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13 May 2025
Mobile County Man Sentenced to over 24 Years’ Imprisonment for Methamphetamine TraffickingRead the Press Release
MOBILE, AL – On May 12, 2025, United States District Court Judge Terry F. Moorer sentenced Robert Leon Johnson to 294 months’ imprisonment for Possession with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine. According to court documents, on March 31, 2023, a Mobile Police Officer witnessed Johnson driving a motorcycle and initiated a traffic stop near Johnson’s home. Johnson was observed traveling with a black backpack and when the officer approached Johnson, he was bending up from the front of a vehicle that was parked on his property.
Moments later, another officer arrived and spotted the same black backpack stuffed underneath the front of the vehicle. Officers searched the backpack and found two plastic bags containing approximately 131.3 grams of Methamphetamine and $1,176 in U.S. currency. Johnson has an extensive criminal history.
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the City of Mobile Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney George F. May.
Mexican national guilty of federal immigration violations in the Eastern District of TexasRead the Press Release
BEAUMONT, Texas – A Mexican national, illegally living in Houston, has pleaded guilty to immigration violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Abe McGlothin, Jr.
Arsenio Leal Rodriguez, 27, pleaded guilty to unlawful reentry by a previously deported alien before U.S. Magistrate Judge Zack Hawthorn on May 12, 2025.
According to court documents, on September 19, 2024, Rodriguez was in the Liberty County Jail for another violation when a records check revealed he had prior convictions, including a conviction for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon in Harris County in September 2019. It was also determined Rodriguez had been previously deported from the United States in 2018 and 2020.
Rodriguez faces up to two years in federal prison at sentencing. The maximum statutory sentence prescribed by Congress is provided here for information purposes, as the sentencing 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 U.S. Probation Office.
This case is being investigated as 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).
This case is being investigated by the Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the Liberty County Sheriff’s Office. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Rachel Grove and Chris Jackson.
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Mexican fishermen indicted for illegal red snapper harvesting in U.S. watersRead the Press Release
BROWNSVILLE, Texas – A Brownsville grand jury has indicted a crew of four men from Matamoros, Mexico, for unlawfully transporting fish taken from the Gulf of America, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Previously arrested upon the filing of a criminal complaint, Miguel Angel Ramirez-Vidal, 32, Jesus David Luna-Marquez, 20, Jesus Roberto Morales-Amador, 27, and Jose Daniel Santiago-Mendoza, 22, are expected appear for their arraignment before U.S. Magistrate Judge Karen Betancourt May 22 at 1:45 p.m.
On April 17, the crew of four allegedly attempted to transport and export roughly 315 kilograms of red snapper illegally taken from U.S. waters. The charges allege they intended to sell the fish in Mexico.
The criminal complaint alleges authorities observed the crew’s panga-style fishing vessel in the Gulf of America, seven miles north of the U.S.-Mexico maritime boundary line and 21 miles east of South Padre Island (SPI).
The crew was allegedly fishing with approximately four kilometers of heavy nylon fishing line and 1,200 fishing hooks. The complaint further alleges they were in an unmarked and unregistered vessel which was not flying the flag of any nation and operating without running lights. The charges allege none of the crew had a permit to fish in U.S. waters nor had a quota for red snapper in violation of federal law.
If convicted, they face up to five years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement-Homeland Security Investigations, Coast Guard Investigative Services, Coast Guard Station SPI, Customs and Border Protection Air and Marine Operations, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Texas Parks and Wildlife and South Padre Island Police Department conducted the joint investigation.
Assistant U.S. Attorney William Hagen is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.
Mexican National Sentenced for Making False StatementsRead the Press Release
BANGOR, Maine: A Mexican national was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Bangor for making a false statement to a U.S. Customs and Border Protection agent.
U.S. District Judge Stacey Neumann sentenced Felipe De Jesus Zavala Medel, 64, to time served (approximately 104 days). Zavala Medel had been detained since January 29, 2025.
According to court records, in January 2025, Zavala Medel approached the Coburn Gore port of entry in a vehicle from the Canadian side of the international border and presented a North Dakota driver’s license in the name of “Johny Joe Olivo” along with identifying documents to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agent. Zavala Medel falsely told the agent he was born in Texas. He also completed and signed a Customs Declaration form containing the false information. During questioning, Zavala Medel admitted that he did not have any documents that allowed him to legally enter, reside, or work in the U.S.
Zavala Medel was turned over to immigration authorities at the conclusion of the proceedings.
CBP and Homeland Security Investigations investigated the case.
Operation Take Back America: This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
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Mexican National Indicted for Illegally Possessing a Firearm and Illegal Re-Entry into the United StatesRead the Press Release
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – A Mexican national was indicted by a federal grand jury today for possession of a firearm while unlawfully present in the United States, and illegal re-entry into the United States after being previously deported.
Israel Ramirez-Jaramillo, 33, a citizen of Mexico who was previously residing in Osage Beach, Missouri, was charged with being an illegal alien in possession of a firearm and illegal reentry by a previously deported alien. According to the indictment, Ramirez-Jaramillo was found in possession of a SCCY, model 9mm caliber pistol on April 20, 2025. The indictment alleges that he was previously deported and removed from the United States on July 13, 2011, and never obtained the consent of the Attorney General and/or the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security to reapply for admission into the United States.
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.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Cecily L. Hicks. It was investigated by Immigration & Customs Enforcement (ICE) - Homeland Security Investigations, ICE - Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO), and the Osage Beach, Missouri Police Department.
Operation Take Back America
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
Mexican National Arrested for Unlawful ReentryRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Mexican national has been arrested for unlawfully reentering the United States after deportation.
Bernardo Lorenzo-Guatemala, 38, was arrested on May 9, 2025 and charged with one count of unlawful reentry of a deported alien. Following an initial appearance in federal court in Boston he was ordered detained pending a hearing scheduled for May 15, 2025.
According to the charging documents, Lorenzo-Guatemala was deported from the United States on June 4, 2019. It is alleged that sometime after his removal, Lorenzo-Guatemala unlawfully reentered the United States. Immigration and Customs Enforcement became aware of Lorenzo-Guatemala’s unlawful presence in the United States following his arrest on July 2, 2024 for operating a motor vehicle with a suspended license.
Lorenzo-Guatemala has multiple prior felony convictions including a February 2016 conviction for Operating a Motor Vehicle Under the Influence of Liquor; a July 2015 conviction for Negligent Operation of a Motor Vehicle; and a June 2014 conviction for Operating a Motor Vehicle Under the Influence of Liquor.
The charge of unlawful reentry of a deported alien provides for a sentence of up to 10 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. The defendant is subject to deportation upon completion of any sentence imposed. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Patricia H. Hyde, Field Office Director of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations in Boston made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian J. Sullivan the Narcotics & Money Laundering Unit is prosecuting the case.
The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Memphis Man Indicted for Distributing Fentanyl Which Caused Three Fatal OverdosesRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN - Joseph C. Murphy, Jr., Interim United States Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the indictment of Darian Glover, 28. Glover has been arrested and charged with distributing fentanyl which caused the deaths of three people. This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Collierville Police Department.
“Our hearts go out to the victims’ families in this tragic case,” said Special Agent in Charge Jim Scott, head of DEA’s Louisville Division. “Fentanyl is a scourge plaguing America, and the dedicated men and women of the Drug Enforcement Administration will stop at nothing to rid this poison from our communities.”
“We appreciate the partnership we have with the DEA,” said Chief Dale Lane of the Collierville Police Department. “It is vitally important that law enforcement organizations work together to interdict illegal fentanyl, disrupt supply chains, and hold those accountable for distributing this deadly drug.”
On April 10, 2025, a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Glover. The indictment alleges that on or about June 21, 2024, Glover distributed fentanyl that resulted in the deaths of three people. If convicted, Glover faces a term of federal imprisonment of not less than 20 years and not more than life. There is no parole in the federal system.
In addition, Glover can 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.
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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Marshall Man Charged with Drug and Gun OffensesRead the Press Release
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – A Marshall, Mo., man was indicted today with possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, discharging a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and possessing firearms after a prior felony conviction.
James Joseph Elsea, 62, was previously charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm in a criminal complaint filed in Jefferson City, Mo., on May 2, 2025. According to an affidavit filed in support of the complaint, Pettis County officers served a “no knock” state search warrant at Elsea’s residence on May 2, 2025. An officer was attempting to cut through a security bar on the door when four rounds were fired at the officers from within the residence. Pettis County communications subsequently received a 911 call from Elsea, who stated that he had just shot someone. Two Pettis County deputies were injured by shots fired during the search warrant.
According to the affidavit, ATF agents responded to the scene and seized a Taurus model PT111 G2A (G2C), 9mm semi-automatic handgun, which was loaded with one round in the chamber and five rounds in the magazine. Agents also seized a Mossberg, model MC1SC, 9mm semi-automatic handgun. Elsea is a previously convicted felon and is prohibited from possessing a firearm under federal law.
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.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren E. Kummerer. It was investigated by the Pettis County Sheriff’s Office, the Missouri State Highway Patrol, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.
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.
Man Who Supplied Illegal Drugs in Eastern Washington Sentenced to More than 16 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Spokane, Washington – Acting United States Attorney Richard R. Barker announced that United States District Judge Thomas O. Rice sentenced David Velasquez Jr., age 32, to 200 months in federal prison for Conspiracy to Distribute 400 Grams or More of Fentanyl. Judge Rice also imposed 5 years of supervised release.
According to court documents and information presented at the sentencing hearing, In November 2022, The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) developed information that Velasquez was the source of supply for a large amount of illegal drugs in Eastern Washington. FBI agents later learned that Velasquez and a man named David Fulmer had met multiple times in Utah for the purpose of transporting drug shipments from Arizona to Eastern Washington. Velasquez provided Fullmer with at least 10,000 fentanyl-laced pills during each meeting. Fullmer later was arrested and sentenced to federal prison on drug trafficking charges.
On September 19, 2023, the FBI obtained a federal arrest for Velasquez and on October 13, 2023, Velasquez’s phone was tracked to Iowa. He was subsequently pulled over driving a truck near Dallas County, Iowa. He was arrested and law enforcement recovered 39,095 fentanyl pills hidden in the truck’s tailgate. Two loaded handguns were found in the glove compartment and a third handgun was found under the rear seat.
“Fentanyl is a deadly drug that continues to devastate communities across Eastern Washington and the nation,” stated Acting U.S. Attorney Barker. “Mr. Velasquez trafficked tens of thousands of fentanyl-laced pills into our region, putting numerous lives at risk. My office will continue to hold drug traffickers accountable, and we are committed to working with our law enforcement partners to keep Eastern Washington communities safe.”
“Mr. Velasquez was the source of large amounts of Fentanyl flowing into the Spokane area.” said W. Mike Herrington, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Seattle field office. “Knowing this poison can easily kill its users, countless lives may have been saved by taking him off the streets. The FBI and our partners will continue the work of keeping these illegal drugs out of the communities we all call home.”
This case was investigated by the FBI. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Nowles Heinrich and Patrick J. Cashman.
2:23-cr-00102-TOR
Man Who Attempted to Stab Flight Attendant and Open Airplane Door Mid-Flight Pleads GuiltyRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Leominster, Mass. man pleaded guilty today in connection with an incident in which he attempted to open an emergency exit door while aboard a United Airlines flight from Los Angeles to Boston and then attempted to stab a flight attendant in the neck with a broken metal spoon.
Francisco Severo Torres, 34, pleaded guilty to one count of interference and attempted interference with flight crew members and attendants using a dangerous weapon. U.S. District Court Judge Patti B. Saris scheduled sentencing for July 17, 2025. Torres was charged by criminal complaint in March 2023 following his arrest at Boston Logan International Airport. He was subsequently indicted by a federal grand jury in September 2023.
On March 5, 2023, Torres was a passenger aboard a United Airlines flight from Los Angeles to Boston. Approximately 45 minutes prior to landing, the flight crew received an alarm in the cockpit that a starboard side door located between the first class and coach sections of the aircraft was disarmed. Upon inspection, a flight attendant found that the door’s locking handle had been moved out of the fully locked position – approximately a quarter of the way towards the towards the unlocked position – and that the emergency slide arming lever had been moved to the “disarmed” position. The flight attendant reported this to the captain and flight crew after securing the door and emergency slide.
In subsequent discussions, a fellow flight attendant reported that he had observed Torres near the door and believed Torres had tampered with the door. A flight attendant then confronted Torres about tampering with the door, to which he responded by asking if there were cameras showing that he had done so. The flight attendant then notified the captain that they believed Torres posed a threat to the aircraft and that the captain needed to land the aircraft as soon as possible.
Shortly thereafter, Torres got out of his seat and approached the starboard side door where two flight attendants were standing in the aisle. One of the flight attendants saw Torres mouthing something that he could not hear. Video taken by a passenger depicts Torres yelling at points that he would “kill every man on this plane” and “I’m taking over this plane.” Torres then thrust towards one of the flight attendants in a stabbing motion with a broken metal spoon, hitting the flight attendant on the neck area three times. Passengers then tackled Torres and he was restrained with the assistance of flight crew. Torres was immediately taken into custody upon the flight’s arrival to Boston.
During subsequent interviews, passengers who were aboard the flight reported that Torres asked a fellow passenger where on the safety card it showed where the door handle was located during the flight attendants’ safety briefing prior to takeoff and that Torres was seen pacing in a galley before attacking the flight attendant.
The charge of interference and attempted interference with flight crew members and attendants using a dangerous weapon provides for a sentence of up to life in prison, up to five years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Kimberly Milka, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division; Colonel Geoffrey D. Noble, Superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police; and Boston Police Commissioner Michael Cox made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elianna J. Nuzum of the Criminal Division is prosecuting the case.
Local men arraigned in federal court in separate cases alleging child exploitation via online chat, social media sites & in-person abuseRead the Press Release
CINCINNATI – Two men alleged to have committed child exploitation crimes were arraigned in federal court today in Cincinnati in two separate cases.
Jonathan Travis Mackey, 46, of Loveland, allegedly exploited child victims both online and in person while employed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC).
Mackey was indicted by a federal grand jury on April 30 and charged with sexually exploiting a child and receiving child pornography.
According to his court documents, Mackey chatted online with whom he believed to be an approximately 13-year-old girl and enticed her to send him sexually explicit photos. Mackey sent messages on Discord that were sexual in nature and allegedly planned to meet in person at a hotel near her home. Mackey’s Discord activity also allegedly included messages with an adult woman in which Mackey and the woman discuss their desires to sexually abuse minors.
It is also alleged that Mackey exploited a second victim through hands-on sexual abuse.
If convicted as charged, Mackey could face up to 50 years in prison.
Kyle Rist, 38, of Cincinnati, was also indicted by a federal grand jury on April 30. He is charged with coercion and enticement, 16 counts of sexually exploiting minors, receiving child pornography and possessing child pornography.
According to his charging documents, in September 2023, the grandparents of a teenaged victim alerted law enforcement in Oregon that their granddaughter had been sending and receiving sexually explicit videos of herself and of Rist, who is also known as Jeremy Hadley, through Facebook.
A publicly-filed affidavit details that Rist referred to himself as daddy to the victim and also told the victim they were in a relationship. It is alleged that Rist – pretending to be another man by the name of Jeremy Hadley – had ongoing online discussions with the same teenage victim.
It is alleged that between August and November 2024, Rist sexually exploited a second 7-year-old child in person by producing visual depictions of the victim engaging in and assisting another person in sexually explicit conduct.
If convicted as charged, Rist could face up to life in prison.
Kelly A. Norris, Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio; Jared Murphey, Acting Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Detroit; Elena Iatarola, Special Agent in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Cincinnati Division; Jason J. Scalzo, Special Agent in Charge of the FDIC Office of Inspector General Electronic Crimes Unit; and officials with the Ohio Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force. Assistant United States Attorneys Kyle J. Healey and Danielle E. Margeaux are representing the United States in this case.
An indictment merely contains allegations, and defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.
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Liberian Man Sentenced to One Year in Prison for Immigration Fraud, Then Will Be Removed from the United StatesRead the Press Release
PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney David Metcalf announced that Isiah Kangar, 52, was sentenced today by United States District Court Judge Mark A. Kearney to 12 months in prison, 90 days of supervised release, a $1,000 fine, and $100 special assessment for conspiracy to defraud the United States, visa fraud, and attempted unlawful procurement of citizenship. Following the conclusion of his sentence, the defendant will be removed from the United States.
In 2009, Kangar, who was born in Liberia, posed as his brother when he applied for a visa to enter to the United States as the unmarried son of a lawful permanent resident. Once in the United States, he became a lawful permanent resident and obtained a “green card” under the false identity, which enabled him to remain in the United States for over a decade. In 2022, he applied for U.S. citizenship using documents bearing his brother’s identity, including the green card, a Pennsylvania driver’s license, and a Liberian passport.
In February 2024, a federal grand jury in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania indicted the defendant on multiple charges related to immigration fraud. He pleaded guilty to three counts against him in November.
“The defendant built his life here on a foundation of lies,” said U.S. Attorney Metcalf. “His fraud on the U.S. government spanned 15 years and required not just deceit, but apparent preparation and planning. With a finite number of immigrant visas available each year, he took a spot that could have gone to someone more deserving. Bottom line: anyone who wants to come to our country must do so 100% legally.”
“Preserving the integrity of our immigration system is essential to national security and public trust. Fraudulent schemes that undermine lawful immigration processes will be investigated and prosecuted,” said Edward V. Owens, Special Agent in Charge of HSI Philadelphia. “Through close collaboration with the Department of Justice and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, HSI remains dedicated to identifying and prosecuting individuals who seek to manipulate the system for personal gain.”
The case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and is being prosecuted by Trial Attorney Chelsea Schinnour with the Department of Justice’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions section, and Eastern District of Pennsylvania Assistant United States Attorneys Kelly Harrell and Patrick Brown. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs and the Office of the Principal Legal Advisor, Philadelphia, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, U.S. Department of Homeland Security, also provided assistance.
Lewiston Man Sentenced for Making Violent Threats to Kill Local Prosecutor, Defense Attorney, and Commit Mass MurderRead the Press Release
Spokane, Washington –United States District Judge Thomas O. Rice has sentenced Trevor J. Lunney, 39, of Lewiston, Idaho, to 60 months in prison for making threats to kill his lawyer, his prosecutor, and members of the public. Judge Rice also imposed 3 years of supervised release. Lunney was convicted of this crime on December 10, 2024, following a jury trial.
According to court documents and information disclosed at trial and at the sentencing hearing, in July of 2022, while on Washington State community custody for a previous conviction involving threats to kill, Lunney texted his state Department of Corrections (DOC) community corrections officer, among other threatening statements, that “. . . in 19 days, mass violence becomes inevitable.” Lunney also discussed with his DOC officer his plan to commit a school shooting at an Asotin County School District School, and to commit a mass shooting at a parade at the Asotin County Fair. Upon being contacted by DOC officers, on July 18, 2022, Lunney continued to make specific threats regarding his plans to commit a mass shooting and, upon being evaluated by a mental health professional, issued additional threats including his five-year-plan to “right injustice” by going to the Asotin County Fair Parade and live streaming his opening fire on a crowd. Lunney also made repeated statements regarding his access to firearms at that time.
Later that same day, July 18, 2022, Lunney was arrested by the Clarkston Police Department for his threats to commit mass shootings and was taken into custody at the Asotin County Jail where he remained in custody on felony charges, brought by the Asotin County Prosecutor’s Office, for his threats.
Over a period of months while in the Asotin County Jail on the charges for the July threats, Lunney made a series of calls and emails and sent letters to family members and others, all of which he was told were being closely monitored at that time by law enforcement. In these monitored in custody communications, Lunney repeatedly expressed his anger towards the criminal justice system in general and the assigned Asotin County deputy prosecutor as well as his own defense attorney. Lunney also repeatedly discussed his plans to obtain an AR-15 and commit mass murder based upon his specific plans to “do pure evil to countless souls.”
On December 5th, 2022, while awaiting trial for the July threats, Lunney’s anger towards the local criminal justice system culminated in an email he sent from the Asotin County Jail where he stated, “I want to have a murder-suicide with my lawyer when I leave here. . .” and “I want to kill my lawyer and the prosecutors when I get out. . .” referencing “attacking a crowd” and that stating that “I can’t even say what I have planned.”
“I want to thank the victims and witnesses who bravely came forward and testified, helping to hold Mr. Lunney accountable for his deeply disturbing threats,” said Acting United States Attorney Rich Barker. “Lunney not only threatened to carry out mass violence, including a school shooting he chillingly described as ‘Sandy Hook Part II,’ but also targeted the very individuals working to ensure justice—his own attorney and the prosecuting attorneys. I am grateful to the FBI for intervening before Mr. Lunney could carry out his violent plans, and to the Assistant United States Attorneys who prosecuted this case with outstanding professionalism, diligence, and resolve.”
“Mr. Lunney’s threats were alarming, disturbing, and terrifying in nature. They instilled fear not only in the targeted victims but an entire community,” said Special Agent in Charge Mehtab Syed of the Salt Lake City FBI. “The FBI takes all threats of violence seriously and will take necessary steps to ensure public safety.”
This case was investigated by the FBI. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Tyler H.L. Tornabene and former Assistant United States Attorney Dan Fruchter.
2:23-cr-00083-TOR
Leader of Telemarketing Scheme Targeting Timeshare Owners over the Age of 55, Wife, Plead Guilty to Wire Fraud and Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud, Admit Fraudulent Conduct from 2016 through 2023Read the Press Release
CAMDEN, N.J. – The leader of a fraudulent telemarketing scheme and his wife, who served as controller/bookkeeper of the fraudulent companies, recently each pled guilty to wire fraud and conspiracy to commit wire fraud for their participation in a telemarketing scheme to defraud timeshare owners over the age of 55, U.S. Attorney Alina Habba announced.
William O’Hanlon, a/k/a “Patrick Burns,” a/k/a “William Burns,” 60, of Loxahatchee, Florida, pleaded guilty on May 9, 2025, before the Hon. Karen M. Williams, U.S. District Judge, Camden, to Counts One and Two of a 13-count Indictment, charging conspiracy to commit wire fraud in connection with telemarketing that targeted or victimized timeshare owners over the age of 55 (Count One) and wire fraud in connection with telemarketing that targeted or victimized timeshare owners over the age of 55 (Count Two). O’Hanlon’s sentencing is scheduled for September 22, 2025.
O’Hanlon’s wife, Karen Stefanowski, 62, of Loxahatchee, Florida, pleaded guilty on April 30, 2025, before the Hon. Karen M. Williams, U.S. District Judge, Camden, to Counts One and Three of a 13-count Indictment, charging conspiracy to commit wire fraud in connection with telemarketing that targeted or victimized timeshare owners over the age of 55 (Count One) and wire fraud in connection with telemarketing that targeted or victimized timeshare owners over the age of 55 (Count Three). Stefanowski’s sentencing is scheduled for September 4, 2025.
O’Hanlon and Stefanowski were previously charged in the indictment along with James Toner, 43, of Lake Mary, Florida, and William Chiusano, Jr., then-48, of Laguna Niguel, California. Chiusano is now deceased, and charges against him have been dismissed. In addition, Alex Klemash, 32, of Williamstown, New Jersey, Michael Lambe, 45, of Mullica Hill, New Jersey, and La’Tresa Jackson, 59, of Lindenwold, New Jersey, previously pleaded guilty before Judge Williams on March 8, 9, and 13, 2023, respectively, to related informations charging them with conspiracy to commit wire fraud in connection with the WAB telemarketing scheme. Their sentencings are pending.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
Williams Andrews & Burns (“WAB”) (October 2016-October 2020)
The wire fraud conspiracy and wire fraud charge to which O’Hanlon and Stefanowski pleaded guilty arise out of their participation in a timeshare fraud scheme operated through businesses WILLIAMS ANDREWS BURNS LLC, RESORT BNB, INC., and WILLIAMS & BURNS, INC. (collectively referred to as “WAB”).
From in or about October 2016 through in or about October 2020, the defendants and additional co-conspirators (collectively referred to as “Conspirators”), engaged in a scheme to financially enrich themselves by selling fraudulent services to timeshare owners offered through WAB, including offering to rent and/or buy the owners’ timeshares under false and fraudulent pretenses or representations, and offering to recover monies timeshare owners had previously paid in connection with other scams. The Conspirators obtained lists of timeshare owners and their contact information, and cold-called them to pitch their various services in return for upfront fees.
The Conspirators made numerous false and misleading statements to the timeshare owners, including falsely stating that the timeshare owners had “bonus” timeshare weeks which WAB would rent for them in return for an upfront fee, and falsely guaranteeing thousands of dollars in rental income for the timeshare owners. Once the timeshare owners had signed up and paid their fees for the phony rentals services, the Conspirators also generally pitched collections/recovery services, offering to obtain refunds of monies previously paid by the timeshare owners in other fraudulent scams, in return for fees. Again, the Conspirators made numerous false and misleading statements in many instances to both timeshare owners and the banks that issues their credit cards. One of the fraudulent pitches used by the Conspirators was to falsely claim that the timeshare owner had been identified as a victim of timeshare fraud and was entitled to monies that were held by a government entity, often referred to as the attorney general’s office or the FTC (Federal Trade Commission), and that WAB would obtain those monies for the timeshare owner in return for the payment of an upfront fee. The Conspirators also offered additional fraudulent services to timeshare owners, including occasionally offering timeshare buyouts/take-overs.
Ryan James & Daniels Corporation (“RJD”) (November 2020-August 2023)
As part of their guilty pleas, O’Hanlon and Stefanowski also admitted that they committed fraud against timeshare owners from in or around November 2020 through in or around August 2023, through a different but overlapping set of entities, including Ryan James & Daniels Corporation, Williams & Burns, Inc., and Resort BNB, Inc. (collectively referred to as “RJD”). This was a violation of their bail conditions because they continued to commit fraud after they were arrested on the WAB Indictment in April 2023, contrary to the conditions of their pretrial release not to commit another crime and not to have access to the personal identifying information (PII) of others.
O’Hanlon and Stefanowski both agreed to make restitution for any proven losses to victims of WAB and victims of RJD.
Each count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and wire fraud is punishable by a maximum of 30 years in prison, including an enhancement of 10 years in prison for committing such fraud via telemarketing that targeted persons over the age of 55 or victimized 10 or more persons over the age of 55. The sentences on each count may run consecutively. Each offense also carries a potential fine of the greater of $250,000,or twice the gross gain or loss from the offense, and the defendants may be sentenced to a term of supervised release after any term of imprisonment imposed.
U.S. Attorney Habba credited agents of the FBI’s Philadelphia Division, South Jersey Resident Agency, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Wayne A. Jacobs; special agents of the IRS Criminal Investigations, Newark Field Office, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Jenifer Piovesan; and special agents of the Social Security Administration, Office of the Inspector General, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge, Cooperative Disability Investigations – Eastern Region, Conor Washington, with the investigation leading to the guilty pleas.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Diana Vondra Carrig and Elisa T. Wiygul of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Camden.
The charges and allegations contained in the indictment are merely accusations, and defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
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Defense Counsel:
Lee Vartan, Esq. and Melissa Wernick, Esq. for William O’Hanlon
Zach Intrater, Esq. for Karen Stefanowski
Megan Davies, Esq. for James Toner
Michael Baldassare, Esq. for La’Tresa Jackson
Perry DeMarco, Sr., Esq. for Alex Klemash
Ira M. Slovin, Esq. for Michael Lambe
ohanlon.indictment.pdfKodiak fisherman sentenced to prison for directing illegal transport of crab from AlaskaRead the Press Release
ANCHORAGE, Alaska – A Kodiak fisherman was sentenced today to one year in prison and will serve two years on supervised release for leading a plan to illegally transport crab from Alaska to Washington on two crab catcher vessels, in violation of the Lacey Act.
In February and March 2024, Corey Potter, 64, owned and operated two crab catcher vessels and harvested Tanner and golden king crab in the waters of Southeast Alaska on those vessels. The vessels were captained and operated by co-defendants, Kyle Potter, 30, and Justin Welch, 34. Corey Potter directed Kyle Potter and Welch to transport their harvest of live crab to Seattle, where they intended to sell it for a higher price than they would receive in Alaska. Before leaving Alaska, neither vessel landed their harvest at a port nor reported the harvest on a fish ticket, which all three defendants knew was a requirement under state law.
At the time, one vessel had over 4,200 pounds of live Tanner crab aboard, while the other had over 2,900 pounds of live golden king crab aboard. A portion of the Tanner crab was infected with Bitter Crab Syndrome (BCS), a parasitic disease that is fatal to crustaceans. Several crab fishermen reached out to Corey and Kyle Potter expressing concern for the impact transporting crab out of state could have on the industry because of BCS. Despite the concerns, Corey Potter moved forward with his plan to transport the catch knowing some of the crabs were infected with BCS.
Following the multi-day trip from Alaska, roughly 42% of the king crab died and was unmarketable. Since the other vessel had BCS contaminated crabs, the entire catch of Tanner crab was transferred to the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife to dispose of in a landfill.
In March 2024, law enforcement served a search warrant on Welch and one of the fishing vessels. Welch informed Corey and Kyle Potter of the search and both defendants deleted text messages detailing the plans to sell the crab for better prices and the risk of BCS before their phones were seized by law enforcement.
On Feb. 7, 2025, Corey Potter pleaded guilty to two counts of violating the Lacey Act, which are felony convictions. During sentencing, the Court also ordered Corey Potter to a worldwide commercial fishing ban throughout the duration of his supervised release. In handing down the sentence, the Court emphasized the defendant’s leadership role in the offense and the harm he caused by failing to make accurate and timely reports to regulators.
“Crabbing is a vital component of Alaska’s fishing industry. Mr. Potter blatantly disregarded state and federal fishing laws and ignored the concerns of other fisherman when he directed his two captains to execute the illegal transport, resulting in the reckless loss of over 5,000 pounds of crab,” said U.S. Attorney Michael J. Heyman for the District of Alaska. “The laws protecting this industry help ensure Alaska’s fisheries are sustainable for years to come. My office will continue to work with state and federal law enforcement partners to prosecute federal criminal violations that jeopardize Alaska’s fisheries.”
"Alaska’s fisheries are a global model of sustainable, data-driven management, made possible by the dedication of honest fishermen, strong regulatory oversight, and a commitment to upholding fairness across the industry,” said Benjamin Cheeseman, Assistant Director, NOAA’s Office of Law Enforcement, North Pacific Division. “This sentencing serves as a clear reminder that there are serious consequences for those who break the rules. We remain committed to holding violators accountable and safeguarding Alaska’s fisheries for future generations.”
The co-defendants in this case received the following sentences:
- Kyle Potter pleaded guilty and was sentenced on July 10, 2024, to five years’ probation, which includes a five-year worldwide commercial fishing ban during the term of supervised release, and a $20,000 fine.
- Welch pleaded guilty and was sentenced on June 25, 2024, to three years’ probation and a $10,000 fine.
NOAA’s Office of Law Enforcement investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Seth Brickey prosecuted the case.
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Justice Department Announces Results of Operation Restore Justice: 205 Child Sex Abuse Offenders Arrested in FBI-led Nationwide Crackdown, including 5 in the District of New JerseyRead the Press Release
NEWARK, NJ – On May 7, 2025, the Department of Justice announced the results of Operation Restore Justice, a coordinated enforcement effort to identify, track and arrest child sex predators. The operation resulted in the rescue of 115 children and the arrests of 205 child sexual abuse offenders in the nationwide crackdown. The coordinated effort was executed over the course of five days by all 55 FBI field offices, the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section in the Department’s Criminal Division, and United States Attorney’s Offices around the country.
“The success of Operation Restore Justice shows the Department of Justice’s unwavering dedication to finding and prosecuting child predators. I will apply the full power of my office to bring these criminals to justice and ensure the safety of every child. Through coordination among federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies, we deploy all resources to pursue justice and take decisive action against anyone who exploits the most vulnerable members of our community.”
- U.S. Attorney Alina Habba
“The Department of Justice will never stop fighting to protect victims — especially child victims — and we will not rest until we hunt down, arrest, and prosecute every child predator who preys on the most vulnerable among us,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “I am grateful to the FBI and their state and local partners for their incredible work in Operation Restore Justice and have directed my prosecutors not to negotiate.”
“Every child deserves to grow up free from fear and exploitation, and the FBI will continue to be relentless in our pursuit of those who exploit the most vulnerable among us,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “Operation Restore Justice proves that no predator is out of reach and no child will be forgotten. By leveraging the strength of all our field offices and our federal, state and local partners, we’re sending a clear message: there is no place to hide for those who prey on children.”
“This week was a snapshot of the never-ending work our agents and TFOs do day in and day out to apprehend and hold accountable the vilest of criminals,” says Acting Special Agent in Charge Terence G. Reilly. “Though this marks the conclusion of Child Abuse Awareness Month, our mission is omnipresent: to protect vulnerable children from these predators by bringing them to justice. Let this be a continued reminder to guardians of children everywhere, to stay present and vigilant in your young one’s lives. FBI Newark would like to thank the tireless work of our partner agencies; together we will continue to weed these monsters out of society.”
This initiative was a joint effort with federal, state and local partners to coincide with the end of Child Abuse Prevention Month between and highlight the FBI’s ongoing efforts to confront these crimes. Investigating child sex abuse is an ongoing, high-priority mission of the FBI. Agents and task force officers made the following five arrests in New Jersey from April 28 and May 2, 2025:
- David Tuytjens, age 69, was arrested for possession of child pornography.
- Natasha Rivas, age 23, was arrested for distribution of child pornography.
- Dwayne Smalls Jr., age 24, was arrested for distribution of child pornography.
- Elliott Souder, age 52, was charged with receipt and possession of child pornography.
- Keshawn Harley, age 38, was charged with possession and production of child pornography, and sex trafficking of a minor.
Others arrested around the country are alleged to have committed various crimes including the production, distribution, and possession of child sexual abuse material, online enticement and transportation of minors, and child sex trafficking. In Minneapolis, for example, a state trooper and Army Reservist was arrested for allegedly producing child sexual abuse material while wearing his uniforms. In Norfolk, VA, an illegal alien from Mexico is accused of transporting a minor across state lines for sex. In Washington, D.C., a former Metropolitan Police Department Police Officer was arrested for allegedly trafficking minor victims.
In many cases, parental vigilance and community outreach efforts played a critical role in bringing these offenders to justice.
This effort follows the Department’s observance of National Child Abuse Prevention Month in April, and underscores the Department’s unwavering commitment to protecting children and raising awareness about the dangers they face. While the Department, including the FBI, investigates and prosecutes these crimes every day, April serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of preventing these crimes, seeking justice for victims, and raising awareness through community education.
The Justice Department is committed to combating child sexual exploitation. These cases were brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and 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, visit www.justice.gov/psc.
The Department partners with and oversees funding grants for the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), which receives and shares tips about possible child sexual exploitation received through its 24/7 hotline at 1-800-THE-LOST and on missingkids.org.
The Department urges the public to remain vigilant and report suspected exploitation of a child through the FBI’s tipline at 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324), tips.fbi.gov, or by calling your local FBI field office.
Other online resources:
Electronic Press Kit
Violent Crimes Against Children
How we can help you: Parents and caregivers protecting your kids
An indictment is merely an allegation. The defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Jefferson County men sentenced to federal prison for robbing neighborhood grocery storeRead the Press Release
BEAUMONT, Texas – Two Beaumont men have been sentenced to federal prison for violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Abe McGlothin, Jr.
Johnaton Rechard Hite, 22, pleaded guilty to Hobbs Act robbery and brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence and was sentenced to 108 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Marcia A. Crone on May 13, 2025. Cody Lane Wilson, 28, pleaded guilty to Hobbs Act robbery and was sentenced to 30 months in federal prison by Judge Crone on May 13th.
According to court documents, on April 11, 2024, local law enforcement officers responded to a report of an armed robbery at the Kidd Grocery Store, located at 8608 Kidd Road, in Beaumont. Upon arrival, the store clerk reported that a man entered the store armed with an AR-15 style rifle and threatened to shoot him if he did not open the safe. The subject took approximately $1,340 in cash and fled the store. Deputies reviewed surveillance footage of the robbery and observed the robber was a black male wearing a woman’s brown or black wig, a white hoodie jacket, dark pants, sunglasses, one white shoe and one black shoe.
While responding to the robbery call, deputies observed a 2004 Honda Accord leaving the grocery store and conducted a traffic stop. The driver of the vehicle was identified as Wilson. Wilson was detained and gave consent to search his vehicle where deputies located wigs, one black shoe, and one white shoe. Wilson told deputies that he and Hite planned to rob the grocery store with Wilson as the getaway driver while Hite robbed the store. However, Wilson got scared and fled the scene leaving Hite behind.
While deputies were conducting their investigation with Wilson, dispatch received another call from a concerned citizen near the grocery store reporting someone was knocking on their door. Deputies responded to the location and located Hite hiding on the porch of the caller’s residence. Next to where Hite was hiding, deputies found $1,340 in cash.
This case was sentenced as 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).
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Quinn.
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Illegal alien sentenced to 10 months in prison for immigration offenseRead the Press Release
CINCINNATI – A Honduran national who was arrested in Hamilton County for stealing products from a local Kroger was sentenced in federal court here today to 10 months in prison for illegally reentering the United States.
According to court documents, in August 2024, Jorge Alberto Marroquin Membrano, 47, was arrested locally under an alias and fingerprinted at the county jail.
The defendant is an alien without legal status in the United States and has been previously removed on numerous occasions. He has three prior convictions for illegal reentry.
Membrano pleaded guilty in December 2024.
Kelly A. Norris, Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio, and Jared Murphey, acting Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Detroit, announced the sentence imposed today by U.S. District Court Judge Matthew W. McFarland. Assistant United States Attorney Danielle E. Margeaux is representing the United States in this case.
This case was investigated and prosecuted by the Southern District of Ohio Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) as part of Operation Take Back America. HSTFs, which were established by President Trump in Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion, are joint operations led by the Department of Justice and the Department of Homeland Security. Operation Take Back America is a nationwide federal initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
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Illegal alien admits to role in nationwide scheme to sell fake Texas paper vehicle tagsRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – The final man charged in a large-scale conspiracy to commit wire fraud in relation to the sale of hundreds of thousands of fraudulent Texas paper license plates has pleaded guilty, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Emmanuel Padilla Reyes, 35, was a fugitive until authorities apprehended him in September 2024.
Reyes and co-conspirators used the internet, email and iMessage to sell fraudulent state-issued buyer tags and deliver them to buyers nationwide. As part of his plea, Reyes admitted to using at least two aliases, including another person’s name and Social Security number, to get used car dealer licenses. He used them in a scheme to fraudulently issue and sell at least 550,000 Texas temporary buyer tags without selling any vehicles.
The illegal tags pose a danger to the public and law enforcement as buyers use them to avoid registration, safety inspections and liability insurance. They can also be used to conceal identities from law enforcement. The investigation revealed fake vehicle tags gave criminals the means to create ghost cars that were invisible to law enforcement and used to commit crimes ranging from driving with no insurance to committing robberies and drive-by shootings.
In Texas, used car dealers must obtain an independent General Distinguishing Number (GDN) license via the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles’ online eLicensing portal to legally buy, sell or exchange vehicles. Licensed dealers can access the secure eTag portal to create temporary buyer tags and may add other users to their account. At the time of the original indictment in the case, there were no restrictions on the data entered into the portal.
Reyes provided false information, such as fake identities, drivers licenses, lease agreements and business signs, in an online application portal to obtain GDN licenses for two fictitious dealerships “King’s Ranch Autoland” and “Texas Motor Company.” Reyes and his co-conspirators then advertised Texas buyer tags for sale on social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram.
U.S. District Judge George C. Hanks will impose sentencing July 23. At that time, Reyes faces up to five years in prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.
He has been and will remain in custody pending sentencing.
Co-defendants Leidy Areli Hernandez Lopez, 44, Octavian Ocasio, 53, and Daniel Christine-Tani, 36, were also charged and convicted in the scheme and were sentenced to prison. Lopez, also in the United States illegally, failed to report to prison. A federal grand jury returned an indictment Feb. 20 charging her with failure to surrender. Lopez is considered a fugitive, and a warrant remains outstanding for her arrest. Anyone with information about her whereabouts is asked to contact the FBI at 713-693-5000.
The FBI conducted the investigation with assistance from Travis County Constable Office - Precinct 3, Houston Police Department, Texas Department of Public Safety, Harris County Sheriff’s Office, New York State Police and New York Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Belinda Beek and Adam Goldman are prosecuting the case.
Illegal Immigrant Sentenced for Reentering the United StatesRead the Press Release
MOBILE, AL – A Guatemalan national was sentenced on May 8, 2025, for illegally reentering the United States after previously having been deported.
According to court documents, Manolo Elias Tecum-Tecum, 31, was stopped by deputies from the Mobile County Sheriff’s Office for a traffic violation in Mobile County. The deputies suspected that Tecum-Tecum might not be a United States citizen, so they contacted law enforcement personnel from the United States Border Patrol (USBP). USBP confirmed that Tecum-Tecum had been previously removed from the United States in 2010. He had also been convicted of Illegal Entry that same year.
At sentencing, Judge Dubose imposed a time-served sentence and a 1-year term of supervised release upon his future release. Tecum-Tecum had been in custody since his arrest on February 18, 2025. Upon his release from prison, Tecum-Tecum is to be referred to immigration officials for deportation proceedings. Tecum-Tecum was ordered to pay $100 in special assessments.
U.S. Attorney Sean P. Costello of the Southern District of Alabama made the announcement.
The United States Border Patrol and Mobile County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jimmy L. Thomas prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States.
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.
Idaho Man Indicted after Allegedly Assaulting U.S. Park Rangers in Southern UtahRead the Press Release
ST. GEORGE, Utah – A federal grand jury returned an indictment today charging an Idaho man after he allegedly assaulted federal officers with his vehicle at the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area in Southern Utah.
Gregory Aaron Farley, 51, of Hazelton, Idaho, was charged by complaint on May 3, 2025.
According to court documents, on May 3, 2025, two U.S. Park Rangers working at the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area responded to a dispatch call that reported an erratic driver in a white pick-up truck near Lake Powell. At 7:47 p.m., the rangers conducted a traffic stop on Highway 89 on a pick-up truck matching the vehicle description. Farley was the driver and while one of the rangers was speaking to him, Farley fled the scene at a high rate of speed, nearly hitting one of the rangers. The rangers returned to their patrol vehicle and pursued Farley. During the pursuit, Farley turned around and collided into the driver’s side of the rangers’ vehicle. As a result, the rangers were pushed into the shoulder of the road, the airbags deployed, and the driver’s side door was rendered inoperable. After Farley hit the rangers’ truck, he reversed his truck and was still facing the rangers’ truck. In response, both rangers fired their weapons at Farley. Additional officers arrived on the scene, Farley exited his truck, and received medical aid. He was then taken into custody.Farley is charged with assault on an employee of the United States with a Dangerous Weapon. His initial appearance on the indictment is scheduled for May 19, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. before a U.S. Magistrate judge in Room 2B of the courthouse located at 206 West Tabernacle Street, St. George, Utah 84470.
Acting United States Attorney Felice John Viti for the District of Utah made the announcement.
The case is being investigated by the FBI Salt Lake City Field Office.
Assistant United States Attorneys Stephen P. Dent and Joseph M. Hood of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah are prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) and Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN).
An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Attachments:
gregory_aaron_farley.complaint.pdf gregory_a._farley_indictment.pdfGuatemalan national and prior felon receives over 15 years for three gunpoint robberiesRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – A 29-year-old legal permanent resident from Guatemala who lived in Houston has been sentenced for multiple counts of robbery and one count of brandishing a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Josue Castro-Gomez pleaded guilty Oct. 1, 2024.
U.S. District Judge George C. Hanks Jr. has now sentenced Castro-Gomez to 98 months in federal prison for the robberies as well as a consecutive 84 months for the firearms conviction. He is also expected to lose his status in the United States and face removal proceedings following his total 182-month-term of imprisonment. At the hearing, the court heard how Castro-Gomez would commit the robberies by first pretending to be a customer and then taking the store employees by surprise.
In November and December 2023, Castro-Gomez robbed two gas stations and one Houston-area smoke shop at gunpoint.
On Nov. 25, 2023, Castro-Gomez entered a Korner Food Mart located in Houston, brandished a firearm and demanded the store clerk give him cash from the register. He proceeded to discharge the firearm, shooting above the clerk’s head, but fled from the scene without taking any money.
On Dec. 11-12, 2023, Castro-Gomez went to a Circle K gas station and a Vape City, respectively, and demanded cash from the register. He received money on both occasions and fled the scenes.
On Dec. 12, law enforcement located Castro-Gomez and found him to be in possession of a .32 caliber handgun.
During the investigation, authorities matched a spent shell casing from the Nov. 25 robbery to the firearm in Castro-Gomez’s possession at the time of his arrest.
Castro-Gomez has prior felony convictions from 2015 and 2017 for unauthorized use of a motor vehicle and possession of a controlled substance, respectively. As a convicted felon, he is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition per federal law.
He will remain in custody pending transfer to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) conducted the investigation with assistance from the Houston Police Department and Harris County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Francisco J. Rodriguez prosecuted the case.
This case was made possible by investigative leads generated from the ATF’s National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN). NIBIN is the only national network that allows for the capture and comparison of ballistic evidence to aid in solving and preventing violent crimes involving firearms. NIBIN is a proven investigative and intelligence tool that can link firearms from multiple crime scenes, allowing law enforcement to quickly disrupt shooting cycles.
Government Contractor NORESCO Agrees to Resolve Allegations of Overcharging Federal AgenciesRead the Press Release
BOSTON – NORESCO, LLC, a government contractor headquartered in Westborough, Mass., has agreed to a $9,585,141 settlement to resolve allegations that it violated the False Claims Act by overcharging numerous federal agencies for energy improvements in connection with 29 federally-funded energy savings performance contracts (ESPCs).
ESPCs allow federal agencies to procure energy savings and facility improvements with no up-front costs. Under the contracts, NORESCO obtained loans from banks and other financial entities to pay for the cost of installing a variety of energy savings upgrades in federal buildings worldwide. Following completion of the projects, the agencies then paid NORESCO in installments for cost of the projects, including any financing charges, using the energy savings that the projects created.
Today’s settlement resolves allegations that NORESCO overcharged the government in two ways. First, NORESCO inflated the price of one project for the United States Navy by including improper contingency costs. Specifically, after Navy contracting personnel partially rejected NORESCO’s request to include certain contingency costs in the price of the project, NORESCO instructed two of its subcontractors to add a total of $3.46 million to their sub-contractor bids to address potential unknown contingencies and did not disclose the inclusion of those additional contingency costs to the Navy. Shortly after becoming aware of the government’s investigation of this conduct, NORESCO refunded the contingency costs to the Navy project.
Second, NORESCO overcharged several federal agencies, including the Navy, for financing costs on a total of 29 energy savings projects. During the course of the government’s investigation of the Navy conduct, NORESCO self-disclosed that it had calculated the financing costs incorrectly over the life of several contracts. As a result, NORESCO inappropriately profited, or stood to profit, from the portion of project payments based on the incorrect financing costs. At the time of the self-disclosure, NORESCO calculated that it had improperly received an aggregate of $1,466,180 in excess payments and that, uncorrected, the projected excess financing costs would ultimately result in an aggregate overpayment of $5,645,655 on the 29 projects. NORESCO worked with the affected agencies to repay or credit the entire $5,645,655 across those 29 projects.
NORESCO cooperated with the government in this matter and voluntarily self-disclosed one issue. NORESCO has been credited for their cooperation under the Department of Justice’s guidelines for taking disclosure, cooperation and remediation into account in FCA cases. As part of the settlement, NORESCO acknowledged and accepted responsibility for the facts which form the basis of this settlement.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Greg Gross, Special Agent in Charge of the Naval Criminal Investigative Service, Economic Crimes Field Office; Christopher Algieri, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General, Northeast Field Office; U.S. Department of Energy, Office of the Inspector General; Joseph Dattoria, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. General Services Administration, Office of Inspector General, Northeast Field Investigations Division; U.S. Air Force, Office of Special Investigations; and Patrick J. Hegarty, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Department of Defense’s Office of Inspector General’s Defense Criminal Investigative Service, Northeast Field Office made the announcement today.
The matter was handled by Brian LaMacchia, Chief of the Affirmative Civil Enforcement Unit and the Justice Department’s Senior Trial Counsel Kelley Hauser.
Georgia Man Sentenced to Serve 16+ Years in Prison for Attempting to Distribute a Large Amount of Fentanyl from MexicoRead the Press Release
MACON, Ga. – A Georgia man who was collaborating with a Mexico source of supply to distribute 1.7 kilograms of fentanyl in the Macon community was sentenced to serve more than 16 years in prison for his crime.
Ike Jackson, Jr., 38, of Lizella, Georgia, was sentenced to serve 200 months in prison to be followed by five years of supervised release by U.S. District Marc Treadwell on May 12. Jackson, Jr. previously pleaded guilty to one count of possession of fentanyl with the intent to distribute on Feb. 21. There is no parole in the federal system.
“Drug traffickers are gravely harming our communities by distributing dangerous substances like fentanyl,” said Acting U.S. Attorney C. Shanelle Booker. “This case highlights our commitment to partner with law enforcement to hold those who push fentanyl accountable as we strive to eliminate these deadly drugs from our streets.”
“Jackson endangered countless lives by trafficking large quantities of deadly fentanyl,” said Jae W. Chung, the Acting Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Atlanta Division. “The success of this investigation is proof that those destroying our communities with fentanyl will be held accountable.”
According to court documents and statements made in court, on Feb. 14, 2024, DEA agents received information from a confidential source (CS) about an individual possessing two kilograms of fentanyl living at Jackson, Jr.’s address and matching his description. The CS said they had been in contact with a source of supply from Mexico who shared this information. On Feb. 15, 2024, agents arranged a controlled purchase from the Mexican source of supply for two kilograms of fentanyl from Jackson, Jr. at his home or at a motel in Macon. Surveillance was established at both locations; Jackson, Jr. was at the motel and Bibb County Sheriff’s deputies took him into custody as he was leaving the motel.
Inside his motel room, agents found a black backpack containing a handheld radio with the name “IKE” taped on it and a headphone box secured with tape. Inside the box, agents found a clear kilogram-sized bag of fentanyl and a kilogram-sized vacuum-sealed bag of fentanyl, both packages totaling 1,713.7 grams. The defendant was later recorded calling a family member from the jail pleading with them to go to the motel and get his “bag of clothes” (referring to the backpack containing the large amount of fentanyl) but was told nothing was in the room.
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Shelby Brunette prosecuted the case for the Government.
Former Owner of District Marijuana Dispensary Pleads Guilty to over $1.2 Million in Federal Tax EvasionRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Jennifer Brunenkant, 68, the founder and former owner of Herbal Alternatives II, LLC, a marijuana dispensary licensed in the District of Columbia, pleaded guilty today in connection with her years-long failure to pay federal income and employment taxes associated with her business.
The plea was announced by U.S. Attorney Edward R. Martin Jr. and Executive Special Agent in Charge Kareem Carter of the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation’s Washington D.C. Office.
Brunenkant, of Washington, D.C., pleaded guilty before U.S. District Court Judge Loren L. AliKhan to attempting to evade or defeat tax. Judge AliKhan will determine any sentence for Brunenkant after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Brunenkant is scheduled to be sentenced on Nov. 20, 2025.
In pleading guilty, Brunenkant admitted that, from tax years 2017 to 2021, she failed to pay federal income and employment taxes that were due to the IRS in connection with substantial income she received from, and employees she had with, Herbal Alternatives II. Brunenkant further attempted to evade paying those taxes by falsely attesting on her annual Unincorporated Business Franchise Tax Forms, filed in the District of Columbia, that she had filed her federal income tax returns – when in fact she had not. Brunenkant continued trying to avoid detection when she repeatedly told law enforcement during a July 2023 interview that she had filed her returns.
At Brunenkant’s sentencing hearing the government will seek restitution of more than $1.2 million, money due for Brunenkant’s unpaid federal income and employment taxes.
This case was investigated by IRS Criminal Investigation. The matter is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian P. Kelly.
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Former Henry County Jail Corrections Officer Sentenced for Excessive Force on an InmateRead the Press Release
INDIANAPOLIS— Curtis Doughty, 28, of Muncie, has been sentenced to two years probation after pleading guilty to deprivation of rights under color of law.
According to court documents, Doughty was employed as a corrections officer in the Henry County Jail, as well as a member of the Sheriff’s Emergency Response Team (SERT). On February 13, 2024, Doughty participated in a scheduled search of an inmate housing pod in the jail. During the search, inmates were moved into a holding area in the recreation yard and ordered to sit on the floor facing the wall while officers searched the cells for contraband.
Doughty was one of two officers responsible for directing inmates to face the wall and remain seated. When inmate M.F. turned his head away from the wall, Doughty, without warning, shot his pepper ball gun at point blank range into the inmate’s spine. The pepper ball shot caused bodily injury to the inmate. Doughty then yelled to the other inmates in the holding area, “congratulations, you all inhale that now,” in reference to the pepper ball gas.
Shortly after the incident, other members of the SERT team reported it to a commander. The commander pulled Doughty from duty and sent him home, recognizing the egregious use of force. Prior to the incident, Doughty had received training on defensive tactics, physical tactics, Sheriff’s Emergency Response Team (SERT) training, jail physical and defensive tactics, and new jail officer training. Doughty had been trained on the “response to resistance ladder,” which states that inmates need to be “actively resistant” to justify use of the pepper ball gun. However, M.F. was not resisting and no force was necessary under this scenario.
“Corrections officers are empowered by the government to care for inmates. When a corrections officer takes the law into their own hands and uses excessive force to punish inmates, they endanger not only that inmate, but they create a greater incentive to resist rather than cooperate, and thereby endanger their colleagues as well,” said John E. Childress, Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “Today’s sentencing underscores our unwavering commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring accountability for all individuals, regardless of their occupation or authority.”
“Everyone, regardless of their status or circumstance, is entitled to dignity and no one should fear for their safety at the hands of those tasked with their care,” said FBI Indianapolis Acting Special Agent in Charge Dominique Evans. “When correctional officers act with such disregard for those in their care, it is a betrayal of the oath they took to protect, not harm. The FBI will continue to work to ensure civil rights are protected inside every facility.”
The FBI investigated this case, with valuable assistance provided by the Henry County Sheriff’s Office. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Matthew P. Brookman.
Acting U.S. Attorney Childress thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Peter A. Blackett and Carolyn A. Haney, who prosecuted this case.
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Former Hendry County Sheriff’s Deputy Sentenced to Federal Prison for Civil Rights ViolationRead the Press Release
Fort Myers, Florida – United States District Judge Sheri P. Chappell has sentenced Tyler Williams (30, Hendry County) to 33 months in federal prison for violating an individual’s civil rights and obstructing justice. A federal jury found Williams guilty on February 7, 2025.
According to evidence presented at trial, on July 4, 2023, Williams, while acting under color of law as a deputy sheriff with the Hendry County Sheriff’s Office, willfully deprived the civil rights of an individual by throwing him to the ground while he was handcuffed, knocking him unconscious. Williams then wrote a false justification for the use of force in an incident report, obstructing justice.
The case was investigated by the FBI Tampa Field Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Patrick L. Darcey and Jesus M. Casas.
Former Financier Pleads Guilty to Defrauding Family Member Out of $8.4 MillionRead the Press Release
MIAMI – A former financier previously disciplined by the U.S. Securities & Exchange Commission pled guilty today in the Southern District of Florida to defrauding his elderly family member out of approximately $8.4 million.
According to court documents, Brett Thomas Graham, 61, began assisting his family member after she became a widow in approximately 2017. In approximately November 2018, Graham assisted her with retaining a financial advisor headquartered in New York, New York. In approximately February 2019, the family member sold a townhouse in New York, New York, for approximately $9 million. In approximately September 2019, Graham began transferring money from her accounts into his own checking account. Graham spent the money on himself. In approximately December 2020, Graham assumed the role of the family member’s power of attorney, by which he was obligated to act in her best interest. Graham used the opportunity to continue his scheme to defraud.
In one instance, in December 2020, Graham asked the financial advisor for an additional $250,000, writing that the money was needed for the family member’s “higher medical & care expenses.” After receiving the money, Graham spent it on himself. In another instance, in November 2022, Graham asked that the financial advisor make an additional $400,000 available, writing that the funds were necessary for “[a]mazing [investment] opps…” After receiving the money, Graham spent over $300,000 on his credit card, art, travel, and rent.
Law enforcement was able to seize approximately $2 million worth of jewelry and art purchased with fraud proceeds.
Graham’s sentencing is scheduled to take place before Judge Donald M. Middlebrooks on September 16.
U.S. Attorney Hayden P. O’Byrne for the Southern District of Florida and Acting Special Agent in Charge Brett Skiles of the FBI Miami Field Office made the announcement.
The FBI Miami Field Office investigated the case. The U.S. Attorney’s Office appreciates the assistance of the U.S. Securities & Exchange Commission.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Eli S. Rubin is prosecuting the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sandra Demirci for the Southern District of Florida handled asset forfeiture.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or at http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov, under case number 25-cr-20103.
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Former Delivery Driver Pleads Guilty to Defrauding San Francisco Food Delivery Company of More Than $2.5 MillionRead the Press Release
SAN JOSE – Sayee Chaitanya Reddy Devagiri pleaded guilty in federal court today to conspiring to steal more than $2.5 million from DoorDash, Inc., a San Francisco-based delivery company.
Devagiri, 30, of Newport Beach, Calif., and three other defendants were indicted by a federal grand jury in August 2024. Devagiri was charged with a single count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1349. He pleaded guilty to that count today.
In pleading guilty, Devagiri admitted to working with others in 2020 and 2021 to cause DoorDash to pay for deliveries that never occurred. At the time, Devagiri was a delivery driver for DoorDash orders. Under the scheme, Devagiri used customer accounts to place high value orders and then, using an employee’s credentials to gain access to DoorDash software, manually reassigned DoorDash orders to driver accounts that he and others controlled. Devagiri then caused the fraudulent driver accounts to report that the orders had been delivered, when they had not, and manipulated DoorDash’s computer systems to prompt DoorDash to pay the fraudulent driver accounts for the non-existent deliveries. Devagiri would then use DoorDash software to change the orders from “delivered” status to “in process” status and manually reassign the orders to driver accounts he and others controlled, beginning the process again. This procedure usually took less than five minutes, and was repeated hundreds of times for many of the orders.
The scheme resulted in fraudulent payments exceeding $2.5 million.
Acting United States Attorney Patrick D. Robbins and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Special Agent in Charge Sanjay Virmani made the announcement.
Devagiri is the third defendant to be convicted for his role in this conspiracy. Co-defendant Manaswi Mandadapu pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud on May 6, 2025. Tyler Thomas Bottenhorn, who was separately charged, pleaded guilty on Nov. 7, 2023.
Devagiri is next scheduled to appear before U.S. District Judge Beth Labson Freeman for a status hearing on Sept. 16, 2025. He faces a maximum statutory penalty of 20 years in prison and a fine of $250,000. Any sentence will be imposed by the court only after consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and the federal statute governing the imposition of a sentence, 18 U.S.C. § 3553.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael G. Pitman is prosecuting the case with the assistance of Sahib Kaur. The prosecution is the result of an investigation by the FBI.
Florida Woman Pleads Guilty to Possession of Stolen MoneyRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Semiha Nilgun Gencsoy, 71, of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, pleaded guilty today to possession of stolen money. Gencsoy admitted that she fraudulently received $328,478.38 in West Virginia public employee pension benefits.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Gencsoy’s father was a professor of mechanical engineering at West Virginia University. When he retired in June 1985, he qualified for and began receiving West Virginia public employee pension benefits. Gencsoy’s father died in June 2007, and her mother began receiving survivor benefits from the West Virginia Consolidated Public Retirement Board (WVCPRB) as his widow. The monthly payments were directly deposited into a join bank account that Gencsoy shared with her mother.
Gencsoy’s mother died in April 2008, and Gencsoy was appointed to administer her estate. As part of her guilty plea, Gencsoy admitted that she knew her father’s benefits expired upon the death of her mother, and that she had a duty to notify the WVCPRB of her mother’s death and to close their joint banking account. Gencsoy further admitted that she did neither.
From approximately May 2008 through June 2023, the joint bank account received more than 180 monthly survivor’s benefit pension payments totaling $328,478.38 through direct deposit. Gencsoy admitted that she routinely transferred the survivor benefit pension payments to a bank account she controlled solely after each direct deposit and used the money to pay for her personal expenses.
Gencsoy is scheduled to be sentenced on August 28, 2025, and faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison, up to three years of supervised release, and a $250,000 fine. Gencsoy also owes $328,478.38 in restitution.
Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the West Virginia Consolidated Public Retirement Board (WVCPRB) and the West Virginia State Police – Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI).
United States District Judge Thomas E. Johnston presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan T. Storage is prosecuting the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:25-cr-75.
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Florida Man Found Guilty by JuryRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Late yesterday, Stephen Forte, 63 years old, of Lakeland, Florida, was found guilty of two felony counts after a one-day jury trial presided over by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.
Specifically, Forte was found guilty of abusive sexual contact and interference with the duties of a flight crew member, both committed within the special aircraft jurisdiction of the United States for conduct occurring on a flight from St. Petersburg, Florida to South Bend, Indiana.
Sentencing is scheduled for September 5, 2025, at 10:00 am. Any specific sentence to be imposed will be determined by the District Court Judge after consideration of federal statutes and the United States Sentencing Guidelines.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from the St. Joseph County Airport Authority Department of Public Safety. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Jerome W. McKeever and Hannah T Jones.
Final defendant in local drug conspiracy sentenced to 10 years for trafficking meth to AnchorageRead the Press Release
ANCHORAGE, Alaska – An Ohio man was sentenced May 8, 2025, to 10 years in prison for trafficking multiple pounds of meth to Anchorage.
According to court documents, Christian Landry, 32, of Shaker Heights, Ohio, repeatedly traveled to Alaska from out-of-state to distribute meth in 2022 and 2023.
The investigation started in late 2022, when an undercover officer began purchasing methamphetamine from Elzie Isley, 47, of Anchorage. Isley was a local drug dealer. Law enforcement officers identified Landry as one of Isley’s drug sources, allegedly responsible for trafficking over 20 pounds of meth from the Lower 48 to Alaska to sell.
On Feb. 9, 2023, law enforcement served a search warrant on the residence where Landry was staying with another co-defendant and recovered a loaded pistol, more than $20,000 in cash and several pounds of meth.
Throughout the course of the investigation, officers seized and forfeited over $34,000 and 23 firearms connected to the drug trafficking conspiracy.
“This case is yet another example of a drug trafficking organization flooding Anchorage with dangerous narcotics from the Lower 48,” said U.S. Attorney Michael J. Heyman for the District of Alaska. “My office will work with our law enforcement partners across the state to ensure that anyone who threatens the safety of our communities with these poisonous substances will serve years, and for this man, a decade, in prison."
“Drugs and guns are always a losing combination,” said ATF Seattle Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Blais. “This and the other lengthy sentences are commensurate to the damage they caused the community. Mr. Landry chose to endanger Alaskans, and now he faces the consequences.”
Co-conspirators in this case are as follows:
- Isley pleaded guilty on Dec. 14, 2023, and was sentenced to 10 years’ imprisonment on April 25, 2024;
- Antonio Wallace, 32, of Anchorage, pleaded guilty on Oct. 18, 2023, and was sentenced to 10 years’ imprisonment on Feb. 5, 2024;
- Ricky Lokeni, 38, of Anchorage, pleaded guilty on Jan. 9, 2024, and was sentenced to 10 years’ imprisonment on April 24, 2024;
- Ryann Hobert, 27, of Anchorage, pleaded guilty on Nov. 8, 2023, and was sentenced to 4 years’ imprisonment on March 27, 2024; and
- Jaron Steele, 34, of Paramount, California, pleaded guilty and was sentenced to time served (235 days’ imprisonment) on May 7, 2024.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Anchorage Field Office, with assistance from the Anchorage Police Department, investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Seth Beausang prosecuted the case.
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Fatal crash on Blackfeet Indian Reservation sends Browning man to prisonRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS – A Browning man who admitted to driving while under the influence of drugs and alcohol when he crashed into another vehicle killing the driver was sentenced today to 16 months in prison to be followed by 3 years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Chasen James Kipp, 25, pleaded guilty in December 2024 to involuntary manslaughter.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided.
The government alleged in court documents that on October 21, 2023, Kipp was driving his 2022 Dodge Charger near the Cut Bank airport when he crossed the center lane of traffic, collided with a sedan, and killed the driver, Jane Doe.
When law enforcement officers arrived at the scene, they saw Kipp trying to flee. An officer described Kipp staggering and could smell alcohol on him. The officers detained Kipp, who said he had consumed two mixed drinks at the Pioneer Bar in Cut Bank and was returning to his home in Birch Creek. Kipp was arrested and consented to a blood draw, where he told the medical provider he was too drunk to remember the crash and he “came to” when the airbags deployed. He estimated he was driving 60 mph at the time of the crash.
Paramedics pronounced Jane Doe dead at the scene. She died from blunt force trauma sustained from the crash. The Montana Highway Patrol conducted the crash investigation and determined Kipp was going 82 mph in a 65-mph zone when he crossed the center line and struck Doe’s vehicle. The toxicology report showed his blood alcohol content was .114 and he had cocaine in his system.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case. The investigation was conducted by the FBI, Blackfeet Law Enforcement Services, the Cut Bank Police Department, the Glacier County Sheriff’s Office, and the Montana Highway Patrol.
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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Fallcatcher Principal Pleads Guilty to Securities Fraud, Wire Fraud, in Scheme That Defrauded Investors Out of Approximately $5 MillionRead the Press Release
PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney David Metcalf announced that Henry Ford, also known as Cleothus Lefty Jackson, 51, of Port St. Lucie, Florida, entered a plea of guilty today before United States District Court Judge Joel H. Slomsky to one count of securities fraud and seven counts of wire fraud.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Ford founded and operated a business named Fallcatcher, the stated goal of which was to develop and market an electronic system designed to track use of medication by addiction recovery patients to prevent relapse.
In May 2018, Ford was seeking additional investors in Fallcatcher, which had been running out of funding. At this time, Ford used an acquaintance in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania who had access to a network of investors to raise funds from these investors. Ford provided his acquaintance false and misleading information about the Fallcatcher investment proposal, so that the acquaintance would agree to send the information to his investor network.
Additionally, Ford made presentations in person to potential investors, who were part of this acquaintance’s network, at locations in Pennsylvania and New Jersey. During these presentations, Ford made false and misleading statements regarding the proposed investment opportunity and showed investors a fraudulent letter of interest, which falsely stated that a major insurance company had agreed to conduct a pilot program using Fallcatcher’s system. Ford caused his acquaintance to distribute further false and misleading statements after these presentations.
As a result of these deceptive fundraising efforts, Ford caused approximately 50 investors to invest approximately $5 million in total in Fallcatcher.
In 2018, the Securities & Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) began to investigate Fallcatcher. During the SEC investigation, in the fall of 2018 and the first half of 2019, Ford took various actions to conceal his fraud upon the investors in Fallcatcher. For example, Ford, through his counsel, produced to the SEC an email purporting to show that the fraudulent letter of interest described above was legitimate. In fact, the email produced to the SEC, like the letter of interest, was also shown to be false and fabricated.
The defendant is scheduled to be sentenced on August 14, 2025.
The case was investigated by the FBI and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Patrick J. Murray and Francis A. Weber. The SEC’s New York Regional Office investigated and litigated the civil securities fraud charges which formed the basis of a portion of the criminal prosecution.
Delaware Man Convicted of Sex Trafficking and Forced LaborRead the Press Release
A federal jury in the District of Delaware convicted Clifton H. Gibbs, 68, of Sussex County today on multiple counts of sex trafficking and forced labor. Specifically, the jury convicted Gibbs of seven counts of sex trafficking seven adult victims, five counts of forced labor, and one count of interstate transportation for purposes of prostitution.
According to the evidence at trial, Gibbs exploited the victims’ heroin addiction and fears of withdrawal sickness to compel the victims to engage in commercial sex, panhandle, perform demanding manual labor on his property, and to steal goods for him to resell. Gibbs’ co-defendant, Brooke Waters, 46, previously pled guilty to sex trafficking, forced labor, and interstate transportation for purposes of prostitution charges.
“Today’s conviction vindicates the rights of multiple victims who the defendant trafficked over several years within the District of Delaware,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “This defendant preyed on individuals suffering from opiate addiction and cruelly exploited them for his own profit. The Justice Department is committed to aggressively fighting human trafficking and seeking justice for its victims.”
“I hope that today’s verdict brings some measure of closure for the victims in this case,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Shannon T. Hanson for the District of Delaware. “I commend the victims’ bravery and willingness to testify to bring this defendant to justice. Our communities are much safer, and this verdict should serve as a warning to other individuals who exploit victims for personal gain.”
“The conviction of Clifton H. Gibbs highlights the strong partnership between Homeland Security Investigations and the Department of Justice in the fight against human trafficking,” said Special Agent in Charge Edward V. Owens of HSI Philadelphia. “Gibbs preyed on vulnerable individuals, feeding their addiction for profit through forced labor and commercial sex. HSI remains committed to working alongside our federal partners to dismantle trafficking networks, bring perpetrators to justice, and through our victim centered approach, support victims as they reclaim their lives.”
“The crimes uncovered in this case are among the most egregious that Homeland Security Investigations encounters,” said Special Agent in Charge Michael McCarthy of HSI Maryland. “Exploiting vulnerable individuals through coercion, abuse, and manipulation is nothing short of reprehensible. This kind of predatory behavior destroys lives and undermines the fundamental values of human dignity and freedom. HSI remains unwavering in its mission to dismantle criminal networks, bring perpetrators to justice, and protect the safety and well-being of our communities, especially those who are unable to protect themselves.”
The evidence presented at the seven-day trial demonstrated that Gibbs sought out individuals, often young women, who were addicted to heroin, and without any money or a stable place to live, promising to take care of them by giving them housing, food, clothing, and easy access to drugs. He then provided many of them with heroin for free to ease their withdrawal sickness. He allowed them to live in trailers or campers on his two rural properties in Sussex County. He then instructed the women to engage in commercial sex, instructing his co-defendant to take photos of them and post online advertisements for them to do “dates” with commercial sex buyers. Gibbs kept all the proceeds from the commercial sex acts and provided the women with small amounts of heroin and cocaine to avoid withdrawal sickness. Gibbs positioned himself to control the victims’ access to heroin and thereby controlled the onset of withdrawal sickness. Exploiting the victims’ fear of withdrawal sickness, Gibbs profited from the commercial sex acts in which he compelled the women to engage. Gibbs and his co-defendant also recruited heroin-addicted individuals to “boost” or steal goods for him to re-sell, panhandle, and do manual labor on his properties. In the same way he did with the young women he compelled to engage in commercial sex, Gibbs exploited the victims’ fear of withdrawal sickness to coerce this labor for his profit.
Gibbs also used physical force with some of his victims by hitting, kicking, or threatening to shoot those who disobeyed his orders or talked back.
A sentencing hearing will be scheduled at a later date. Gibbs faces a minimum penalty of 15 years in prison and a maximum penalty of life in prison as well as mandatory restitution. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Homeland Security Investigations investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney Briana Knox for the District of Delaware and Trial Attorneys Christina Randall-James and Leah Branch of the Civil Rights Division’s Human Trafficking Prosecution Unit prosecuted the case.
Anyone who has information about human trafficking should report that information to the National Human Trafficking Hotline toll-free at 1-888-373-7888, which is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. For more information about human trafficking, please visit www.humantraffickinghotline.org. Information on the Justice Department’s efforts to combat human trafficking can be found at www.justice.gov/humantrafficking.
Delaware Man Convicted of Sex Trafficking and Forced LaborRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON — A federal jury in the District of Delaware convicted Clifton H. Gibbs, 68, of Sussex County today on multiple counts of sex trafficking and forced labor. Specifically, the jury convicted Gibbs of seven counts of sex trafficking seven adult victims, five counts of forced labor, and one count of interstate transportation for purposes of prostitution.
According to the evidence at trial, Gibbs exploited the victims’ heroin addiction and fears of withdrawal sickness to compel the victims to engage in commercial sex, panhandle, perform demanding manual labor on his property, and to steal goods for him to resell. Gibbs’ co-defendant, Brooke Waters, 46, previously pled guilty to sex trafficking, forced labor, and interstate transportation for purposes of prostitution charges.
“Today’s conviction vindicates the rights of multiple victims who the defendant trafficked over several years within the District of Delaware,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “This defendant preyed on individuals suffering from opiate addiction and cruelly exploited them for his own profit. The Justice Department is committed to aggressively fighting human trafficking and seeking justice for its victims.”
“I hope that today’s verdict brings some measure of closure for the victims in this case,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Shannon T. Hanson for the District of Delaware. “I commend the victims’ bravery and willingness to testify to bring this defendant to justice. Our communities are much safer, and this verdict should serve as a warning to other individuals who exploit victims for personal gain.”
“The conviction of Clifton H. Gibbs highlights the strong partnership between Homeland Security Investigations and the Department of Justice in the fight against human trafficking,” said Special Agent in Charge Edward V. Owens of HSI Philadelphia. “Gibbs preyed on vulnerable individuals, feeding their addiction for profit through forced labor and commercial sex. HSI remains committed to working alongside our federal partners to dismantle trafficking networks, bring perpetrators to justice, and through our victim centered approach, support victims as they reclaim their lives.”
“The crimes uncovered in this case are among the most egregious that Homeland Security Investigations encounters,” said Special Agent in Charge Michael McCarthy of HSI Maryland. “Exploiting vulnerable individuals through coercion, abuse, and manipulation is nothing short of reprehensible. This kind of predatory behavior destroys lives and undermines the fundamental values of human dignity and freedom. HSI remains unwavering in its mission to dismantle criminal networks, bring perpetrators to justice, and protect the safety and well-being of our communities, especially those who are unable to protect themselves.”
The evidence presented at the seven-day trial demonstrated that Gibbs sought out individuals, often young women, who were addicted to heroin, and without any money or a stable place to live, promising to take care of them by giving them housing, food, clothing, and easy access to drugs. He then provided many of them with heroin for free to ease their withdrawal sickness. He allowed them to live in trailers or campers on his two rural properties in Sussex County. He then instructed the women to engage in commercial sex, instructing his co-defendant to take photos of them and post online advertisements for them to do “dates” with commercial sex buyers. Gibbs kept all the proceeds from the commercial sex acts and provided the women with small amounts of heroin and cocaine to avoid withdrawal sickness. Gibbs positioned himself to control the victims’ access to heroin and thereby controlled the onset of withdrawal sickness. Exploiting the victims’ fear of withdrawal sickness, Gibbs profited from the commercial sex acts in which he compelled the women to engage. Gibbs and his co-defendant also recruited heroin-addicted individuals to “boost” or steal goods for him to re-sell, panhandle, and do manual labor on his properties. In the same way he did with the young women he compelled to engage in commercial sex, Gibbs exploited the victims’ fear of withdrawal sickness to coerce this labor for his profit.
Gibbs also used physical force with some of his victims by hitting, kicking, or threatening to shoot those who disobeyed his orders or talked back.
A sentencing hearing will be scheduled at a later date. Gibbs faces a minimum penalty of 15 years in prison and a maximum penalty of life in prison as well as mandatory restitution. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Homeland Security Investigations investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney Briana Knox for the District of Delaware and Trial Attorneys Christina Randall-James and Leah Branch of the Civil Rights Division’s Human Trafficking Prosecution Unit prosecuted the case.
Anyone who has information about human trafficking should report that information to the National Human Trafficking Hotline toll-free at 1-888-373-7888, which is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. For more information about human trafficking, please visit www.humantraffickinghotline.org. Information on the Justice Department’s efforts to combat human trafficking can be found at www.justice.gov/humantrafficking.
Defendants Charged for Running over $3.1 Million Check Fraud Scheme Targeting U.S. Treasury, OthersRead the Press Release
SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – An indictment was unsealed in the District of Utah, charging Pitshou Yunga Kafuku, 42, Beni Musogo Kahwara, 25, and Hugues Simo-Fotue, 42, with counts of bank fraud conspiracy, bank fraud, theft of government funds, passing fraudulent U.S. Treasury checks, possession of stolen mail, and money laundering.
Kafuku and Kahwara made their initial appearances on April 22, 2025, and were ordered detained pending trial by Chief Magistrate Judge Dustin B. Pead. Simo-Fotue made his initial appearance May 12, 2025 before a U.S. Magistrate Judge at the Orrin G. Hatch United States District Courthouse in downtown Salt Lake City.
As alleged in the indictment, the defendants conspired together and with others to defraud U.S. banks by depositing counterfeit, stolen, and otherwise fraudulently obtained checks, including U.S. Treasury checks. Court documents further allege that the defendants would quickly transfer any successful deposits to different accounts or overseas, including by sending thousands of dollars to business entities in China and Singapore. As alleged, between January 2022 and February 2025, these efforts yielded over $3.1 million in fraud proceeds. Documents filed with the court also state that some of the checks were stolen from intercepted letters and items of mail sent from the United States to business entities and individuals in Africa.
The case is being investigated jointly by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation and U.S. Postal Inspection Service. Valuable assistance was provided by the Utah Department of Public Safety.
Assistant United States Attorney Tanner Zumwalt of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
DC U.S. Attorney Ed Martin’s Prepared Remarks at a May 13 Press ConferenceRead the Press Release
[WASHINGTON] U.S. Attorney Edward R. Martin Jr., held a May 13 press conference at the Patrick Henry Building here to discuss his tenure as the District of Columbia’s top federal and local prosecutor, the quality-of-life challenges facing the district under its current Home Rule ordinance and the recent immigration actions taken.
These are his remarks as prepared:
When President Donald J. Trump asked me to be his U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia, I immediately accepted because I knew it was a tip of the spear assignment—and I knew if I did the job the way President Trump wanted done, it would get plenty of attention—and so has.
I am proud of what we have done to Make DC Safe Again.
The president has given me a new assignment as the Director of the Weaponization Working Group and the DOJ Pardon Attorney.
I loved my job as D.C.’s U.S. Attorney, but I am really going to love how judge Jeanine Pirro takes up mission with her passion and intelligence and real-world experience as a prosecutor and judge. She really is amazing. I have already been working with her.
My motivation to speak to you today is twofold: First, I wish to highlight our success in fighting illegal immigration. Second, I wish to express my concern that too many bad guys are being let go by our courts – specifically, I note two Fentanyl dealers found in possession of illegal machines guns.
We have recently completely an illegal immigration initiative. I salute the brave men and women of law enforcement who are making D.C. safer by capturing illegal aliens – including 189 in the last week alone.
I want to commend Jonathan Hornok, the head of my criminal section, and our national and local law enforcement partners for the successful execution of operation restore justice here in the district.
However, I want to warn the district residents that the D.C. local leadership has made D.C. a Sanctuary City. This makes D.C. more dangerous not safer. It needs to change and now.
My second point deals with the deteriorating role of our justice system – specifically the courts – in putting bad guys away. Recently, two Fentanyl dealers found in possession of multiple guns were not detained in court. This soft on crime decision making is dangerous. It needs to change.
The president was gracious recently to remind people we reduced crime 25 percent in the president’s first 100 Days—but it was not easy. it took attention and resources— law enforcement and our prosecutors had to focus on getting bad actors off the streets. We need help with this.
Congress gave the District of Columbia Home Rule, but with that comes the responsibility to the city’s residents, businesses and workers—and a responsibility to the rest of the country to cherish our nation’s capital.
When the district’s leadership exploited home rule to make Washington a Sanctuary City—they acted as if Washington is just another city—it is not. When our justice system thinks justice is a revolving door when bad actors like the ones with guns and Fentanyl get back on the streets, we have a problem.
As we approach the president’s America250 celebration, there needs to be a robust discussion about D.C.’s Sanctuary City status and its justice system —and if that means Home Rule goes away, so be it.
With that, I am ready to take your questions.
DC U.S. Attorney Ed Martin Announces the 15th Annual Anti Violence Youth Summit ‘Making D.C. Safe and Beautiful’Read the Press Release
WASHINGTON - The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia is pleased to announce its upcoming 15th Annual Anti Violence Youth Summit, titled ”Making D.C. Safe and Beautiful “ scheduled for Tuesday, July 8, 2025. Doors will open at 9:00 a.m., and the program will begin promptly at 10:00 a.m.
The summit will be held at The Catholic University of America in the Pryzbyla Center, where it has been successfully hosted in previous years.
“The Youth Summit empowers everyone, especially our youth, to take part in the President’s initiative to Make D.C. Safe and Beautiful,” said U.S. Attorney Ed Martin Jr.
“Now in its 15th year, the Youth Summit empowers young people with vital information and tools to build safer, stronger communities,” said Supervisory Community Outreach Specialist Baretta Francis. “This summit brings together youth, community organizations, law enforcement and other partner organizations to address issues impacting youth throughout the District and will focus on a variety of subjects, including opioid abuse prevention, gun violence prevention, and mental health awareness.”
“The Catholic University of America values its years-long partnership with the USAO on the Making D.C. Safe and Beautiful Youth Summit held each summer on our campus in Northeast, DC,” said Jacques Moore, Office of Events and Conference Services at Catholic University.
Columbia Sex Offender Charged with Child Pornography OffenseRead the Press Release
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – A Columbia, Mo., man has been indicted in federal court for transportation and possession of child pornography.
Andrew Charles Nicholls, 38, previously charged by complaint, was indicted by a federal grand jury on May 13, 2025. The indictment alleges that Nicholls, who has a prior conviction for child molestation in the second degree, transported and possessed child pornography images and videos depicting pre-pubescent children engaging in sexually explicit conduct using TOR, a dark web browser intended to conceal one’s online activities.
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, Nicholls faces federal prison sentence of up to 40 years to be served 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. Attorney Ashley Turner. It was investigated by the Boone County Sheriff’s Cyber Crime Task Force with assistance from the FBI.
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."
Chinese National Sentenced for Illegally Entering the CountryRead the Press Release
BANGOR, Maine: A man from Fujian, China, pleaded guilty and was sentenced to time served today in U.S. District Court in Bangor for the misdemeanor offense of entry without inspection.
U.S. Magistrate Judge John C. Nivison sentenced Ruibo Pan, 21, to time served (28 days).
According to court records, on April 15, 2025, U.S. Border Patrol Agents from the Fort Fairfield Border Patrol Station were investigating a suspected illegal crossing from Canada. Agents located Pan in a remote area just inside the U.S. near the Canadian border. Pan acknowledged to agents that he had entered the country through the woods and did not have authorization to be in the country.
An alien who enters the U.S. without first being inspected at a designated Port of Entry is subject to up to six months in prison and a fine of up to $5,000. Subsequent violations are punishable by up to two years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.
Pan was turned over to immigration authorities at the conclusion of the proceedings.
U.S. Border Patrol investigated the case.
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Charleston Man Sentenced for Federal Tax CrimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Luther A. Hanson, 72, of Charleston, was sentenced today to three years of federal probation, including eight months on home detention, and fined $5,000 for willful failure to pay over taxes. The Court previously determined that Hanson owed $146,771.37 to the United States Department of the Treasury as a result of his criminal scheme. Hanson paid the entire $146,771.37 prior to today’s sentencing.
According to court documents and statements made in court, from at least 2015 to September 2020, Hanson willfully and intentionally did not withhold or pay over approximately $149,905.38 in employment taxes to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) for two employees of his accounting services businesses. Hanson owns, manages, controls and operates The Estate Planning Group Inc. and L.A. Hanson Accounting Services, and the two employees provided accounting and account services for both.
Hanson admitted that some time prior to June 30, 2015, he and the two employees agreed that he would begin treating them as independent contractors. Hanson further admitted that he knew this arrangement would relieve him of paying the employer portion of the employment taxes to the IRA and of withholding the employee withholdings of the two employees.
As a result of this arrangement, Hanson paid gross wages by check to the two employees even though neither changed their job duties or responsibilities. Hanson admitted that he knew that neither was an independent contractor while he paid each by check throughout their continued employment. Hanson further admitted that he did not pay the trust fund taxes to the IRS that were owed and did not pay over the employer’s share of employment taxes for the two employees each quarter during the duration of this arrangement.
One of the employees paid a portion of the taxes owed, resulting in the adjusted figure of restitution owed by Hanson.
Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations (IRS-CI) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
Senior United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr. imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Erik S. Goes prosecuted the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:24-cr-119.
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Carver Man Sentenced to More Than Two Years in Prison for Oxycodone ConspiracyRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Carver man was sentenced today in federal court in Boston for his involvement in an oxycodone conspiracy.
Michael Atwood, 37, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Denise J. Casper to 35 months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release. In November 2024, Atwood pleaded guilty in federal court in Boston to conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute oxycodone pills. Campbell was indicted by a federal grand jury in August 2023 along with five co-conspirators.
Between approximately November 2023 and June 2023, Atwood obtained oxycodone pills from co-defendant John Campbell that he redistributed to others. The amount of oxycodone pills that the defendant obtained from Campbell ranged from hundreds to more than a thousand at a time. On July 12, 2023, during a search of Atwood’s residence approximately $63,000 in cash was seized.
In January 2025, Campbell was sentenced to four years in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Stephen Belleau, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Field Division; Colonel Geoffrey D. Noble, Superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police; Thomas Demeo, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, Boston Field Office; and Ketty Larco-Ward, Inspector in Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service’s Boston Division, made the announcement. Special assistance was provided by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives; U.S. Coast Guard Investigative Service; Barnstable County Sheriff’s Office; and the Barnstable, Dennis, Bourne, Mashpee, Yarmouth, Sandwich and Falmouth Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorneys John T. Mulcahy, and Samuel R. Feldman of the Criminal Division and Alexandra Amrhein of the Asset Forfeiture Unit prosecuted the case.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
Broken Arrow Resident Pleads Guilty to Felony Assault and Federal Firearm ChargeRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Rafael Martin Sangines, age 29, of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, entered a guilty plea to one count of Assault with a Dangerous Weapon with Intent to do Bodily Harm in Indian Country, punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a fine up to $250,000.00, and one count of Felon in Possession of Firearm and Ammunition, punishable by up to 15 years in prison and a $250,000.00 fine.
The Indictment alleged that on September 29, 2024, Sangines assaulted the victim with a dangerous weapon, intending to do bodily harm.
The Indictment further alleged that on September 29, 2024, Sangines possessed a rifle, a pistol, and multiple rounds of ammunition after having been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year.
The crimes occurred in Wagoner County, within the boundaries of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation Reservation, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma.
The charges arose from an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Tulsa Police Department, and the Broken Arrow Police Department.
The Honorable D. Edward Snow, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.
A U.S. District Court Judge will determine the sentence to be imposed after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Sangines will remain in the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending sentencing.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jonathan Soverly and Emily Wittlinger represented the United States.
Bristol Man Convicted of Violent Sex Trafficking and Related OffensesRead the Press Release
David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that a federal jury in Hartford has found DAVID MARSHALL, also known as “Saint,” 40, of Bristol, guilty of sex trafficking, obstruction of justice, and violation of a protective order offenses.
According to the evidence presented during the trial, between January and April 2022, Marshall compelled a victim into performing commercial sex for his financial benefit and repeatedly raped and beat her if she did not follow his orders. He also controlled the victim by other means, including getting her addicted to fentanyl and threatening to harm her family. In March 2022, the victim attempted to escape from Marshall and obtained an order of protection against him after he was arrested by Cromwell Police for threatening to kill her.
On April 27, 2022, Marshall was arrested by police in Freeport, Maine, after he severely beat the victim. While in jail, Marshall contacted the victim in violation of the protection order, and attempted to convince her not to cooperate with the police and to continue to prostitute herself to earn money to bail him out of jail. Marshall also contacted another person from jail in an attempt to remotely erase the evidence on his cell phone, but he was unable to do so because the FBI had already secured the phone.
On May 10, 2023, while he was detained in federal custody, Marshall again attempted to obstruct the investigation and prosecution of this matter by writing a letter to a family member with instructions to “harass” the victim to keep her from testifying.
Marshall forcibly sex trafficked at least one other woman between 2017 and 2022. With his second victim, Marshall similarly used beatings, rapes, and other means to coerce her into engaging in commercial sex acts for his financial benefit for almost two years.
The trial began on April 30, 2025. Yesterday, Marshall was convicted of two counts of sex trafficking by force, fraud, and coercion; two counts of attempted obstruction of sex trafficking enforcement; and one count of interstate violation of a protection order, causing serious bodily injury to the victim. The jury found Marshall not guilty of one count of sex trafficking by force, fraud, and coercion.
At sentencing, which is not scheduled, Marshall faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 15 years and a maximum term of imprisonment of life.
Marshall has been detained since April 27, 2022.
This matter has been investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with the assistance of the Newington Police Department, Cromwell Police Department, Freeport (Maine) Police Department, and Connecticut Department of Correction. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Angel Krull, Shan Patel, and Alexis Beyerlein.
U.S. Attorney Sullivan thanked the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maine for its assistance in this case.
Brazilian National Pleads Guilty to Unlawful Reentry and to Selling Green Cards and Counterfeit Social Security CardsRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Brazilian national residing in Woburn, Mass. pleaded guilty on May 8, 2025 in federal court in Boston to unlawfully reentering the United States after deportation as well as to selling fraudulent Social Security cards and Legal Permanent Resident cards, often referred to as “Green Cards.”
Liene Tavares DeBarros, Jr., 40, pleaded guilty to two counts of unlawful transfer of a document or authentication feature and one count of unlawful reentry of a deported alien. U.S. District Court Judge Denise J. Casper scheduled sentencing for June 26, 2025. Tavares DeBarros was arrested and charged by criminal complaint in March 2025.
Tavares DeBarros was previously deported from the United States in July 2010. Sometime after his removal, Tavares DeBarros unlawfully reentered the United States.In mid-2024, law enforcement was notified that Tavares DeBarros was selling counterfeit identity documents. As part of the investigation, law enforcement contacted the defendant in an undercover capacity requesting his services. Subsequently, in October 2024, Tavares DeBarros sold a counterfeit Social Security Number Card and a Green Card to an undercover officer in exchange for $250. Later, in December 2024, Tavares DeBarros sold two more counterfeit Social Security cards and two Green Cards to another undercover officer in exchange for $500.
The charge of unlawful transfer of document or authentication feature and unlawful production of document or authentication feature provides for a sentence of up to 15 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. The charge of unlawful reentry provides for a sentence of up to two years, 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; Michael J. Krol Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in New England; Amy Connelly, Special Agent in Charge of the Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General, Office of Investigations, Boston Field Division; Jonathan Mellone, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General, Office of Investigations, Labor Racketeering and Fraud, Northeast Region; and Patricia H. Hyde, Field Office Director, Boston, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney John J. Reynolds III of the Criminal Division is prosecuting the case.
The investigation was conducted by Homeland Security Investigation’s Document and Benefit Fraud Task Force, a specialized investigative group comprising personnel from various state, local, and federal agencies with expertise in detecting, deterring, and disrupting organizations and individuals involved in various types of document, identity and benefit fraud schemes.
Birmingham Man Sentenced to 20 Years in Prison for Gun and Drug CrimesRead the Press Release
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – A Birmingham man has been sentenced for gun and drug crimes, announced U.S. Attorney Prim F. Escalona.
U.S. District Court Judge Madeline H. Haikala sentenced Jarrell Russell, 26, to 240 months in prison. In February, Russell pleaded guilty to possession with the intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and fentanyl, carrying a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking offense, and possessing a firearm as a convicted felon.
According to court documents, a sergeant with the Adamsville Police Department attempted to stop a gray sedan on October 10, 2023, for speeding. The driver—later determined to be Russell—initially refused to stop. Russell then pulled into a parking lot and fled the scene on foot, wearing a pink backpack and carrying a “pin object” in his hand. After a brief chase, Russell was arrested by officers and the pink backpack was located near him. A search of the backpack revealed methamphetamine, two digital scales, a Glock 27 Gen Four .40 caliber pistol with an extended magazine, and other drug paraphernalia. A search of Russell’s vehicle revealed a small bag containing a blue substance in the driver’s side door. Subsequent testing confirmed that the methamphetamine recovered from Russell weighed over 74 grams, and the blue substance was 1.22 grams of fentanyl. At the time of his arrest, Russell had previously been convicted of Robbery, First Degree in the Circuit Court of Jefferson County, and was a convicted felon prohibited from owning or possessing a firearm.
Homeland Security Investigations investigated the case, with assistance from the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brittany T. Byrd prosecuted the case.
Auburn Career Offender Sentenced to 10 Years for Trafficking Crack CocaineRead the Press Release
PORTLAND, Maine: An Auburn man was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Portland for selling crack cocaine on two occasions to a confidential source working for the DEA.
Chief U.S. District Judge Lance E. Walker sentenced Pierre Calhoun, 35, to 120 months in prison to be followed by 3 years of supervised release. Calhoun pleaded guilty on November 19, 2024.
According to court records, in May and June of 2024, agents from the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) directed a confidential source to conduct two controlled buys from Calhoun. Both transactions were captured on video and audio recordings. The seized drugs were later tested by the DEA laboratory and confirmed to be approximately 24.7 grams of crack cocaine.
Because he had been previously convicted of at least two prior crimes of violence, the Court found that Calhoun qualified as a Career Offender, and was therefore exposed to an enhanced sentence under the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines.
DEA, the Lewiston Police Department, and the Maine Drug Enforcement Agency investigated the case.
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Asylum grantee sent to prison for role in fentanyl conspiracyRead the Press Release
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A 24-year-old Mexican national has been sentenced for his role in a conspiracy to distribute approximately 987 grams of fentanyl powder and 4,568 fentanyl pills, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Azael Barrientos-Regalado pleaded guilty Sept. 13, 2024.
U.S. District Judge Nelva Gonzales Ramos has now ordered Barrientos-Regalado to serve 60 months in federal prison. Not a U.S. citizen, he is expected to face removal proceedings following his imprisonment. In handing down the sentence, the court noted that it was a serious crime.
Barrientos was granted political asylum in 2020 based on credible fear of the Mexican cartels.
The investigation revealed Barrientos-Regalado helped facilitate the transportation and delivery of 1.4379 kilograms of fentanyl from the Rio Grande Valley to the Houston area for further redistribution throughout the United States.
He coordinated the transportation by hiring drivers to move the drugs though the Border Patrol (BP) checkpoints. Authorities later seized 987 grams of fentanyl powder and 4,568 pills weighing 450.9 grams, which also contained fentanyl.
Barrientos-Regalado will remain in custody pending transfer to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
The Drug Enforcement Administration and BP conducted the joint investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Liesel Roscher and Joseph Griffith prosecuted the case.
Antelope Valley Man Arrested on Indictment Alleging He and Two Others Participated in Two Gang Murders Last Year in LancasterRead the Press Release
LOS ANGELES – A reputed member of the Pasadena Denver Lanes (PDL) Bloods street gang was arrested today on a four-count federal grand jury indictment alleging he and two other PDL members took part in a one-night shooting spree in Lancaster last year that claimed two lives and almost claimed a third.
Jerry Wimbley III, a.k.a. “Baby Poppa Ckrab,” 20, of Lancaster, was arrested this morning and is expected to be arraigned and make his initial appearance this afternoon in United States District Court in downtown Los Angeles.
Wimbley III is charged with two counts of murder in aid of racketeering.
Also charged in the indictment unsealed today are:
- Vionnie Richardson, 37, a.k.a. “Big Poppa Ckrab,” of Lancaster, who is charged with one count of attempted murder in aid of racketeering, two counts of murder in aid of racketeering, and one count of being a felon in possession of ammunition; and
- Jerry Wimbley Jr., 22, a.k.a. “Poppa Ckrab” and “Little Poppa Ckrab,” of Lancaster, who is charged with two counts of murder in aid of racketeering, and who is Wimbley III’s brother.
Richardson is in state custody in Nevada. He is not legally permitted to possess ammunition because his criminal history includes multiple felony convictions in Los Angeles Superior Court, including for second-degree robbery in September 2020, assault by means of force likely to produce great bodily injury in March 2020, and identity theft in January 2014.
Wimbley Jr. has been in custody on federal robbery and money laundering charges since September 2024.
Richardson and Wimbley Jr. are expected to be arraigned in Los Angeles federal court in the coming weeks.
According to the indictment, on the night of June 25, 2024, Richardson took part in three successive shootings in Lancaster – an attempted murder followed by two murders – and was joined by the Wimbley brothers for the latter two shootings. After each shooting, the defendants gathered at a deceased gang member’s gravesite on the two-year anniversary of that gang member’s death.
Richardson allegedly first attempted to murder victim W.S. in Lancaster and then traveled to the deceased gang member’s gravesite where he met the Wimbley brothers and others. Richardson and the Wimbley brothers next traveled to the area of Whit Carter Park in Lancaster, where they murdered victim E.G. They again returned to the gravesite and then drove to a gas station in Lancaster. As captured on surveillance footage, the defendants murdered victim D.M. and then returned to the gravesite. Throughout the night, defendants allegedly took to Instagram to honor the deceased gang member and pledge allegiance to the PDL Bloods.
The indictment alleges that the murders and attempted murder were committed to enhance the power and influence of the PDL Bloods street gang, which is described as a violent criminal enterprise that has existed since the 1970s and operates in and around Pasadena and the Antelope Valley. The indictment further alleges that PDL engages in murder, robbery and money laundering, among other criminal racketeering activities.
“As alleged in the indictment, these defendants engaged in violent and senseless acts,” said United States Attorney Bill Essayli. “Their alleged shooting spree is intolerable. Today’s charges reflect our Office’s continued commitment to eradicating gang violence and to keeping our communities safe.”
“Bringing violent offenders to justice is one of ATF’s top priorities,” said Kenny Cooper, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Los Angeles Field Division. “This case is a testament to the strength of collaboration among law enforcement agencies at every level. We remain committed to reducing violent crime and ensuring the safety of our communities.”
“The brutality of these alleged crimes reflects a complete disregard for human life and public safety,” said Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert G. Luna. “Gang violence has no place in our communities. The individuals that engage in ruthless crimes that endanger our residents will be pursued and held accountable. Our dedicated homicide detectives, along with our federal partners, have diligently worked to identify, arrest, and dismantle these violent gang networks and protect our communities.”
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
If convicted, the defendants would face a mandatory sentence of life in federal prison and a possible death sentence.
The ATF and the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department are investigating this matter.
Assistant United States Attorneys Gregg E. Marmaro of the Major Frauds Section, Suria M. Bahadue of the General Crimes Section, and Kevin J. Butler of the Violent and Organized Crime Section are prosecuting this case.