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Thursday 13 March 2025
Sinaloa Cartel Leader in Idaho Sentenced to 22 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
BOISE – A 44-year-old Honduran national suspected to be unlawfully in the United States and using the name “Hector Ojeda Manuel Aponte” was sentenced yesterday to 262 months in federal prison for distribution of methamphetamine, Acting U.S. Attorney Justin Whatcott announced.
According to court records, Aponte was distributing approximately 40 pounds of methamphetamine every one to two weeks, along with fentanyl pills and bath salts. Aponte had multiple vehicles to transport and distribute drugs, stash houses to hide the drugs, and business fronts to launder his illicit drug proceeds. According to multiple sources, Aponte was the “number one guy” for the Sinaloa Cartel in the State of Idaho. He had a well-established supply chain and a distribution network consisting of other accomplices.
Aponte is the sixth and final defendant sentenced from the investigation conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Nampa Police Department Special Investigations Unit. U.S. District Judge Amanda K. Brailsford also previously sentenced Ernesto Diaz Gaspar (30 months in prison), Wilkin Rolando Martinez Munguia (36 months in prison), Cevin Alfonzo Martinez (42 months in prison), and Jesus DeJesus Loera (70 months in prison). Chief U.S. District Judge David C. Nye sentenced Lawrence Barnes (160 months in prison). Defendants Barnes and Loera are U.S. Citizens, while the remaining defendants are aliens unlawfully present in the United States.
“The United States Department of Justice is committed to eliminating the threat posed by Mexican drug cartels and their distribution of narcotics in Idaho." Acting U.S. Attorney Whatcott said. “Along with our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners, we will continue to hold them accountable for bringing poisonous drugs into our state.”
“Illegal immigration and drug trafficking are interconnected threats because Foreign Terrorist Organizations like the Sinaloa Cartel routinely employ people like this defendant to further their drug enterprises,” said David F. Reames, Special Agent in Charge, DEA Seattle Field Division. “I am gratified that we, at the Drug Enforcement Administration, along with our partners at the Nampa Police Department and the U.S. Attorney’s Office, succeeded in holding this defendant accountable for his serious crimes targeting our community, resulting in this lengthy prison sentence. Justice was served yesterday.”
Acting U.S. Attorney Whatcott commended the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Nampa Police Department Special Investigations Unit, which led to the convictions and sentences. Assistant U.S. Attorney David Morse prosecuted this case.
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Savanna Police Officer Sentenced to 40 Years After First Guilty Verdict Obtained Under 2022 Reauthorization of the Violence Against Women Act Enhanced PenaltiesRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON, D.C. – A federal judge sentenced former Savanna Oklahoma Police Officer (SPD), Jeffrey Scott Smith, 35, to 40 years in prison for sexually assaulting a woman during a traffic stop and obstructing justice by turning off his body-worn camera and dash camera in an effort to avoid recording the assault. This case represents the first sexual assault conviction and sentence under the 2022 Reauthorization of the Violence Against Women Act that added enhanced penalties for civil rights offenses involving sexual misconduct.
Evidence presented at trial established that on Nov. 2, 2022, Smith, working his first solo shift for SPD, conducted a traffic stop of the victim, K.H., and her then-boyfriend, J.G. After running their licenses, Smith realized that J.G.’s license had recently expired. He had J.G. and K.H. get out of J.G.’s car to switch who was driving. Smith issued J.G. a speeding ticket, and then began asking personal questions, including how long they had been in their relationship. At this point, while still speaking to J.G. and K.H., Smith manually deactivated his SPD body worn camera (BWC).
Smith then asked K.H. what she did for work. K.H. reluctantly admitted that she danced at a gentlemen’s club. Upon hearing K.H.’s answer, Smith asked to search J.G.’s car. During the search, Smith looked in K.H.’s purse and found a pre-rolled promotional marijuana cigarette from K.H.’s work. Rather than arrest her, or issue her a ticket, Smith walked back to his patrol car and manually deactivated his dashboard camera. Once the defendant had K.H. in his vehicle he sexually assaulted her.
“Smith’s despicable acts traumatized the victim and soiled the reputation of the law enforcement community,” said United States Attorney Christopher J. Wilson for the Eastern District of Oklahoma. “The sentence imposed is just punishment, and I am thankful to the FBI, the OSBI, and the prosecutors for their exceptional work in holding the defendant accountable for his crimes.”
“The entire law enforcement profession is disparaged when an officer betrays the oath to protect and serve. That is exactly what Mr. Smith did on his first solo shift as a police officer,” said Special Agent in Charge Doug Goodwater of the FBI Oklahoma City Field Office. “I am proud of the joint effort by the FBI, OSBI, and US Attorney’s Office to hold Smith accountable for his despicable actions. The sentence handed down today represents our commitment to pursuing justice for victims, and to protecting the reputation of those who wear the badge with integrity.”
The Oklahoma City FBI Field Office investigated the case with the assistance of the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation.
Trial Attorney Laura Gilson of the Civil Rights Division and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Nicole Paladino and Clay Compton for the Eastern District of Oklahoma prosecuted the case.
San Francisco Tow Company Operator Indicted in Scheme to Burn Competitors’ Tow Trucks Throughout the Bay AreaRead the Press Release
SAN FRANCISCO – A federal grand jury has indicted Jose Vicente Badillo on one count of conspiracy to commit arson in connection with an alleged scheme to burn tow trucks throughout the San Francisco Bay Area in 2023. Badillo made his initial appearance in federal district court this morning.
According to the indictment unsealed earlier today, Badillo, 29, of San Francisco, conspired with others to set fire to at least six tow trucks on four occasions between April 2023 and October 2023. Specifically, Badillo and his co-conspirators allegedly set fire to and damaged or destroyed (i) two tow trucks in San Francisco on April 4, 2023; (ii) one tow truck in San Francisco on April 29, 2023; (iii) one tow truck in East Palo Alto on July 25, 2023; and (iv) two tow trucks in San Francisco on Oct. 3, 2023.
The indictment describes that the purpose of the conspiracy was, among other things, to drive more business to two Bay Area-based towing companies with which Badillo was associated—Auto Towing and Specialty Towing—by impeding the business prospects of competitor towing companies, and to retaliate against those same competitors for perceived wrongs. Badillo allegedly orchestrated the conspiracy and then directed others to set fire to the targeted tow trucks.
Badillo is next scheduled to appear in district court on March 20, 2025, at 10:30 a.m., before U.S. Magistrate Judge Sallie Kim for arraignment and identification of counsel. Badillo is facing unrelated federal charges of money laundering and insurance fraud in two other pending cases.
Acting United States Attorney Patrick D. Robbins, FBI Special Agent in Charge Sanjay Virmani, and IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) Special Agent in Charge of the Oakland Field Office Linda Nguyen made the announcement.
An indictment merely alleges that a crime has been committed, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. If convicted, Badillo faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and a fine of $250,000. Any sentence following conviction would 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.
This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas M. Parker is prosecuting the case with the assistance of Andy Ding and Laurie Worthen. The prosecution is the result of an investigation by the FBI and IRS-CI. This investigation is assigned to the FBI SF Transnational Organized Crime Task Force, an interagency task force targeting sophisticated organized crime syndicates that engage in, among other offenses, violent crimes, extortion, fraud, arson, and drug trafficking. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, the FBI, and IRS-CI thank the San Francisco Police Department for its substantial assistance and support in this investigation.
Jose Vicente Badillo Indictment
Sacramento Man Pleads Guilty to Postal Robberies While Armed with a Dangerous WeaponRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — William Carl Jackson, 36, pleaded guilty to robbing a postal carrier while armed with a dangerous weapon, Acting United States Attorney Michele Beckwith announced.
According to court documents, Jackson robbed postal carriers on July 11, 2024, and July 31, 2024. During in each robbery, he brandished a fake pistol at the victim and then ordered the victim to turn over his postal keys. After taking the victim’s keys, he then fled from the scene on a bicycle.
This case was the product of an investigation by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. Assistant United States Attorney Elliot C. Wong is prosecuting the case.
Jackson is scheduled to be sentenced on June 13, 2025. He faces a maximum statutory penalty of 25 years in prison and a maximum statutory fine of $250,000. Any sentence, however, would be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables.
Roanoke Woman Pleads Guilty in Paycheck Protection Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
ROANOKE, Va. – A Roanoke woman, who conspired with dozens of other individuals to commit wire fraud as part of a scheme to defraud the Paycheck Protection Program, pled guilty yesterday in U.S. District Court in Roanoke.
Jaimeka Michelle Austin, 31, pled guilty yesterday to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and one count of money laundering. Austin was indicted in June 2024 along with 23 others as part of a 142-count indictment alleging wire fraud, conspiracy to commit wire fraud, money laundering, making false statements, and fraud in relation to an emergency benefits program.
The Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) was a COVID-19 pandemic relief program administered by the Small Business Administration (SBA) that provided forgivable loans to small businesses for job retention and certain other expenses.
Between June 2020 and December 2020, Austin communicated with several individuals, including a tax preparer, to inquire about obtaining a tax refund loan and a PPP loan.
In January 2021, after some back-and-forth discussion, Austin and the tax preparer began discussing obtaining PPP loans for other people by using false information on applications. They agreed to charge prospective loan applicants $5,000 to obtain a $20,000 PPP loan.
Austin recruited individuals to apply for PPP loans via social media and word of mouth, knowing that most who would be applying were not eligible to receive such loans because they did not own a business and were not self-employed at the time – two conditions required for PPP loans.
Austin and her co-conspirators submitted more than 100 fraudulent PPP loan applicants on behalf of the applicants, including for those that did not have a pre-existing business. These applications included multiple false statements, inflated business income, and fraudulent IRS Schedule C forms.
Austin also submitted fraudulent PPP loan applications for her own business, Mechelle’s Boutique. As a part of these applications, Austin vastly inflated the amount of revenue that Mechelle’s Boutique received. Based on her fraudulent submissions, Austin ultimately received two PPP loans totaling over $52,000.
On October 4, 2021, Austin used some of the proceeds from her PPP fraud scheme to purchase a new construction single-family home in Charlotte, North Carolina. However, because Austin was already concerned that the “feds” were watching her and did not want to draw additional attention from the federal government, she sought to conceal the source of the funds she was using to make her $70,000 down payment on the home.
As a result, Austin gave $70,000 of her fraudulent proceeds to a third party; the third party then wired the funds to the closing attorney. Austin and the third party falsely represented that this money was a gift from the third party and that it did not originate from Austin. Austin closed on the Charlotte property two days later and used her fraud proceeds to pay some of the mortgage payments on the property. In May 2022, Austin filed a quitclaim deed granting herself and her mother joint ownership rights over the Charlotte property.
In April 2023, Austin and her mother listed the Charlotte property for sale, and it went under contract for $398,000. Austin and her mother were set to receive just under $95,000 in proceeds from this sale. In May 2023, the United States seized these sale proceeds, and, pursuant to an August 2024 default judgment, this money was forfeited to the United States.
Austin has agreed to pay full restitution for her offenses and has agreed to a forfeiture money judgment in the sum of $190,390.
Acting U.S. Attorney Zachary T. Lee, Stanley M. Meador, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Richmond Division and Kareem A. Carter, Special Agent in Charge of the IRS’s Washington Field Office, made the announcement.
At sentencing, Austin faces up to 20 years in federal prison on the conspiracy to commit wire fraud count and up to 10 years on the money laundering count. She is the third of the 24 defendants charged in the indictment to plead guilty.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations is investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jason M. Scheff and Lee S. Brett are prosecuting the case are prosecuting the case for the United States.
Ringleader of $6.2M Unemployment Insurance Fraud Sentenced to Nearly 8 Years PrisonRead the Press Release
DETROIT - Kenny Lee Howard, 32, of Southfield was sentenced to 94 months in prison today for his role in a scheme to defraud state unemployment insurance agencies during the Covid-19 pandemic, Acting United States Attorney Julie A. Beck announced.
Beck was joined in the announcement by Megan Howell, Special Agent-in-Charge, Great Lakes Region, U.S. Department of Labor-Office of Inspector General.
Howard was sentenced by United States District Judge Linda V. Parker. Co-defendant David Davis, 27, of Detroit was previously sentenced and received 30 months in custody. Co-defendant Keila Howard has pleaded guilty and is awaiting sentencing. The case remains pending as to co-defendant Stevenvan Ware. All four defendants were charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud; Kenny Howard was also charged with aggravated identity theft.
According to court records, between April 2020 and August 2021, Howard and his co-conspirators filed more than 700 unemployment insurance claims across five states, primarily Michigan and California. Once the claims were processed, funds were loaded onto pre-paid debit cards and mailed to addresses controlled by the defendants. Upon receiving these debit cards, the defendants visited ATMs to withdraw cash. Roughly sixty percent of the scheme’s fraudulent claims were successful, resulting in a loss of $6,336,575 to state unemployment insurance agencies. If all the fraudulent claims had been approved, the resulting loss would have exceeded $11,000,000.
Acting United States Attorney Beck stated, “The pandemic may be over, but the prosecutions of those who took advantage of government programs during the pandemic are not. This office continues—and will continue—to hold those responsible for these fraudulent schemes accountable for their actions, and today’s sentence is evidence of that important work."
“Kenny Howard III and his co-conspirators engaged in a scheme to defraud multiple state workforce agencies by filing for unemployment insurance in the names of identity theft victims who were not entitled to such benefits. Today’s sentencing affirms the Office of Inspector General’s commitment to work with our law enforcement partners to investigate and bring to justice those who exploit U.S. Department of Labor programs,” said Megan Howell, Acting Special Agent-in-Charge, Great Lakes Region, U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Ryan A. Particka and Timothy Wyse. The investigation was conducted by the Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General.
Remaining Defendants Plead Guilty in Twin Cities Fentanyl Distribution ConspiracyRead the Press Release
ST. PAUL, Minn. – The remaining defendants in a drug trafficking conspiracy that distributed fentanyl throughout the Twin Cities region have pleaded guilty, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Lisa D. Kirkpatrick.
According to court documents, between August 2022 through December 2023, Phyu Win Jame, 28, Amaya Tiffany-Nicole Mims, 24, Da’Shawn Natori Domena, 25, Cornell Montez Chandler, Jr., 26, Robiel Lee Williams, 24, Quijuan Hosea Bankhead, 31, Stardasha Christina Davenport-Mounger, 25, Fo’Tre Devine White, 28, and Shardai Rayshell Allen, 25, conspired to distribute fentanyl in the Twin Cities and throughout Minnesota. To accomplish their conspiracy scheme, several of the co-defendants frequently traveled to Phoenix to obtain fentanyl pills from suppliers, hid the pills inside stuffed animals, and then mailed them to addresses in and around the Twin Cities. Law enforcement in Dakota, Ramsey, and Washington counties became aware of the trafficking and initiated a joint investigation, which resulted in the seizure of six packages containing over 30,000 grams of fentanyl pills.
Between August 6, 2024, and March 12, 2025, Davenport-Mounger, Domena, Williams, White, Allen, Bankhead, Mims, and Jame each pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court before Judge Jeffrey M. Bryan to one count of conspiracy to distribute fentanyl. Chandler was sentenced to over 13 years in federal prison by Judge Bryan on November 14, 2024. Sentencing hearings for the other defendants will be scheduled in the near future.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Homeland Security Investigations, the Dakota County Drug Task Force, the Washington County Drug Task Force, and the Ramsey County Violent Crime Enforcement Team.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Campbell Warner is prosecuting the case.
See also:
https://www.justice.gov/usao-mn/pr/indiana-man-pleads-guilty-twin-cities-fentanyl-distribution-conspiracy
https://www.justice.gov/usao-mn/pr/three-additional-individuals-charged-twin-cities-fentanyl-distribution-conspiracy
https://www.justice.gov/usao-mn/pr/six-individuals-charged-twin-cities-fentanyl-distribution-conspiracy
Raleigh Company to Pay More Than $2 Million to Resolve False Claims Act Liability Related to Improper Paycheck Protection Program LoanRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – DynPro, Inc., an IT solutions company based in Raleigh, will pay $2,178,254 to resolve its liability for falsely obtaining a Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA).
Congress created PPP loans to provide emergency financial assistance to American businesses suffering from the economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Under the PPP, eligible small businesses could receive forgivable loans guaranteed by the SBA. Regulations provided various eligibility requirements for the PPP, including that to be eligible for a second-draw PPP loan, an applicant was required to have experienced at least a 25% reduction in quarterly gross receipts as a result of the pandemic.
DynPro’s second-draw PPP loan application falsely reported that DynPro had experienced a reduction in gross receipts of at least 25%, inaccurately stating the difference between the company’s gross receipts during the second quarter of 2019 and the second quarter of 2020. In fact, DynPro did not experience a 25% reduction in gross receipts, and therefore DynPro was ineligible for the loan. DynPro also falsely certified in its second-draw loan application that “the information provided in [the] application and the information provided in all supporting documents and forms [wa]s true and accurate in all material respects.” DynPro self-reported the conduct to the United States Attorney’s Office, and cooperated with the office’s investigation, including by identifying key witnesses and documents.
“The United States Attorney’s Office will use every tool available, including the False Claims Act, to investigate and recover fraudulently obtained PPP loans,” Acting United States Attorney Daniel P. Bubar stated. “We will continue to work closely with our partners at the SBA and elsewhere to root out waste, fraud and abuse of taxpayer funds.”
“The settlement in this matter demonstrates the excellent results achieved through the combined efforts of SBA and the Department of Justice to forcefully respond to PPP fraud. Such fraud unconscionably undermines critical pandemic relief, and SBA continues its enhanced efforts to uncover such misconduct and recover those damages,” said Wendell Davis, SBA General Counsel.
Acting U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Bubar announced the resolution, which was the result of a coordinated effort between the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of North Carolina and the SBA. Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew Kasper handled the case for the government, with assistance from the SBA’s Office of General Counsel.
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Ponte Vedra Man Posing as A Tutor Pleads Guilty to Attempting to Entice A Minor to Engage in Illegal Sexual ActivityRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – Acting United States Attorney Sara C. Sweeney announces that Kevin Patrick Wilson (39, Ponte Vedra) has pleaded guilty to attempted enticement and coercion of a minor. Wilson faces a minimum penalty of 10 years, up to life, in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set. Wilson was arrested on July 24, 2025, and ordered detained pending the resolution of his case.
According to court documents, on July 20, 2024, an individual posted a public message in a Facebook group seeking a tutor for her child. On the day of the post, an individual posing as a woman, but later identified as Wilson, reached out and directed the poster to contact her “husband,” Wilson, by text message. The poster contacted Wilson and had a short text conversation. The poster said she was seeking tutoring assistance for an 11-year-old child. Wilson sent a picture of himself and asked for a photo of the child. The text message conversation ended shortly thereafter. The poster later contacted the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office about the interaction.
On July 24, 2024, an undercover detective posing as the guardian of a 12-year-old female “child” reached out to Wilson about tutoring services for the “child.” After the undercover detective initiated the conversation, Wilson began discussing sexual topics involving the “child” and meeting the “child” to perform sexual acts with the “child.” Wilson also spoke to undercover detectives portraying the “child” via phone and text message. Wilson and the undercover detective portraying the guardian of the “child” ultimately agreed to meet during the evening of July 24, 2024, for Wilson to engage in sexual acts with the “child.” Wilson was arrested when he arrived at the predetermined meeting location.
This case was investigated by the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office and the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Jacksonville. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Ashley Washington.
It is another case 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.justice.gov/psc.
Philadelphia Man Sentenced to More Than Three Years in Prison for Possession of a Firearm by a FelonRead the Press Release
PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney David Metcalf announced that Nafiysh Knox-Schenck, 33, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Joel H. Slomsky to 39 months in prison and three years of supervised release for possession of a firearm by a felon, a charge arising from an incident last year in which the defendant resisted arrest by officers of the Philadelphia Police Department (PPD).
Knox-Schenck was charged by indictment in June and pleaded guilty in November.
As detailed in court filings, on May 13, 2024, two PPD officers attempted to place the defendant into custody based on an outstanding arrest warrant. While struggling with the officers, Knox-Schenck pulled a loaded firearm from his waistband and tossed it into the street. Another person then took the firearm and tossed it into a nearby wooded lot. After a struggle, the officers were able to get Knox-Schenck handcuffed and placed him in their vehicle.
While the officers went to retrieve the firearm and their body worn camera that had fallen off during the struggle, someone opened the door to the police vehicle and Knox-Schenck was able to flee on foot and escape police custody. Philadelphia police officers then obtained another arrest warrant for the defendant and, with the assistance of the United States Marshals Service, were able to arrest Knox-Schenck on May 15.
“Knox-Schenck knew he wasn’t allowed to have a gun, given his criminal record, but he didn’t let that stop him,” said U.S. Attorney Metcalf. “We and our law enforcement partners will continue to hold accountable felons who have decided that federal gun laws don’t apply to them. Every illegal firearm taken off the street makes the community safer.”
“ATF is committed to working with our partners to keep firearms out of the hands of criminals like Nafiysh Knox-Schenck who endanger our neighborhoods,” said Eric DeGree, Special Agent in Charge of the ATF’s Philadelphia Field Division. “Keeping guns out of the hands of criminals is a key means to preventing violent crime.”
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
The case was investigated by the ATF and the Philadelphia Police Department and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Robert E. Eckert and Special Assistant United States Attorney Tracie J. Gaydos, on assignment from the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General.
Personal Assistant Charged in Scheme to Defraud Her Elderly Employers of Nearly $10 MillionRead the Press Release
Earlier today, at the federal courthouse in Brooklyn, Catalina Corona was arraigned on an indictment charging her with wire fraud, bank fraud and aggravated identity theft. While employed as a personal assistant to an elderly married couple (the Victims), Corona forged the Victims’ signatures on checks from various bank accounts and stole approximately $10 million from them. The proceeding was held before United States Magistrate Judge Peggy Kuo.
John J. Durham, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, and Leslie R. Backschies, Acting Assistant Director in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, New York Field Office (FBI), announced the charges.
“The defendant’s greed knew no bounds, as she brazenly stole millions from elderly victims, using deceit to systematically steal the victims’ money and violate the trust they placed in her,” stated United States Attorney Durham. “My Office is committed to protecting the elderly from fraudulent schemes and ending elder abuse.”
“For years, the defendant took advantage of an elderly couple who trusted her to protect them and their interests,” stated FBI Acting Assistant Director in Charge Backschies. “As alleged in the indictment, she repeatedly defrauded these victims out of millions of dollars to enrich herself. Combatting the financial exploitation of elderly Americans remains a priority for the FBI, and we will continue to work hard to identify and disrupt anyone who attempts to target America’s seniors.”
As alleged in court filings, between approximately 2017 and 2024, while working for the Victims, Corona repeatedly deposited hundreds of checks written out to cash—made payable to herself—from the Victims’ bank accounts without their knowledge or consent. Many of these transactions took place in Queens and on Long Island within the Eastern District of New York.
Corona also posed as one of the Victims when calling the Victims’ bank to request information related to their accounts. In April 2024, one of the Victims received a call from the bank inquiring about checks written out to cash. The Victim explained that she never wrote checks out to cash and ultimately discovered that Corona had been forging checks and withdrawing money from the Victims’ bank account. The investigation further uncovered that Corona was not only stealing funds by fraudulently cashing checks, but was also transferring funds directly from the Victims’ accounts into her own personal accounts.
In total, Corona stole nearly $10 million, which she used to pay her credit card bills and to purchase luxury items from Louis Vuitton, Cartier, Gucci and other high-end brands. Specifically, Corona spent over $1 million on Louis Vuitton items alone, including luggage, purses valued at over $10,000, and apparel. Additionally, in just one day, Corona used over $25,000 in stolen funds for airline travel.
The charges in the indictment are merely allegations and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. If convicted of the charges in the indictment, the defendant faces a mandatory minimum of two years’ imprisonment on the aggravated identity theft charge, and a maximum of 30 years’ imprisonment.
The government’s case is being handled by the Office’s General Crimes Section. Assistant United States Attorney Rebecca M. Urquiola is in charge of the prosecution, with the assistance of Assistant United States Attorney Michael Castiglione who is handling forfeiture matters.
The Defendant:
CATALINA CORONA
Age: 61
Corona, QueensE.D.N.Y. Docket No. 25-CR-78 (NGG)
Par Funding “Enforcer” Sentenced to 11½ Years in Prison for RICO Conspiracy, Obstruction of Justice, and RetaliationRead the Press Release
PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney David Metcalf announced that James LaForte, 48, of New York, New York, was sentenced today by United States District Court Judge Mark A. Kearney to 137 months’ imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release to include 12 months’ home confinement, for crimes committed as part of a criminal enterprise that ran a fraudulent investment vehicle[1] known as Complete Business Solutions Group, Inc., d/b/a Par Funding (“Par Funding”) for a number of years, before it was taken over by a court-appointed receivership pursuant to a lawsuit filed by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. LaForte was also ordered to pay $2,488,645 in restitution, representing the portion of investor proceeds that he illegally diverted from Par Funding’s numerous investors for his own use through sham merchant contracts and other self-dealing conduct.
In February 2024, the defendant, his brother Joseph LaForte, Par Funding’s president and CEO, and Joseph Cole Barleta, Par Funding’s chief financial officer, were charged in an amended second superseding indictment with racketeering conspiracy and related crimes.
James LaForte pleaded guilty in September 2024 to racketeering conspiracy, securities fraud, and extortionate collection of debt, as well as obstruction of justice, for his violent assault on one of the Par Funding receivership’s Philadelphia attorneys, and retaliation, for threatening several government witnesses.
“James LaForte served as one of his brother’s enforcers,” said U.S. Attorney Metcalf. “He not only used threats of violence to collect on Par Funding’s debt, but stalked and assaulted an attorney, in retaliation for that man’s efforts to hold the LaForte family responsible for one of the largest financial frauds in Philadelphia’s history. As today’s sentence shows, this brand of brazen and violent lawbreaking simply won’t be tolerated in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania.”
“Since its earliest days, the FBI has been dedicated to investigating complex financial crimes,” said Wayne A. Jacobs, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Philadelphia. “James LaForte participated in a criminal enterprise driven by greed and sustained through threats and violence. The FBI is proud to stand with our partners in the pursuit of justice — disrupting these schemes and ensuring restitution for victims.”
“The defendant in this case was brought to justice for his participation in a criminal enterprise that caused significant financial harm to numerous investors,” said Special Agent in Charge Patricia Tarasca of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Office of Inspector General (FDIC OIG), New York Region. “The FDIC OIG will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to pursue those who commit such egregious crimes that threaten investors and the safety and soundness of our Nation's financial institutions.”
Joseph LaForte also pleaded guilty in September 2024 to racketeering conspiracy, securities fraud, and related crimes and is scheduled to be sentenced on March 26, 2025. Barleta pleaded guilty in October 2024 to one count of racketeering conspiracy and is scheduled to be sentenced on June 2, 2025.
This case was investigated by the FBI, Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation, and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Office of Inspector General, and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Matthew Newcomer, Samuel Dalke, and Eric Gill.
The SEC in Florida investigated and litigated the civil securities fraud charges, which formed the basis of a portion of the Par Funding criminal prosecution.
[1] On January 21, 2025, the Court found the Par Funding fraud scheme caused an actual fraud loss of approximately $404,000,000, which it reduced to $288,395,088 after factoring in credit for collateral seized from Par Funding by federal authorities when the investigation became public in July 2020.
Okmulgee Resident Pleads Guilty to Illegally Possessing AmmunitionRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Sterling Ross IV, age 31, of Okmulgee, Oklahoma, entered a guilty plea to one count of Felon in Possession of Ammunition.
The Indictment charged Ross with knowingly possessing 12 rounds of 9mm Lugar ammunition on April 29, 2024, after having been previously convicted a crime punishable by more than one year imprisonment.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
The Honorable Jason A. Robertson, 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. Ross will remain in the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending sentencing.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael E. Robinson represented the United States.
Oakland Woman Pleads Guilty to Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Yasmin Charisse Millett, 22, pleaded guilty today to one count of bank robbery, Acting United States Attorney Michele Beckwith announced.
According to court documents, from June 2023 through September 2024, Millett and coconspirators committed at least 10 bank note robberies across a string of California cities, including Sacramento, Vallejo, Suisun City, Benicia, Concord, and Antioch. As part of the conspiracy, Millett would recruit and instruct others to enter banks or credit unions with sunglasses, a purse, and a threatening demand note. Generally, the demand notes would instruct the bank employees to provide money or “I will kill everyone in here.”
On July 17, 2023, Millett and two coconspirators used a stolen white Audi A7 with dark tinted windows to commit a bank robbery at a credit union located in Suisun City. Millett provided one of the coconspirators with instructions on how to commit the robbery. Millett waited in the vehicle while the coconspirator entered the bank and handed the threatening demand note to the credit union employee. The note demanded money and threatened to shoot the employee if the employee did not comply with the demand. After reading the note, the credit union employee gave the coconspirator money. After the coconspirator received money from the credit union employee, she returned to the waiting getaway vehicle. Millett and the coconspirators each took a portion of the stolen money.
The next day, law enforcement conducted a traffic stop of the stolen white Audi A7. Millett was the driver of the stolen car. During the traffic stop, law enforcement found bait money on Millett from the bank robbery that occurred the day prior in Suisun City, California. Law enforcement also found a crumpled post-it demand note on the driver’s seat that stated, “Don’t Make eye contact Don’t look suspicious Don’t Push emergency Button Put smile on your face or I will shoot.”
Charges remain pending against codefendants Dontae Jones Jr., 20, residing in Northern California with no fixed address, and JoMya Mauriyne Futch, 21, of Richmond. Those charges are only allegations, and Jones and Futch are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case is the product of an investigation by FBI field offices in San Francisco and Sacramento, with assistance from the Sacramento Police Department, Vacaville Police Department, Suisun City Police Department, Vallejo Police Department, Antioch Police Department, Alameda County Sheriff’s Office, Benicia Police Department, Concord Police Department, California Highway Patrol, Hayward Police Department, and Fremont Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Whitnee Goins is prosecuting the case.
Chief U.S. District Judge Troy L. Nunley is scheduled to sentence Millett on June 26, 2025. Millett faces a maximum statutory penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. The actual sentence, however, will be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables.
Niagara Falls man pleads guilty to drug chargeRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Jermaine McQueen, 46, of Niagara Falls, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael J. Roemer to possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl, which carries a minimum penalty of five years in prison, a maximum of 40 years, and a fine up to $5,000,000.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy C. Lynch, who is handling the case, stated that on August 28, 2024, investigators executed search warrants at several locations associated with McQueen. They seized approximately 405 grams of cocaine, approximately 300 grams of fentanyl, and approximately six grams of crack cocaine, drug packaging materials, $10,625 in cash, and several pieces of jewelry, which constitute proceeds of narcotics trafficking. During the investigation, law enforcement made controlled purchases of fentanyl and cocaine from McQueen.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
The plea is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia, the Niagara Falls Police Department, under the direction of Commissioner Nick Ligammari, the Niagara County Sheriff’s Department, under the direction of Sheriff Michael Filicetti, the North Tonawanda Police Department, under the direction of Chief Keith Glass, the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Amie Feroleto, and the Erie County Sheriff’s Department, under the direction of Sheriff John Garcia.
Sentencing will be scheduled at a later date.
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New York Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Traveling to Engage in Sex with a MinorRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, S.C. — Jerome S. Goldstein, 78, of Long Beach, New York, was sentenced to nearly four years in federal prison after pleading guilty to traveling with intent to engage in illicit sexual conduct.
Evidence presented to the court showed that in late 2022, members of the South Carolina Attorney General’s Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force (ICAC), conducted an undercover investigation targeting online sexual offenders. As part of this investigation, an officer created an undercover online persona of a 13-year-old girl on a social messaging app.
Between Nov. 28, 2022, and Feb. 15, 2023, Goldstein communicated online with the undercover officer. In their conversations, Goldstein requested that the purported 13-year-old child engage in sexual acts and send him child sexual abuse material. He also informed her that he planned to travel from New York to South Carolina to have sex with her.
On Feb. 15, 2023, Goldstein drove from Long Beach, New York to Goose Creek, South Carolina to meet the purported 13-year-old, and to engage in illicit sexual conduct with her. When Goldstein arrived, he encountered law enforcement officers instead and was placed under arrest. Goldstein admitted that he traveled from New York to South Carolina to engage in illicit sexual conduct with the girl. Goldstein had planned to take to a hotel room he had reserved.
United States District Judge Bruce Howe Hendricks sentenced Goldstein to 46 months imprisonment, to be followed by a lifetime term of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the U.S. Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals, who sexually exploit children, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit http://www.justice.gov/psc.
This case was investigated by the South Carolina Attorney General’s Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force (ICAC), including the FBI Columbia field office, Homeland Security Investigations, Goose Creek Police Department, Mount Pleasant Police Department, and other law enforcement agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Dean H. Secor is prosecuting the case.
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New York Man Indicted for Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
WILLIAMSPORT - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Terrence Roberts, age 43, of Brooklyn, New York, was charged on February 27, 2025, by a federal grand jury with felon not to possess a firearm, unlawful possession of a machinegun, transporting prohibited weapons without a license, and receipt or possession of an unregistered firearm in violation of the national firearms act.
According to Acting United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, the indictment alleges that on September 2, 2024, in Columbia County, Roberts possessed a Glock 19X and a Taurus G3C with loaded magazines as a felon prohibited from possessing a firearm. It is also alleged that Roberts possessed a machinegun made by a full auto switch on the rear of the slide of the Glock 19X and transported it from Ohio to Pennsylvania. Lastly, it is alleged that the machinegun was not registered to him under the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Scott Township Police Department, and the Pennsylvania State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney Robin Zenzinger is prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
The maximum penalty under federal law for the most significant offense is 15 years, supervised release and a fine. A sentence for each of these offenses also includes a period of supervised release following imprisonment.
Indictments are only allegations. All persons charged by indictment are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
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New Orleans Woman Sentenced for Federal Controlled Substances Act Violations and Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – BRANDIE ROWE (“ROWE”), age 37, a resident of New Orleans, was sentenced on March 12, 2025, after previously pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute, and possess with intent to distribute, a quantity of cocaine, heroin, and fentanyl, and conspiracy to launder monetary instruments, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson. ROWE was sentenced to thirty-six months imprisonment, three years of supervised release, and a $200 mandatory special assessment fee.
According to court documents, ROWE and other co-conspirators distributed multi-kilogram quantities of cocaine, fentanyl, and heroin within the Eastern District of Louisiana. Additionally, ROWE and the co-conspirators traveled between New Orleans, and other states, in order to transport U.S. Currency and narcotics on behalf of a Drug Trafficking Organization.
This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
This investigation was led by the Drug Enforcement Administration – New Orleans Field Division Office and was assisted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the United States Border Patrol, the Gretna Major Crimes Task Force, the Kenner Police Department, the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, the St. John’s Parish Sheriff’s Office, the Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the New Orleans Police Department. The prosecution was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Lynn E. Schiffman of the Narcotics Unit.
New Orleans Man Sentenced for Being Felon in Possession of FirearmsRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced on March 12, 2025, that AVERY JULIEN (“JULIEN”), age 29, a resident of New Orleans, was sentenced to 37 months imprisonment, 3 years of supervised release, and payment of a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00, by U.S. District Judge Brandon S. Long. JULIEN had previously pled guilty to being a felon in possession of firearms, in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2), on October 29, 2024.
According to court records, on September 14, 2022, Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office (JPSO) deputies and New Orleans Police Department officers executed a search warrant at JULIEN’s New Orleans residence after learning that JULIEN may have committed a carjacking in Jefferson Parish. During the search, two firearms, a Sig Sauer Model P229, .40 caliber semi-automatic pistol, and a Sig Sauer Model P250, .40 caliber semi-automatic pistol, were located in JULIEN’s bedroom. JULIEN’s DNA was located on both firearms.
Federal law prohibits convicted felons, such as JULIEN, from possessing firearms. In 2018, JULIEN was convicted of felonies in two separate cases in Orleans Parish Criminal District Court. JULIEN knew he had been convicted of these felonies at the time he possessed the firearms.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the New Orleans Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Brittany Reed of the Violent Crime Unit.
New Haven Man Admits Trafficking Pills Containing MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
Marc H. Silverman, Acting United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and Ketty Larco-Ward, Inspector in Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Boston Division, today announced that GREGORY GRANT, 34, of New Haven, pleaded guilty yesterday before U.S. District Judge Stefan R. Underhill in Bridgeport to a methamphetamine trafficking offense.
According to court documents and statements made in court, between approximately January 2022 and March 2024, Grant’s alleged co-conspirator, Tyrone Brown, mailed parcels containing methamphetamine pills from Georgia to addresses in New Haven associated with Grant. Investigators identified approximately 79 suspicious parcels shipped from Brown to Grant during that time. In January 2023, investigators conducted a court-authorized search of an intercepted parcel and found 16 ziplock sandwich bags containing a total of more than four kilograms of multicolored pills containing methamphetamine. The investigation also revealed that Grant made multiple payments to Brown during the conspiracy.
Grant pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine, an offense that carries a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 10 years and a maximum term of imprisonment of life. Judge Underhill scheduled sentencing for June 11.
Grant has been detained since his arrest on March 27, 2024.
Brown, 33, of Lithonia, Georgia, has been charged by indictment and is currently being sought by law enforcement.
As to Brown, Acting U.S. Attorney Silverman stressed that an indictment is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations, and each defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This investigation is being conducted by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the Narcotics and Bulk Cash Trafficking Task Force, which includes members from the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the U.S. Postal Service – Office of the Inspector General, and the Hartford, Plainville, and Meriden Police Departments. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Nathaniel J. Gentile and Jocelyn Courtney Kaoutzanis.
Nebraska businessman indicted for fraudRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, KAN. – A federal grand jury in Kansas City, Kansas, returned an indictment charging a Nebraska contractor for allegedly defrauding customers across multiple states by failing to construct buildings after being paid.
According to court documents, Bobby Bates Sr., 42, of Grand Island, Nebraska, is charged with two counts of wire fraud.
Bates, as the owner of Built Rite Construction, is accused of accepting deposits for construction projects and not starting or completing the work. Between February 2023 and October 2023, he allegedly defrauded customers in Kansas, Missouri, Iowa, Oklahoma, Nebraska, South Dakota, Illinois, Georgia, Alabama, and Texas resulting in total losses of more than $700,000.
The U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) are investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Scott Rask is prosecuting the case.
OTHER INDICTMENTS
Enoch Kennon, 38, was indicted on one count of felon in possession of a firearm. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) is investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney D. Christopher Oakley 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.
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Muskogee Resident Pleads Guilty to Possession with Intent to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Dacario Larome Stancle, age 26, of Muskogee, Oklahoma, entered a guilty plea to one count of Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.
The Indictment alleged that on October 26, 2024, Stancle knowingly and intentionally possessed 500 grams or more of a detectable amount of methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance, intending to distribute it.
The charges arose from an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Muskogee Police Department.
The Honorable Jason A. Robertson, 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. Stancle will remain in the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending sentencing.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Richard J. Lorenz represented the United States.
Muskogee Resident Pleads Guilty to Failure to Register as A Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Andrew Thomas Edwards, age 44, of Muskogee, Oklahoma, entered a guilty plea to one count of Failure to Register as Sex Offender.
The Indictment alleged that Edwards received felony convictions from the State of Oklahoma for Lewd Molestation on September 20, 2011, for Indecent Exhibition of Child Pornography on November 15, 2001, and for Lewd Molestation on January 28, 2015, and was required to register as a sex offender. From June 4, 2024, until September 21, 2024, Edwards failed to register and update his registration despite entering, leaving, or residing in Indian country, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma.
The charge arose from an investigation by the United States Marshals Service and the Muskogee Police Department.
The Honorable Gerald L. Jackson, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report. Edwards will remain in the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending sentencing.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessie K. Pippin represented the United States.
Muldrow Resident Pleads Guilty to Child Abuse ChargesRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that James Dean Bledsoe, age 32, of Muldrow, Oklahoma, entered a guilty plea to three counts of Child Abuse in Indian Country.
The Indictment alleged that between January 1, 2024, and September 24, 2024, Bledsoe willfully and maliciously harmed, failed to protect, and tortured three children in his care by restraining them, covering their mouths, and punishing them with cold water and by withholding food. The crimes occurred in Sequoyah County, within the boundaries of the Cherokee Nation Reservation, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma.
The charges arose from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Muldrow 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. Bledsoe will remain in the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending sentencing.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Emily Wittlinger represented the United States.
Mexican national previously deported multiple times arrested for illegal re-entryRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Juan Vera-Cervantes, 45, a citizen of Mexico, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with re-entry of removed aliens, which carries a maximum penalty of two years in prison.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas M. Testani, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, on February 25, 2025, Border Patrol agents observed a white cargo van with a Tennessee license plate traveling on the I 490. A check of the license plate revealed that Vera-Cervantes was the registered owner of the vehicle, and he had been previously deported multiple times from the United States and had his final order of removal reinstated on three different occasions. During a traffic stop of the vehicle, Vera-Cervantes stated that he is a citizen and national of Mexico without immigration documents to be in the United States legally. He was placed under arrest.
Vera-Cervantes made an initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark W. Pedersen and was detained.
The complaint is a result of an investigation by U.S. Border Patrol, under the direction of Patrol Agent in Charge Juan Ramirez.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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Mexican National with Multiple Drug Felonies Indicted for Trafficking Methamphetamine and Illegal Reentry After Being Deported Four TimesRead the Press Release
HONOLULU, Hawaii – Acting United States Attorney Kenneth M. Sorenson announced today that a federal grand jury returned an indictment against Enrique Gonzalez Jacobo, 59, of Mexico, charging him with attempting to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and being an illegal alien present in the United States after having been previously convicted of a felony and removed from the United States.
According to information presented in court, Gonzalez Jacobo has been removed to Mexico at least four times and has three prior felony convictions related to drug trafficking. In July 2024, Gonzalez Jacobo was located in Hilo, Hawaii, after having been removed from the United States, and was arrested while attempting to take possession of a package containing over five pounds of methamphetamine hidden inside a stuffed animal.
If convicted of the charged offenses, Gonzalez Jacobo faces up to life in prison, a mandatory minimum term of ten years, and a fine of up to $10,000,000.
The charges in the indictment are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. In the case of conviction, any sentence would be imposed by a United States District Judge based on the statutory sentencing factors and the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines.
This case is being investigated by Homeland Security Investigations. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren Nakamura.
Mexican National Sentenced to Five Years in Prison for Role in Conspiracy to Distribute Kilograms of Fentanyl and Cocaine and Launder ProceedsRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Mexican national previously deported twice from the United States was sentenced yesterday in federal court in Boston for his role in a conspiracy to distribute kilograms of fentanyl and cocaine and launder the proceeds.
Jesus Lopez Medina, 33, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Denise J. Casper to five years in prison followed by three years of supervised release. The defendant will also be subject to deportation upon completion of the sentence. In December 2024, Lopez Medina pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute controlled substances, and one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering.
According to court filings and proceedings, in August 2023, an investigation began into a drug-trafficking organization based in Mexico that sent kilograms of fentanyl and other narcotics via tractor trailer from the area of Ontario, Calif., to Massachusetts. Law enforcement allegedly began communicating with coconspirator Reginal Cazares, who was based in Arizona. In December 2023, Cazares allegedly directed law enforcement to deliver drug money to Lopez Medina in California. On Dec. 4, 2023, an undercover officer delivered $202,090 drug money, received from coconspirators in Massachusetts, to Lopez Medina in Ontario, Calif. In February 2024, Cazares allegedly directed law enforcement to pick up 13 kilograms of narcotics from Lopez Medina in California. On Feb. 16, 2024, Lopez Medina delivered 4 kilograms of fentanyl and 9 kilograms of cocaine to a cooperating witness in Ontario, Calif.
Cazares, along with two other co-defendants have pleaded not guilty and are awaiting trial.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Stephen Belleau, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, Boston Field Division made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the DEA Riverside (CA) Office, the DEA Bakersfield (CA) Office, the DEA Tucson (AZ) Office, the San Bernadino County (CA) Sheriff’s Department, the Inland Regional Narcotics Enforcement Team (CA), the Methuen Police Department, and U.S. Immigrations and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations (Boston). Assistant U.S. Attorney Samuel R. Feldman of the Narcotics & Money Laundering Unit prosecuted the case.
This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The remaining defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Mexican National Sentenced for Illegal Reentry after DeportationRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Camela C. Theeler has sentenced a Mexican man convicted of Illegal Reentry after Deportation. The sentencing took place on March 10, 2025.
Celso Diaz-Martinez, 52, was sentenced to time served and ordered to be removed from the United States.
Diaz-Martinez was indicted for Illegal Reentry after Deportation by a federal grand jury in November 2024. He was found guilty following a federal jury trial on February 18, 2025.
The evidence at trial established Diaz-Martinez is not a U.S. citizen and had been deported from the United States on four prior occasions. Diaz-Martinez was found in Meade County, South Dakota, in November 2024.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the Meade County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Anna Lindrooth and Benjamin Schroeder prosecuted the case.
Diaz-Martinez was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Mexican National Indicted for Illegal Reentry After Six Prior Removals, a Federal Firearms Conviction, and Three Illegal Reentry Felony ConvictionsRead the Press Release
HONOLULU, Hawaii – Acting United States Attorney Kenneth M. Sorenson announced today that a federal grand jury returned an indictment against Navor Salas Cruz, 52, of Mexico, charging him with being an illegal alien present in the United States after having been previously convicted of a felony and removed from the United States.
According to a previously filed criminal complaint, Salas Cruz has been removed to Mexico at least six times and has three felony convictions for illegally reentering the United States. In 2018, he was convicted in the District of Hawaii for illegal reentry and illegally possessing firearms and ammunition as a felon. He was sentenced to 30 months in federal prison. After serving his sentence, he was removed to Mexico in March 2020. He later reentered the United States illegally and was arrested on Kauai in February 2025.
If convicted of the charged offense, Salas Cruz would face up to ten years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.
The charge in the indictment is merely an accusation, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. In the case of conviction, any sentence would be imposed by a United States District Judge based on the statutory sentencing factors and the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines.
This case is being investigated by Homeland Security Investigations. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Darren W.K. Ching.
Mexican National Indicted for Bringing Illegal Aliens through the Arizona Desert Resulting in a DeathRead the Press Release
PHOENIX, Ariz. – On March 4, 2025, a federal grand jury in Phoenix returned a four-count superseding indictment against Jorge Fontes-Garcia, 25, an illegal alien from Sonora, Mexico, for Bringing an Illegal Alien to the United States Unlawfully Resulting in Death, Conspiracy to Bring Illegal Aliens to the United States Unlawfully, Bringing Illegal Aliens to the United States Unlawfully, and Reentry of Removed Alien.
The superseding indictment alleges that on August 23, 2023, Fontes-Garcia acted as the foot guide, leading a group of eight aliens across the Mexico-United States border into southern Arizona. United States Border Patrol apprehended all but one of the illegal aliens in the open desert approximately 19 miles south of Tacna, Arizona. The remaining alien was found by Border Patrol agents shortly thereafter, already deceased due to excessive heat exposure.
A conviction for Bringing Illegal Aliens to the United States Unlawfully Resulting in Death carries a maximum penalty of death or up to life in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. A conviction for Conspiracy to Bring Illegal Aliens to the United States Unlawfully and Bringing Illegal Aliens to the United States Unlawfully each carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and fine of up to $250,000. A conviction for Reentry of Removed Alien carries a maximum of 10 years in prison.
An indictment is simply a method by which a person is charged with criminal activity and raises no inference of guilt. An individual is presumed innocent until evidence is presented to a jury that establishes guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Customs and Border Protection’s United States Border Patrol conducted the investigation in this case. The United States Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, Phoenix, is handling the prosecution.
CASE NUMBER: CR-23-01322-PHX-JAT
RELEASE NUMBER: 2025-034_Fontes-Garcia# # #
For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on X @USAO_AZ for the latest news.Mexican National Indicted for Illegal Reentry into the United StatesRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – Acting United States Attorney Sara C. Sweeney announces the return of an indictment charging Omar Marin-Lopez (41, Mexico) with illegal reentry of removed alien. If convicted, Marin-Lopez faces a maximum penalty of two years in federal prison.
According to court documents, Marin-Lopez is a citizen and national of Mexico. He was previously removed from the United States on July 17, 2008; October 4, 2012; and January 11, 2013. On November 5, 2024, Marin-Lopez was again found in the United States in Hillsborough County. Marin-Lopez did not receive the consent of the Attorney General or the Secretary of Homeland Security for the United States to apply for readmission to United States.
An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
This case was investigated by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO). It is being prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Joseph Wheeler, III.
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.
Mexican National Facing Drug and Immigration ChargesRead the Press Release
SALT LAKE CITY, Utah –A Mexican national, in the United States illegally, appeared in court today after he was charged with drug and immigration crimes.
Juan Alexis Castanon-Chavez, 27, of Las Vegas, Nevada, was initially charged by complaint on March 3, 2025. A federal grand jury in Salt Lake City returned an indictment March 12, 2025.
According to court documents, agents with the Wasatch Metro Drug Task Force began an investigation into Castanon-Chavez and other co-conspirators of a drug trafficking organization suspected of distributing large quantities of narcotics into the United States. On March 2, 2025, agents arranged a controlled delivery of narcotics from Castanon-Chavez to an informant. Agents observed Castanon-Chavez drive to and away from the location of the controlled delivery in a Volkswagen Golf. Law enforcement conducted a stop of the vehicle for a traffic violation and a K9 officer alerted positive for narcotics. Castanon-Chavez was taken into custody. Inside the vehicle, agents seized approximately 7,930 grams of field-tested positive methamphetamine.
Castanon-Chavez is charged with possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute, and illegal re-entry of a previously removed alien. His initial appearance on the indictment was March 13, 2025 before a U.S. Magistrate Judge at the Orrin G. Hatch United States District Courthouse in downtown Salt Lake City. A two-day jury trial is scheduled for May 16, 2025.
Acting United States Attorney Felice John Viti for the District of Utah made the announcement.
The case is being investigated by the Wasatch Metro Drug Task Force (WMDTF), consisting of the FBI and the Davis Metro Narcotic Strike Force (DMNSF).
Assistant United States Attorney Vernon G. Stejskal of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah is prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Mexican National Charged with Firearm CrimesRead the Press Release
SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – A federal grand jury in Salt Lake City returned an indictment charging a Mexican national, in the United State illegally, with firearm and immigration crimes.
Gerardo Lopez-Gutierrez, 44, of Salt Lake County, Utah, was initially charged by complaint on March 6, 2025.
According to court documents, on March 4, 2025, Lopez-Gutierrez was approached by law enforcement for unlawful camping. During the interaction, Lopez-Gutierrez was in possession of a Ruger AR-556 rifle and a records check showed the firearm was reported stolen out of Moab, Utah. Lopez-Gutierrez is restricted from possessing a firearm after he was convicted of re-entry of a previously removed alien in the District of Arizona. As a result, Lopez-Gutierrez was taken into custody.
Lopez-Gutierrez is charged with felon in possession of a firearm, alien in possession of a firearm, and illegal re-entry of a previously removed alien. His initial appearance on the indictment is scheduled for March 14, 2025 at 11:30 a.m. before a U.S. Magistrate Judge at the Orrin G. Hatch United States District Courthouse in downtown Salt Lake City.
Acting United States Attorney Felice John Viti for the District of Utah made the announcement.
The case is being investigated by an FBI Task Force Officer with the Salt Lake City Police Department. Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Assistant United States Attorney Victoria K. McFarland of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah is prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Mexican National Arrested for Illegal Reentry by A Previously Deported AlienRead the Press Release
Ocala, Florida – Acting United States Attorney Sara C. Sweeney announces the arrest of Moises Vasconselos-Garcia (26, Dade City) on a criminal complaint charging him with illegal reentry by a previously deported alien. If convicted, Vasconselos faces up to two years in federal prison.
According to court records, Vasconselos is a Mexican national who was previously removed from the United States on May 30, 2022. He has never applied to the Attorney General of the United States and/or the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security for permission to re-enter the United States. On February 25, 2025, he was found voluntarily back in the United States.
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation that a defendant has committed a federal criminal offense. Every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
This case was investigated by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Enforcement Removal Operations (ERO) and the Sumter County Sherif’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Hannah Nowalk Watson.
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.
Mexican National Arrested for Illegal Reentry by A Previously Deported AlienRead the Press Release
Ocala, Florida – Acting United States Attorney Sara C. Sweeney announces the arrest of Felipe Garcia-Vasquez (39, Morriston) on a criminal complaint charging him with illegal reentry by a previously deported alien. If convicted, Garcia faces up to two years in federal prison.
According to court records, Garcia is a Mexican national who was previously removed from the United States on January 21, 2013. He has never applied to the Attorney General of the United States and/or the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security for permission to re-enter the United States. On February 26, 2025, he was found voluntarily back in the United States.
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation that a defendant has committed a federal criminal offense. Every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
This case was investigated by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Enforcement Removal Operations (ERO) and the Marion County Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Hannah Nowalk Watson.
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.
Methamphetamine and fentanyl dealer sentenced to 25 years in Corpus ChristiRead the Press Release
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A 45-year-old Houston woman has been ordered to federal prison for possessing and distributing numerous illegal drugs between Houston and Rockport, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Cheri Ann Palmer pleaded guilty Sept. 26, 2024.
U.S. District Judge David Morales has now ordered her to serve 240 months for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute more than 50 grams of methamphetamine in addition to 60 months for possession of a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime. The sentences will be served consecutively for a total of 25 years in federal prison which will be immediately followed by a three-year-term of supervised release.
“The Southern District of Texas does not tolerate drug traffickers,” said Ganjei. “Drugs, especially methamphetamine and fentanyl, destroy lives and damage communities. Our Corpus Christi office did great work taking this dealer off the streets.”
On Oct. 2, 2023, law enforcement responded to a disturbance at a local motel. There, they encountered Palmer along with a backpack that contained 388.1 grams of methamphetamine, 3.1 grams of heroin and a Sig Sauer 9mm pistol. Upon searching the motel room associated with Palmer, authorities also discovered an additional 249.9 grams of methamphetamine and 28.45 grams of fentanyl in a box. Palmer admitted that the fentanyl and methamphetamine had been smuggled in from Mexico.
The investigation led to Houston where law enforcement witnessed Palmer loading backpacks and containers into a GMC Denali in Houston. A traffic stop and subsequent search resulted in the discovery of 590.76 grams of methamphetamine, 81.5 grams of fentanyl analogue, 71.85 grams of heroin mixed with fentanyl, 442 grams of marijuana and 10 grams of cocaine.
Authorities also found 1,679 assorted blue, pink and white pills marked M30 intended to replicate Oxycodone pills. However, the pills actually contained fentanyl mixed with traces of methamphetamine, heroin, Xylazine, acetaminophen, benzocaine, caffeine, lidocaine and quinine.
The investigation revealed Palmer had been dealing drugs in the Houston area for several years.
Palmer has been and will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
The Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation with the assistance of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, U.S. Marshals Service, Rockport Police Department and Harris County Sherriff Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Yasmine K. Tucker and Ashley Martin prosecuted the case.
Methamphetamine Trafficker Sentenced to over 30 years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Erik Jeovany Garcia Brizuela, a Mexican national illegally living in the United States, was sentenced to over 30 years in federal prison for his role in a drug-trafficking conspiracy that involved approximately 92.4 pounds of methamphetamine, announced Acting U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Chad E. Meacham.
On March 11, 2025, United States District Judge Jane J. Boyle sentenced Garcia Brizuela, 35, to 365 months’ imprisonment. According to court documents, in December 2023, Garcia Brizuela pled guilty to conspiring to possess with intent to distribute a mixture or substance containing methamphetamine in 2021, during which he sold methamphetamine to a confidential human source and enlisted a co-conspirator, Melissa Enit Alvarado, to translate between Spanish and English drug-price negotiations and other details such as meeting times and places with methamphetamine purchasers.
At Garcia Brizuela’s sentencing hearing, a Special Agent with the Federal Bureau of Investigation testified that Garcia Brizuela cooked liquid methamphetamine into crystal form for his suppliers from Mexico. Testimony further revealed that, after he stopped cooking methamphetamine, he sold methamphetamine for $3,200 to $7,000 per kilogram. On one occasion, Garcia Brizuela received as much as 40 kilograms of methamphetamine. In all, the methamphetamine for which Garcia Brizuela was held responsible had a wholesale value ranging from $134,000.00 to $296,100.00. Sentencing testimony also revealed that Garcia Brizuela sold heroin, at a price of $14,000 per kilogram, aided by Alvarado’s translation assistance.
Melissa Enit Alvarado pled guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine in September 2022 and was sentenced to 46 months’ imprisonment on June 23, 2023 by United States District Judge Jane J. Boyle.
“Multiple law enforcement agencies worked together to hold the defendant accountable for his leadership role in an organization that distributed a large amount of methamphetamine,” said FBI Dallas Special Agent in Charge R. Joseph Rothrock. “Drugs inflict our communities with crime and addiction. The FBI thanks our partners for their continued collaboration in disrupting criminal organizations that threaten the well-being of our residents.”
Acting U.S. Attorney Chad E. Meacham praised the joint efforts of all law enforcement agencies involved in the case, including the Dallas Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with assistance from the Drug Enforcement Administration Dallas Field Division, the Dallas Police Department, the Department of Homeland Security, the North Richland Hills Police Department, the Grand Prairie Police Department, the Coppell Police Department and members of the North Texas Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Strike Force. Assistant United States Attorney George Leal prosecuted the case.
This operation is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
Mason City Man Found Guilty of Distribution of Methamphetamine and Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of Drug Trafficking CrimeRead the Press Release
Darius Stackhouse, age 33, from Mason City, was found guilty of one count of conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance, four counts of distribution of a controlled substance, and one count of possession of a firearm during and in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, by a jury on March 12, 2025, after a 3-day trial in federal court in Sioux City. The verdict was returned following about 3 1/2 hours of jury deliberations.
The evidence at trial showed that between June 2021 and March 2023, Stackhouse was part of an ongoing drug conspiracy based in Mason City, Iowa to distribute methamphetamine. Stackhouse sold more than 3 pounds of methamphetamine to sources working with law enforcement. During the execution of several search warrants, more than $30,000 cash was located in Stackhouse’s residence, as well as additional methamphetamine and a firearm he admitted belonged to him.
Sentencing before United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand will be set after a presentence report is prepared. Stackhouse was taken into custody by the United States Marshal after the verdict was returned and will remain in custody pending sentencing. Stackhouse faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years’ imprisonment, a possible maximum sentence of life imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and 5-years of supervised release following any imprisonment.
The case was investigated Cerro Gordo County Sheriff’s Department and the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Ron Timmons.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 24-3001.
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Man Sentenced to over 21 Years for $3,128,400.00 of MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
Gerardo Barraza-Ortiz, a Mexican national illegally living in the United States, was sentenced to more than 21 years in federal prison for his role in trafficking over 48 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine, announced Acting U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Chad E. Meacham.
On March 10, 2025, Barraza-Ortiz, 42, was sentenced to 262 months’ imprisonment by United States District Judge David C. Godbey. According to court documents, Barraza-Ortiz pled guilty on September 5, 2023, to possessing with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine.
Testimony at sentencing revealed that in June 2022, after two controlled methamphetamine purchases of approximately one ounce each, officers with the Duncanville, Texas police department executed a search warrant at an auto body shop located on South Cockrell Hill Road in Dallas, Texas. As officers entered the building, Barraza-Ortiz fled from officers but was soon apprehended.
A Duncanville police officer testified that a search of the building revealed approximately 48.66 kilograms (107.05 pounds) of crystalized methamphetamine. Most of the methamphetamine was located in 1,022 small packages hidden in buckets and pallets. A further search of the auto body shop also revealed a freezer, burners, coolers, storage bins, and barrels that were being used to store, cook, and clean liquid methamphetamine into a crystalized form. Officers also located three firearms and several pounds of marijuana during the search.
According to the Duncanville Police Department, the 48.66 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine, if sold in ounce quantities, has a street value of approximately $3,128,400.00 in the Dallas, Texas area.
“This conviction sends a clear message that our community will not tolerate the distribution of dangerous narcotics. The successful prosecution of this case is a testament to the dedication and hard work of personnel of the Duncanville Police Department and the United States Attorney’s Office. Removing over $3 million worth of methamphetamine from our streets is a significant victory in our ongoing fight against drug trafficking, and we remain committed to protecting our neighborhoods from the devastating impact of illegal drugs,” said Chief of Police Matthew Stogner.
Acting U.S. Attorney Chad E. Meacham praised the joint efforts of all law enforcement agencies involved in the case, including the Duncanville Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant U.S. Attorneys George Leal and Sarah Douglas prosecuted the case.
Man Arrested, Accused of $270,000 Fraud Involving False Concert ClaimsRead the Press Release
ST. LOUIS – A man was arrested Tuesday in Nashville on an indictment that accuses him of fraudulently obtaining $270,000 from a talent booking agency in St. Louis, Missouri with false claims about a concert appearance by a national recording artist.
Joshua Adam Eldridge, 37, was indicted February 26 in U.S. District Court in St. Louis on one count of wire fraud. The indictment says that in March and April of 2024, Eldridge made a series of claims, starting with a false claim that he had an existing relationship with the artist and was talking to her about performing at the Afro Nation Detroit 2024 concert. Eldridge sent the booking agency fake screenshots of texts with the artist’s creative director, the indictment says. Although Eldridge did make a request to the artist through a third party, the offer was rejected, the indictment says. After the victim wired $270,000 for the artist to Eldridge, he used the money for living expenses, including airline tickets, clothing and accessories, the indictment says.
When the victim confronted Eldridge about a planned concert by the artist the same month in Detroit, Eldridge promised a return of the deposit, bolstering the false claim with a fabricated refund agreement between Eldridge and the artist’s creative director, the indictment says.
Wire fraud is punishable by up to 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine or both.
A charge set forth in an indictment is merely an accusation and does not constitute proof of guilt. Every defendant is presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty.
The FBI investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kyle Bateman is prosecuting the case.
Louisiana man sentenced for trafficking methamphetamine through East TexasRead the Press Release
TYLER, Texas – A Shreveport, LA, man has been sentenced to over 21 years in federal prison for drug trafficking violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Abe McGlothin, Jr.
Darren Tremaine Jackson, 41, was convicted at trial in March 2024 of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. Jackson was sentenced to 260 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge J. Campbell Barker on March 12, 2025.
According to information presented in court, on February 13, 2020, Jackson, and co-defendant Gary Wayne Sepulvado, were stopped by law enforcement officers for a traffic violation in Smith County. After observing a strong odor of marijuana coming from the vehicle, a search was executed, and a kilogram of methamphetamine was discovered. Sepulvado pleaded guilty to related charges on November 15, 2023, and is awaiting sentencing.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Texas Department of Public Safety, and the Smith County Sheriff’s Office. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ryan Locker and Dustin Farahnak.
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Long Island Bloods Member Charged with Gang-Related Shooting and Selling Fentanyl Resulting in Death and Two Non-Fatal PoisoningsRead the Press Release
Earlier today, a 12-count superseding indictment was unsealed in federal court in Central Islip charging Bloods gang member Joshua Crowell, also known as “Twiggy,” and Bloods associate Bruce King, also known as “Brucey,” with assault in aid of racketeering. Crowell was also charged with distributing fentanyl resulting in death, distributing fentanyl resulting in serious bodily injury and other gang related crimes committed in Suffolk County between 2021 and 2024. Crowell and King were arraigned this afternoon before United States Magistrate Judge Lee G. Dunst and ordered detained pending trial.
John J. Durham, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, Raymond A. Tierney, Suffolk County District Attorney, Michael Alfonso, Acting Special Agent in Charge, Homeland Security Investigations, New York (HSI New York) and Kevin Catalina, Commissioner, Suffolk County Police Department (SCPD), announced the charges.
“The charges in the superseding indictment highlight the extreme danger that violent gangs like the Bloods pose to the people of Long Island, ranging from shootings that injure bystanders to dealing lethal drugs that claim lives and destroy families,” stated United States Attorney Durham. “My Office is working closely with our federal and local partners to make our communities safer by dismantling and eradicating street gangs that have zero regard for human life and holding gang members and associates accountable for their crimes.”
Mr. Durham thanked the Nassau County Police Department and the Southampton Town Police Department for their assistance.
"These alleged gang members represent a grave threat to the safety and stability of our community. Their willingness to engage in brazen acts of violence - as demonstrated by the shooting of three victims in Southampton - shows a complete disregard for human life. Equally disturbing, is the distribution of fentanyl, a lethal substance that has devastated countless families across Suffolk County,” stated District Attorney Tierney. “The charges announced today send a clear message that such dangerous criminal activity will not be tolerated in our neighborhoods and I thank the EDNY for their leadership on this investigation. This case exemplifies why partnerships between local, state and federal law enforcement agencies are essential in our fight against organized crime. These collaborative efforts ensure that violent offenders face the full weight of the law, and they provide us with the tools needed to dismantle criminal organizations from top to bottom.”
“As alleged, the defendants had blatant disregard for human life through their brazen violence and deadly distribution of fentanyl into our Long Island neighborhoods. HSI and its law enforcement partners will continue to identify, disrupt, and dismantle violent gangs operating within our community. I commend our law enforcement partners for their relentless effort and professionalism to make our communities safer,” stated HSI Acting Special Agent in Charge Alfonso.
“For years, these individuals have been a scourge on our community through the distribution of fentanyl and vicious gang-related shootings,” stated SCPD Commissioner Catalina. “While their activities often targeted rival gang members, their recklessness could very easily have injured innocent victims. The Suffolk County Police Department will continue to work with its partner law enforcement agencies to put violent gang members behind bars and ensure the safety of Suffolk County residents and visitors.”
As set forth in the superseding indictment and court filings, the defendants engaged in multiple acts of violence on behalf of the Bloods, including a March 2, 2021 shooting in which they traveled to a party hosted by rival gang members at a rented home in Southampton, New York. Upon arrival, the defendants began shooting into the residence with three guns, including an AK-47 style assault rifle, wounding three partygoers who were not gang members.
Additionally, Crowell and co-conspirators operated a longtime drug trafficking network during which Crowell sold fentanyl and other illegal substances. In May 2022, Crowell sold fentanyl that caused serious injury to a female customer. Less than one month later, Crowell sold fentanyl that caused a male customer to stop breathing and die from ingesting the fentanyl. In June 2023, Crowell distributed fentanyl that was ingested by a male customer and caused him to stop breathing. In this instance, life-saving efforts were successful, and he survived.
The charges in the indictment are allegations, and the defendants are presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty. If convicted, Crowell and King each face up to life imprisonment.
This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
The government’s case is being handled by the Criminal Section of the Office’s Long Island Division. Assistant United States Attorneys Bradley T. King and James R. Simmons and Special Assistant United States Attorney Donald N. Barclay are in charge of the prosecution.
The Defendants
JOSHUA CROWELL (also known as “Twiggy”)
Age: 31
Huntington, New YorkBRUCE KING (also known as “Brucey”)
Age: 26
Huntington, New YorkE.D.N.Y. Docket No. 24-CR-257 (S-1) (GRB)
Leader of Meth Smuggling Conspiracy Sentenced to More Than 17 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
DEL RIO, Texas – A Maypearl man was sentenced in a federal court in Del Rio to 210 months in prison for his role as an organizer and leader in a conspiracy to import methamphetamine into the U.S. from Mexico.
According to court documents, Stetson Lee Spearman, 36, provided his pickup truck to be used to import 3.422 kgs of 100% pure methamphetamine on July 25, 2020 through the Del Rio Port of Entry. Spearman also arranged for co-defendant Linnette Rodriguez-Potter to be the driver and recruited another co-defendant, Joshua Keith Stewart, to drive to Del Rio in order to monitor the drug smuggling operation.
Spearman was arrested Dec. 10, 2021 and pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to import methamphetamine on April 25, 2022.
Rodriguez-Potter was sentenced Dec. 16, 2024 to 168 months imprisonment; Stewart was sentenced Oct. 4, 2024 to 235 months; and Sally Renae Smith, who had coordinated logistics with Rodriguez-Potter through cell phone calls and text messages, was sentenced Feb. 5, 2024 to 292 months imprisonment.
Acting U.S. Attorney Margaret Leachman for the Western District of Texas made the announcement.
HSI investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Rex Beasley prosecuted the case.
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Kyle Man Sentenced to Six Years in Federal Prison for Conspiring to Distribute Methamphetamine in the Pine Ridge Reservation and in Rapid CityRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier has sentenced a Kyle, South Dakota, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance.
Milo Shot With Arrow, age 51, was sentenced on March 7, 2025, to six years in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Shot With Arrow was indicted by a federal grand jury in March 2024, and pleaded guilty on November 13, 2024.
Shot With Arrow’s conviction stemmed from the large-scale distribution of methamphetamine in the Pine Ridge Reservation and in Rapid City, South Dakota. Misty Hornbeck and Nathan Tobacco-Clifford were the source of supply for Shot With Arrow and codefendants Malcom Shot With Arrow, Ruben Clifford, and Tasha Rooks. During the course of the conspiracy, Shot With Arrow and several of his codefendants made trips to Colorado to pick up substantial amounts of methamphetamine from Misty Hornbeck and others. Other times Hornbeck would deliver the drugs to Tobacco-Clifford and others in South Dakota. Once the methamphetamine was in South Dakota, it would be further distributed by multiple individuals, including Shot With Arrow. Between 500 grams and 1.5 kilograms of methamphetamine was distributed during the course of this criminal enterprise.
The codefendants’ cases are pending.
This case was investigated by the FBI and the Badlands Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force, which is comprised of agents from the FBI, South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, Bureau of Indian Affairs Division of Drug Enforcement, Martin Police Department, and the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorney Heather Knox prosecuted the case.
Shot With Arrow was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service following sentencing.
Keene Man Pleads Guilty to His Role in the Production of Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
CONCORD – A Keene man pleaded guilty today in federal court in connection with his role in the production of child sexual abuse material (CSAM), Acting U.S. Attorney Jay McCormack announces.
Paul Baird, 44, pleaded guilty to aiding and abetting the production of child pornography. Judge Steven J. McAuliffe scheduled sentencing for June 25, 2025.
According to the charging documents and statements made in court, on January 29, 2024, Baird took at least one sexually explicit photograph of the minor victim’s genitalia and posted sexually explicit images of the minor victim on a dark website dedicated to CSAM. During the investigation, law enforcement found images and videos that constitute CSAM on the defendant’s phone.
At the time of his arrest, the defendant was employed as a bus driver by the Student Transportation of America, which is a school transportation company that services the Contoocook Valley (ConVal) School District.
The charge of aiding and abetting the production of child pornography provides for a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years in prison, maximum penalty of up to 30 years in prison, and a fine of up to $250,000 or twice the gross gain or loss, whichever is greater. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.
Homeland Security Investigations led the investigation. The Keene Police Department provided valuable assistance with this investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Anna Krasinski is prosecuting the case.
The case is brought as part of Project Safe Childhood. In 2006, the Department of Justice created Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov/.
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Kansas man sentenced for possession of child sexual abuse materialsRead the Press Release
WICHITA, KAN. – A Kansas man was sentenced to 188 months in prison after federal law enforcement officers discovered child sexual abuse materials at his home.
According to court documents, Scott Warren Vass, 57, of Arkansas City pleaded guilty to one count of possession of child pornography.
In April 2023, while executing a search warrant at Vass’ home, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) agents seized multiple devices belonging to Vass containing child sexual abuse materials. Further investigation revealed several of Vass’ Google accounts also contained sexually explicit depictions of minors under 12 years of age.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Molly Gordon prosecuted the case.
Project Safe Childhood
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.###
Jury Convicts Ohio Man of Multiple Drug Trafficking OffensesRead the Press Release
COVINGTON, Ky. – An Aberdeen, Ohio, man was convicted on Thursday by a federal jury in Covington for multiple drug trafficking charges.
After slightly over one hour of deliberation, following a four-day trial, the jury convicted 37-year-old Gary Cunningham, Jr. of one count of conspiracy with the intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, one count of possession with intent to distribute cocaine, and eight counts of distribution of five grams or more of methamphetamine.
According to testimony at trial, law enforcement identified Frederick Overly III, as a source of supply for methamphetamine, and used a confidential informant to make eight controlled purchases from Overly. Each purchase was arranged by the informant calling Overly, who in turn indicated that he would need to get the methamphetamine from his supplier, Cunningham. Each time, Cunningham sold Overly the methamphetamine that Overly subsequently sold to the informant, totaling more than 50 grams.
Cunningham was previously convicted of three counts of first-degree trafficking of a controlled substance in Mason County Circuit Court in 2013, and second-degree robbery in Mason County Circuit Court in 2014.
Cunningham and Overly were indicted in July 2023. Overly pleaded guilty to his charges in August 2024.
Paul McCaffrey, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky, and Michael Stansbury, Special Agent in Charge, FBI, Louisville Field Office; jointly announced the conviction.
The investigation was conducted by the FBI. The U.S. Attorney’s Office was represented in the case by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Tony Bracke and Drew Spievack.
Cunningham will appear for sentencing on May 29, 2025. He faces a minimum of 15 years and a maximum of life in prison. However, the Court must consider the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and the applicable federal sentencing statutes before imposing a sentence.
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Johnstown Man Sentenced to over Four Years in Prison for Narcotics TraffickingRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Johnstown, Pennsylvania, was sentenced in federal court to 50 months in prison, to be followed by four years of supervised release, on his conviction of conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, heroin, and methamphetamine, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
United States District Judge Marilyn J. Horan imposed the sentence on Joshua Edmonds, 31. According to information presented to the Court, from in and around February 2021 to in and around April 2021, in the Western District of Pennsylvania, Edmonds conspired with others to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of a mixture of fentanyl, 50 grams or more of a mixture of methamphetamine, and a quantity of a mixture of heroin. Edmonds was intercepted on a federal wiretap obtaining quantities of the drugs that he distributed to other members of the drug organization in Johnstown.
Assistant United States Attorney Maureen Sheehan-Balchon prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Laurel Highlands Resident Agency and Homeland Security Investigations for the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of Edmonds. Additional agencies participating in the investigation included the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, United States Postal Inspection Service, Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, Pennsylvania State Police, Cambria County District Attorney’s Office, Indiana County
District Attorney’s Office, Cambria County Sheriff’s Office, Cambria Township Police Department, Indiana Borough Police Department, Johnstown Police Department, Upper Yoder Township Police Department, Richland Police Department, Ferndale Police Department, and other local law enforcement agencies.This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
Johnstown Man Pleads Guilty to Narcotics Trafficking and Unlawful Possession of FirearmRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Johnstown, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of violating federal narcotics and firearms laws, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
James Dotson, 46, pleaded guilty to Counts One, Three, Four, Five, and Nine of the Superseding Indictment before United States District Judge Marilyn J. Horan.
In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that, from in and around April 2019 to in and around July 2021, in the Western District of Pennsylvania, Dotson conspired with others to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, 500 grams or more of a mixture of methamphetamine, 28 grams or more of a mixture of crack, 40 grams or more of a mixture of fentanyl, and quantities of heroin and cocaine. Dotson was one of the targets of a federal wiretap and was intercepted obtaining quantities of the drugs that he distributed to others. Further, in and around June 2021, Dotson unlawfully possessed a firearm as a convicted felon. Federal law prohibits possession of a firearm or ammunition by a convicted felon.
Judge Horan scheduled sentencing for July 24, 2025. The law provides for a total maximum sentence of not less than 15 years and up to life in prison, a fine of up to $20 million, or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Maureen Sheehan-Balchon is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Laurel Highlands Resident Agency and Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Dotson. Additional agencies participating in this investigation include the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, United States Postal Inspection Service, Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, Pennsylvania State Police, Cambria County District Attorney’s Office, Indiana County District Attorney’s Office, Cambria County Sheriff’s Office, Cambria Township Police Department, Indiana Borough Police Department, Johnstown Police Department, Upper Yoder Township Police Department, Richland Police Department, Ferndale Police Department, and other local law enforcement agencies.
This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
Johnstown Man Pleads Guilty to Narcotics TraffickingRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Johnstown, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal narcotics laws, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
Azheem Ellis, 49, pleaded guilty to Count One of the Superseding Indictment before United States District Judge Marilyn J. Horan.
In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that, from in and around April 2019 to in and around July 2021, in the Western District of Pennsylvania, Ellis conspired with others to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of a mixture of fentanyl, 50 grams or more of a mixture of methamphetamine, and quantities of heroin, cocaine, and crack. Ellis was one of the targets of a federal wiretap and was intercepted obtaining quantities of the drugs that he distributed to others.
Judge Horan scheduled sentencing for July 24, 2025. The law provides for a total maximum sentence of not less than five years and up to 40 years in prison, a fine of up to $5 million, or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Maureen Sheehan-Balchon is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Laurel Highlands Resident Agency and Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Ellis. Additional agencies participating in this investigation include the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, United States Postal Inspection Service, Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, Pennsylvania State Police, Cambria County District Attorney’s Office, Indiana County District Attorney’s Office, Cambria County Sheriff’s Office, Cambria Township Police Department, Indiana Borough Police Department, Johnstown Police Department, Upper Yoder Township Police Department, Richland Police Department, Ferndale Police Department, and other local law enforcement agencies.
This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.