believed Crudup would help them make money.
Crudup would then use these individuals’ debit cards to withdraw funds from the account or the defendant would require these individuals to make cash withdrawals and electronic funds transfers to him using various online payment systems.
On April 12, 2023, Crudup made an ATM deposit on a Treasury check worth $18,348.72 that had been altered and forged into the bank account of an individual he met online. Approximately one week after the deposit, the account holder withdrew $5,550 cash from his account and provided the defendant with $5,050. Over the next two months, proceeds from the altered and forged check were disbursed to Crudup in cash withdrawals and transfers via various online payment systems.
In this manner, Crudup passed at least fifteen stolen and forged United States Treasury checks resulting in a loss in excess of $95,000.
Crudup faces up to 30 years in federal prison without parole. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentence of the defendant will be determined by the court based upon the advisory sentencing guidelines and other factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brent Venneman. It was investigated by Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA).
KC Man Charged with Hobbs Act Robbery and Firearm ViolationsRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City, Mo., man was indicted by a federal grand jury today for robbing fourteen convenience stores at gunpoint. He also faces charges for attempting to rob another convenience store and illegally possessing a firearm.
Marquise L. North, 31, of Kansas City, Mo., was charged in a thirty-one count indictment returned by a federal grand jury in Kansas City, Mo.
Today’s indictment charges North with fourteen counts of Hobbs Act robbery, one count of attempted Hobbs Act robbery, fourteen counts of brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence, and one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm.
The federal indictment alleges North committed the robberies between July 26, 2024, and Sep. 21, 2024. North is alleged to have brandished a firearm during each of the robberies.
Under federal law, it is illegal for anyone who has been convicted of a felony to be in possession of any firearm or ammunition. North has a prior felony conviction for unlawful possession of a firearm.
The charges contained in this indictment are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.
Under federal statutes, North is subject to a sentence of up to life in federal prison without parole. Brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence carries a mandatory minimum sentence of seven years in federal prison without parole. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.
This case is being prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica L. Jennings. It was investigated by the FBI, Kansas City, Missouri Police Department, Raytown, Missouri Police Department, and Independence, Missouri Police Department.
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.
Justice Department Files Religious Liberty Lawsuit Against Troy, Idaho for Discriminating Against a Small Christian ChurchRead the Press Release
The Justice Department filed a lawsuit today in the U.S. District Court for the District of Idaho alleging that the City of Troy, Idaho, violated the Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Persons Act (RLUIPA) when it denied a conditional use permit (CUP) application sought by Christ Church, a small evangelical church.
The lawsuit alleges that Christ Church had outgrown the space where it had been worshipping and was unable to find a space to rent. It then sought a CUP to operate a church in the City’s C-1 zoning district, where nonreligious assembly uses such as clubs, museums, auditoriums, and art galleries were allowed. Local residents vociferously opposed the Church’s CUP application, and many of their written and verbal comments reflected animus against Christ Church’s beliefs. In its denial of the Church’s CUP application, the City cited the fact that the public was “heavily against” it and that the “great majority of the city residents” opposed granting the CUP.
“RLUIPA unequivocally forbids local governments from deciding zoning matters based on their dislike of certain religious groups,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “The Department of Justice will not hesitate to file suit against jurisdictions that discriminate in land use matters on the basis of the applicants’ religious beliefs.”
The lawsuit alleges that the City’s denial of the CUP imposed a substantial burden on Christ Church and was based on the community’s discriminatory animus against the Church. It also alleges that the City’s zoning code treats religious assembly use worse than nonreligious assembly use. The lawsuit alleges violations of RLUIPA’s substantial burden, equal terms, and discrimination provisions.
RLUIPA is a federal law that guards individuals and religious institutions from unduly burdensome, unequal, or discriminatory land use regulations. More information about RLUIPA and the department’s work can be found on the Place to Worship Initiative’s webpage.
As part of this initiative, the department distributed a letter to state, county, and municipal leaders throughout the country to remind them of their obligations under RLUIPA, including its requirement that land use regulations treat religious assemblies and institutions at least as well as nonreligious assemblies and institutions.
Individuals who believe they have been subjected to discrimination in land use or zoning decisions may contact the Civil Rights Division’s Housing and Civil Enforcement Section at (833) 591-0291 or may submit a complaint through the RLUIPA complaint portal. More information about RLUIPA, including questions and answers about the law and other documents, may be found at www.justice.gov/crt/about/hce/rluipaexplain.php.
Justice Department Files Religious Liberty Lawsuit Against Troy, Idaho for Discriminating Against a Small Christian ChurchRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON — The Justice Department filed a lawsuit today in the U.S. District Court for the District of Idaho alleging that the City of Troy, Idaho, violated the Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Persons Act (RLUIPA) when it denied a conditional use permit (CUP) application sought by Christ Church, a small evangelical church.
The lawsuit alleges that Christ Church had outgrown the space where it had been worshipping and was unable to find a space to rent. It then sought a CUP to operate a church in the City’s C-1 zoning district, where nonreligious assembly uses such as clubs, museums, auditoriums, and art galleries were allowed. Local residents vociferously opposed the Church’s CUP application, and many of their written and verbal comments reflected animus against Christ Church’s beliefs. In its denial of the Church’s CUP application, the City cited the fact that the public was “heavily against” it and that the “great majority of the city residents” opposed granting the CUP.
“RLUIPA unequivocally forbids local governments from deciding zoning matters based on their dislike of certain religious groups,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “The Department of Justice will not hesitate to file suit against jurisdictions that discriminate in land use matters on the basis of the applicants’ religious beliefs.”
The lawsuit alleges that the City’s denial of the CUP imposed a substantial burden on Christ Church and was based on the community’s discriminatory animus against the Church. It also alleges that the City’s zoning code treats religious assembly use worse than nonreligious assembly use. The lawsuit alleges violations of RLUIPA’s substantial burden, equal terms, and discrimination provisions.
RLUIPA is a federal law that guards individuals and religious institutions from unduly burdensome, unequal, or discriminatory land use regulations. More information about RLUIPA and the department’s work can be found on the Place to Worship Initiative’s webpage.
As part of this initiative, the department distributed a letter to state, county, and municipal leaders throughout the country to remind them of their obligations under RLUIPA, including its requirement that land use regulations treat religious assemblies and institutions at least as well as nonreligious assemblies and institutions.
Individuals who believe they have been subjected to discrimination in land use or zoning decisions may contact the Civil Rights Division’s Housing and Civil Enforcement Section at (833) 591-0291 or may submit a complaint through the RLUIPA complaint portal. More information about RLUIPA, including questions and answers about the law and other documents, may be found at www.justice.gov/crt/about/hce/rluipaexplain.php.
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Jefferson County Man Charged with Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – James Yerdon, age 54, of Adams Center, New York, appeared in federal court last week charged with possession of child pornography. United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III, Erin Keegan, Special Agent in Charge of the Buffalo Field Office of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), and New York State Police (NYSP) Superintendent Steven G. James made the announcement.
The charge filed against Yerdon carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison, a maximum sentence of 20 years, a fine of up to $250,000, and a term of supervised release between 5 years and life. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statute the defendant is charged with violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors.
Yerdon appeared for an arraignment in Syracuse, New York, before United States Magistrate Judge Thérèse Wiley Dancks and was detained pending further proceedings.
The complaint filed against Yerdon alleges that on May 13, 2025, during an ongoing investigation by NYSP and HSI regarding allegations Yerdon had engaged in the hands-on sexual abuse of a child, a search was conducted of Yerdon’s home. During the search, Yerdon was found in possession of a cellphone on which Yerdon possessed multiple images and videos of child pornography including material depicting the sexual abuse of children as young as five months old. The charges in the complaint are merely accusations. Yerdon is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III stated, “We thank HSI and the NYSP for their dedication and tireless work on this investigation. The defendant’s actions, as alleged, targeted infants and children, the most vulnerable amongst us. I will not stand for it.”
“James Yerdon is accused of preying upon defenseless victims–babies and children–for his own despicable sexual gratification,” said Erin Keegan, Special Agent in Charge, HSI Buffalo. “Members of the public deserve to feel safe in their neighborhoods and in their own homes. HSI Syracuse and our law enforcement partners are relentlessly committed to our shared pursuit of a safer New York.”
NYSP Superintendent Steven G. James said, “The State Police have zero tolerance for anyone involved in child pornography, promoting the acts of child predators, or who perform predatory acts against children. The charge in this case reflects the severity of the crime and our commitment to finding justice for the victims. We thank our partner agencies involved for their determination in holding Mr. Yerdon accountable for his reprehensible actions.”
The case was investigated by HSI and NYSP and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Adrian LaRochelle as part of Project Safe Childhood.
Project Safe Childhood is a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
Jackson County Man Pleads Guilty Extorting State Probationers and Witness TamperingRead the Press Release
Gulfport, MS – An Ocean Springs, Mississippi man pleaded guilty today to extortion by official right and witness tampering.
According to court documents, Steven Wood, 64, used his position as a Mississippi Probation and Parole officer to extort drugs, sexual photos, and sexual services from multiples state probationers. The investigation was initiated when a probationer reported to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”) that Wood was having her bring him methamphetamine. Subsequent investigation including additional witness interviews, and the forensic examination of Wood’s phone revealed that he solicited methamphetamine, sexual photos, and videos from multiple probationers. Wood took official action on those probationer’s behalf by not reporting their use, possession, or transfer of illegal drugs, not requiring them to report for their probation visits, not requiring some of them to pay their probation fees and writing at least one letter to be submitted by a probationer in a child custody dispute.
During the course of the investigation, Wood contacted multiple probationers, and he told one probationer to lie about her relationship with Wood and to hide evidence.
Wood pleaded guilty to one count of extortion by official right in violation of the Hobbs Act and one count of witness tampering. He is scheduled to be sentenced on September 17, 2025. He faces not more than 20 years of imprisonment for both the Hobbs Act and Witness Tampering offenses. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Acting U.S. Attorney Patrick A. Lemon of the Southern District of Mississippi and FBI Special Agent in Charge, Rob Eikhoff, made the announcement.
The FBI, with assistance of the Mississippi Department of Corrections and the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics are investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan Buckner is prosecuting the case.
International Stock Manipulator Sentenced to 20 Months for Pump-And-Dump SchemeRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York announced today that RONALD BAUER was sentenced to 20 months in prison for manipulating seven different stocks in a “pump-and-dump” scheme designed to fraudulently inflate the value of BAUER’s own shares in those companies. BAUER pled guilty on November 4, 2024, before U.S. District Judge Paul A. Engelmayer, who imposed today’s sentence.
“From overseas, Bauer manipulated stock prices to enrich himself at the expense of unsuspecting investors,” said U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton. “Today’s sentencing sends a clear message: those who seek to manipulate U.S. markets from outside the United States will face justice. We thank our domestic and overseas partners and will continue to work with them to keep our markets fair.”
According to the Indictment, public filings, and statements made in court proceedings:
BAUER, a Canadian-UK citizen, orchestrated multiple “pump-and-dump” schemes after previously being sanctioned by the SEC in 2006, when he received a five-year ban from serving as an officer of public companies or participating in penny stock offerings. In his guilty plea, BAUER admitted to securities fraud involving seven issuers. His sophisticated scheme involved gaining controlling interest of unrestricted stock, then concealing ownership by distributing shares among nominee entities through a Swiss corporation called Blacklight, S.A. While maintaining behind-the-scenes trading authority and significant influence over company management, BAUER and his co-conspirators orchestrated purposeless “match trades” —i.e., placing buy and sell orders in the same stock on the same day—and funded promotional campaigns without disclosing their controlling interest or intent to sell. They took deliberate steps to hide that nominee entities were funding these promotions. During or shortly after generating market interest, BAUER sold large percentages of holdings and collected the proceeds through the elaborate network of nominee entities he controlled.
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In addition to his prison term, BAUER, 49, of London, United Kingdom, was sentenced to three years of supervised release and ordered to forfeit approximately $4,377,228.74.
Mr. Clayton praised the outstanding investigative work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. He further thanked the Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs of the Department’s Criminal Division, as well as authorities in the United Kingdom, in particular the Crown Prosecution Service and the National Crime Agency’s National Extradition Unit. Finally, Mr. Clayton also thanked the Securities and Exchange Commission, which separately initiated civil proceedings against BAUER.
The case is being handled by the Office’s Securities and Commodities Fraud Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jason Richman, Matthew R. Shahabian, and Vladislav Vainberg are in charge of the prosecution.
Indian National Pleads Guilty to Visa Fraud ConspiracyRead the Press Release
BOSTON – An Indian national, residing in New York, pleaded guilty today in federal court in Boston to staging armed robberies in furtherance of a visa fraud conspiracy.
Rambhai Patel, 37, pleaded guilty to on one count of conspiracy to commit visa fraud. U.S. District Court Judge Myong J. Joun scheduled sentencing for Aug. 20, 2025. In December 2023, Patel was charged along with a co-conspirator.
Beginning in March 2023, Patel and his alleged co-conspirator set up and carried out staged armed robberies of at least nine convenience/liquor stores and fast-food restaurants across the United States – including at least five in Massachusetts. The purpose of the staged robberies was to allow the store clerks to claim that they were victims of a violent crime on an application for U nonimmigrant status (U Visa). A U Visa is available to victims of certain crimes who have suffered mental or physical abuse and who have been helpful to law enforcement in the investigation or prosecution of criminal activity.
During the staged robberies, the “robber” would threaten store clerks and/or owners with an apparent firearm before taking cash from the register and fleeing, while the interaction was captured on store surveillance video. The clerks and/or owners would then wait five or more minutes until the “robber” had escaped before calling police to report the “crime.” The “victims” paid Patel to participate in the scheme. One purported victim paid $20,000 to participate as a victim in one of the staged armed robberies. In turn, Patel paid the store owners for the use of their stores for the staged robbery.
At least two purported victim co-conspirators submitted U Visa applications based on being victims of the staged armed robberies.
Singh is scheduled to plead guilty on May 22, 2025.
The charge of conspiracy to commit visa fraud provides for a sentence of up to five years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of $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 Kimberly Milka, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division made the announcement. Valuable assistance in the investigation was provided by the U.S. Attorney’s Offices for the Eastern District of New York and the Western District of Washington; FBI’s New York and Seattle Field Offices; U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services; Massachusetts State Police; Worcester County District Attorney’s Office; and the Hingham, Marshfield, Randolph, Weymouth, Worcester, Upper Darby, (Pa.), West Pittston (Pa.), Louisville, (Ky.) and Bean Station (Tenn.) Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Elianna J. Nuzum and Jessica L. Soto of the Criminal Division are prosecuting the case.
The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The remaining defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Illegal alien sent to prison after distributing cocaine with children in vehicleRead the Press Release
McALLEN, Texas – A 39-year-old Mexican national who illegally resided in McAllen has been sentenced for conspiracy to distribute cocaine and possession with intent to distribute it, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Heriberto Marin-Hebert pleaded guilty Nov. 22, 2024.
Chief U.S. District Judge Randy Crane has now ordered Marin-Hebert to serve 36 months in federal prison. Not a U.S. citizen, Marin-Herbert is expected to face removal proceedings following his imprisonment.
On Aug. 14, 2024, law enforcement conducted surveillance on Marin-Hebert and observed him making hand-to-hand exchanges around McAllen with his children in the vehicle. They conducted a traffic stop, at which time he threw a box containing cocaine in a ditch in an attempt to avoid detection. Authorities found multiple individually-wrapped baggies of cocaine in the box.
They subsequently conducted a search of his home and also discovered additional baggies of cocaine, drug scales, drug paraphernalia, two firearms and over $12,000 in cash.
At the time of his arrest, Marin-Hebert admitted he sold cocaine for a living.
He has been and will remain in custody pending transfer to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement - Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation with the assistance of Hidalgo County Precinct 4 Constable’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Amanda McColgan prosecuted the case.
Husband Sentenced to 24 Years for Gunning Down Wife in D.C. Parking LotRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Wyatt Swan, 48, of Washington, D.C., was sentenced today to 24 years in prison for the 2024 murder of Teresa Francisco, 52, in Northeast Washington, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro and Chief Pamela Smith, of the Metropolitan Police Department.
Swan pleaded guilty on January 24, 2025, to second-degree murder while armed. Honorable Jason Park of the D.C. Superior Court ordered Swan to serve five years of supervised release.
According to the government’s evidence, at approximately 1:00 p.m., on October 1, 2024, Swan shot and killed his wife, Teresa Francisco, in and around their apartment complex in the 900 block of Eastern Avenue, Northeast. The defendant first shot his wife with a pistol in their shared apartment. When she ran for her life and hid in a nearby work van, Swan pursued her and fired numerous shots into the van, killing her. The defendant then fled the scene, evading police.
Swan was arrested on October 2, 2024, with the assistance of the Prince George's County Police Department.
In announcing the sentence, U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro and Chief Smith commended the work of those who investigated the case from the Metropolitan Police Department and the U.S. Attorney’s Office and expressed appreciation for the assistance provided by the Prince George’s County Police Department. They also commended the work of Assistant U.S. Attorney Gregory Evans, who prosecuted the case.
Honduran National Sentenced to 15 Months in Prison for Illegal ReentryRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – U.S. District Brian J. Davis has sentenced Kevin Vasquez-Hernandez (33) to one year and three months in federal prison for illegal reentry into the United States by a previously deported alien. Vasquez-Hernandez entered a guilty plea in February 2025.
According to court documents, Vasquez-Hernandez is a native and citizen of Honduras, and had been granted voluntary removal in 2012 after it was determined he was illegally in the United States. In 2014, he was encountered by law enforcement in Virginia and deported to Honduras in 2015. In 2016, Vasquez-Hernandez was again encountered by law enforcement in Texas and deported to Honduras. In 2019, he was encountered by law enforcement in North Carolina and convicted of illegal reentry into the United States by a previously deported alien. In 2020, after his release from federal prison, he was again deported to Honduras.
In December 2024, Vasquez-Hernandez was encountered by U.S. Border Patrol Agents when they conducted a traffic stop on the car he was driving. During the stop, Vasquez-Hernandez provided agents with a fraudulent identification card. After confirming Vasquez-Hernandez’s identity, he was arrested. Vasquez-Hernandez admitted to law enforcement that he had again unlawfully reentered the United States in 2022.
This case was investigated by U.S. Customs and Border Protection. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Elisibeth Adams.
Homeless man admits threatening to blow up Flathead County courthouseRead the Press Release
MISSOULA – A homeless man with ties to Kalispell admitted today that he threatened to blow up the Flathead County courthouse, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Kermit “Ty” Poulson, 46, pleaded guilty to interstate communication of a threat to damage property by means of fire or explosive, which carries a maximum term of imprisonment of ten years, a potential fine of $250,000, and up to three years of supervised release.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Kathleen L. DeSoto presided and District Judge Dana L. Christensen will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing was set for September 18, 2025. Poulson was detained pending further proceedings.
The government alleged in court documents that on April 25, 2023, an attorney in Flathead County, Montana received the following email from Gmail account [email protected]:
The attorney reported receiving the email to the FBI and disclosed that he/she had previously represented defendant Poulson in a matter in Kalispell. The attorney recalled Poulson had a history of making similar threats.
The FBI obtained subscriber information from Google for Gmail account [email protected], which listed another associated Gmail account of [email protected]. The FBI obtained subscriber information for Gmail account [email protected], which named the subscriber of that account as Poulson. Criminal records checks show Poulson was previously the subject of an FBI investigation in Portland, Oregon. In that case, he was investigated, arrested, and convicted of threatening to set the Portland Mayor’s house on fire with Molotov cocktails. See United States v. Poulson, Case No. 3:18-CR-00622-SI-1 (D. Or. 2018). He also claimed in that case that he had ties to Antifa.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeff Starnes is prosecuting the case. The investigation was conducted by the FBI.
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Head of Commercial Real Estate Investment Firm Sentenced to Federal Prison for $62.8 Million Fraud Scheme Targeting Atlanta Financial Center InvestorsRead the Press Release
ATLANTA - Elchonon (Elie) Schwartz has been sentenced to 87 months of imprisonment and ordered to pay over $45 million in restitution for inducing more than 800 investors to send him approximately $62.8 million, including approximately $54 million in investments earmarked for the Atlanta Financial Center, a planned commercial real estate complex. Instead of using the funds for legitimate purposes, Schwartz diverted the funds for his own use, including purchases of luxury items.
“Schwartz’s greed was boundless,” said U.S. Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg. “He callously abused the trust of hundreds of investors to line his own bank accounts, purchase expensive watches, and buy additional luxury items. Schwartz’s sentence reflects our office’s commitment to hold fraudsters accountable for exploiting investors who innocently rely on their false representations.”
“This sentencing underscores that those who exploit the trust of investors for personal gain will be held accountable,” said Paul Brown, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta. “Mr. Schwartz’s actions caused significant financial harm to hundreds of individuals, and hopefully today’s outcome delivers a measure of justice for the victims.”
According to U.S. Attorney Hertzberg, the charges and other information presented in court: beginning in May 2022, Elie Schwartz engaged in a scheme to defraud commercial real estate investors who invested through a crowdfunding investment website, CrowdStreet Marketplace. Schwartz raised nearly $63 million from hundreds of investors through CrowdStreet, including approximately $54 million for a large commercial real estate complex in Atlanta, Georgia and approximately $9 million for a mixed-use building in Miami Beach, Florida. As part of the investment solicitation process, Schwartz represented to CrowdStreet investors that he would safeguard their funds within segregated bank accounts, that he would not commingle the investors’ money, and that he would use the funds only for investment in each property.
Contrary to these representations, Schwartz misappropriated and converted investors’ funds for his own use. Schwartz directed substantially all the funds into his personal bank account, personal brokerage account, and accounts for unrelated commercial real estate investments he controlled. Schwartz used the funds to purchase luxury watches, to invest in stocks and options in his brokerage account, and to cover payroll expenses for his unrelated commercial real estate businesses. Ultimately, in mid-July 2023, the two corporate entities that Schwartz formed to receive funds from CrowdStreet investors filed for bankruptcy.
On May 19, 2025, U.S. District Judge Steven D. Grimberg sentenced Schwartz, 46, of New York, New York, to 87 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered him to pay restitution of $45,079,485.03. Schwartz pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud on February 12, 2025.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The Securities and Exchange Commission’s Division of Enforcement provided valuable assistance in the investigation.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kelly K. Connors and Trial Attorney Matthew F. Sullivan of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section prosecuted the case. Former Assistant U.S. Attorneys David O’Neal and Christopher Huber provided substantial assistance with the investigation and prosecution.
For further information please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office at [email protected] or (404) 581-6280. The Internet address for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia is http://www.justice.gov/usao-ndga.
Head of Commercial Real Estate Investment Firm Sentenced to 87 Months for $62.8M Investment Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
A New York man was sentenced yesterday in the Northern District of Georgia to 87 months in prison and ordered to pay over $45 million in restitution for his role in a scheme to defraud investors in connection with commercial real estate investments in Atlanta, Georgia and Miami, Florida.
According to court documents, beginning in May 2022, Elchonon “Elie” Schwartz, 46, of New York City, engaged in a scheme to defraud commercial real estate investors that invested through the crowdfunding investment website, CrowdStreet Marketplace. Schwartz raised over $62.8 million from hundreds of investors through CrowdStreet, including approximately $54 million for a large commercial real estate complex in Atlanta, Georgia, and approximately $8.8 million for a mixed-use building in Miami Beach, Florida. When soliciting investments, Schwartz represented to CrowdStreet investors that he would safeguard their funds in segregated bank accounts, not commingle the investors’ money, and only use it to fund the investment in each property.
Over the course of the scheme, however, Schwartz directed substantially all the CrowdStreet investor money into his personal bank account, personal brokerage account, and accounts for unrelated commercial real estate investments he controlled. He used the CrowdStreet investor funds to purchase luxury watches, invest in stocks and options in his brokerage account, and cover payroll expenses for his unrelated commercial real estate businesses. Ultimately, in mid-July 2023, the two corporate entities that Schwartz had formed to receive funds from CrowdStreet investors both filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy.
“Yesterday a federal judge sentenced Elchonon Schwartz to 87 months for defrauding investors out of more than 60 million dollars through lies and deceit as part of a real estate scheme,” said Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Criminal Division. “The defendant made fraudulent representations to investors and misappropriated their money to buy luxury watches and to deposit into his brokerage and bank accounts instead of investing it as promised. The Criminal Division remains dedicated to prosecuting fraudsters who steal investors’ hard-earned savings to the fullest extent of the law.”
“Schwartz’s greed was boundless,” said U.S. Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg for the Northern District of Georgia. “He callously abused the trust of hundreds of investors to line his own bank accounts, purchase expensive watches, and buy additional luxury items. Schwartz’s sentence reflects our office’s commitment to hold fraudsters accountable for exploiting investors who innocently rely on their false representations.”
“This sentencing underscores that those who exploit the trust of investors for personal gain will be held accountable,” said Paul Brown, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Atlanta Field Office. “Mr. Schwartz’s actions caused significant financial harm to hundreds of individuals, and hopefully today’s outcome delivers a measure of justice for the victims.”
In February 2025, Schwartz pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud.
The FBI Atlanta Field Office investigated the case. The Justice Department appreciates the valuable assistance of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission’s Division of Enforcement.
Trial Attorney Matthew F. Sullivan of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Kelly Connors for the Northern District of Georgia prosecuted the case.
Guthrie Woman Pleads Guilty to Embezzling More Than $377,000 from Nursing HomeRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – JESSICA DAWN BURTON, 53, of Guthrie, has pleaded guilty to conspiring to commit wire fraud while employed as a bookkeeper for a nursing home in Hydro, Oklahoma, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
On May 14, 2025, Burton was charged by Information with conspiracy to commit wire fraud. According to the Information, from August 2022 through November 2023, Burton was employed as a bookkeeper for a nursing home in Hydro. The Information alleges that Burton used her position to issue checks from the company’s bank account to enrich herself and three other conspirators, utilizing the owner’s signature on the checks without the knowledge or consent of her supervisor or the owner. In all, Burton issued 223 unauthorized checks totaling $377,443.45.
Burton pleaded guilty to the Information on May 19, 2025, and admitted she used her position to write checks from her employer’s bank account without permission, and that she knew she was stealing the money from the nursing home. At sentencing, Burton faces up to 20 years in federal prison and a fine of up to $250,000.
This case is the result of an investigation by the FBI Oklahoma City Field Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jackson D. Eldridge is prosecuting the case.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Guilty Verdicts for Maryland Members of a PCP and Fentanyl Trafficking Conspiracy Centered in D.C.Read the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Kenneth Watts, 57, of Upper Marlboro, Md., and James Kinard, 47, of Temple Hills, Md., were found guilty by a federal jury today for their roles in a drug trafficking conspiracy that distributed large amounts of cocaine, fentanyl and PCP in the DMV. The conspiracy also used firearms to protect their narcotics and the proceeds from their trafficking operation.
The verdicts were announced by U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro, FBI Assistant Director in Charge Steven J. Jensen of the Washington Field Office, DEA Special Agent in Charge Ibrar A. Mian of the Drug Enforcement Administration Washington Division, and Chief Pamela Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department.
The jury found both defendants guilty of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute one kilogram or more of PCP. The jury also found defendant Kinard guilty of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl. U.S. District Court Judge Jia M. Cobb scheduled sentencing for August 7, 2025. Watts and Kinard each face a minimum-mandatory sentence of 10 years in federal prison.
Watts has two prior felony drug convictions. Kinard has a prior 1995 conviction for second-degree murder while armed and a prior 2016 conviction assault with intent to commit robbery while armed and related offenses. Kinard was on supervised release during the investigation in this case.
Three co-defendants pleaded guilty before the case went to trial on May 7.
Melvin Grayson, 51, of District Heights, Maryland, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute a detectable amount of cocaine, more than 40 grams or more of fentanyl, and more than one kilogram or more of PCP. Grayson faces a minimum-mandatory sentence of ten years. He has two prior felony drug convictions from 1993.
Tyrone Ragland, 56, aka “Tech,” of the District, pleaded guilty to a charge of conspiracy to distribute one kilogram of PCP. Charles Cunningham, 58, of the District, pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon. According to their plea agreements, Ragland and Cunningham will be required to serve 15 years in prison. Cunningham has four prior felony drug convictions.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, officers with the Prince George’s County Police Department intercepted a package containing six kilos of PCP at a FedEx facility in Maryland. The officers set up a controlled delivery of the package and stopped defendant Kenneth Watts after he picked it up. In Watts’ cell phone, investigators found text messages linking Watts to the package and to co-defendant Melvin Grayson.
Through controlled purchases and wiretaps, evidence showed that Grayson distributed PCP, fentanyl, cocaine, and heroin, in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area. The investigation also showed that defendants Ragland, Cunningham, Kinard and others conspired with Grayson to distribute the narcotics. In search warrants conducted at various residences, agents recovered four firearms, more than 2.5 kilos of PCP, more than 100 grams of fentanyl, and approximately $50,000 in cash.
This case is being investigated by the FBI’s Washington Field Office Cross Border Task Force and the DEA Washington Field Office, with assistance from MPD’s Violent Crime Suppression Division and the Prince George’s County Police Department. The Cross Border Task Force is a part of the FBI’S Safe Streets Initiative and targets the most egregious and violent street crews operating in the District of Columbia. Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland and the Baltimore/Washington High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) program.
This investigation was part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
The matter is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Nihar R. Mohanty and Iris Y. McCranie of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia.
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Guatemalan National Charged with Illegal ReentryRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Guatemalan national unlawfully residing in New Bedford has been indicted by a federal grand jury for illegally reentering the United States after deportation.
Manuel Ruiz Luis, 52, was charged with one count of unlawful reentry of a deported alien. Ruiz Luis was arrested by Immigration and Customs Enforcement on March 31, 2025. Following an initial appearance in federal court in Boston, Ruiz Luis has been detained.
According to the indictment, Ruiz Luis was first deported from the United States to Guatemala in April 1996 and allegedly reentered the United States illegally sometime thereafter. Ruiz Luis was removed from the United States a second time on March 28, 2012. It is alleged that sometime after his March 2012 removal, Ruiz Luis illegally reentered the United States without permission.
According to court documents, prior to his 2012 removal, Ruiz Luis had multiple criminal convictions including one charge of operating under the influence and four separate charges of operating a motor vehicle without a license.
The charge of unlawful reentry of a deported alien 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 of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations in Boston made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexandra W. Amrhein of the Major Crimes Unit is prosecuting the case.
The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Georgia Woman Who Trafficked over 10 Pounds of Methamphetamine Hidden Inside Bag of Dog Food Sentenced to Decade in PrisonRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Georgia woman was sentenced on May 14, 2025 in federal court in Boston for her role in a drug trafficking organization (DTO) that trafficked narcotics from Mexico into the United States.
Brooke Logan Paniagua, 28, of Dalton, Ga., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Richard G. Stearns to 10 years in prison, to be followed by 48 months of supervised release. In January 2025, Paniagua pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense.
On Sept. 25, 2022, the DTO informed a confidential source that a female courier would be transporting 12 pounds of methamphetamine from Georgia to Massachusetts. On Sept. 27, 2022, Paniagua called the confidential source to coordinate the time and location to meet to complete the sale of the methamphetamine. Paniagua informed the confidential source that the methamphetamine was hidden inside a 50-pound bag of dog food.
On Sept. 27, 2022, Paniagua arrived at the agreed-upon location and notified the confidential source that she had arrived at the location. During a search of her person, a .22 caliber Ruger handgun loaded with eight rounds of ammunition was located in Paniagua’s back pocket. A search of Paniagua’s vehicle resulted in the recovery of a large, partially opened bag of dog food that contained five plastic containers filled with 12.3 pounds of 97% pure methamphetamine.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Stephen Belleau, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Field Division made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Massachusetts State Police, and the Natick, Newton and Waltham Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian J. Sullivan the Narcotics & Money Laundering Unit prosecuted the case.
Gang Member Pleads Guilty to Illegal Possession of FirearmRead the Press Release
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Springfield, Mo., man pleaded guilty in federal court yesterday to illegally possessing a firearm.
Jayden Isaac Simmonds, 19, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge M. Douglas Harpool, to being an unlawful user of a controlled substance while in possession of a firearm.
Simmonds admitted to possessing a stolen Smith and Wesson 10mm semi-automatic pistol and daily use of marijuana and opioid addiction. Simmonds also admits to being a member of a local gang known as the “1500.”
According to an affidavit filed with the original complaint charging Simmonds with being an unlawful user of a controlled substance, investigators test-fired the pistol and submitted the casings to the National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN) for analysis. The test-fired cartridges, the affidavit says, were a presumptive match to shell casings recovered from two separate shootings in Springfield in August 2024. The first shooting occurred on Aug. 4, 2024, on West Brower Street. An occupied residence was shot multiple times by unknown suspects. At least 17 rounds struck the residence, but there were no injuries. The second shooting occurred on Aug. 14, 2024, on North Prospect Avenue. A disturbance resulted in shots being fired. One residence was struck, but there were no injuries reported.
Following his arrest, Simmonds told investigators he had been using marijuana daily since he was 11 or 12 years old, and that he was addicted to opioids and had been using fentanyl.
Under federal statutes, Simmonds is subject to a sentence of up to 15 years in federal prison without parole. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie L. Wan. It was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Christian County, Mo., Sheriff’s Department and the Springfield, Mo., Police Department.
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.
Former Postal Worker Sentenced for Stealing $1.9 Million in Business Checks from Post Office in Bank Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Dontavis Romario Truesdale, 28, of Charlotte, was sentenced today to 27 months in prison followed by two years of supervised release for financial institution fraud, after he stole $1.9 million in business checks from the post office where he worked, announced Russ Ferguson, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina.
Kathleen Woodson, Special Agent in Charge of the United States Postal Service, Office of the Inspector General (USPS-OIG) for the Mid-Atlantic Area Field Office (MAAFO), Rodney Hopkins, Inspector in Charge of the Atlanta Division of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, which oversees Charlotte, and Chief Johnny Jennings of the Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department join U.S. Attorney Ferguson in making today’s announcement.
According to court records, from November 2022 to April 2023, Truesdale worked as a processing clerk at the Ballantyne Post Office in Charlotte. Court records show that Truesdale used his position and access to steal hundreds of checks of businesses that maintained post office boxes at that location. Truesdale then sold the stolen checks to other co-conspirators who committed bank fraud. Over the course of the scheme, Truesdale stole more than 200 checks with a total face value of over $1.9 million.
Following the sentencing hearing, Truesdale was released on bond. He will be ordered to report to the Federal Bureau of Prisons upon designation of a federal facility.
In making today’s announcement, U.S. Attorney Ferguson thanked USPS-OIG, USPIS and CMPD for their investigation of the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kenneth Smith with the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte prosecuted the case.
Former Bank of O’Fallon executive pleads guilty to swindling $2 million in check kiting fraud schemeRead the Press Release
EAST ST. LOUIS, Ill. – The former second-in-command of the Bank of O’Fallon appeared in federal court Monday to admit to charges for engaging in a fraud scheme to obtain more than $2 million.
Andrew P. Blassie, 69, of St. Louis, pleaded guilty to one count of bank fraud and one count of interstate transportation of security or funds obtained by fraud.
“This conviction, secured shortly after Blassie’s April 8 indictment, reflects the investigators’ outstanding work and the Bank of O’Fallon’s vital cooperation to dismantle the scheme. This result delivers swift justice for O’Fallon’s residents and protects the integrity of our financial system,” said U.S. Attorney Steven D. Weinhoeft. “He must face a serious consequence for betraying his clients, employer, family, and community.”
According to the indictment, Blassie served as the Executive Vice President for the Bank of O’Fallon and defrauded the bank out of $1,972,887.67 in a check kite scheme from September 2023 through September 2024 during his employment.
Blassie admitted to falsely inflating the balance of his personal checking account at the Bank of O’Fallon by depositing checks he knew to be backed by non-sufficient funds. He deposited checks with non-sufficient funds from four personal accounts at three other banks and one credit union into the Bank of O’Fallon account.
“The level of corruption the defendant in this case achieved was beyond shameful. Rather than serve the Bank of O’Fallon and its customers, the defendant chose to serve himself – to more than $2 million. His guilty plea today should send a message to others who would seek to rip off their unsuspecting customers that they will be caught, and they will be held accountable,” Resident Agent in Charge Michael Kurzeja, of the U.S. Secret Service Springfield Office said. “I thank all of our Federal, state and local partners who helped in the successful prosecution of this former bank executive.”
Blassie paid nearly $2.7 million for personal expenses from the falsely inflated account thus using funds belonging to the Bank of O’Fallon. As the former Executive Vice President, Blassie used his position to conceal his fraud from the Bank of O’Fallon by scrubbing his name and account number from the suspected kiting reports.
“This former bank executive abused his position of trust and the trust of the community for personal enrichment,” said Special Agent in Charge Vincent R. Zehme, of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Office of Inspector General (FDIC OIG), Chicago Region. “The FDIC OIG is pleased to join our law enforcement partners in announcing today’s guilty plea, and we remain committed to investigating and holding bank insiders who commit fraud accountable, as we seek to preserve the integrity of our Nation’s banking system and to protect depositors and financial consumers.”
From August 2022 through September 2024, Blassie also persuaded a couple from Lebanon, Illinois, to give him $489,000 of their retirement savings. In return for this investment, Blassie gave the couple two promissory notes. He agreed to pay the couple interest on the notes and used money he obtained through his check kite scheme to pay some of that interest.
As security for his promissory notes, Blassie pledged 128 of his and his wife’s shares of the holding company which owns the Bank of O’Fallon.
“Andrew Blassie abused his position of trust as a bank executive by committing fraud for his own personal gain and has now been brought to justice for his actions,” said Jon Ellwanger, Special Agent in Charge, Western Region, Office of Inspector General for the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System and Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. “We are proud to have worked with our law enforcement partners to achieve this plea agreement.”
According to the indictment, Blassie later sold most of these shares and did not use those funds to repay the Lebanon couple. This left the couple with no means of recourse when Blassie later defaulted on the promissory notes.
“The Federal Housing Finance Agency, Office of Inspector General (FHFA-OIG) is committed to investigating allegations of fraud involving bank officials who abuse their position of public trust and financial institutions, particularly the Federal Home Loan Banks,” said Korey Brinkman, Special Agent in Charge of the FHFA-OIG’s Central Region. “We are proud to have partnered with the U.S. Secret Service, FDIC OIG, FRB OIG, and the O’Fallon (IL) Police Department on this case.”
Officials with the Bank of O’Fallon have fully cooperated with law enforcement during the investigation. Blassie’s sentencing is scheduled for 10:30 a.m. on Sept. 18 at the federal courthouse in East St. Louis.
The O’Fallon Police Department, U.S. Secret Service, Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Office of Inspector General, the Office of Inspector General for the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System and Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, and the Federal Housing Finance Agency, Office of Inspector General made contributions to the investigation.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Scott Verseman and Zoe Gross are prosecuting the case.
Foreign National Sentenced for $3.2 Million Medicare Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
A foreign national was sentenced today to 30 months in prison for his role in a scheme to defraud Medicare of more than $3.2 million through a sham durable medical equipment company.
According to court documents, Julian Lopez, 55, a citizen of Cuba who resides in Miami-Dade County, Florida, obtained Medicare beneficiary identification cards and sold Medicare beneficiaries’ personal information to a durable medical equipment company, One Medical Services. Lopez knew the Medicare identification cards he obtained would be used to submit fraudulent claims to Medicare. One Medical Services used the information from Lopez to bill Medicare for orthotic braces that were never provided to the Medicare beneficiaries. In connection with the scheme, One Medical Services submitted and caused the submission of over $3.2 million in false and fraudulent claims to Medicare for medically unnecessary DME.
Lopez pleaded guilty to two counts of health care fraud in February 2025. At sentencing, he was also ordered to pay $1,496,412 in restitution.
Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; Acting Special Agent in Charge Jesus Barranco at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG) Miami Regional Office; and Acting Special Agent in Charge Brett Skiles of the FBI Miami Field Office made the announcement.
The FBI and HHS-OIG investigated the case.
Assistant Chief Emily Gurskis and Trial Attorney Owen Dunn of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section prosecuted the case.
The Fraud Section leads the Criminal Division’s efforts to combat health care fraud through the Health Care Fraud Strike Force Program. Since March 2007, this program, currently comprised of nine strike forces operating in 27 federal districts, has charged more than 5,800 defendants who collectively have billed federal health care programs and private insurers more than $30 billion. In addition, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, working in conjunction with HHS-OIG, are taking steps to hold providers accountable for their involvement in health care fraud schemes. More information can be found at www.justice.gov/criminal-fraud/health-care-fraud-unit.
Florida Ophthalmology Practice Agrees to Pay $615,000 to Resolve Allegations of Fraudulent Claims to Medicare and Medicaid for Cranial UltrasoundsRead the Press Release
Pinellas Eye Care, P.A. doing business as Gulfcoast Eye Care (“Gulfcoast Eye”), an ophthalmology practice with offices in Pinellas Park, Palm Harbor, and St. Petersburg, Florida, has agreed to pay $615,000 to resolve alleged violations of the False Claims Act and an analogous Florida statute arising from its billing for trans-cranial doppler ultrasounds (“TCDs”) provided through a kickback arrangement with a third party. Gulfcoast Eye has agreed to cooperate with the Justice Department’s ongoing investigations of other participants in the alleged scheme.
The settlement resolves allegations that Gulfcoast Eye knowingly submitted, and caused the submission of, false claims to Medicare and Medicaid for medically unnecessary TCDs. Gulfcoast Eye and a third-party provider of TCD services performed TCDs on thousands of patients and billed Medicare and Medicaid hundreds of dollars per test. Before the patients received the results of the test, Gulfcoast Eye and the third-party provider identified the patients as having received a serious diagnosis — most commonly of occlusion and stenosis of their cerebral arteries — that could qualify the patient for reimbursement of a TCD by Medicare or Medicaid. However, nearly all patients who received TCDs never had occlusion and stenosis of cerebral arteries, and that diagnosis was accordingly not reflected in the patient’s medical history or in the TCD results. Gulfcoast Eye paid the third-party TCD provider based on the volume or value of tests ordered and referred the patients to the TCD provider’s preferred radiology group for the TCD’s professional component.
The United States alleged that, as a result of this scheme, Gulfcoast Eye submitted, or caused the submission of, false claims to Medicare and Medicaid for TCDs that were medically unnecessary, that were premised on false diagnoses, and that resulted from violations of the Anti-Kickback Statute and the Stark Law. Of the $615,000 total settlement amount, $602,046 is to be paid to the United States, and $12,953 is to be paid to the State of Florida for its share of Medicaid, which is a jointly funded federal and state program.
“Patients trust their healthcare providers to administer reliable and competent care consistent with their medical needs and ethical standards,” said U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe for the Middle District of Florida. “When this relationship is exploited for personal gain or greed, the integrity of our healthcare system is compromised. We will continue working with our law enforcement partners to protect patients from potential harm and maintain the integrity of our federal programs.”
“Kickback schemes will always be an investigative priority for the FBI,” said Special Agent in Charge Matthew Fodor of the FBI Tampa Field Office. “Our mission is to protect the American people which includes safeguarding them from deceitful actions threatening our nation’s federal healthcare system.”
“Kickback arrangements can corrupt legitimate medical decision-making and undermine the integrity of federal healthcare programs,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Ryan P. Lynch of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “HHS-OIG, working with our law enforcement partners, will continue to investigate improper billing and kickback schemes to protect both Medicare and Medicaid as well as those served by these programs.”
The civil settlement resolved a lawsuit filed under the qui tam or whistleblower provision of the False Claims Act, which permits private parties to file suit on behalf of the United States for false claims and share in a portion of the Government’s recovery. The qui tam was filed by a whistleblower who will receive $116,850 in connection with the settlement.
The settlement was the result of a coordinated effort between the Civil Division’s Commercial Litigation Branch, Fraud Section, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida, with assistance from HHS-OIG and the FBI. The United States previously resolved allegations that another ophthalmology practice in Florida engaged in a similar scheme with the same third-party TCD provider.
The government’s pursuit of this matter illustrates the government’s emphasis on combating healthcare fraud. One of the most powerful tools in this effort is the False Claims Act. Tips and complaints from all sources about potential fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement can be reported to HHS at 1-800-HHS-TIPS (800-447-8477).
Trial Attorney Nelson Wagner in the Civil Division’s Commercial Litigation Branch, Fraud Section, and Assistant United States Attorney Mamie Wise for the Middle District of Florida handled the matter.
The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only and there has been no determination of liability.
Federal Jury Finds Red Lake Man Guilty of Sexually Abusing a MinorRead the Press Release
FERGUS FALLS, Minn. – A federal jury found Clarence Clark, Jr., guilty of two counts of sexually abusing a minor on the Red Lake Indian Reservation after a three-day trial in U.S. District Court, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Lisa D. Kirkpatrick.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Clarence Edward Clark, Jr., 37, sexually assaulted a minor victim who was physically incapacitated at a Red Lake Reservation home in the early morning hours of March 1, 2024. Another minor present at the home interrupted the assault and ran to a neighbor’s home for help. The concerned neighbor called 911 to report the crime. Clark was found intoxicated at the scene and was apprehended by Red Lake Tribal Police.
On May 15, 2025, a jury convicted Clark Jr. of both counts with which he was indicted in U.S. District Court before Judge John R. Tunheim. “This guilty verdict is the result of close and timely coordination between the Red Lake Nation, FBI, and U.S. Attorney’s office. It reflects the courage of two minors and the deep partnership between the Federal and Tribal governments. Those who hurt children will find no quarter in Minnesota,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Lisa D. Kirkpatrick.
“Clarence Clark Jr. robbed a child of safety and innocence,” said Special Agent in Charge Alvin M. Winston Sr. of FBI Minneapolis. “His actions were not only depraved — they were an egregious violation of trust. This guilty verdict ensures he will face the consequences of his crimes. The FBI and our law enforcement partners remain steadfast in our commitment to protect children, pursue predators relentlessly, and bring them to justice.”
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Red Lake Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Rachel L. Kraker and Michael P. McBride prosecuted the case.
Federal Indictment Charges Rockford Man with ArsonRead the Press Release
ROCKFORD — A Rockford man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for allegedly maliciously destroying - by means of fire and explosive materials - a building at 201 15th Ave. in Rockford.
JAMES PURIFOY, 50, committed the arson on Jan. 22, 2023, according to an indictment returned today in U.S. District Court in Rockford. Arraignment has not yet been scheduled.
The indictment was announced by Andrew S. Boutros, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, Christopher Amon, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago Field Division of the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and Douglas S. DePodesta, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago Field Office of the FBI. The Rockford Fire Department and Rockford Police Department assisted in the investigation. The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica S. Maveus.
The public is reminded that an indictment contains only charges and is not evidence of guilt. The defendant is presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial at which the government has the burden of proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. The minimum sentence for the arson count is five years in federal prison, while the maximum sentence is 20 years. If convicted, the Court must impose a reasonable sentence under federal sentencing statutes and the advisory U.S. Sentencing Guidelines.
purifoy_indictment.pdf