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31 March 2025
Repeat Trafficker Sentenced to 6 ½ Years for Distributing Fentanyl, and Cocaine from New York Across the Mid-Coast AreaRead the Press Release
PORTLAND, Maine: An Owls Head man was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Portland for trafficking fentanyl and cocaine.
U.S. District Judge John A. Woodcock, Jr. sentenced Felix Jose Bautista, 35, to 78 months in prison to be followed by four years of supervised release.
According to court records, from January 2024 to June 2024, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) covertly investigated a drug dealer who obtained fentanyl, cocaine, and other drugs from sources of supply in New York City and then brought those drugs to Maine to sell. HSI identified three locations where the drug dealer was delivering controlled substances, including an Owls Head residence belonging to Bautista. HSI executed a search warrant at the residence, recovering about $11,319 in cash, two packages containing approximately 154 grams of cocaine and one package containing approximately 62 grams of fentanyl. Bautista admitted to investigators that he had purchased the drugs from a coconspirator, believed them to be cocaine and heroin, and that he was storing the cash on behalf of his accomplice. He claimed to have been operating for about five months, routinely ordering 200 grams of cocaine from the supplier as well as 60 grams of heroin as necessary to fulfill customer demand.
HSI, the Maine Drug Enforcement Agency, and the Knox County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case.
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Red Lake Man with Multiple Prior Felonies Charged with Illegal Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – Darrell Emery Loud, a Red Lake man, has been indicted for possessing a firearm as a felon, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Lisa D. Kirkpatrick.
According to court documents, on September 12, 2024, Darrell Emery Loud, 42, was found in possession of a Remington Model 870 Express 20-gauge shotgun. Because Loud has multiple prior felony convictions in Beltrami County for DWI, domestic assault, and fleeing from a peace officer, he is prohibited under federal law from possessing firearms or ammunition at any time.
The indictment charges Loud with one count of illegal possession of a firearm as a felon. His arraignment hearing is scheduled for April 2, 2025, in U.S. District Court before Magistrate Judge Leo I. Brisbois.
“The safety and security of Red Lake Nation is of the upmost importance to my office,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Lisa D. Kirkpatrick. “We deeply value our partnership with the Red Lake Police Department. Together, along with our federal partners, we will continue to hold accountable those who would bring violence to the Red Lake Indian Reservation.”
This case is the result of investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Red Lake Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren O. Roso is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Red Bluff Man Sentenced for Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl and Being a Felon in Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Austreberto Santamaria-Valencia, 29, of Red Bluff, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Troy L. Nunley to four years and three months in prison for possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and for being a felon in possession of a firearm, Acting U.S. Attorney Michele Beckwith announced.
According to court documents, on Feb. 6, 2021, law enforcement officers responded to a report of a suspected overdose by a motel guest in Red Bluff. When officers entered the room, they found Santamaria-Valencia sitting in a chair, unconscious but breathing. On the bed near him, officers saw multiple plastic bags containing what appeared to be blue pills, of the type sold as counterfeit oxycodone pills, but which often contain fentanyl. Officers were able to wake Santamaria-Valencia. In response to their questions, Santamaria-Valencia indicated that he had taken fentanyl. Medical personnel tended to Santamaria-Valencia and confirmed he was not in danger of overdosing. A records check indicated that Santamaria-Valencia had a warrant out for his arrest, and officers arrested him at that time.
Officers searched Santamaria-Valencia’s room and car and seized approximately 1,000 counterfeit M-30 oxycodone pills, a loaded Taurus G3C 9 mm semi-automatic pistol, two bottles containing a total of 170 Farmapram (alprazolam-Xanax) pills, five packets of suboxone strips, 90 grams of marijuana, approximately $7,000 in cash, and other items commonly used in street sales of narcotics.
This case was the product of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, the Red Bluff Police Department, and the Tehama County District Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney James Conolly prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the U.S. Department of Justice launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see www.justice.gov/projectguardian.
Putnam County Man Sentenced to Prison for Federal Gun CrimeRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Edward Leon Sowards, 35, of Hurricane, was sentenced today to one year and three months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, for possession of a firearm by a person convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Sowards admitted that he purchased a Taurus model Public Defender Judge Poly .45-caliber/.410-gauge revolver from an individual in June 2023. Sowards further admitted that he knew the individual had stolen the firearm. Sowards was later confronted about the stolen firearm being in his possession. On June 21, 2023, Sowards met with the individual in a Hurricane parking lot and returned the firearm. Sowards admitted that he knew the serial number had been removed from the firearm at the time he returned it to the individual.
Federal law prohibits a person convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence from possessing a firearm or ammunition. Sowards knew he was prohibited from possessing a firearm because of his prior conviction for domestic battery in Putnam County Magistrate Court on April 20, 2012.
Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the West Virginia State Police.
United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Courtney L. Finney prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:24-cr-147.
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Portland Man Sentenced to 2 Years in Prison for Being a Felon in Possession of AmmunitionRead the Press Release
PORTLAND, Maine: A Portland man was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Portland for being a felon in possession of ammunition.
U.S. District Judge Nancy Torresen sentenced Tyson Dyer, 38, to 24 months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release.
According to court records, in January 2023, officers from the Portland Police Department responded to a 911 call about two people smoking something inside a vehicle and something lit on fire inside the vehicle. When the officers arrived, Dyer was alone in the vehicle, which was registered to him. The officers observed an empty black gun holster on the front seat and after searching the vehicle, located five loaded magazines beneath some items on the seat. In all, officers recovered 103 rounds. Dyer was precluded from possessing ammunition due to previous convictions, including for drug trafficking and illegally possessing a firearm.
ATF investigated the case with assistance from the Portland Police Department.
Project Safe Neighborhoods: This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-me/psn.
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Placer County Man Sentenced to 5 Years in Prison for Child Exploitation OffensesRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Randy Anger, 57, of Carnelian Bay, was sentenced today to five years in prison and ordered to pay $5,000 in restitution and $10,200 in special assessments for distribution and receipt of child pornography, Acting U.S. Attorney Michele Beckwith announced.
According to court documents, in May 2021, Anger distributed and received child sexual abuse material on the Kik Messenger app while communicating with Brent Hooton. Hooton was separately charged and convicted in the Eastern District of California with production and distribution of child pornography and was sentenced to 27 years in prison. In November 2021, Anger also received several images of child sexual abuse material on the Wickr app.
This case was the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with assistance by Homeland Security Investigations and the Placer County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Denise N. Yasinow prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute those who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. Click on the “resources” tab for information about internet-safety education.
Philadelphia Man Sentenced for Role in Drug Trafficking OperationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Rodney Johnson, 48, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was sentenced today to 188 months in federal prison for his leadership of a drug trafficking organization that sold large amounts of methamphetamine, fentanyl, and cocaine in North Central West Virginia.
According to court documents, Johnson recruited others to distribute in Morgantown, West Virginia, paying the distributors a salary to transport and sell the drugs. He supplied significant quantities of illicit drugs to be sold.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda Wesley prosecuted the cases on behalf of the government.
This case was investigated by the Mon Metro Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative. The task force consists of the Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; the Drug Enforcement Administration; the West Virginia State Police; the Monongalia County Sheriff’s Office; the Monongalia County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office; the Morgantown Police Department; the WVU Police Department; the Granville Police Department; and the Star City Police Department.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Participant in Nationwide Rental Car Theft Scheme Sentenced to 75 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
ST. LOUIS – U.S. District Judge Audrey G. Fleissig on Monday sentenced a man who participated in a nationwide scheme that stole $1.17 million worth of luxury rental cars to 75 months in prison.
James E. McGhaney, 36, of New York City, was also ordered to repay $938,963.
McGhaney recruited and supervised others who picked up the rental cars by using false driver’s licenses and counterfeit credit cards. The vehicles had been reserved using stolen identities. In all, the conspirators used the identities of at least 23 victims to steal 19 rental vehicles. McGhaney was one of eight defendants who have pleaded guilty in the case.
Tyrell A. Oliver, 40, of Atlanta, Georgia, was the scheme’s organizer. He was sentenced in February to 90 months in prison after pleading guilty in October to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, three counts of wire fraud and three counts of aggravated identity theft. McGhaney pleaded guilty to one conspiracy count and three counts of wire fraud.
Rashad Holder, 35, of New York, was sentenced to 65 months in prison and ordered to repay $581,711. Steven B. Matthews, 40, of Atlanta, was sentenced to 24 months in prison and ordered to repay $107,072. Reginald M. Glenn, 36, was sentenced to 13 months in prison. Marlique J. McGhaney, 35, was sentenced to a year and a day in prison and ordered to repay $237,447. Daquasia M. Robinson, 33, was sentenced to five years of probation and ordered to repay $119,805. Shawnta B. Fonseca, 34, is scheduled to be sentenced in April. Glenn, Marlique McGhaney, Fonseca and Robinson are all New York residents.
The FBI investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan Clow is prosecuting the case.
Oakland Woman Who Made Multiple Fraudulent Unemployment Insurance Claims Using Stolen Identities Sentenced to 33 Months and One DayRead the Press Release
SAN FRANCISCO – Kari Marie Russo was sentenced today to 33 months and one day in federal prison for submitting numerous fraudulent unemployment insurance claims using stolen identities. U.S. District Judge James Donato handed down the sentence.
Russo, 46, and her co-defendant Steven Dunsmore, 35, both of Oakland, were indicted by a federal grand jury on Oct. 3, 2023. A federal grand jury also indicted Russo on Sept. 17, 2024, on a single count of failure to appear. On Dec. 10, 2024, Russo pleaded guilty to two counts of fraudulent use of unauthorized access device, two counts of aggravated identity theft, and one count of failure to appear.
According to court documents, beginning in June 2020, Russo and Dunsmore engaged in an elaborate scheme to submit fraudulent unemployment insurance claims to California’s Employment Development Department (EDD) using other people’s personally identifying information, such as their names, dates of birth, and Social Security numbers, without their authorization.
As a result of the fraudulent applications, Dunsmore and Russo received approximately $336,545 in EDD funds.
Additionally, while Russo was on pretrial release so that she could participate in a residential drug treatment program, Russo left the program without permission and failed to appear in court on Jan. 8, 2024, as ordered. She was captured by the U.S. Marshals Service on June 11, 2024.
Dunsmore previously pleaded guilty on Feb. 26, 2024, to two counts of fraudulent use of unauthorized access device and two counts of aggravated identity theft. Judge Donato sentenced Dunsmore on June 17, 2024, to 24 months and one day in federal prison and ordered him to pay $336,545 in restitution.
In addition to the term of imprisonment, Judge Donato also ordered Russo to pay $336,545 in restitution, jointly and severally with Dunsmore.
Acting United States Attorney Patrick D. Robbins, Quentin Heiden, Special Agent-in-Charge, Western Region, U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General (DOL-OIG), FBI Special Agent in Charge Sanjay Virmani, and Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Inspector General Joseph V. Cuffari, Ph.D., made the announcement.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Wendy Garbers is prosecuting the case with the assistance of Laurie Worthen. The prosecution is the result of an investigation by DOL-OIG, FBI, DHS-OIG, and California’s Employment Development Department.
New Orleans Man Sentenced for Illegal Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that on March 25, 2025, CARESSES PERIQUE (“PERIQUE”), age 38, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Wendy B. Vitter to 92 months imprisonment, after previously pleading guilty to possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(1). Following imprisonment, PERIQUE will be placed in supervised release for three (3) years.
According to court documents, on Sunday, November 27, 2022, New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) personnel were monitoring the 2600 block of Monroe Street during the annual Lady Buck Jumpers second line at which time PERIQUE was observed in possession of a concealed firearm in his waistband. When approached by officers, PERIQUE immediately put his hands inside his front waistband. The officers gained control of his hands and removed a loaded black Ruger P95, nine-millimeter handgun, from his front waistband. The handgun had one live round in the chamber and nine live rounds in the magazine. Officers subsequently learned that PERIQUE had several felony convictions which prohibited him from possessing a firearm.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
The case was investigated by the New Orleans Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Greg Kennedy of the Violent Crime Unit of the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
New Orleans Man Sentenced for Firearm Possession to Further Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Today, Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that JOSHUA WILLIAMS (“WILLIAMS”), age 21, was sentenced on March 27, 2025 by Chief U.S. District Judge Nannette Jolivette Brown to 75 months in prison followed by five years of supervised release, along with a $100 mandatory special assessment fee, after previously pleading guilty to possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 924(c)(1)(A)(i).
According to court documents, on April 4, 2022, New Orleans Police Department officers executed a search warrant at WILLIAMS’s residence. Officers recovered marijuana that WILLIAMS intended to sell and a digital scale. Officers also recovered two firearms—a Glock Model 22, .40 caliber firearm and a Glock Model 19, nine-millimeter firearm—that WILLIAMS possessed, in furtherance of his possession with intent to distribute marijuana.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
The case was investigated by the New Orleans Police Department and the United States Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mary Katherine Kaufman of the General Crimes Unit.
Nashua Man Indicted in Drug Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
DULUTH, Minn. – Lance Wayne Anderson, a Minnesota man, has been charged with conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Lisa D. Kirkpatrick.
According to court documents, from March 2022 through September 17, 2023, Lance Wayne Anderson, 58, intentionally conspired with others to distribute methamphetamine in and around Minnesota.
The indictment charges Anderson with one count of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. He made his initial appearance in U.S. District Court before Magistrate Judge Leo I. Brisbois on March 24, 2025.
“Minnesota is awash in deadly methamphetamine,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Lisa D. Kirkpatrick. “This poison makes its way to every corner of our state. We are grateful to the Wilkin County Sheriff’s Office for their partnership to ensure that Anderson—who trafficked deadly methamphetamine to Wilkin County—sees federal justice.”
This case is the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, and the Wilkin County Sheriff’s Office.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Campbell Warner is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation, and the defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Mobile Man Sentenced to 51 Months in Prison for Illegally Possessing a MachinegunRead the Press Release
According to court documents, Nijel Malik Smith, 22, was arrested by Mobile police in April 2023 following a traffic stop. During that stop, police seized marijuana and a Glock .45 caliber pistol from Smith. The pistol was fully loaded and equipped with an illegal machinegun-conversion device, commonly referred to as a “Glock switch,” which rendered the pistol a fully automatic weapon. The slide of the pistol was marked with “Gretna PD.” It had previously been reported stolen by a law enforcement officer in Louisiana. During an interview with police, Smith admitted that he possessed the marijuana and the illegally modified pistol. He further admitted that he knew what a “switch” was and suspected that the pistol might be stolen due to the “Gretna PD” markings on it.
In January 2025, while under federal conditions of release and pending sentencing, Mobile police again arrested Smith following a traffic stop. During that stop, Smith again possessed marijuana and a pistol. The January 2025 incident led to revocation of Smith’s bond and denial of credit for acceptance of responsibility at his sentencing.
In addition to the 51-month prison term, United States District Judge Terry F. Moorer ordered Smith to serve a three-year term of supervised release upon his release from prison, during which time he will be subject to drug testing and treatment. The court did not impose a fine, but Judge Moorer ordered Smith to pay $100 in special assessments.
U.S. Attorney Sean P. Costello of the Southern District of Alabama made the announcement.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Mobile Police Department investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Justin Roller prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States.
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.
Missouri Man Who Traveled to Orlando with Child Sexual Abuse Material Sentenced to 12 YearsRead the Press Release
Orlando, FL – U.S. District Judge Paul G. Byron has sentenced Raymond Andrew Lamadrid (55, Missouri) to 12 years in federal prison for transportation of child sexual abuse material (CSAM). Lamadrid pleaded guilty on January 7, 2025.
According to court documents, agents from Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) discovered that Lamadrid was sending and receiving CSAM via Snapchat. On September 16, 2024, Lamadrid arrived in Orlando by plane from the Dominican Republic. During an inspection of Lamadrid’s cellphone by U.S. Customs Border Protection at the Orlando International Airport, officers discovered CSAM.
“This sentencing demonstrates the unwavering dedication and vigilance of HSI Orlando, U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office in safeguarding our community,” said Homeland Security Investigation Orlando Assistant Special Agent in Charge David Pezzutti. “Catching this predator with child sexual abuse material serves as a crucial reminder that we remain steadfast in our fight against these heinous crimes. We will continue to work tirelessly to protect our children and bring offenders to justice.”
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, with assistance from U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie A. McNeff.
This is another case brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in 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 child victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Milton, Vermont Man Charged with Possession of Child Sexual Abuse MaterialsRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont announced that on March 27, 2025 a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Willard Perry, 66, of Milton, Vermont, with possession of child sexual abuse materials (CSAM), also known as child pornography.
Perry entered a plea of not guilty to the charge during an arraignment on March 28, 2025 before United States District Judge Geoffrey W. Crawford. Judge Crawford ordered that Perry be released on conditions, including that Perry provide the probation officer with a complete and current inventory of the number of media storage devices and electronic devices capable of internet access that he uses or possesses, and that he not use an internet-capable device until an Internet Use Plan is developed and approved by the Probation Officer.
According to court records, law enforcement uncovered on Perry’s computer thousands of photos and videos, most of which law enforcement believes contain child sexual abusive material, including content involving the sexual assault of prepubescent girls.
The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that an indictment contains allegations only and that Perry is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. Perry faces up to 20 years’ incarceration if convicted. The actual sentence, however, would be determined by the District Court with guidance from the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines and the statutory sentencing factors.
Acting United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher commended the investigatory efforts of the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
The prosecutor is Assistant United States Attorney Michelle Arra. Perry is represented by Brooks G. McArthur, Esq.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC.
Michigan Man Sentenced for Role in Drug Trafficking OrganizationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Jason T. Scruggs, 42, of Clinton, Michigan, was sentenced today to 108 months in prison for the distribution of methamphetamine.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Scruggs, also known as “Rock” and “Roc,” was one of the main conspirators, transporting large quantities of controlled substances from Detroit to Clarksburg, West Virginia. During one of the trips, a traffic stop resulted in the seizure of 443 grams of methamphetamine and more than 50 grams of fentanyl. Scruggs recruited others to assist in the drug trafficking operation. Scruggs has prior convictions that include firearms offenses, domestic violence, retail fraud, assault with a dangerous weapon, and breaking and entering.
Scruggs will serve three years of supervised release following his prison sentence.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Christie Utt prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
The Greater Harrison Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms; the Drug Enforcement Administration; and the Harrison County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Mexican National Pleads Guilty to Transporting over 200,000 Fentanyl PillsRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — Miguel Obed Romero Reyes, 25, of Sinaloa, Mexico, pleaded guilty today to trafficking large amounts of fentanyl, Acting U.S. Attorney Michele Beckwith announced.
According to court documents, Romero Reyes was pulled over by law enforcement officers while driving north on Interstate 5 in Fresno County. Deputies searched his vehicle and discovered a large duffel bag containing 48 pounds (21.8 kilograms) of blue counterfeit M-30 pills in 20 separate 1-gallon Ziploc bags. In total, Romero Reyes was transporting more than 200,000 fentanyl pills in his car. Romero Reyes had picked up the pills in Arizona and was transporting them to Washington state for distribution.
21.8 Kilograms of Fentanyl Pills Seized from Romero Reyes’s Vehicle
This case is the product of an investigation by the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office and Homeland Security Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cody S. Chapple is prosecuting the case.
Romero Reyes is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Kirk E. Sherriff on June 30, 2025. He faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years and a maximum statutory penalty of life in prison. 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.
Mexican Man Sentenced to Three Months’ Imprisonment for Illegal Re-EntryRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Eustolio Sanchez-Ramirez, age 38, of Chiapas, Mexico, was sentenced on March 27, 2025, by United States District Judge Jennifer P. Wilson, to three months’ imprisonment on the charge of illegal re-entry into the United States, to run consecutive to any sentence that may be imposed at Dauphin County Magisterial Docket No: CR-796-2024.
According to Acting United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, Sanchez-Ramirez was last deported from the United States to Mexico in November 2018. He re-entered the United States again sometime after November 2018 without first obtaining legal permission to do so. Sanchez-Ramirez was encountered in Dauphin County, Pennsylvania, on December 19, 2024.
The case was investigated by United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Removal Operations and the Harrisburg Police Bureau. Assistant U.S. Attorney David C. Williams is prosecuting the case.
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Man Sentenced to over 16 Years in Prison for Trafficking 10 Pounds of Fentanyl Pills and over 60 Pounds of MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — Adolfo Montiel, 46, of Lancaster, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Jennifer L. Thurston to 16 years and four months in prison for conspiring to traffic methamphetamine and fentanyl, Acting U.S. Attorney Michele Beckwith announced.
According to court documents, Montiel’s case arose out of Operation Toxic Waste, an investigation into a sophisticated drug trafficking ring, that resulted in the seizure of more than 12,900 pounds of methamphetamine, more than 50 pounds of fentanyl mixture, 39 pounds of cocaine, and 22 pounds of heroin. As evidenced by thousands of recorded communications, the organization smuggled methamphetamine, cocaine, and fentanyl (powder and pills) in portable projectors and batteries, under the guise of a legitimate transportation business. The organization also secreted thousands of pounds of methamphetamine inside semi‑trucks and hundreds of pounds of liquid methamphetamine in the gas tanks of cars and brought it across the border. The Mexican-based organization monitored the narcotics with the use of GPS tracking devices hidden with the smuggled drugs. Montiel was sentenced for his role in storing, packaging, and redistributing drugs on behalf of the larger organization. When law enforcement officers searched his residence in 2023, they found over 10 pounds of fentanyl pills and over 60 pounds of methamphetamine, as well as several firearms.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Justin J. Gilio and Cody S. Chapple are prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Operation Synthetic Opioid Surge (S.O.S.) a program designed to reduce the supply of deadly synthetic opioids in high impact areas as well as identifying wholesale distribution networks and international and domestic suppliers. In July 2018, the Justice Department announced the creation of S.O.S., which is being implemented in the Eastern District of California and nine other federal districts.
The case was investigated under the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF). OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. For more information, please visit Justice.gov/OCDETF.
Man Sentenced to 10-Year Prison Term for Stabbing Safe Passage Ambassador in Deanwood Area of Northeast WashingtonRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Ray Stover, 43, of Washington, D.C., was sentenced on Friday, March 28, 2025, to 120 months in prison for stabbing a Safe Passage Ambassador near the campus of Ron Brown High School in Washington, DC, announced U.S. Attorney Edward R. Martin, Jr., and Chief Pamela Smith, of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD).
Stover pleaded guilty to one count of assault with intent to kill in February 2025, in the Superior Court of the District of Columbia. Following the completion of his term of imprisonment, Stover was ordered to complete a three-year term of supervised release.
According to the government’s evidence, on June 5, 2024, the victim was working for D.C. Safe Passage, helping students travel safely to and from school, at his post near 45th Street and Meade Street, NE. Around 12:30 p.m., Stover approached the victim while yelling profanities. Although the victim did not know Stover, Stover brandished a knife and swung it at the victim’s leg causing the victim to collapse to the ground. Stover then proceeded to stab the victim six additional times in his chest, back, and leg. Neighbors who found the victim called 911, and he was taken to a local hospital for treatment for multiple stab wounds.
Ring camera footage from a nearby residence captured the attack, which was ultimately used to develop Stover’s identity as the attacker. Stover was apprehended on July 23, 2024, and has been in custody ever since.
In announcing the sentence, U.S. Attorney Martin and Chief Smith commended the work of those who investigated the case from the Metropolitan Police Department. They also expressed appreciation for the assistance provided by the U.S. Capitol Police, the Metro Transit Police Department, the U.S. Marshals Service, and the Capital Area Regional Fugitive Task Force. Finally, they commended the work of Assistant U.S. Attorneys Amanda Claire Hoover and Katerina Shelly, who investigated and prosecuted the case.
Lowndes County Man Sentenced in OCDETF Illegal Gun Possession CaseRead the Press Release
Oxford, MS – A Lowndes County man was sentenced today to five years in prison for possessing a firearm while being a previously convicted felon.
According to court documents, John Alan Glover, Jr., of Columbus, Mississippi pled guilty in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District to Mississippi to being a felon in possession of a firearm. Glover was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Glen H. Davidson on Monday to 60 months in prison for the illegal gun charge. He was further sentenced to three years supervised release following his release from prison.
“We will continue to work diligently with our law enforcement partners to keep firearms out of the hands of criminals,” said U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner.
“The illegal possession of firearms by convicted felons is often intertwined with other criminal activities, including drug trafficking,” said DEA Assistant Special Agent in Charge Anessa Daniels-McCaw. “The involvement of the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force in this case underscores our commitment to targeting the nexus between firearms and drug offenses to enhance public safety.”
The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Lowndes County Sheriff’s Department, Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics, and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Clyde McGee prosecuted the case.
This investigation and resulting 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.
This case is also a 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.
Long Beach Man Sentenced to 7 Years in Federal Prison for Smash-and-Grab Robbery of Jewelry Worth $2.6 MillionRead the Press Release
LOS ANGELES – A Long Beach man was sentenced today to 84 months in federal prison for his role in a smash-and-grab robbery of a Beverly Hills jewelry store in 2022 in which more than $2.6 million in merchandise was stolen – and the proceeds of which he later displayed on his Instagram account.
Ladell Tharpe, 39, was sentenced by United States District Judge George H. Wu, who also ordered him to pay $2,674,600 in restitution.
Tharpe pleaded guilty in September 2024 to one count of interference with commerce by robbery (Hobbs Act).
“Brazen criminal action that directly targets our small businesses in Los Angeles County will not be tolerated,” said Acting United States Attorney Joseph McNally. “The consequences for such action are severe and penalized accordingly, and I want to thank our law enforcement partners for their exceptional and dutiful work during this investigation.”
“Mr. Tharpe terrified his victims during this violent robbery carried out in broad daylight, then shamelessly boasted about it online,” said Akil Davis, the Assistant Director of the FBI’s Los Angeles Field Office. “The FBI will continue to work with our counterparts at local police departments to address violent crime and pursue justice at the federal level where appropriate.”
“The Beverly Hills Police Department is committed to protecting our community and ensuring justice,” said Beverly Hills Police Chief Mark G. Stainbrook. “We value our partnership with the FBI and the U.S. Attorney’s Office and appreciate the investigators who relentlessly pursued and prosecuted those responsible for this crime. As a reminder, crime will not be tolerated in Beverly Hills.”
In March 2022, Tharpe and his accomplices, Deshon Bell, 22, Jimmy Lee Vernon III, 33, both from Long Beach, as well as an unnamed minor drove three vehicles to a jewelry store in Beverly Hills and used sledgehammers and crow bars to break the glass surrounding the merchandise while employees and customers were present.
One of the vehicles driven to the jewelry store had been reported stolen four days prior to the robbery and was left in front of the victim store.
The thieves removed from the store’s display cases at least 19 bracelets, seven pairs of earrings, four necklaces, a pair of obelisks, eight rings, and 20 watches, all of which was valued at approximately $2,674,600. The robbers then returned to the car in which Bell was waiting and then fled the scene.
Two days after the heist, Tharpe posted images of large amounts of cash on his Instagram with the text “Robbery Gang.”
Tharpe has been in federal custody since March 2023.
Bell and Vernon each pleaded guilty to one count of Hobbs Act robbery. Judge Wu sentenced Bell to one year and one day in federal prison in February 2024, as well as ordering him to pay $2,674,000 in restitution.
Vernon, whose cellphone fell out of his sweatpants pocket during the conduct of the robbery and was recovered by investigators, was sentenced last month to 80 months in prison and was also ordered to repay $2,674,000 in restitution.
The FBI and the Beverly Hills Police Department investigated this matter.
Assistant United States Attorneys Kevin J. Butler of the Violent and Organized Crime Section and Kevin B. Reidy of the Major Frauds Section prosecuted the case.
Kissimmee Man Indicted for Receipt of Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida – Acting United States Attorney Sara C. Sweeney announces the return of an indictment charging Christian Harmon (38, Kissimmee) with receipt of child sexual abuse material. If convicted, Harmon faces a minimum penalty of 5 years, up to 20 years, in federal prison.
According to court documents, on April 7, 2024, Harmon was chatting with another user on an internet-based application. During that chat, Harmon requested child sexual abuse material and received approximately 22 illicit videos depicting the sexual abuse of children as young as infants.
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 the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kaley Austin-Aronson.
This is another case brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in 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 child victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Jury Convicts Vallejo Man of Drug and Gun OffensesRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — After a five–day trial, a federal jury found Darren Tramaine Tony Mitchell, 35, of Vallejo, guilty on Friday of one count of possessing methamphetamine with intent to distribute and one count of being a felon in possession of firearms, Acting U.S. Attorney Michele Beckwith announced. The trial was held before Senior United States District Judge William B. Shubb.
According to evidence presented at trial, including recordings of his telephone conversations, Mitchell negotiated a transaction for 1,000 methamphetamine pills with a buyer who testified at trial. Federal law enforcement agents executed a search warrant at Mitchell’s Vallejo residence a few days following these recorded calls. Inside Mitchell’s residence, agents recovered methamphetamine-laced pills and an industrial pill pressing machine. Hidden inside the residence’s dishwasher, agents recovered a loaded AR-15 assault-style rifle and a loaded Smith & Wesson pistol with an obliterated serial number:
This case is the product of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Cameron Desmond and Sam Stefanki are prosecuting the case.
Mitchell is scheduled to be sentenced by Judge Shubb on July 7, 2025. Mitchell faces a maximum statutory penalty of 20 years in prison and a $1 million 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.
Juneau man pleads guilty to producing child pornographyRead the Press Release
JUNEAU, Alaska – A Juneau man pleaded guilty today to producing child pornography.
According to court documents, William Steadman, 35, a registered sex offender, met a pre-pubescent boy in his community and enticed him to engage in sexually explicit conduct. Steadman documented the conduct and posted the content on the dark web. Steadman first came to the attention of law enforcement when he distributed his newly produced child sexual abuse material (CSAM) online. Steadman attempted to obscure his identify from law enforcement by using the dark web, but tips from law enforcement, a cryptocurrency payment for additional CSAM, and analysis of his online statements led to his identification and arrest. A residential search resulted in the discovery of over 4,000 images and videos of CSAM on his devices.
Steadman pleaded guilty to one count of production of child pornography. He is scheduled to be sentenced on a later date and faces a mandatory‑minimum penalty of 25 years in prison and a maximum penalty of 50 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Michael J. Heyman for the District of Alaska and Glen Peterson, U.S. Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Secret Service’s Seattle Field Office made the announcement.
The Secret Service’s Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mac Caille Petursson, Jack Schmidt, and William Reed for the District of Alaska and Trial Attorney McKenzie Hightower of the Justice Department’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS) are prosecuting the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, visit www.justice.gov/psc.
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Jefferson County man sentenced to 18 years in federal prison for armed robbery spreeRead the Press Release
BEAUMONT, Texas – A Port Arthur man has been sentenced to 18 years in federal prison for violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Abe McGlothin, Jr.
Jahmir Jacobi Riley, 19, pleaded guilty to Hobbs Act robbery and two counts of brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence and was sentenced to 216 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Marcia A. Crone on March 31, 2025.
According to court documents, an investigation determined Riley was responsible for convenience store robberies in Jefferson County in the fall of 2024. On September 24, 2024, the Checkpoint gas station on Gulfway Drive in Port Arthur was robbed and the clerk was pistol-whipped. On September 29, 2024, the Exxpress Mart gas station on Interstate-10 South in Beaumont was robbed and on October 3, 2024, the Hamshire Quick Mart gas station on Hwy 73 was also robbed. Riley was identified through witnesses and surveillance video as the suspect. Riley can be seen on one surveillance video brandishing a firearm equipped with a machinegun conversion device, also known as a glock switch. Riley was indicted by a federal grand jury on December 4, 2024.
This case was sentenced as part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the Beaumont Police Department; the Port Arthur Police Department, and the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Quinn.
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Illegal alien repeat offender sent to prisonRead the Press Release
BROWNSVILLE, Texas – A 41-year-old man who illegally resided in Harlingen has been ordered to federal prison following his conviction of unlawfully reentering the country again, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Fidel Jose-Ramirez pleaded guilty Dec. 18, 2024.
U.S. District Judge Fernando Rodriguez Jr. has now ordered him to serve 33 months in federal prison. Not a U.S. citizen, Jose-Ramirez is expected to face removal proceedings following his imprisonment. At the hearing, the court heard about his violations of supervised release stemming from a prior conviction. In handing down the sentence, Judge Rodriguez considered factors to protect the public and noted Jose-Ramirez’s criminal history represented a higher risk of harm to the public.
He has other criminal convictions including driving while intoxicated, assault family violence, criminal mischief and possession of a controlled substance. He was first ordered removed from the United States in 2019.
Jose-Ramirez was previously convicted of being an alien unlawfully found in the United States after removal in 2023. The investigation revealed that after his conviction and subsequent removal, he had illegally reentered the country Jan. 3, 2024, after crossing the Rio Grande River near Brownsville.
He has been and will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement – Enforcement and Removal Operations conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul Marian prosecuted the case.
Huntington Man Sentenced for Federal Gun CrimeRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Timothy Ryan Wolfe, 39, of Huntington, was sentenced today to three years of federal probation, including one year on home detention, for unlawfully engaging in the business of dealing firearms.
According to court documents and statements made in court, from at least April 30, 2024, through June 6, 2024, Wolfe engaged in the business of dealing in firearms without a Federal Firearms License (FFL). Wolfe advertised the sale of firearms on various social media platforms during this time. Wolfe admitted that he received requests from individuals for specific firearms that he purchased from FFL entities to sell to these individuals, and also purchased firearms without a specific buyer in mind with intent to sell them to other individuals. Wolfe further admitted that he is not licensed to deal in firearms and knew that he needed an FFL based on the quantity and regularity with which he was buying and selling firearms.
Wolfe sold a total of 11 firearms to a confidential informant over the course of five transactions during this time period, each time at Wolfe’s residence. Wolfe admitted to these transactions and further admitted that they included the sale of two short-barrel rifles that were not registered to Wolfe in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record as required by law. Wolfe also admitted to purchasing and converting one of those firearms after the confidential informant requested a short-barrel rifle.
Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie Taylor prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:24-cr-160.
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Harrisburg Man Indicted for Drug Trafficking and Firearms PossessionRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that David Gladden, age 46, of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, was indicted by a federal grand jury with four counts of possession with intent to distribute controlled substances, two counts of possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, and two counts of possession of firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking.
According to Acting United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, the indictment alleges that on August 21, 2021, Gladden possessed with the intent to distribute 28 grams of crack cocaine and additional quantities of cocaine. The indictment also alleges that on September 11, 2023, Gladden possessed with the intent to distribute 28 grams of crack cocaine and additional quantities of cocaine and marijuana; possessed a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking; and possessed a firearm as a felon. Additionally, the indictment alleges that on March 7, 2024, Gladden possessed with the intent to distribute 100 grams of PCP, 28 grams of crack cocaine and additional quantities of cocaine. The indictment further alleges that on July 30, 2024, Gladden possessed with the intent to distribute 28 grams of crack cocaine and additional quantities of cocaine and marijuana; possessed a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking; and possessed a firearm as a felon.
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 Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the Harrisburg Police Department; the Pennsylvania State Police; and the Susquehanna Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Scott Ford is prosecuting the case.
Gladden faces a maximum penalty of life imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
Indictments and Criminal Informations are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
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Four More Defendants Indicted on Fraud and Money Laundering Charges Relating to International Lottery Scam Targeting ElderlyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. – Four individuals have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of conspiracy to commit mail fraud, wire fraud, and money laundering, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
Defendant Yonel Burnett, 28, of Jamaica, was charged in a two-count Indictment with conspiracy to commit mail fraud, wire fraud, and money laundering. Defendants Omar McKenzie, 34, of Lauderdale Lakes, Florida; Shemeca Shields, 29, of East Hartford, Connecticut; and Nicole Lamont, 30, of Eastham, Massachusetts, each were charged in a one-count Indictment with conspiracy to commit money laundering. Burnett and McKenzie were both arrested in Florida, on March 14 and March 27, 2025, respectively. Lamont was arrested in Massachusetts on March 23, 2025. Shields was arrested in Connecticut on March 26, 2025. The Indictments are related to those announced in December 2023 naming seven other co-conspirators, three of whom were extradited from Jamaica. (Read the release regarding the earlier Indictments here.)
According to the Indictments, the defendants and their co-conspirators executed a fraud scheme that stole more than $4.5 million from elderly and vulnerable victims in the Western District of Pennsylvania and elsewhere in the United States. As part of that scheme, conspirators, including Burnett, contacted the victims and falsely told them that they had won a million- or multi-million-dollar sweepstakes, but needed to pay certain taxes and fees before they could claim their prize. These claims were often reinforced with forged documents purporting to describe the sweepstakes winnings and required taxes and fees, some of which bore the seals of government agencies. The conspirators then directed the victims to send money, including cash, checks, and money orders, to people designated by the conspirators. Some of these people were earlier victims of the lottery scam who had been unwittingly fooled into accepting and moving money on behalf of the members of the conspiracy. Others, including McKenzie, Lamont, and Shields, were themselves members of the conspiracy. After being laundered through a network of bank accounts and money mules, victim money was withdrawn by members of the conspiracy living in Jamaica.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 20 years in prison, a fine of up to twice the pecuniary loss to any victim, or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense(s) and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Jeffrey R. Bengel is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, United States Postal Inspection Service, and Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation leading to the Indictments.
The charges stem from the Department of Justice’s wide-ranging efforts to protect older adults from fraud and financial exploitation. Last week, for example, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Pennsylvania also announced the Indictment of a Dominican Republic man living in Cleveland, Ohio, for his participation in an organized crime group operating across Pennsylvania and Ohio to defraud victims out of tens of thousands of dollars through a grandparent fraud scam. As part of that scheme, scammers called a grandparent and impersonated their grandchild in a crisis such as an accident or arrest, and then asked the grandparent to send immediate financial assistance, which conspirators arranged to be picked up in Pennsylvania and delivered by Lyft and Uber drivers to the defendant in various locations in Northern Ohio. (Read the grandparent fraud scam release here.)
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Former High-Ranking FDNY Official Sentenced to 20 Months in Prison for Role in Bribery ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Matthew Podolsky, the Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, announced today that BRIAN CORDASCO was sentenced to 20 months in prison for participating in a conspiracy to solicit and receive bribes in his role as a Chief of the New York City Fire Department (“FDNY”) Bureau of Fire Prevention (“BFP”). CORDASCO previously pled guilty on October 8, 2024, before U.S. District Judge Lewis J. Liman, who also imposed today’s sentence.
Acting U.S. Attorney Matthew Podolsky said: “As a chief of the Bureau of Fire Prevention, Brian Cordasco was entrusted to protect the people of New York City and to fairly represent their interests. Instead, he repeatedly abused his position of power by expediting fire inspection services for those who paid him thousands of dollars in bribes. The sentence imposed today sends a clear message that government officials who betray the public trust to line their own pockets will be met with just punishment.”
According to the Indictment, plea agreement, and statements made in court:
From 2021 to 2023, CORDASCO repeatedly abused his position as a Chief of the BFP by participating in a scheme to solicit and receive $190,000 in total bribe payments from a former FDNY firefighter named Henry Santiago, Jr. In exchange for those bribe payments, CORDASCO used his authority within the BFP to improperly “expedite” BFP inspections and plan reviews for Santiago’s customers. CORDASCO personally profited $57,000 as part of this scheme. To carry out this conspiracy, CORDASCO lied to his BFP subordinates to justify otherwise improper expediting requests. CORDASCO also lied to law enforcement when interviewed about his involvement in the scheme.
If you believe you have information related to bribery, fraud, or any other illegal conduct by FDNY or BFP employees, please contact [email protected] or (212) 825-2402. If you were involved in such conduct, please consider self-disclosing through the SDNY Whistleblower Pilot Program at [email protected].
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In addition to the prison term, CORDASCO, 49, of Staten Island, New York, was sentenced to two years of supervised release and ordered to pay forfeiture of $57,000 and a fine of $100,000.
Mr. Podolsky praised the outstanding work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the New York City Department of Investigation.
The prosecution of this case is being handled by the Office’s Public Corruption Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jessica Greenwood, Matthew King, and Daniel H. Wolf are in charge of the prosecution.
Former Chief of Staff to Mayor in Lawrence Sentenced to More Than Three Years in Prison for Child Pornography ChargesRead the Press Release
BOSTON – The former Chief of Staff to the Mayor of Lawrence, Mass., was sentenced today in federal court in Boston for transporting and possessing child sexual abuse material (CSAM).
Jhovanny Martes-Rosario, 50, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Chief Judge F. Dennis Saylor IV to 43 months in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release. In December 2024, Martes-Rosario pleaded guilty to one count of transportation of child pornography and one count of possession of child pornography. In April 2023, Martes-Rosario was indicted by a federal grand jury.
Martes-Rosario was identified by law enforcement as the likely user of Yahoo and Apple accounts, containing child pornography. In February 2023, a search was executed at Martes-Rosario’s residence and an iPad device was seized which contained child pornography files. Martes-Rosario admitted that he was the owner of the email addresses and that he searched for and downloaded child pornography to his personal iPad and later sent it to his email address for storage. He also admitted he had been searching for and storing child pornography for years.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley, Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division; and Colonel Geoffrey D. Noble, Superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Essex County District Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Suzanne Sullivan Jacobus of the Major Crimes Unit and Meghan C. Cleary of the Criminal Division prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
Former CBP Officer Sentenced to Federal Prison and Community Service for Bribery and Role in Alien SmugglingRead the Press Release
EL PASO, Texas – A former U.S. Customs and Border Protection officer was sentenced in a federal court in El Paso to 51 months in prison and 80 hours of community service for one count of bribery of a public official and one count of bringing in certain aliens for financial gain.
According to court documents, in December 2022, investigating agents received information that Omar Moreno, 46, of Horizon City, was smuggling illegal aliens into the United States as a CBP officer, receiving $4,000 per alien from a smuggling organization. On Feb. 1, 2024, a video recording captured Moreno escorting two illegal aliens, one being a foot guide, into the U.S. through the Ysleta Port of Entry without undergoing an inspection.
On Feb. 23, 2024, two undercover officers posed as illegal aliens and used a confidential human source as a foot guide to enter the U.S. from Mexico. Again, Moreno allowed the smuggling to occur through the port of entry. After his shift ended, Moreno was paid $8,000 and arrested.
Acting U.S. Attorney Margaret Leachman for the Western District of Texas made the announcement.
The case was investigated by the FBI, Customs and Border Protection Office of Professional Responsibility, and Department of Homeland Security Office of the Inspector General.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys John Johnston and Andres Ortega prosecuted the case.
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Former Altamonte Springs Man Pleads Guilty to Stealing COVID Relief FundsRead the Press Release
Orlando, FL – Acting United States Attorney Sara C. Sweeney announces that Joshua Robinson (32, Texas) has pleaded guilty to wire fraud. Robinson faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
According to the plea agreement, between July 2020 and August 2021, Robinson devised a scheme to defraud the Small Business Administration (SBA) by submitting false and fraudulent Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) and Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan applications. Specifically, Robinson submitted an EIDL application and a PPP application for businesses that he knew he did not own. Robinson obtained $13,100 from the EIDL application and $19,133 from the PPP application. Robinson then fraudulently obtained forgiveness of his PPP loan.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs – Office of Inspector General together with the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie A. McNeff.
On May 17, 2021, the Attorney General established the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force to marshal the resources of the Department of Justice in partnership with agencies across government to enhance efforts to combat and prevent pandemic-related fraud. The Task Force bolsters efforts to investigate and prosecute the most culpable domestic and international criminal actors and assists agencies tasked with administering relief programs to prevent fraud by augmenting and incorporating existing coordination mechanisms, identifying resources and techniques to uncover fraudulent actors and their schemes, and sharing and harnessing information and insights gained from prior enforcement efforts. For more information on the department's response to the pandemic, please visit Justice.gov/Coronavirus and Justice.gov/Coronavirus/CombatingFraud.
Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by contacting the Justice Department’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
Five Alleged Sinaloa Cartel Money Launderers ChargedRead the Press Release
SAN DIEGO – Two federal grand jury indictments were unsealed in San Diego today against five alleged Sinaloa Cartel money launderers, including Alberto David Benguiat Jimenez, Israel Daniel Paez Vargas, Salvador Diaz Rodriguez, Christopher Ortega-Lomeli, and Christian Noe Amador Valenzuela. The indictments, returned in September and October 2022, charge the defendants with multiple drug trafficking and money laundering offenses. All defendants remain fugitives.
To date, these money laundering investigations have resulted in charges against 51 defendants and the seizure of more than $4.1 million dollars and approximately 1,304 kilograms of methamphetamine, 34 kilograms of heroin, 11 kilograms of cocaine, and 14 kilograms of fentanyl.
Four of the defendants - Benguiat Jimenez, Paez Vargas, Diaz Rodriguez and Amador Valezuela - along with Enrique Dann Esparragoza Rosas, who was previously charged, were also the target of sanctions imposed today by the Department of Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC).
OFAC has identified the defendants and others as members of a money laundering network supporting the Sinaloa Cartel, one of the most notorious and violent drug trafficking organizations in the world, and a U.S.-designated Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO). The Sinaloa Cartel is responsible for a significant portion of the illicit fentanyl and other deadly drugs trafficked into the United States and has exploited multiple ports of entry along the southern border for its criminal activities. Please see https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/sb0064.
The Drug Enforcement Administration’s Imperial Country District Office and Mexico City Country Office, along with the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation San Diego Office, Federal Bureau of Investigation San Diego Field Office, Homeland Security Investigations Calexico Office, and San Diego – Imperial County HIDTA are investigating these cases with assistance from the Department of Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC).
These cases are being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Matthew J. Sutton, Joshua Mellor, Victor White, and Paul Benjamin. Former Assistant U.S. Attorney Owen Roth provided substantial assistance in these cases.
DEFENDANTS
Case Number 22-cr-02386-TWR
Israel Daniel Paez Vargas Age: 45 Mexicali, MX
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Conspiracy to Import Controlled Substances, in violation of Title 21 U.S.C. §§ 952, 960 and 963.
Maximum Penalty: Mandatory minimum 10 years and up to life in prison, $10 million fine.
Conspiracy to Distribute Controlled Substances, in violation of Title 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1) and 846.
Maximum Penalty: Mandatory minimum 10 years and up to life in prison, $10 million fine.
Conspiracy to Launder Monetary Instruments, in violation of Title 18 U.S.C. § 1956(h).
Maximum Penalty: Twenty years in prison, a fine of $500,000 or twice the value of the monetary instrument or funds involved.
Case Number 22-cr-02387-TWR
Alberto David Benguiat Jimenez Age: 43 Mexico City, MX
Salvador Diaz Rodriguez Age: 39 Mexicali, MX
Christian Noe Amador Valenzuela Age: 36 Mexicali, MX Christopher Ortega-Lomeli Age: 38 Mexicali, MX
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Conspiracy to Launder Monetary Instruments, in violation of Title 18 U.S.C. §1956(h).
Maximum Penalty: Twenty years in prison, a fine of $500,000 or twice the value of the monetary instrument or funds involved.
Case Number 22-cr-02185-BAS
Enrique Dann Esparragoza Rosas Age: 39 Culiacan, MX
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Conspiracy to Launder Monetary Instruments, in violation of Title 18 U.S.C. §1956(h).
Maximum Penalty: Twenty years in prison, a fine of $500,000 or twice the value of the monetary instrument or funds involved.
Hobbs Act Extortion, in violation of Title 18 U.S.C. § 1951(a)
Maximum Penalty: Twenty years in prison, and $250,000 fine
INVESTIGATING AGENCIES
Drug Enforcement Administration
Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation
Federal Bureau of Investigation
Homeland Security Investigations
San Diego - Imperial County HIDTA
Imperial Valley Law Enforcement Coordination Center - Intelligence
Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs
Department of Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control
*The charges and allegations contained in an indictment or complaint are merely accusations, and the defendants are considered innocent unless and until proven guilty.
This investigation is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
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 High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA) program, created by Congress with the Anti-Drug Abuse Act of 1988, provides coordination and assistance to Federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement agencies operating in areas determined to be critical drug-trafficking regions of the United States. This grant program is administered by the Executive Office of the President - Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP). There are currently 33 HIDTAs, and HIDTA-designated counties are located in 50 states, as well as in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and the District of Columbia.
Fentanyl Dealer Sentenced to 10 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
According to court documents, James Walker Stewart, 38, was arrested on November 18, 2023, following a traffic stop in Atmore, Alabama. During that stop, agents found Stewart in possession of half a kilogram bulk fentanyl, a small amount of methamphetamine, and drug paraphernalia. Stewart admitted that he and a coconspirator, Zachary Heaton Thaggard, had picked up the fentanyl in Atlanta, Georgia, and were transporting it to Pensacola, Florida.
Stewart further admitted that he had coordinated the fentanyl transaction with another coconspirator, Justin Brian Melton, who was incarcerated in an Alabama prison and brokered the deal using a contraband cell phone. Agents seized and searched Stewart’s cell phone, which contained text messages, pictures, videos, and other evidence of his drug-trafficking activities with Melton and other coconspirators.
In addition to the 120-month prison sentence, United States District Judge Kristi K. DuBose ordered Stewart to serve a 10-year term of supervised release upon his release from prison, during which time he will be subject to drug testing and treatment. The court did not impose a fine, but Judge DuBose ordered Stewart to pay $200 in special assessments. For their roles in the conspiracy, the court previously sentenced Melton and Thaggard to serve 210 months and 30 months in prison, respectively.
U.S. Attorney Sean P. Costello of the Southern District of Alabama made the announcement.
The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Baldwin County Sheriff’s Office, the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office, and the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Justin Roller prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States.
Federal grand jury indicts Buffalo man on multiple drug chargesRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that a federal grand jury indicted Michael R. Prell, Jr. a/k/a Struggle Mike a/k/a Struggle a/k/a Jr, 43, of Buffalo, NY, with narcotics conspiracy and attempted possession of five kilograms or more of cocaine with intent to distribute, which carry a minimum penalty of 20 years in prison and a maximum of life.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Louis A. Testani, who is handling the case, stated that between early 2024 and September 26, 2024, Prell conspired with others to sell cocaine. In addition, on August l, September 25, and September 26, 2024, Prell attempted to possess, with intent to distribute, cocaine.
The defendant was arraigned before U.S. Magistrate Judge Jeremiah J. McCarthy and was released on conditions.
The indictment is the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Frank Tarantino, III, New York Field Division, and the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Amie P. Feroleto.
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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Federal Court Permanently Shuts Down Detroit Tax PreparersRead the Press Release
Note: View Turner permanent injunction here. View Qualls permanent injunction here. View Stewart permanent injunction here. View Bishop and Green permanent injunction here.
A federal court in Michigan issued a permanent injunction on Friday against Detroit-area tax return preparers Alicia Bishop and Tenisha Green, permanently barring them from preparing federal tax returns for others.
The court previously barred Alicia Qualls, Michael Turner, and Constance Stewart from preparing federal tax returns for others by judgments entered on March 3. By judgment dated Dec. 16, 2024, the court also barred the business for which all of the preparers worked, United Tax Team Inc., and United Tax Team’s incorporator, Glen Hurst, from preparing federal tax returns for others. Hurst, United Tax Team, Qualls, Turner, and Stewart consented to entry of the judgments against them.
According to the civil complaint, Hurst incorporated United Tax Team in 2016, was its sole shareholder and corporate officer, and hired the return preparers who work at United Tax Team —including Qualls, Bishop, Green, Turner, and Stewart — who each worked as tax return preparers at United Tax Team locations in the Detroit area and prepared returns for customers that included false information not provided by the customer.
The civil complaint alleges that that the defendants used a variety of schemes to improperly reduce their customers’ tax liabilities or to obtain tax refunds to which the customers were not entitled. Specifically, the complaint alleges that Qualls, Bishop, Green, Turner, and Stewart each repeatedly placed false or incorrect items, deductions, exemptions or statuses on customers’ tax returns without their customers’ knowledge. For example, the complaint alleges that Qualls, Green, Turner, and Stewart fabricated Schedule C businesses to report fictitious business expenses and income to improperly reduce overall taxable income for some customers. The complaint also alleges that Bishop and Green fabricated education expenses on customer returns to falsely add tax credits; that Bishop and Stewart improperly claimed COVID-19 Relief tax credits for some customers; that Qualls and Turner improperly claimed head-of-household status for customers who did not qualify for such status to falsely reduce some customers’ tax liabilities; and that Stewart claimed fictious child and dependent care expenses for some customers.
Taxpayers seeking a return preparer should remain vigilant against unscrupulous tax preparers. The IRS has information on its website for choosing a tax return preparer and has launched a free directory of federal tax preparers. The IRS also offers 10 tips to avoid tax season fraud and ways to safeguard their personal information.
In the past decade, the Justice Department’s Tax Division has obtained injunctions against hundreds of unscrupulous tax preparers. Information about these cases is available on the Justice Department’s website. An alphabetical listing of persons enjoined from preparing returns and promoting tax schemes can be found on this page. If you believe that one of the enjoined persons or businesses may be violating an injunction, please contact the Tax Division with details.
FDC-SeaTac inmate who distributed heroin and fentanyl within the prison sentenced to 52 months in prisonRead the Press Release
Seattle – A 37-year-old Tacoma, Washington resident was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Seattle to a total term of 52 months for providing drug contraband within a federal prison and 28 supervised release violations, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Teal Luthy Miller. David A. McKean smuggled balloons of fentanyl and heroin into the Federal Detention Center at SeaTac (“FDC-SeaTac”) inside of his body, and distributed those drugs to other inmates in his unit. Two of those inmates who received drugs from McKean suffered near-fatal fentanyl poisonings. At the sentencing hearing, U.S. District Judge John H. Chun labeled McKean’s conduct “a serious offense,” and noted that it is “critical that deadly drugs be kept out of penal institutions.”
According to the plea agreement and other information filed in the case, McKean appeared at a September 8, 2023 supervised release hearing at the U.S. District Courthouse in Tacoma with heroin and fentanyl on his person. He was ordered detained at FDC-SeaTac during that hearing and, at some point before his admission to the prison, swallowed balloons of drugs for purposes of smuggling them into the facility.
Shortly after his arrival at FDC-SeaTac, McKean began distributing the drugs to other inmates. Two of those inmates who received fentanyl from McKean suffered fentanyl poisonings—one on the evening of September 9, 2023 and another the following morning. The first overdose had to be reversed by life-saving interventions from other inmates and multiple doses of naloxone administered by Bureau of Prisons (BOP) staff. The second overdose also had to be reversed by multiple doses of naloxone and hospitalization. BOP employees searched McKean’s cell after the overdoses, and found heroin, fentanyl, suboxone, and other suspected contraband inside McKean’s cell.
McKean was also facing 28 admitted supervised release violations that arose during his supervision for a prior federal conviction. At sentencing, the Court imposed a sentence of four months for the supervised release violations, plus 48 months for McKean’s guilty plea to providing contraband in prison, for a total sentence of 52 months in custody.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI). The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dane A. Westermeyer.
Euless Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Transporting Illegal Aliens in Tractor Trailer TankRead the Press Release
DEL RIO, Texas – A Euless man was sentenced in a federal court in Del Rio to 72 months in prison for his role in an alien smuggling operation.
According to court documents, Oland Maurice McKenzie, 43, was the driver of an 18-wheeler tractor trailer truck that was stopped on June 29, 2023, as it was transporting 18 illegal aliens in metal grain hopper trailer. A Maverick County Sheriff’s deputy initiated the traffic stop when McKenzie failed to utilize a turn signal as he entered a parking lot. The deputy learned McKenzie did not have a commercial driver’s license required to drive the tractor trailer.
During the traffic stop, U.S. Border Patrol agents arrived and initiated a canine inspection, which led to the discovery of 18 individuals inside the pneumatic tank trailer, which was a completely enclosed metal cylinder, commonly used to transport powdered concrete or sand.
McKenzie was arrested and charged in a criminal complaint. He was eventually indicted by a grand jury for one count of conspiracy to transport illegal aliens placing lives in jeopardy and one count of illegal alien transportation placing lives in jeopardy. He was found guilty of both counts on May 1, 2024 by jury verdict.
“The disruption by law enforcement on the front end of this event absolutely saved lives,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Margaret Leachman for the Western District of Texas. “The tractor trailer was loaded with human cargo and bound for San Antonio out of Eagle Pass. Fortunately, there were no injuries beyond heat exhaustion but, if not for our law enforcement partners, this event could have ended much worse—potentially resulting in death.”
“This conviction highlights the severity of human smuggling and the critical need to enforce U.S. immigration and border security laws,” said ICE Homeland Security Investigations Special Agent in Charge for San Antonio, Craig Larrabee. “ICE and HSI will continue to target those who engage in these unlawful activities, which pose significant risks to public safety.”
HSI and the U.S. Border Patrol investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Brett Miner prosecuted the case.
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Cumberland County Man Who Fired at Lee County Deputies Sentenced for Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
GREENSBORO – A Hope Mills, North Carolina man was sentenced today in Greensboro to the statutory maximum of 10 years in prison after pleading guilty to a firearm charge, announced Acting United States Attorney Randall S. Galyon of the Middle District of North Carolina (MDNC).
JEREMY SHANE GENTRY, JR., age 30, was sentenced to 120 months imprisonment plus 3 years of post-release supervision by the Honorable Catherine C. Eagles, Chief United States District Judge in the United States District Court for the MDNC.
According to court records, on January 14, 2022, Deputies Thomas, Amezquita, and Holmes, with the Lee County Sherriff’s Office, were dispatched to the area of 1026 Post Office Road in Sanford, North Carolina following a call. The caller reported that a white male, wearing a hoodie and jeans, was walking down the street with a gun. When the deputies got there, they saw GENTRY, who matched the description provided. Deputy Amezquita asked GENTRY if he would allow him to pat him down for weapons. GENTRY did not consent. Deputy Amezquita asked GENTRY if he had any drugs or weapons on his person, and GENTRY said he did not. Deputy Amezquita then told GENTRY that given the call received, he was going to pat GENTRY down for officer safety. GENTRY began to move away from the deputies, dropped his bookbag, and reached toward his right hip. Deputies Amezquita and Thomas grabbed GENTRY by the arms to try to restrain him, while Deputy Holmes grabbed GENTRY from behind the shoulder in an attempt to take him to the ground, but GENTRY produced a black pistol, later determined to be a Sig Sauer .45 caliber handgun. GENTRY fired one round in the direction of Deputies Amezquita and Holmes, striking Deputy Holmes. The bullet hit Deputy Holmes’s underneath the body-worn camera and lodged in his bullet proof vest. Deputy Holmes was fortunately not seriously injured. GENTRY then placed his gun to his head and pulled the trigger, but the gun malfunctioned, and no bullet was discharged. Ultimately, GENTRY was detained.
The Court found, after an evidentiary hearing, that GENTRY intended to kill one or more of the deputies involved. Charges against GENTRY in Lee County relating to that incident are still pending.
At the time of his arrest, GENTRY had been previously convicted of felony human trafficking of an adult victim and felony promoting prostitution (Cumberland County, 2018) and was sentenced to 13-25 months imprisonment. Thus, at the time of the instant offense, GENTRY was legally prohibited from possessing a firearm.
GENTRY pleaded guilty on December 6, 2024, to one count of felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2).
The case was investigated by the Lee County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The case was prosecuted by former MDNC Assistant United States Attorney Tanner L. Kroeger and current MDNC Assistant United States Attorney Tracy M. Williams-Durham.
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Convicted felon sentenced to 20 years in federal prison for possessing a firearmRead the Press Release
EAST ST. LOUIS, Ill. – A district judge sentenced a Belleville man to 240 months’ imprisonment after he was caught with a firearm as a convicted felon after a police chase in Washington County.
In December, a federal jury convicted Michael Oliver, 46, of one count of felon in possession of a firearm.
“This 20-year sentence delivers an unmistakable warning: felons who arm themselves, flee justice, and threaten our officers’ safety will confront the full, unwavering strength of our commitment to protect those who serve—accountability isn’t just a word, it’s our mission,” said U.S. Attorney Steven D. Weinhoeft.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Nashville Police Department officers tried to conduct a traffic stop on Oliver’s vehicle on July 5, 2024, but Oliver kept driving and tried to evade law enforcement.
"The Nashville Police Department would like to thank the assistance received during this investigation. The ATF was extremely resourceful to our agency during this investigation, and the U. S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Illinois did an excellent job with the prosecution of this case,” said Nashville Police Lt. Brock Styninger. “We look forward to working with these agencies again in the future to help bring dangerous individuals to justice."
Oliver took officers on a chase through the grass of the Perry County Courthouse. Deputies with the Perry County Sheriff’s Office tried to cut off Oliver in the roadway, and Oliver struck the police vehicle. Oliver then proceeded to flee on foot until his arrest.
Along the police chase route, officers located a Lorcin model L380 firearm Oliver discarded from his vehicle.
“ATF has no greater mission than working with our law enforcement partners to bring those who blatantly disregard the safety of our communities, to justice. As this sentence shows, those who choose to put the lives of our citizens and police officers at risk, will be held accountable,” said Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Special Agent in Charge, Bernard Hansen.
Following imprisonment, Oliver will serve four years of supervised release.
The Nashville Police Department and ATF contributed to the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Hudson prosecuted the case.
Connecticut Man Charged with Murder-for-Hire and Drug DistributionRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont announced that on March 27, 2025, a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Tremaine Knight, also known as “Brody,” 43, of Hartford, Connecticut, with murder-for-hire and distribution of fentanyl, cocaine, and cocaine base.
Knight’s arraignment will occur on April 3, 2025, before United States Magistrate Judge Judith G. Dein, in Burlington. Knight was ordered detained pending further proceedings on March 25, 2025, following issuance of a complaint charging him with drug distribution on March 20, 2025.
According to court records, law enforcement, working with a confidential informant (“CI”), conducted five controlled purchases of drugs from Knight between February and March 2025. The first three buys occurred in Massachusetts, and the last two buys occurred in Brattleboro, Vermont, with Knight traveling from Hartford to meet the CI. During the first Vermont buy, Knight sold to the CI approximately 140 grams of powder cocaine and over 40 grams of fentanyl, and during the second, Knight sold the CI approximately 150 grams of powder cocaine, 30 grams of cocaine base, and 85 grams of fentanyl.
During one of the Massachusetts buys, Knight asked the CI if the CI would be willing to kill a man who had disrespected and stolen from Knight. Knight offered $10,000 for the man’s death. In subsequent conversations and during the subsequent buys, Knight provided the CI with additional details regarding the man’s identity and the plan for the murder. During one of the Vermont buys, Knight paid the CI a $1,000 deposit for the murder by canceling a drug debt. Knight was taken into custody following that buy.
The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that an indictment contains allegations only and that Knight is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. For the murder-for-hire charge, Knight faces up to 10 years in prison if convicted. Because the charged drug distributions involved 40 or more grams of fentanyl, Knight faces a minimum of five years and a maximum of 40 years if convicted. The actual sentence, however, would be determined by the District Court with guidance from the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines and the statutory sentencing factors.
Acting United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher commended the investigatory efforts of the Vermont State Police-Vermont Drug Task Force, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Vermont State Police Westminster Barracks, the Western Massachusetts FBI Gang Task Force, the Northern Connecticut FBI Gang Task Force, the Brattleboro, Vermont Police Department, and the Hartford, Vermont Police Department.
The prosecutor is Assistant United States Attorney Corinne Smith. Knight is represented by Sarah Star, Esq., and the Office of the Federal Public Defender.
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).
Colombian National Sentenced for Smuggling Other Colombians Illegally into the United StatesRead the Press Release
PHOENIX, Ariz. – Greiby Melissa Barcelo-Velasquez, 39, a Colombian national, was sentenced last week by United States District Judge John J. Tuchi to 30 months in prison for Conspiracy to Encourage and Induce an Alien to Unlawfully Enter the United States.
Court documents show that federal agents identified over 100 individuals who used Barcelo-Velasquez’s organization to be smuggled illegally into the United States through Arizona.
Since approximately June 2023, Barcelo-Velasquez owned and operated the Baul Travel SAS travel agency in Colombia. In late 2023, United States Border Patrol Sector Intelligence and Homeland Security Investigations began investigating Barcelo-Velasquez after arresting numerous Colombian nationals who identified her as their smuggling coordinator.
Barcelo-Velasquez would meet with the Colombian nationals in Colombia, charge them a fee, and then inform them they would travel to Mexico under the false pretense they were vacationing in the country. They were also informed they would need to pay additional fees to her associates in U.S. currency at airports in Cancun or Mexico City to bribe officials to facilitate their travel. Once in Hermosillo, Mexico, the Colombian nationals were taken to stash houses near the border between Mexico and the United States. These stash houses held people from around the world who were also waiting to illegally cross into the United States. From there, they were transported, often by armed gunmen, to the border where they illegally crossed into the United States.
This case is the result of the coordinated efforts of Joint Task Force Alpha (JTFA). JTFA, a partnership with DHS, has been elevated and expanded with a mandate to target cartels and transnational criminal organizations to eliminate human smuggling and trafficking operating in Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Panama, and Colombia. JTFA currently comprises detailees from U.S. Attorneys’ Offices along the southwest border, including the Southern District of California, District of Arizona, District of New Mexico, and Western and Southern Districts of Texas. Dedicated support is provided by numerous components of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, led by the Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section and supported by the Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section; Office of Enforcement Operations; and the Office of International Affairs, among others. JTFA also relies on substantial law enforcement investment from DHS, FBI, DEA, and other partners. To date, JTFA’s work has resulted in more than 355 domestic and international arrests of leaders, organizers, and significant facilitators of alien smuggling; more than 320 U.S. convictions; more than 265 significant jail sentences imposed; and forfeitures of substantial assets.
Customs and Border Protection’s United States Border Patrol Sector Intelligence Unit and Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation in this case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys, Stuart Zander and Adriana Genco, District of Arizona, Phoenix, handled the prosecution.
CASE NUMBER: CR-24-00392-PHX-JJT
RELEASE NUMBER: 2025-045_Barcelo-VelasquezCalifornia Man Pleads Guilty to Trafficking Fentanyl and MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A California man has pleaded guilty in federal court in Boston to trafficking and conspiring to traffic large quantities of methamphetamine and fentanyl.
Marcos Haro, 39, of Sacramento, Calif., pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and 40 grams or more of fentanyl; two counts of distribution of and possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine; aiding and abetting; and one count of distribution of and possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl; aiding and abetting. U.S. Senior District Court Judge William G. Young scheduled sentencing for June 25, 2025. In April 2023, Marcos Haro was indicted along with his brother Noel Haro.
Noel Haro is a member and influential leader of the “Border Brothers” gang – a large-scale international gang known to be involved in drug, weapon and human trafficking in Southern Arizona with a presence in Nogales, Mexico and the Arizona prison system. Noel Haro is currently serving a life sentence following convictions in Arizona for drug distribution, conspiracy and money laundering. Noel Haro was previously serving his sentence at a facility in Arizona but was transferred to serve his sentence in Massachusetts upon being deemed a security concern due to his alleged influence over other inmates and repeated introduction of cell phones and narcotics into Arizona facilities.
Beginning in or about April 2019, and investigation began into Noel Haro’s attempts to facilitate the trafficking of narcotics to Massachusetts. Investigators monitoring Noel Haro’s inmate calls learned that he was attempting to solicit friends and family members to transport narcotics from Arizona to Massachusetts on his behalf. In April 2022, recorded inmate calls indicated that Noel Haro worked with his brother, Marcos Haro, to arrange drug deals outside of prison.
In June 2022, Marcos Haro agreed to supply a cooperating witness- with samples of multiple narcotics – including fentanyl and methamphetamine. Marcos Haro later mailed the narcotics concealed in a purple teddy bear inside a postal package. On July 13, 2022, the package was retrieved and found to contain powdered fentanyl, five counterfeit fentanyl pills, methamphetamine and approximately 3 grams of heroin. On July 25, 2022, during a recorded inmate call, Noel Haro and Marcos Haro discussed selling one pound of methamphetamine to the same individual. On July 27, 2022, investigators retrieve the package sent from Marcos Haro which contained approximately 446.6 grams of 99% pure methamphetamine. On Aug. 10, 2022, Noel Haro directed Marcos Haro to arrange the sale of five pounds of methamphetamine to the same individual. Later, on Sept. 12, 2022, investigators retrieved two packages sent from Marcos Haro, which contained approximately 892.3 grams of 86% pure methamphetamine and approximately 1,320.2 grams of 95% pure methamphetamine.
In October 2022, Marcos and Noel Haro made arrangements to sell an individual 2,000 fentanyl pills. On Nov. 17, 2022, Marcos sent the individual a photograph of a United States Postal Service shipping box, label and receipt. On Nov. 20, 2022, investigators retrieved the package sent by Marcos Haro to the individual, which contained approximately 2,000 blue pills, which tested positive for approximately 215.3 grams of fentanyl.
According to court documents, on April 2, 2023, Marcos Haro was arrested in Sacramento, Calif. following a motor vehicle stop. A 9mm handgun with eight live rounds in the magazine and approximately 2.9 grams of suspected fentanyl that field tested positive for the presence of opiates, were found during a subsequent search of Marcos Haro’s vehicle. Marcos Haro has a criminal history including a 2016 conviction for possession of a controlled substance while armed and illegal possession of an assault weapon with a large capacity magazine, for which he was sentenced to seven years in prison.
Noel Haro pleaded guilty in March 2025 and is scheduled to be sentenced on June 5, 2025.
The charge conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and 40 grams or more of fentanyl provides for a sentence of at least 10 years and up to life in prison, at least five years and up to a lifetime of supervised release and a fine of up to $10 million. The charges of distribution of and possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine; aiding and abetting each provide for a sentence of at least 10 years and up to life in prison, at least five years and up to a lifetime of supervised release and a fine of up to $10 million. The charge of distribution of and possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl; aiding and abetting provides for a sentence of at least five years and up to 40 years in prison, at least four years and up to a lifetime of supervised release and a fine of up to $5 million. 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.
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.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division; and Department of Correction’s Commissioner Shawn Jenkins made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Sacramento Division. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Alathea E. Porter and Charles Dell’Anno of the Narcotics & Money Laundering Unit are prosecuting the case.
CEO of CardReady LLC Sentenced to Seven Years in Prison for $19 Million Credit Card Laundering SchemeRead the Press Release
Matthew Podolsky, the Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, announced that BRANDON BECKER, the former CEO of CardReady, LLC (“CardReady”), was sentenced today to seven years in prison for operating a credit card laundering scheme in which BECKER and his co-conspirators stole over $19 million based on false promises that they could reduce thousands of customers’ debt burdens. As part of this scheme, BECKER and his co-conspirators created dozens of sham merchant accounts and false merchant applications, defrauding a credit card processing company and federally insured bank into processing victim payments. BECKER previously pled guilty before U.S. District Judge Loretta A. Preska, who also imposed today’s sentence.
Acting U.S. Attorney Matthew Podolsky said: “Over a two-year period, Brandon Becker and his co-conspirators preyed on nearly 20,000 victims who were trying to reduce their debt burdens. Becker tasked co-conspirators at CardReady to recruit straw owners for shell companies, and deceived credit card payment processors into fraudulently processing more than $19 million in stolen funds. With today’s sentence, Becker faces the consequences of this massive fraud, sending the clear message that corporate executives who facilitate fraud will be held accountable for their crimes.”
According to the Superseding Indictment, court filings, and statements made in Court:
BECKER was the CEO of CardReady, a Los-Angeles based company acting as a sales agent in the credit card processing industry. As part of its business as a sales agent, CardReady found merchants who wanted credit card processing services, and submitted merchant applications on behalf of those merchants to an Independent Sales Organization (“ISO”), referred to in the Indictment as the “New York ISO.” The New York ISO then evaluated the merchant applications, and referred acceptable merchant accounts for processing up the chain to Payment Processor-1 and to Bank-1. Bank-1 and Payment Processor-1, in turn, processed payments to merchants for purchases by customers who had used credit cards.
In or about 2012, BECKER negotiated a deal with co-defendant STEVEN SHORT, the former head of Florida-based E.M. Systems & Services LLC and affiliated companies (collectively, “E.M. Systems”). Under this deal, CardReady would retain approximately one-third of E.M. Systems’ credit card sale transactions in exchange for providing E.M. Systems access to the credit card processing network. For roughly the next two years, SHORT and telemarketers working in boiler rooms for E.M. Systems cold-called customers and offered services, including debt consolidation and interest-rate reduction, which were prohibited by the applicable guidelines from Bank-1 and other associated processing entities (the “Guidelines”), and which – as BECKER knew – would produce chargebacks from dissatisfied customers far in excess of the number and rate of chargebacks permitted under the Guidelines.
In securing payment card processing for E.M. Systems, BECKER concealed that E.M. Systems was the true underlying merchant. Instead, BECKER and his subordinates and co-conspirators, created approximately 26 sham merchant companies, each headed by a “signer” (the “Sham Merchants” and the “Sham Merchant Accounts”). The 26 signers for the 26 Sham Merchants typically had no business of their own, and lacked knowledge of E.M. Systems’ business. In return for signing the paperwork provided to them, the signers were paid a nominal fee from CardReady.
BECKER and his co-conspirators prepared and coordinated fraudulent merchant applications for each of the Sham Merchants, through merchant applications that falsely described the Sham Merchants to make them look like legitimate independent businesses and to make it more likely that the associated Sham Merchant Account would be approved for processing by the New York ISO, Payment Processor-1, and Bank-1. The merchant application for each Sham Merchant also concealed the Sham Merchant’s true association with E.M. Systems.
By steering E.M. Systems’s payment processing through these Sham Merchant Accounts, BECKER accomplished a number of fraudulent purposes. First, the use of these Sham Merchant Accounts made it possible for E.M. Systems and other high-risk merchants to conceal their identities from Payment Processor-1 and Bank-1 and to maintain payment card processing. This was particularly relevant, as Payment Processor-1 repeatedly required CardReady to close individual Sham Merchant Accounts because of excessive chargebacks and reports of sales of prohibited services. BECKER then caused CardReady to quickly replace the closed Sham Merchant Accounts with new Sham Merchant Accounts, precluding Payment Processor-1 from shutting down its processing of E.M. Systems and other high-risk merchants. Second, the fraudulent processing scheme enabled E.M. Systems and other high-risk merchants to spread out their charges, refunds, and chargebacks across multiple Sham Merchant Accounts. This enabled them to evade chargeback monitoring programs operated by Bank-1, Payment Processor-1, and the New York ISO.
BECKER’s use of signers to deceive payment processors was not limited to the E.M. Systems scheme. BECKER and his agents and employees at CardReady systematized the recruitment of over 270 signers and the creation of over 800 Sham Merchant Accounts to be used by more than 30 high risk clients other than E.M. Systems between approximately 2012 and 2016, both before and after the E.M. Systems scheme.
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BECKER, 53, of Los Angeles, California, pled guilty on August 30, 2024, to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and bank fraud. In addition to the prison sentence, BECKER was sentenced to three years of supervised release and ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $1,910,600.05, and forfeiture of $11,405,964.00.
STEVEN SHORT, 48, of Tampa, Florida, pled guilty on August 16, 2022, to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and bank fraud. On May 2, 2023, SHORT was sentenced to 78 months in prison and three years of supervised release and ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $1,910,600.05 and forfeiture of $8,833,889.69.
Mr. Podolsky praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and thanked the Federal Trade Commission for its assistance.
This case is being handled by the Office’s Complex Frauds and Cybercrime Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Vladislav Vainberg and Timothy Capozzi are in charge of the prosecution.
Beckley Man Sentenced to Prison for Role in Drug Trafficking OrganizationRead the Press Release
BECKLEY, W.Va. – Demetrius Terrell Burns, 32, of Beckley, was sentenced today to 10 months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, fentanyl and cocaine base. Burns admitted to his role in a drug trafficking organization (DTO) that distributed methamphetamine, fentanyl and cocaine base, also known as “crack,” in Beckley and elsewhere within the Southern District of West Virginia.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in April 2024 Burns received fentanyl from a supplier in Beckley that he used to supply Tilford Joe Bradley Jr., a co-defendant. Burns admitted that on April 12, 2024, he told Bradley by phone that he had received a shipment of “raw” fentanyl. Burns further admitted that he offered to sell Bradley $1,800 worth of raw fentanyl, and they discussed adding cutting agent to the fentanyl to make a larger profit when it was sold. Burns also admitted that he knew Bradley intended to redistribute these drugs in and around the Southern District of West Virginia.
Burns and Bradley are among 12 individuals indicted on charges alleging the defendants conspired to distribute methamphetamine, fentanyl, and crack within the Southern District of West Virginia from in or about June 2023 to in or about May 2024. All 12 have pleaded guilty, including two defendants who pleaded guilty to separate charges in lieu of the offenses alleged in the indictment.
Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and the Beckley/Raleigh County Drug and Violent Crime Unit, which consists of officers from the West Virginia State Police, the Raleigh County Sheriff’s Department, and the Beckley Police Department.
Chief United States District Judge Frank W. Volk imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Andrew D. Isabell prosecuted the case.
The investigation was part of the Department of Justice’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF). The program was established in 1982 to conduct comprehensive, multilevel attacks on major drug trafficking and money laundering organizations and is the keystone of the Department of Justice’s drug reduction strategy. OCDETF combines the resources and expertise of its member federal agencies in cooperation with state and local law enforcement. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking organizations, transnational criminal organizations and money laundering organizations that present a significant threat to the public safety, economic, or national security of the United States.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 5:24-cr-90.
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Baltimore Man Sentenced for Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition by a Prohibited PersonRead the Press Release
Baltimore, Maryland – U.S. District Judge Matthew J. Maddox sentenced Robert Jackson, 39, of Baltimore, Maryland, to 54 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, for possession of a firearm and ammunition by a prohibited person.
Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the sentence with Special Agent in Charge Toni M. Crosby of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
On January 26, 2024, while observing a Citi Watch Camera, a Baltimore City Police Department (BPD) detective observed a hand-to-hand gun exchange, on Milton Avenue. The detective witnessed Jackson and co-defendant, Derek Harvey, walking southbound on North Milton Avenue in Baltimore City.
Jackson reached into the hoodie he wore and pulled out a tan handgun and handed it to Harvey who then placed the gun in his waistband. Baltimore City detectives arrested both men shortly after observing the weapon exchange, seizing the firearm and ammunition. Both men were prohibited from possessing the weapon and ammunition because of prior convictions.
Harvey has previously pled guilty and is scheduled for sentencing on May 8, 2025.
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.
U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the ATF and BPD for their help with the investigation. Ms. Hayes also thanked Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Kertisha Dixon who prosecuted the case.
For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, please visit www.justice.gov/usao-md and https://www.justice.gov/usao-md/community-outreach.
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Attorney General Pamela Bondi Dismisses Biden-Era Lawsuit Against Commonsense Georgia Election Law, Advancing President Trump’s Mandate to End WeaponizationRead the Press Release
Today, Attorney General Pamela Bondi directed the Department of Justice to dismiss its claims in In Re Georgia Senate Bill 202, a Biden-era lawsuit that falsely accused Georgia of intentionally suppressing Black voters’ votes.
“Contrary to the Biden Administration’s false claims of suppression, Black voter turnout actually increased under SB 202,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “Georgians deserve secure elections, not fabricated claims of false voter suppression meant to divide us. Americans can be confident that this Department of Justice will protect their vote and never play politics with election integrity.”
The Biden administration fabricated an untrue narrative following the passage of Senate Bill 202 and sued the state of Georgia, claiming without evidence that SB 202 was an intentional scheme to “depress the Black vote” and referring to the basic election legislation as “Jim Crow 2.0.”Some mainstream media outlets and corporate allies of the Biden Administration fueled this falsehood, demonizing Georgians for political gain and triggering boycotts—including Major League Baseball’s relocation of the 2021 All-Star Game from Atlanta—that, by some estimates, cost the state over $100 million in economic losses.
In reality, SB 202’s commonsense reforms—photo ID for all voting, strengthened absentee ballot procedures, and rapid reporting of results—spurred record voter turnout, including among Black Georgians.
“The Department of Justice is done with this disgrace,” said Acting Associate Attorney General and Department of Justice Chief of Staff Chad Mizelle. “There is nothing racist about protecting elections—baseless claims of Jim Crow-style discrimination are the real insult.”
President Trump and Attorney General Bondi are committed to dismantling weaponized litigation and ensuring fair, lawful elections for all Americans. Instead of wasting time on false, divisive lawsuits, the Department of Justice will continue to root out real discrimination, promote common-sense election safeguards, and ensure equality for every American.
Amador County Man Sentenced to 5 Years in Prison for Illegal Marijuana CultivationRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Timothy Charles Wilson, 76, of Pioneer, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Dale A. Drozd to five years in prison and ordered him to pay $24,778 in restitution for manufacturing marijuana, Acting U.S. Attorney Michele Beckwith announced.
According to court documents, Wilson illegally manufactured 238 marijuana plants inside and around his residence in Pioneer. He grew these plants as part of a larger conspiracy with his three co-defendants to grow marijuana in the Tomhead Mountain area in Shasta-Trinity National Forest that consisted of 1,054 marijuana plants. In furtherance of this conspiracy, co-defendant Filemon Padilla Martinez recruited, trained, and supplied Oscar Francisco-Diego and Francisco Gomez Sanchez, the other two co-defendants in this case, whom he left to live and work on the site while he stayed either at a nearby stash house or at his residence in Ione. Wilson paid Padilla Martinez and funded the supplies.
According to court documents, surveillance captured Wilson and Padilla Martinez visiting the marijuana grow on Tomhead Mountain on Aug. 2, 2019. A subsequent search of Wilson’s residence in Pioneer resulted in the discovery of a multiple receipts for marijuana supplies, carbon copies of checks to Padilla Martinez, marijuana cultivation supplies, 238 marijuana plants, and other evidence of illegal marijuana cultivation.
This case was the product of an investigation by the U.S. Forest Service, the Tehama County Sheriff’s Department, and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, with assistance from the Amador County Sheriff’s Office and the California Department of Justice. Assistant U.S. Attorney Adrian T. Kinsella prosecuted the case.
Padilla Martinez, Francisco-Diego and Gomez Sanchez have been previously sentenced for their roles in the offense. There were each sentenced to 10 years, 19 months, and 22 months of incarceration, respectively.