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12 March 2025
California Man Arrested for Sex Trafficking a MinorRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A California man has been arrested and charged for allegedly sex trafficking a 17-year-old minor victim who had previously been reported missing.
Ibrahim Abdul-Alim Bin Hajj Yahya Abdul-Malik, 37, of San Jose, Calif., was charged with sex trafficking a minor. Malik was arrested on March 10, 2025 in California and made his initial appearance in the Northern District of California. He will appear in federal court in Boston at a later date.
According to the charging documents, on Dec. 11, 2024, law enforcement received information that a 17-year-old minor victim was being advertised for commercial sex acts online in the Boston area. The minor victim had previously been reported missing from her home in Ohio in August 2024. Investigators identified advertisements containing photographs of the minor victim and a phone number used to use to arrange commercial sex encounters with the minor victim. Law enforcement responded to the advertisement in an undercover capacity and the responding telephone number arranged for a commercial sex date at a hotel in Cambridge. There, law enforcement recovered the minor victim and seized her iPhone as evidence.
A subsequent investigation allegedly revealed that, in or around Nov. 13, 2024, Malik began trafficking the minor victim in other states, posting commercial sex advertisements for the minor victim on various websites. In order to avoid law enforcement detection, it is alleged that Malik raised the minor victim’s listed age on those websites to falsely indicate that she was 20 years old.During a search of the minor victim’s phone, law enforcement allegedly located messages from Malik about the minor victim engaging in commercial sex acts with sex buyers. On multiple occasions, it is alleged that Malik directed the minor victim to have sex buyer payments sent to a Zelle account he controlled. After the sex buyer sent the payment, it is alleged that Malik would confirm receipt of the money and keep all of the profits.
It is further alleged that Malik fled the Boston area immediately following the Dec. 11, 2024 undercover operation – purchasing an airline ticket to fly from Boston to San Jose, Calif. on a flight that departed at 6 a.m. on Dec. 12, 2024.
The charge of sex trafficking of children carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 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 $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.
If you or someone you know may be impacted or experiencing commercial sex trafficking, please contact [email protected].
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by Homeland Security Investigations in San Jose, Calif. and the Arlington Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Craig Estes of the Human Trafficking & Civil Rights Unit is prosecuting the case.
The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Calaveras Man Pleads Guilty to Interstate Communication of Violent ThreatsRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Cedar Sky Montgomery, of Calaveras County, pleaded guilty today to three counts of interstate communication of threats of violence, Acting U.S. Attorney Michele Beckwith announced.
According to court documents, Montgomery used a cellphone and the internet to make threats to multiple different victims. In one instance, he threatened to kill a victim and have the victim “watch members of your family hanging from trees while your famil[y’]s Houses Burn to ground … .” On another occasion, Montgomery sent text and multimedia messages that threatened to kill a second victim and that victim’s brother, specifically threatening to “kill as many members of your family as I can find!” Montgomery also told the second victim that he would cut the victim’s fingers and hands “off your physical body.” With a third victim, Montgomery sent threatening voicemail messages saying, “the bomb maker is going to kill everybody in your [expletive] family, I’m going to burn your property down, I’m going to slit your [expletive] throat and I’m going to kill everybody in your family.”
Additionally, from late November 2023 through early January 2024, Montgomery used his mobile phone to repeatedly call and send hundreds of unwanted text and multimedia messages to a fourth victim’s mobile phone. Montgomery sent obscene cartoons and photos and told the victim he was trying to find the victim and threatening to kill the victim’s romantic partner. Montgomery similarly sent hundreds of unwanted messages to a victim, along with angry voicemails and images of a man’s throat being sliced by a sharp blade, combined with claims that Montgomery would find the victim and cut the victim into pieces.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Ripon Resident Agency of the Sacramento Field Office, the Los Angeles Field Office, and the Washington Field Office, with assistance from the United States Secret Service. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Adrian T. Kinsella and Christina McCall are prosecuting the case.
Montgomery is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Dale A. Drozd on June 9, 2025. He faces a maximum statutory sentence of five years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000 per count of conviction, and the parties agree to recommend a total sentence of 30 months 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.
Broward Woman Charged in Scheme to Submit Fraudulent Asylum ApplicationsRead the Press Release
MIAMI – Andrea C. Correa, 37, a resident of Sunrise, Florida, was arraigned this week on a federal indictment charging her with submission of a fraudulent asylum application, in violation of 18 U.S.C. §1546(a), which penalizes the presentation of immigration documents that contain false statements.
According to the allegations proffered during an earlier hearing, Correa prepared and mailed an asylum application to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) that contained multiple statements of personal political persecution, despite the applicant having informed Correa that she did not in fact experience personal political persecution in her home country. Correa has prepared more than 1,000 asylum applications since 2013.
If convicted of the charged offense, Correa faces up to 10 years imprisonment and a fine of $250,000. However, any sentence following conviction would be imposed by the court after consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines.
U.S. Attorney Hayden P. O’Byrne for the Southern District of Florida, Acting Special Agent in Charge Jose R. Figueroa of HSI Miami, and Miami Asylum Office Director Varsenik Papazian for USCIS made the announcement.
HSI West Palm Beach and USCIS Fraud Detection and National Security Directorate (FDNS) Miami Asylum Office investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Katie Sadlo is prosecuting this matter.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida at www.justice.gov/usao-sdfl.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or at http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov, under case number 25-cr-60010.
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Broward Tax Preparer Arrested and Charged with Tax FraudRead the Press Release
MIAMI – Today, Jimmy Desir made his initial appearance in a federal court in Miami, Fla., for allegedly orchestrating a scheme to defraud the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) by filing false income tax returns.
Jimmy Desir, 46, of Miramar, Florida, was arrested on an indictment charging him with 22 counts of assisting in the preparation of false and fraudulent tax returns that Desir, himself, presented to the IRS using his tax preparation business, A1 Plus Financial Services, Inc., located in North Miami Beach, Fla.
According to the indictment, for several years Desir intentionally included false entries on his customers’ tax returns, such as false fuel tax credits and false education credits, as well as false Schedules C with made up business losses, all in the name of increasing his customers’ tax refunds so that he could collect higher tax preparation fees from them. The loss of revenue to the IRS is estimated at more than $2 million.
U.S. Attorney Hayden P. O’Byrne for the Southern District of Florida and Special Agent in Charge Emmanuel Gomez of the IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS CI), Miami Field Office, made the announcement.
The IRS CI is investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Aimee Jimenez is prosecuting this case.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or at http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov under case number 25-cr-20070.
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Brentwood Man Arrested on Charges of Possession of 3D-Printed Machine Gun Conversion DeviceRead the Press Release
OAKLAND – A Brentwood man has been charged with unlawful possession of a machine gun conversion device. Noah Kanaye Bauer, 21, was arrested yesterday and made his initial appearance in federal district court in Oakland this morning.
According to the criminal complaint and court documents unsealed today, on Sept. 6, 2024, officers with the Brentwood Police Department (BPD) responded to a call regarding an individual with a firearm at a grocery store in Brentwood and found Bauer with a 3D printed Glock style firearm. Officers allegedly removed the firearm from the front of Bauer’s waistband and saw that there was no serial number on it. In a search of Bauer’s home after his arrest for carrying a concealed weapon, BPD officers found a 3D printing machine, three 3D printed pistol frames, and a 3D printed machine gun conversion device in Bauer’s room.
The complaint describes that machine gun conversion devices, also known as “switches” or “auto sears,” are designed and created for the purpose of converting a semi-automatic Glock type pistol into a fully automatic machine gun. When BPD officers questioned Bauer on what the conversion devices were used for, Bauer allegedly stated, “to make it shoot faster.”
Bauer is next scheduled to appear in court on March 17, 2025, for a detention hearing before U.S. Magistrate Judge Kandis A. Westmore.
Acting United States Attorney Patrick D. Robbins and FBI Special Agent in Charge Sanjay Virmani made the announcement.
Bauer is charged with one count of 18 U.S.C. § 922(o). A complaint merely alleges that crimes have been committed, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. If convicted, the defendant faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison and a fine of $250,000. Any sentence following conviction would be imposed by the court after consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and the federal statute governing the imposition of a sentence, 18 U.S.C. § 3553.
The National Security and Special Prosecutions Section of the U.S. Attorney’s Office is prosecuting this case. The prosecution is the result of an investigation by the FBI with assistance from the BPD and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.
Noah Kanaye Bauer Complaint
Brandon Man Sentenced for Brandishing a Firearm During RobberiesRead the Press Release
JACKSON, MS – A Brandon man was sentenced to 14 years imprisonment for brandishing a firearm during two convenience store robberies.
According to court documents and admissions during public court proceedings, Tramaine Jadell Pettaway, 36, used a firearm to commit two convenience store robberies along with another individual in January and February of 2018. One store was in Clinton and the other was in Ridgeland. The Ridgeland Police Department was able to arrest both Pettaway and his co-defendant after a short chase following the Ridgeland convenience store robbery in February 2018. Pettaway and his co-defendant have been in custody since February 2018.
Pettaway pleaded guilty to two counts of violating Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1) which makes it illegal for anyone to use a firearm during a robbery.
Acting U.S. Attorney Patrick A. Lemon of the Southern District of Mississippi and Special Agent in Charge Robert Eikhoff of the Federal Bureau of Investigation made the announcement.
The Ridgeland Police Department, the Clinton Police Department, and the FBI investigated the case.
Deputy Criminal Chief Lynn Murray and Assistant United States Attorney Charles Kirkham prosecuted the case.
This case was prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
Brandon Man Sentenced for Brandishing a Firearm During RobberiesRead the Press Release
JACKSON, MS – A Brandon man was sentenced to 14 years imprisonment for brandishing a firearm during two convenience store robberies.
According to court documents and admissions during public court proceedings, Tramaine Jadell Pettaway, 36, used a firearm to commit two convenience store robberies along with another individual in January and February of 2018. One store was in Clinton and the other was in Ridgeland. The Ridgeland Police Department was able to arrest both Pettaway and his co-defendant after a short chase following the Ridgeland convenience store robbery in February 2018. Pettaway and his co-defendant have been in custody since February 2018.
Pettaway pleaded guilty to two counts of violating Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1) which makes it illegal for anyone to use a firearm during a robbery.
Acting U.S. Attorney Patrick A. Lemon of the Southern District of Mississippi and Special Agent in Charge Robert Eikhoff of the Federal Bureau of Investigation made the announcement.
The Ridgeland Police Department, the Clinton Police Department, and the FBI investigated the case.
Deputy Criminal Chief Lynn Murray and Assistant United States Attorney Charles Kirkham prosecuted the case.
This case was prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
Bloomer Man Sentenced to 8 Years for Emailing Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Timothy M. O’Shea, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Paul Clement, 41, Bloomer, Wisconsin, was sentenced today by Chief U.S. District Judge James D. Peterson to 8 years in federal prison for transportation of child pornography. This sentence will be followed a 20-year period of supervised release. Clement pleaded guilty to this charge on November 26, 2024.
Agents with the Department of Homeland Security – Homeland Security Investigations determined that on January 10, 2024, Clement uploaded thirteen files of child sexual abuse material to Google Photos, a file storage and sharing platform. Agents also determined that Clement emailed three of these files to a second email address that he controlled. The files consisted of videos depicting the sexual assault of girls between the ages of 8 and 12 by adult men. Clement admitted in an interview with agents to receiving these kinds of videos on a social networking site geared towards sexual fetishes. He also admitted to using that networking site to roleplay sexual scenarios involving the sexual abuse of children.
At sentencing, Judge Peterson stated that Clement demonstrated “a real and enduring interest in children” and a significant sentence was warranted. Judge Peterson also highlighted Clement’s criminal history and history of inappropriate activity with children as aggravating factors. This includes a 2005 Wisconsin conviction sexual assault of a child.
The charge against Clement was the result of an investigation conducted by Department of Homeland Security – Homeland Security Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Taylor L. Kraus prosecuted this case.
This investigation was a part of Project Safe Childhood (PSC), a nationwide initiative to combat child sexual exploitation and abuse. Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Birmingham Woman Sentenced to More than 11 Years in Prison for ArsonRead the Press Release
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – A Birmingham woman has been sentenced for placing an incendiary device outside of an apartment, announced U.S. Attorney Prim F. Escalona and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives Nashville Field Division Acting Special Agent in Charge Jason Stankiewicz.
U.S. District Court Judge Anna M. Manasco sentenced Kimberly Lanetta Blackmon, 39, to 135 months in prison. In July 2024, Blackmon pleaded guilty to arson.
According to the plea agreement, in the early morning of October 18, 2022, Blackmon forced her way into the lobby of an apartment complex in the Lakeview District of Birmingham. Blackmon then took the elevator to an apartment on the fourth floor that she believed belonged to an individual that was romantically linked to her ex-boyfriend. When she arrived at the apartment, Blackmon leaned an improvised incendiary device against the apartment door and fled down a nearby stairwell. Moments later, the device exploded—creating a fireball that caused moderate damage to the door and the interior threshold of the apartment. Although the interior sprinkler system extinguished the fire before it could spread or cause injury, the device set by Blackmon caused nearly $470,000 in property damage.
ATF investigated the case along with the Birmingham Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney W. Lee Gilmer prosecuted the case.
Alleged Serial Robber Arrested and IndictedRead the Press Release
SALT LAKE CITY, Utah –A federal grand jury in Salt Lake City returned an indictment today charging a Utah man with robbing multiple credit unions over the course of five months.
Dennis L. Dyches, 57, of Salt Lake County, Utah, was charged by complaint on March 4, 2025.
According to court documents, from October 2024 to February 2025, Dyches allegedly robbed five credit unions across the Salt Lake Valley, and robbed one of them twice. On October 11, 2024 Dyches allegedly robbed the Mountain America Credit Union in Murray, Utah. Less than a week later, on October 16, 2024, Dyches allegedly robbed a Golden West Credit Union in West Jordan, Utah. In this robbery, he allegedly handed a note to the bank teller that read, “Give me the money and no one will get hurt.” The teller complied and Dyches left the bank on foot.
On November 20, 2024, Dyches allegedly walked into a Granite Credit Union in Midvale, Utah, and handed the teller a note that read, “This is a robbery, open the drawer, don’t talk to anyone, don’t push the button.” The teller complied, gave the money to Dyches and he left the bank. In December 2024, Dyches allegedly robbed an America First Credit Union located inside a Macey’s grocery store in Murray. In February 2025, Dyches allegedly robbed the same America First Credit Union inside Macy’s grocery store in Murray.
On February 27, 2025, Dyches allegedly robbed an America First Credit Union inside a Dan’s Foods grocery store in Salt Lake City. During this robbery, Dyches allegedly approached the teller and showed a note that read, “This is robbery” and “Give me everything.” The teller complied, took the money from the drawer and gave it to Dyches. After taking the money, Dyches was seen on surveillance video walking to the underground parking lot where he drove away in a black Jeep Cherokee with a black license plate. The vehicle was traced back to a Dyches’ family member as the registered owner.
On March 4, 2025, Dyches was taken into custody without incident. During a search of the black Jeep Cherokee, law enforcement seized articles of clothing and accessories that matched the descriptions of the suspected robber.
Dyches is charged with six counts of credit union robbery. His initial appearance on the indictment is scheduled for March 13, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. in courtroom 7.1 before a U.S. Magistrate Judge at the Orrin G. Hatch United States District Courthouse in downtown Salt Lake City.
Acting United States Attorney Felice John Viti for the District of Utah made the announcement.
The case is being investigated by the FBI Salt Lake City Field Office.
The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah is prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
11 March 2025
Western District of Texas Files Nearly 250 Immigration Cases in First Week of MarchRead the Press Release
SAN ANTONIO – Acting United States Attorney Margaret Leachman for the Western District of Texas announced today, that federal prosecutors in the district filed 240 new immigration-related criminal cases between March 3 and March 9—up from 153 the week prior. Of the 240 defendants, more than 160 are charged with illegally re-entering the country with the majority having felony convictions such as narcotics, violent crimes and prior immigration offenses. More than 60 face charges of illegally entering the country, six cases involve various instances of human smuggling, and the remainder relate to other immigration crimes.
Among those charged during this week were a Mexican national, who was arrested in El Pasoon criminal charges related to his alleged illegal re-entry. Clemente Galvez-Alapisco has been deported twice before, most recently June 28, 2022 after he was convicted for indecency with a child. He was also convicted of illegal re-entry in July 2019 and sentenced to five months and 11 days confinement. If convicted, Galvez-Alapisco faces up to 10 years in prison.
Also in El Paso, Mexican national Salvador Arellano-Quintero was allegedly found approximately 1.5 miles west of the Paso Del Norte Port of Entry without immigration documents allowing him to be or remain in the U.S. legally. He had been previously deported six times, the most recent being through Calexico, California on Jan. 30, 2015. Arellano-Quintero has an extensive history as a convicted felon, including a 2013 case in Santa Maria, California, in which he was convicted and sentenced to three years in prison for inflicting corporal injury on a spouse/cohabitant, threatening crime with intent to terrorize, preventing/dissuading a victim/witness, and assault with a deadly weapon. In 2002, Arellano-Quintero was convicted in Santa Barbara, California, for inflicting corporal injury on a spouse/cohabitant and sex with a minor under the age of 16.
On March 3, a U.S. Border Patrol agent observed several individuals climb over the border fence in San Elizario, allegedly led by Mexican national David Alexis Herrera-Ramirez. A criminal complaint alleges Herrera-Ramirez was responsible for guiding illegal aliens into the U.S. and communicating with other co-conspirators over WhatsApp to arrange for pickup and further transport. Herrera-Ramirez is charged with one count of bringing in and harboring aliens.
In San Antonio, the U.S. Marshal Service Fugitive Task Force arrested Pedro Ruiz-Cisneros inside his residence on March 4. A criminal complaint alleges Ruiz-Cisneros was previously removed from the country five times as an aggravated felon—as early as April 1994 and as recently as June 2018. Ruiz-Cisneros was convicted in 1990 of second-degree robbery and sentenced to five years confinement. Less than one year later, he was arrested for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and was sentenced to eight years confinement. Ruiz-Cisneros was later convicted three times of illegal re-entry and sentenced to a total of 133 months in federal prison between 2007 and 2016.
Jaime Aguilar-Guerrero was arrested on March 3 by local law enforcement in Belton for public intoxication. Immigrations and Customs Enforcement determined Aguilar-Guerrero was a Mexican national who had been previously removed from the United States in July 2016. Additionally, on April 11, 1996, Aguilar-Guerrero had been sentenced to seven years confinement for intoxication manslaughter with a vehicle. He was transferred into federal custody and faces up to 10 years in federal prison, if convicted for illegal re-entry.
A Mexican national was arrested near Dryden on March 6, after he was previously removed through Del Rio as recently as Jan. 21. Miguel Diego-Mateo has been deported from the U.S. six times and has two DUI convictions in addition to two convictions for illegal re-entry.
These cases were referred or supported by federal law enforcement partners, including Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations (ICE ERO), U.S. Border Patrol, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the U.S. Marshals Service (USMS), and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), with additional assistance from state and local law enforcement partners.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Texas comprises 68 counties located in the central and western areas of Texas, encompasses nearly 93,000 square miles and an estimated population of 7.6 million people. The district includes three of the five largest cities in Texas—San Antonio, Austin and El Paso—and shares 660 miles of common border with the Republic of Mexico.
These cases are part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
Indictments and criminal complaints are merely allegations and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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U.S. Attorney's Office and FBI Announce Five-Count Indictment in Violent Crime Spree on Navajo NationRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A federal grand jury returned a five-count indictment against Rydell Happy for his alleged involvement in a violent crime spree on April 24, 2024. Happy, who was already in custody awaiting trial on a second-degree murder charge, now faces charges for first degree murder, two counts of using and carrying a firearm during and relation to a crime of violence and discharging said firearm, assault with a dangerous weapon and being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition.
According to court documents, on April 24, 2024, Happy, 31, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, allegedly shot John Doe in the head with a revolver and then repeatedly beat his head with a baseball bat, resulting in Doe's death.
The indictment further alleges that on the same day, Happy assaulted Jane Doe with a revolver and discharged the firearm during the incident.
The indictment further alleges that Happy, who was previously convicted of domestic violence, is prohibited from possessing firearms.
If convicted of the current charges, Happy faces a mandatory life sentence or death for the first-degree murder charge, and 10 to 15 years for the other charges.
Acting U.S. Attorney Holland S. Kastrin and Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Farmington Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Police Department and Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant United States Attorney Eliot Neal is prosecuting the case.
This case is being prosecuted as part of the Department of Justice’s Missing or Murdered Indigenous Persons (MMIP) Regional Outreach Program, which aims to aid in the prevention and response to missing or murdered Indigenous people through the resolution of MMIP cases and communication, coordination, and collaboration with federal, Tribal, state, and local partners. The Department views this work as a priority for its law enforcement components. Through the MMIP Regional Outreach Program, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify MMIP cases and issues in Tribal communities and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. This prosecution upholds the Department’s mission to the unwavering pursuit of justice on behalf of Indigenous victims and their families.
U.S. Attorney's Office Secures Sentencing in Las Cruces Firearm Possession CaseRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Las Cruces man was sentenced to 37 months in prison for being a prohibited possessor of a firearm and ammunition, following an investigation into drug trafficking allegations.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court documents, in early 2023, the FBI Safe Streets Gang Task Force and Las Cruces Police Department began investigating Gabriel Lionel Garcia, 20, for his involvement in violent crime and drug trafficking. On February 15, 2024, law enforcement attempted to stop Garcia 's vehicle, but he fled recklessly. After a pursuit, Garcia was detained at his residence.
A search of his vehicle uncovered an AR-15 style rifle, ammunition, including a 60 round drum magazine, approximately 787 grams of suspected marijuana, and $2,244 in cash.
Garcia admitted ownership of the rifle and drugs, stating he was prepared to fire when first encountered by law enforcement.
Garcia, who is an illegal user of controlled substances, is prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition.
Upon his release from prison, Garcia will be subject to three years of supervised release.
Acting U.S. Attorney Holland S. Kastrin and Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Las Cruces Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office and Las Cruces Police Department investigated this case. Assistant United States Attorney Maria Y. Armijo is prosecuting the case.
Two Men Convicted of Drug Trafficking in Monongalia CountyRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A federal jury convicted two individuals for their roles in a drug trafficking organization that was distributing illegal drugs in North Central West Virginia.
Frank Brown, 35, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and Rex Jenkins, 32, of Southfield, Michigan, were each convicted of conspiracy to distribute controlled substances and the distribution of methamphetamine. Jenkins was convicted of two additional counts involving the distribution of methamphetamine, fentanyl, and cocaine.
The jury heard evidence that the two men were a part of the drug trafficking organization, supplying large amounts of methamphetamine, fentanyl, and cocaine in Morgantown, West Virginia.
Brown and Jenkins each face up to 20 years for each count. They will be sentenced at a later date. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda Wesley and AUSA Christie UTT are prosecuting the cases on behalf of the United States.
This case was investigated by the Mon Metro Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative. The task force consists of members 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 and eliminates 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.
Twenty-Seven Members of Little Rock Drug-Trafficking Organization in Custody Following Arrest OperationRead the Press Release
LITTLE ROCK—Twenty-seven defendants accused of distributing large amounts of fentanyl, as well as methamphetamine and cocaine, in central Arkansas are in custody after federal and state authorities made a series of arrests in Pulaski County this morning as part of an ongoing drug-trafficking investigation. Jonathan D. Ross, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, and Warner Benson, Assistant Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Little Rock Field Office, announced today’s arrests.
According to a federal superseding indictment that was unsealed today following the arrests, the large-scale drug organization in central Arkansas is headed by Eric Dillard, 44, and Jimmie McDaniels, 49, both of Little Rock. A team of law enforcement agencies in the area coordinated to arrest 27 of the 29 defendants listed in the indictment this morning. Dillard was already in federal custody based on a federal indictment filed against him on September 11, 2024.
The superseding indictment was returned by a federal grand jury on March 4, 2025. The defendants were charged with a series of drug and gun crimes, including conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute fentanyl, methamphetamine, and cocaine, felon in possession of a firearm, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug-trafficking crime. A financial investigation also led to money laundering charges, including conspiracy, against six defendants.
“The lethality of fentanyl requires our continued resolve to prioritize these types of investigations,” Ross said. “We will also keep our focus on other deadly drugs such as methamphetamine, which remains the most abused drug in our state, and cocaine, both of which were involved this case.”
The arrests stem from an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force, or OCDETF, investigation that began in September 2023. Most the defendants listed in the indictment are from Little Rock and surrounding towns. The investigation, which was headed by the DEA, involved numerous controlled purchases of fentanyl from members of the conspiracy, as well as the seizure of 19 firearms and approximately a pound of fentanyl. According to information learned throughout the investigation, it is believed this organization has trafficked hundreds of pounds of fentanyl to people in Arkansas.
Additionally, during the investigation law enforcement agents intercepted numerous phone calls in which the conspiracy members discussed trafficking fentanyl and layering profits through various channels to disguise the source of the proceeds. Throughout the investigation more than $100,000 in illegal proceeds was seized by law enforcement.
“This morning’s arrest operation represents a significant blow to a criminal network that was flooding our communities with deadly fentanyl,” said DEA Assistant Special Agent in Charge Warner Benson. “Along with our federal, state, and local partners, we are committed to dismantling these organizations and protecting the citizens of Central Arkansas from the devastating consequences of drug trafficking.”
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.
Those arrested today will be arraigned before United States Magistrate Judge Jerome T. Kearney on Thursday. Today’s arrests are the result of a joint investigation between the DEA Little Rock District Office; DEA New Orleans Field Division, DEA Houston, FBI, U.S. Marshal Service, North Little Rock Police Department, Arkansas State Police, Sherwood Police Department, Cabot Police Department, Arkansas Community Corrections, Central Arkansas Drug Task Force, Faulkner County Sheriff’s Office, Arkansas Attorney General’s Office, U.S. Postal Service; and the Arkansas National Guard Counter Drug Task Force. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lauren Eldridge.
# # #
Additional information about the office of the
United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, is available online at
https://www.justice.gov/edar
X (formerly known as Twitter):
@USAO_EDAR
Twenty-Eight Leaders and Members of the Valentine Avenue Crew Charged in Manhattan Federal Court with RacketeeringRead the Press Release
Matthew Podolsky, the Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York; Frank A. Tarentino, the Special Agent in Charge of the New York Division of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (“DEA”); Leslie R. Backschies, the Acting Assistant Director in Charge of the New York Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”); and Jessica S. Tisch, the Commissioner of the New York City Police Department (“NYPD”), announced the unsealing today of an Indictment charging EDWIN CARRASQUILLO, a/k/a “Malo”; HECTOR HERNANDEZ, a/k/a “Hec”; JOSE HERNANDEZ, a/k/a “Nene,” a/k/a “Little”; NATHANIEL MANNING, a/k/a “Tio”; DAMEL MARCUS, a/k/a “Shank”; EDWARDO MORENO, a/k/a “AR”; JERMAINE SAMUELS, a/k/a “Maine”; CHRISTIAN SERRANO, a/k/a “Chris”; JOHNNIE CAPELES a/k/a “Jon Boy”; JAMIL BANKS a/k/a “Mel”; EMILIO BARRERA, a/k/a “Colombia,” a/k/a “E”; JASON RIVERA, a/k/a “Colombo”; HECTOR CEREZO, a/k/a “Red”; JOSUE VARGAS, a/k/a “Leo”; JUAN KUANG, a/k/a “Jo Jo,” a/k/a “Jay,” a/k/a “Blanco”; STEVEN SANTIAGO, a/k/a “Swizz”; VICTOR MENDENG, a/k/a “Cali”; ANGEL VILLAFANE, YADIRA REYNOSO, a/k/a “Yadi”; ERIKA DAWSON; ARIYAN LABELLA, a/k/a “Ari”; DELILAH CARRIEL; ROSEMARIE SANCHEZ, a/k/a “Rosie”; JOHANA ALCANTARA; JUAN CALDERON, a/k/a “Jazzo,” a/k/a “Juanito”; KAREEM SMITH, a/k/a “K”; and CHRISTOPHER MEADOWS with participating in a racketeering enterprise, committing multiple violent crimes in aid of racketeering, including murder, engaging in a continuing criminal enterprise, distributing narcotics, and carrying and using firearms in connection with an armed drug trafficking operation based on Valentine Avenue in the Bronx, New York for well over three decades from 1993 to the present. CARASQUILLO and ALCANTARA are also charged with the June 25, 2020, murder of Jozei Hullex.
CARRASQUILLO, HECTOR HERNANDEZ, JOSE HERNANDEZ, MANNING, MARCUS, MORENO, BANKS, RIVERA, CEREZO, VARGAS, KUANG, SANTIAGO, MENDENG, VILLAFANE, CARRIEL, SANCHEZ, ALCANTARA, CALDERON, and MEADOWS were previously taken into custody on related charges. SAMUELS, SERRANO, CAPELES, REYNOSO, DAWSON, LABELLA, and SMITH were arrested either yesterday evening or earlier today. BARRERA is still at large. All seven of the defendants arrested yesterday or today are expected to be presented before U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Lehrburger later this afternoon. The case is assigned to U.S. District Judge Victor Marrero.
Acting U.S. Attorney Matthew Podolsky said: “Today, we have filed charges against twenty-eight alleged members of a violent drug trafficking gang that held an entire neighborhood of this city hostage for over three decades. On a daily basis, this street crew, including those arrested today, allegedly distributed fentanyl, heroin, cocaine, and crack along several blocks on Valentine Avenue, creating an open-air drug market in the middle of a Bronx neighborhood. And to protect their territory, they allegedly carried guns, extorted people with substance abuse issues through violence, and attacked rivals and anyone else attempting to weaken their control on their block. This violence resulted in multiple shootings, as well as the murder of Jozei Hullex. It is a brutal reality that has lasted for far too long. It ends now. The streets of this great city belong to its people, and the career prosecutors of this Office will not stop until our streets are returned to the law-abiding people of New York City and their families.”
DEA Special Agent in Charge Frank A. Tarentino said: “Today’s indictment against the Valentine Avenue Crew and its members, shows the commitment the Drug Enforcement Administration and our law enforcement partners have when targeting drug trafficking organizations and individuals who routinely use threats, violence, extortion, robbery, and murder in order to run their criminal enterprise and flood our neighborhoods with illicit and synthetic drugs. The DEA remains committed to ensuring our citizens and communities remain healthy and safe.”
FBI Acting Assistant Director in Charge Leslie R. Backschies said: “For over three decades, these 28 Valentine Avenue Crew members allegedly protected their illicit narcotics distribution scheme and the enterprise’s dangerous reputation through violent gunfights and murder. Their alleged commandeering of a Bronx neighborhood allowed criminality and violence to flourish, threatening the lives of innocent residents. The FBI remains committed to dismantling all criminal organizations that utilize our city as their personal playground to promote illegal racketeering operations and endanger our communities.”
NYPD Commissioner Jessica S. Tisch said: “The Valentine Avenue Crew created immense fear within their community for decades, fueling our streets with senseless gun violence, polluting our sidewalks with deadly poisons, and costing lives through their ruthless gang behavior. These indictments send a clear message: this era of lawlessness ends today. The NYPD remains steadfast in its mission to remove illegal firearms from the hands of criminals—having already seized over 1,000 firearms this year alone—and to dismantle the illicit drug trade they are so often associated with. I commend the relentless NYPD investigators and our law enforcement partners in the FBI, DEA, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York for their unwavering commitment to placing members of organized networks such as these behind bars.”
As alleged in the Indictment:[1]
CARRASQUILLO, HECTOR HERNANDEZ, JOSE HERNANDEZ, MANNING, MARCUS, MORENO, SAMUELS, SERRANO, CAPELES, BANKS, BARRERA, RIVERA, CEREZO, VARGAS, KUANG, SANTIAGO, MENDENG, VILLAFANE, REYNOSO, DAWSON, LABELLA, CARRIEL, SANCHEZ, ALCANTARA, CALDERON, SMITH, and MEADOWS are charged for their involvement in an armed drug trafficking organization (the “Valentine Avenue Crew”) that took over the block of Valentine Avenue between East 194th Street and East 196th Street in the Bronx (the “Block”) and its surrounding neighborhood.
Since the mid-1990s, for multiple decades, the members and associates of the Valentine Avenue Crew, including the defendants, operated as a drug trafficking gang that was organized in a hierarchal structure and that took over and controlled the Block, working in shifts throughout the day and night to distribute fentanyl, heroin, cocaine, and cocaine base, in a form commonly known as “crack.” These drugs were often manufactured and packaged elsewhere and then delivered to the Block, where members and associates of the Valentine Avenue Crew, many of whom were typically armed with firearms and other weapons, sold them to a large base of end-user customers. In control of the sidewalks and the street of the Block, as well as the public spaces of multiple buildings along the Block, the Valentine Avenue Crew and its members and associates, including the defendants, worked freely, creating an open market for drugs, in which they extorted payments, including in-kind sexual acts, from customers through violence and the threat of violence. The members and associates of the Valentine Avenue Crew, including the defendants, also used violence—including multiple shootings—to compete with rival drug traffickers and within the Valentine Avenue Crew itself, principally to maintain dominance over the drug trade on the Block and control of the Valentine Avenue Crew.
On or about June 25, 2020, CARRASQUILLO, one of the leaders of the Valentine Avenue Crew, and ALCANTARA used fentanyl to poison and murder Jozei Hullex, a disfavored member of the Valentine Avenue Crew.
On or about June 25, 2020, CARRASQUILLO, HECTOR HERNANDEZ, JOSE HERNANDEZ, MANNING, MARCUS, and SAMUELS participated in a shootout for control of the Valentine Avenue Crew and in turn the Block.
On or about September 22, 2020, CARRASQUILLO and CEREZO participated in shooting at a rival gang member.
On or about January 1, 2021, CARRASQUILLO, MARCUS, MORENO, and SAMUELS used a chain and one or more firearms to assault a disfavored member of the Valentine Avenue Crew, who was seriously injured and hospitalized following the attack.
In addition, VILLAFANE remains charged for his commission of two non-fatal shootings in Manhattan in July 2020 and January 2021. Specifically, in or about July 2020, VILLAFANE paid a co-conspirator (“CC-1”) to lure a victim to a location in Manhattan where VILLAFANE attempted to murder the victim over a drug debt, resulting in personal injury to the victim. Additionally, on or about January 8, 2021, VILLAFANE committed another non-fatal shooting in Manhattan.
* * *
A chart containing the names, charges, and maximum penalties for the defendants is set forth below.
The maximum potential sentences in this case are prescribed by Congress and are provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendants will be determined by the judge.
Mr. Podolsky praised the outstanding investigative work of the DEA, FBI, and NYPD. Today’s operation was conducted by the Trident Task Force, a joint task force of the DEA and FBI, among other federal, state, and local law-enforcement authorities, which is working on this case together with the NYPD.
This case is being handled by the Office’s Violent and Organized Crime Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael R. Herman, Timothy Ly, and Thomas John Wright are in charge of the prosecution.
The charges contained in the Indictment are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
u.s._v._carrasquillo_et_al._indictment.pdfCOUNT
CHARGE
DEFENDANTS
MAX. PENALTIES
1
Racketeering
conspiracy
18 U.S.C. § 1962(d)
All DEFENDANTSLife in prison2
Conspiracy to commit murder in aid of racketeering
18 U.S.C. § 1959(a)(5)
EDWIN CARRASQUILLO,
a/k/a “Malo,” and
JOHANA ALCANTARA
10 years in prison3
Murder in aid of racketeering
18 U.S.C. §§ 1959(a)(1) and 2
EDWIN CARRASQUILLO,
a/k/a “Malo,” and
JOHANA ALCANTARA
Death or mandatory sentence of life in prison4
Attempted murder and assault with a dangerous weapon in aid of racketeering
18 U.S.C. §§ 1959(a)(3), (a)(5), and 2
EDWIN CARRASQUILLO,
a/k/a “Malo,”
HECTOR HERNANDEZ,
a/k/a “Hec,”
JOSE HERNANDEZ,
a/k/a “Nene,”
a/k/a “Little,”
NATHANIEL MANNING,
a/k/a “Tio,”
DAMEL MARCUS,
a/k/a “Shank,” and
JERMAINE SAMUELS,
a/k/a “Maine”
20 years in prison5
Using or carrying a firearm during and in relation to, or possessing a firearm in furtherance of, a drug trafficking crime
18 U.S.C. §§ 924(c) and 2
EDWIN CARRASQUILLO,
a/k/a “Malo,”
HECTOR HERNANDEZ,
a/k/a “Hec,”
JOSE HERNANDEZ,
a/k/a “Nene,”
a/k/a “Little,”
NATHANIEL MANNING,
a/k/a “Tio,”
DAMEL MARCUS,
a/k/a “Shank,” and
JERMAINE SAMUELS,
a/k/a “Maine”
Life in prison
Mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison
6
Attempted murder and assault with a dangerous weapon in aid of racketeering
18 U.S.C. §§ 1959(a)(3), (a)(5), and 2
EDWIN CARRASQUILLO,
a/k/a “Malo,” and
HECTOR CEREZO,
a/k/a “Red”
20 years in prison7
Using or carrying a firearm during and in relation to, or possessing a firearm in furtherance of, a drug trafficking crime
18 U.S.C. §§ 924(c) and 2
EDWIN CARRASQUILLO,
a/k/a “Malo”
Life in prison
Mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison
8
Assault with a dangerous weapon and assault resulting in serious bodily injury in aid of racketeeringEDWIN CARRASQUILLO,
a/k/a “Malo,”
DAMEL MARCUS,
a/k/a “Shank,”
EDWARDO MORENO,
a/k/a “AR,”
and JERMAINE SAMUELS,
a/k/a “Maine”
20 years in prison9
Using or carrying a firearm during and in relation to, or possessing a firearm in furtherance of, a drug trafficking crime
18 U.S.C. §§ 924(c) and 2
EDWIN CARRASQUILLO,
a/k/a “Malo,”
DAMEL MARCUS,
a/k/a “Shank,”
EDWARDO MORENO,
a/k/a “AR,”
and JERMAINE SAMUELS,
a/k/a “Maine”
Life in prison
Mandatory minimum sentence of 7 years in prison
10
Narcotics conspiracy
21 U.S.C. § 846
EDWIN CARRASQUILLO,
a/k/a “Malo,”
HECTOR HERNANDEZ,
a/k/a “Hec,”
JOSE HERNANDEZ,
a/k/a “Nene,”
a/k/a “Little,”
NATHANIEL MANNING,
a/k/a “Tio,”
DAMEL MARCUS,
a/k/a “Shank,”
EDWARDO MORENO,
a/k/a “AR,”
JERMAINE SAMUELS,
a/k/a “Maine,”
CHRISTIAN SERRANO,
a/k/a “Chris,”
JOHNNIE CAPELES
a/k/a “Jon Boy,”
EMILIO BARRERA,
a/k/a “Colombia,”
a/k/a “E,”
JASON RIVERA,
a/k/a “Colombo,”
HECTOR CEREZO
a/k/a “Red,”
JOSUE VARGAS,
a/k/a “Leo,”
JUAN KUANG,
a/k/a “Jo Jo,”
a/k/a “Jay,”
a/k/a “Blanco,”
STEVEN SANTIAGO,
a/k/a “Swizz,”
VICTOR MENDENG,
a/k/a “Cali,”
ANGEL VILLAFANE
YADIRA REYNOSO,
a/k/a “Yadi,”
ERIKA DAWSON,
ARIYAN LABELLA,
a/k/a “Ari,”
DELILAH CARRIEL,
ROSEMARIE SANCHEZ,
a/k/a “Rosie,”
JOHANA ALCANTARA,
JUAN CALDERON,
a/k/a “Jazzo,”
a/k/a “Juanito,”
KAREEM SMITH,
a/k/a “K,” and
CHRISTOPHER MEADOWS
Life in prison
Mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison
11
Continuing criminal enterpriseEDWIN CARRASQUILLO,
a/k/a “Malo,”
HECTOR HERNANDEZ,
a/k/a “Hec,”
JOSE HERNANDEZ,
a/k/a “Nene,”
a/k/a “Little,”
NATHANIEL MANNING,
a/k/a “Tio,”
DAMEL MARCUS,
a/k/a “Shank,”
EDWARDO MORENO,
a/k/a “AR,”
JERMAINE SAMUELS,
a/k/a “Maine,”
CHRISTIAN SERRANO,
a/k/a “Chris,”
JOHNNIE CAPELES,
a/k/a “Jon Boy,”
JAMIL BANKS,
a/k/a “Mel,”
EMILIO BARRERA,
a/k/a “Colombia,”
a/k/a “E,”
JASON RIVERA,
a/k/a “Colombo,”
JOSUE VARGAS,
a/k/a “Leo,”
JUN KUANG,
a/k/a “Jo Jo,”
a/k/a “Jay,”
a/k/a “Blanco,”
and STEVEN SANTIAGO,
a/k/a “Swizz”
Life in prison
Mandatory sentence of life in prison for CARRASQUILLO and HERNANDEZ
Mandatory minimum sentence of 20 years in prison for other defendants
12
Murder while engaged in a narcotics conspiracy
21 U.S.C. § 848(e)(1)(A)
EDWIN CARRASQUILLO,
a/k/a “Malo,” and
JOHANA ALCANTARA
Death or life in prison
Mandatory minimum sentence of 20 years in prison
13
Using or carrying a firearm during and in relation to, or possessing a firearm in furtherance of, a drug trafficking crimeEDWIN CARRASQUILLO,
a/k/a “Malo”
Life in prison
Mandatory minimum consecutive sentence 10 years in prison
14
Using or carrying a firearm during and in relation to, or possessing a firearm in furtherance of, a drug trafficking crimeHECTOR HERNANDEZ,
a/k/a “Hec”
Life in prison
Mandatory minimum consecutive sentence 10 years in prison
15
Using or carrying a firearm during and in relation to, or possessing a firearm in furtherance of, a drug trafficking crimeJOSE HERNANDEZ,
a/k/a “Nene,”
a/k/a “Little”
Life in prison
Mandatory minimum consecutive sentence 10 years in prison
16
Using or carrying a firearm during and in relation to, or possessing a firearm in furtherance of, a drug trafficking crimeNATHANIEL MANNING,
a/k/a “Tio”
Life in prison
Mandatory minimum consecutive sentence 10 years in prison
17
Using or carrying a firearm during and in relation to, or possessing a firearm in furtherance of, a drug trafficking crimeDAMEL MARCUS,
a/k/a “Shank”
Life in prison
Mandatory minimum consecutive sentence 10 years in prison
18
Using or carrying a firearm during and in relation to, or possessing a firearm in furtherance of, a drug trafficking crimeEDWARDO MORENO,
a/k/a “AR”
Life in prison
Mandatory minimum consecutive sentence 10 years in prison
19
Using or carrying a firearm during and in relation to, or possessing a firearm in furtherance of, a drug trafficking crimeJERMAINE SAMUELS,
a/k/a “Maine”
Life in prison
Mandatory minimum consecutive sentence 10 years in prison
20
Using or carrying a firearm during and in relation to, or possessing a firearm in furtherance of, a drug trafficking crimeHECTOR CEREZO,
a/k/a “Red”
Life in prison
Mandatory minimum consecutive sentence 10 years in prison
21
Using or carrying a firearm during and in relation to, or possessing a firearm in furtherance of, a drug trafficking crimeANGEL VILLAFANELife in prison
Mandatory minimum consecutive sentence 10 years in prison
22
Using or carrying a firearm during and in relation to, or possessing a firearm in furtherance of, a drug trafficking crimeCHRISTIAN SERRANO,
a/k/a “Chris,”
JOHNNIE CAPELES,
a/k/a “Jon Boy,”
JAMIL BANKS,
a/k/a “Mel,”
EMILIO BARRERA,
a/k/a “Colombia,”
a/k/a “E,”
JASON RIVERA,
a/k/a “Colombo,”
JOSUE VARGAS,
a/k/a “Leo,”
JUAN KUANG,
a/k/a “Jo Jo,”
a/k/a “Jay,”
a/k/a “Blanco,”
STEVEN SANTIAGO,
a/k/a “Swizz,”
VICTOR MENDENG,
a/k/a “Cali,”
YADIRA REYNOSO,
a/k/a “Yadi,”
ERIKA DAWSON,
ARIYAN LABELLA,
a/k/a “Ari,”
DELILAH CARRIEL,
ROSEMARIE SANCHEZ,
a/k/a “Rosie,”
JOHANA ALCANTARA,
JUAN CALDERON,
a/k/a “Jazzo,”
a/k/a “Juanito,”
KAREEM SMITH,
a/k/a “K,” and
CHRISTOPHER MEADOWS
Life in prison
Mandatory minimum consecutive sentence 10 years in prison
23
Murder for hireANGEL VILLAFANE20 years in prison24
Using or carrying a firearm during and in relation to, or possessing a firearm in furtherance of, a drug trafficking crimeANGEL VILLAFANELife in prison
Mandatory minimum consecutive sentence 10 years in prison
25
Felon in possession of ammunitionANGEL VILLAFANE10 years in prison[1] As the introductory phrase signifies, the entirety of the text of the Indictment and the description of the Indictment set forth herein constitute only allegations, and every fact described should be treated as an allegation.
Turkish Citizen Charged with Illegal Re-entry into U.S.Read the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A citizen of Turkey has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of illegal re-entry of a removed alien, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
The one-count Indictment named Izzet Kurt, 60, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment, on or about February 25, 2025, Kurt was found in western Pennsylvania after having been removed from the United States on or about March 15, 2018, following a conviction in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania for conspiracy to bring unauthorized aliens to the U.S. for profit.
Because the defendant’s removal was subsequent to a conviction for commission of an aggravated felony, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney V. Joseph Sonson is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations, combat illegal immigration, and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Tiverton Woman Admits Role in Bank Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE – A Tiverton woman admitted to a federal judge today that she participated in a scheme to defraud a Rhode Island bank of nearly a quarter of a million dollars that had been deposited as a result of a business email compromise, announced Acting United States Attorney Sara Miron Bloom.
Brenda Partin, 54, pleaded guilty today to a charge of attempted bank fraud. She is scheduled to be sentenced on June 10, 2025. The sentence imposed will be determined by a federal district judge after consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
According to information presented to the court, in May 2022, a compromised email account belonging to a Tennessee-based construction company was used to deceive a global snack-food company into altering its vendor payment information to a Rhode Island bank. An investigation later determined that the bank account to which the payment was misdirected belonged to Partin.
Between August 15 and September 19, 2022, the Tennessee company sent four payments totaling nearly $225,000 that were intended to pay the snack-food company to the defendant’s account. Withdrawals from the account began almost immediately. On September 8, 2022, Partin wired $26,470.05 from the account for the purchase of an automobile, which she registered in her name. On that same date, Partin directed an associate to open a second account at a local bank, into which $30,000 was transferred from the first account. Over the next four months, multiple withdrawals and purchases were made from both accounts.
On December 5, 2022, the bank closed the second account with a remaining balance of approximately $108,000. For the next nine months, the defendant and others attempted to convince bank employees to release the funds. Partin falsely claimed that the money was a settlement from a car accident; that the money had come from Partin’s fiancé; that the co-holder of the bank account earned the money working in Turkey and that he had leukemia and the funds were needed to address his affairs in the event he passed away; and in August 2023, the defendant claimed to a bank employee that her associate had passed away and that she needed the money to pay funeral expenses.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Juliane Klein.
The matter was investigated by Rhode Island State Police Financial Crimes Unit and the FBI’s Rhode Island Complex Financial Crimes Task Force.
###
Three defendants indicted on federal firearms chargesRead the Press Release
SAVANNAH, GA: Newly returned indictments in the Southern District of Georgia include charges alleging felons illegally possessed firearms, while other defendants have been sentenced to federal prison or await further proceedings after pleading guilty to federal gun charges.
“Removing guns from those who are prohibited from carrying them is a vital part of fighting violent crime,” said Tara M. Lyons, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Georgia. “We appreciate the efforts of our law enforcement partners in keeping our streets safe.”
The cases are prosecuted as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods in collaboration with federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies, including the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the FBI, to reduce violent crime with measures that include targeting convicted felons who illegally possess guns.
Those indicted in March include:
- D’Vonta Ealy, 30, of Thomson, Georgia, charged with Possession with Intent to Distribute Marijuana and Oxycodone; Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime; and Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon;
- Shawn Hakeem Sibert, 33, of Savannah, charged with Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon; Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine and Fentanyl; and Possession of a Firearm During and in Relation to a Drug Trafficking Crime; and,
- Rashaud Johnson, 41, of Savannah, charged with Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon.
All indicted defendants are considered innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Defendants recently adjudicated on federal firearms charges include:
- Kenyatta Dunn Nero, 40, of Augusta, was sentenced to 188 months in prison and fined $2,000 after pleading guilty to Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon. Richmond County deputies found a pistol in Nero’s vehicle during a July 2023 traffic stop. Nero has multiple previous criminal convictions on state charges that include illegal gun possession.
- Jacorey Rivers, 32, of Savannah, was sentenced to 180 months in prison and fined $1,500 after pleading guilty to Possession of a Machinegun, and Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl. Rivers was on supervised release when he fled from a traffic stop and crashed. Officers found a Glock pistol in his possession that had been converted to automatic fire.
- Jordan Beverly Howard, 37, of Augusta, was sentenced to 72 months in prison and fined $1,500 after pleading guilty to Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon, while a co-defendant, Joshua Robert Ward, 45, of Augusta, was sentenced to 188 months in prison and fined $2,500 after pleading guilty to Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine. Ward was on parole on state drug trafficking charges when Richmond County sheriff’s investigators searched the residence Howard and Ward shared and found drugs and two pistols.
- O’Kere Shields, 22, of Savannah, was sentenced to 36 months in prison and fined $1,000 after pleading guilty to Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon. Savannah police officers found a pistol in Shields’ residence while investigating a report of gunfire.
- Raquan Williams, 23, of Savannah, was sentenced to 45 months in prison after pleading guilty to False Statement During the Purchase of a Firearm. Williams attempted to purchase a shotgun from a Chatham County firearms dealer in June 2023, falsely claiming he was not under indictment at the time on state charges for armed robbery and aggravated assault.
- Christopher Jeramy Blair, 44, of Pembroke, Ga., was sentenced to 38 month in prison and fined $2,000 after pleading guilty to Possession of Firearms by a Convicted Felon. Acting on a tip, investigators from the Bulloch County Sheriff’s Office and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives seized 11 handguns, rifles, and shotguns during a search of Blair’s residence.
- Eddie Leonard Tolbert, 39, of Augusta, was sentenced to 46 months in prison and fined $1,500 after pleading guilty to Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon. Grovetown police found a pistol in Tolbert’s possession during a traffic stop.
- Wesley Travis Bolding, 43, of Decatur, Georgia, awaits sentencing after pleading guilty to Illegal Possession of a Machine Gun. Wrens police officers found a pistol in Bolding’s vehicle during a traffic stop, and determined the gun had a device installed that converted it to automatic fire.
- Tommy Lee Porter, 55, of Augusta, awaits sentencing after pleading guilty to Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon. Columbia County deputies found two rifles in Porter’s possession during a traffic stop.
- Daniel Blount Cates, 50, of Waynesboro, Ga., awaits sentencing after pleading guilty to Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon. Cates, who was sentenced in federal court to probation on an illegal gambling charge in 2021, was sentenced in June to 15 months in prison after U.S. District Court Judge J. Randal Hall ruled that Cates had violated the terms of his probation by possessing firearms. Investigators seized 44 firearms from Cates’ home, vehicle business during a search in May 2024.
- Luke Bunyun Jr., 46, of Waynesboro, Ga., awaits sentencing after pleading guilty to Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon. In June 2024, Richmond County deputies found Bunyun in possession of a 9mm pistol during the investigation of a domestic violence complaint.
- Jack Anthony Bragg, 44, of Statesboro, Ga., awaits sentencing after pleading guilty to Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon. Statesboro police found a rifle in Bragg’s vehicle in May 2024 while checking on a suspicious-person call at the Bulloch County Recycling Center.
- Darrell DeMarcus Golden, 31, of Lakeland, Ga., awaits sentencing after pleading guilty to Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon. Savannah police officers found a pistol in Golden’s backpack during an investigation at an arcade in downtown Savannah.
- Jakeem Bryant, 29, of Savannah, awaits sentencing after pleading guilty to Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon. Savannah police officers found Bryant in possession of a firearm during a traffic stop.
- Courtland Perry, 32, of Savannah, awaits sentencing after pleading guilty to Possession of an Unregistered Firearm, referring to a sawed-off shotgun. Savannah police found a short-barrel .410 shotgun in a bag Perry was carrying while arresting him on a state warrant for aggravated assault.
The cases are being prosecuted for the United States by the Southern District of Georgia U.S. Attorney’s Office.
Under federal law, it is illegal for an individual to possess a firearm if he or she falls into one of nine prohibited categories including being a felon; illegal alien; or unlawful user of a controlled substance. Further, it is unlawful to possess a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense or violent crime. It is also illegal to purchase – or even to attempt to purchase – firearms if the buyer is a prohibited person or illegally purchasing a firearm on behalf of others. Lying on ATF Form 4473, which is used to lawfully purchase a firearm, also is a federal offense.
For more information from the ATF on the lawful purchasing of firearms, please see: https://www.atf.gov/qa-category/atfw-form-4473
Three North Carolina Men Charged for Operating a Website to Sell Illegal DrugsRead the Press Release
NEW BERN, N.C. – A Rockingham man pleaded guilty Monday for his involvement in running an online e-commerce website that sold illegal drugs to customers nationwide. Adam Meland, 45, pled guilty to introducing misbranded drugs into interstate commerce. Leondas Paul, 39, previously pled guilty to the same charge for his involvement in the online drug sales.
Mark James Meland, also of Rockingham, was charged by Criminal Complaint in September 2023 for creating and operating the website MadisonJamesResearchChems.com. The online retail store illegally sold FDA-regulated drugs, including drugs commonly prescribed for weight loss, diabetes, erectile disfunction, and narcolepsy. M. Meland was charged with introducing misbranded drugs into interstate commerce and money laundering and faced more than 20 years in prison.
According to court documents and evidence presented in court, M. Meland used his website MadisonJamesResearchChems.com to sell a variety of products that contained well-known active pharmaceutical ingredients. M. Meland obtained the pharmaceutical ingredients from China and other overseas suppliers. He employed workers to mix the chemicals with cutting agents and then repackage the products into capsules, bottles, and vials to fulfil website orders. M. Meland used his Rockingham business, Copy Proz, to create logos and labels for his website products and then ship them to customers nationwide.
Neither M. Meland, his co-conspirators, or his businesses were registered with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to engage in the manufacturing or processing of drugs, nor were they practitioners licensed by law to administer prescription drugs. Many of the products sold on M. Meland’s website contained labels that did not have adequate directions for use and were false or misleading (such as stating the product was “not for human consumption”). Other drugs marketed on the website lacked requisite approval from the FDA to be lawfully marketed in the United States.
A search of M. Meland’s Copy Proz business and adjacent business suites in Rockingham resulted in the seizure of hundreds of bags of capsules, as well as dozens of bottles of liquids labeled as containing steroids and testosterone, both controlled substances (photographs attached). More than $150,000 in cash was seized along with numerous illegal firearms.
M. Meland died in February 2024, before the resolution of his criminal case. Paul was sentenced on March 6, 2024, to 6 months’ probation for his role working for M. Meland and operating a spin-off website LP3Health.com, which sold the same products as MadisonJamesResearchChems.com. A. Meland pled guilty for his role in assisting M. Meland run the online website. He is still awaiting sentencing and faces up to three years in prison.
Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after US Magistrate Judge Robert B. Jones, Jr. accepted the plea. The Food and Drug Administration, Office of Criminal Investigations is investigating the case and Assistant U.S. Attorney Karen Haughton is prosecuting the case.
Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case Nos. 5:23-mj-2147, 5:25-cr-00034, and 5:24-cr-00283.
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Three Former St. Louis Area Residents Admit $229,000 Pandemic FraudRead the Press Release
ST. LOUIS – Three former residents of the St. Louis area pleaded guilty Tuesday and admitted fraudulently obtaining $229,000 in loans during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Brianna L. Bell-Maple, 24, Jemyla A. Bell, 39, and Leiah A. Vaughn, 23, each pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court in St. Louis to one count of wire fraud. Each defendant admitted participating in a scheme to fraudulently apply for 12 Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans from March 2021 to August 2021. Each defendant applied for four loans. The loan applications were nearly identical and sought the maximum loan of $20,833 for a sole proprietorship. Each application was filed in the name of a nonexistent women’s clothing store, and falsely claimed the store earned $121,003 in 2019. Bell-Maple, Bell and Vaughn also submitted falsified tax forms.
Eleven of the loan applications were approved, yielding a total of $229,163.
PPP loans were intended to aid small businesses in paying and retaining employees during the COVID-19 pandemic. Bell-Maple used PPP loan money to lease a new apartment in April of 2021. Bell-Maple and Vaughn moved in. The three spent more loan proceeds on personal expenditures such as shopping, dining, cash withdrawals, and electronic transfers to friends and family. On May 5, 2021, Vaughn and Bell-Maple spent $5,200 on a purebred puppy. Two days later, Bell-Maple and Bell each purchased a vehicle from the same car dealership.
Bell-Maple, Bell, and Vaughn submitted 11 applications for loan forgiveness on Aug. 9, 2021, falsely claiming that they spent the PPP money on payroll. The loan forgiveness applications were approved based on their false claims.
The three, who now live in Fresno, Calif., are scheduled to be sentenced on June 9. Each wire fraud charge is punishable by up to 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine or both. Each of the defendants has agreed to a money judgment equal to the total value of fraudulently obtained PPP loans.
The FBI investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan Clow is prosecuting the case.
Three Former Executives for Magellan Diagnostics Plead Guilty to False Statements and FDCA ViolationsRead the Press Release
BOSTON – The former CEO, COO and Director of Quality Assurance and Regulatory Affairs for Magellan Diagnostics, Inc. (Magellan), a medical device company headquartered in Billerica, Mass., have pleaded guilty in connection with concealing a device malfunction that produced inaccurately low lead test results for thousands of children and other patients. The defendants were indicted by a federal grand jury in April 2023.
Amy Winslow, 53, of Needham Heights, Mass., pleaded guilty to one felony count of introduction of misbranded medical devices into interstate commerce. U.S. District Court Judge Patti B. Saris scheduled her sentencing for July 23, 2025.
Hossein Maleknia, 66, of Bonita Springs, Fla., pleaded guilty to two felony counts of introduction of misbranded medical devices into interstate commerce. Judge Saris scheduled his sentencing is scheduled for June 26, 2025.
Reba Daoust, 68, of Amesbury, Mass., pleaded guilty to one felony count of making false statements. She is scheduled to be sentenced on June 24, 2025.
Magellan’s LeadCare II and LeadCare Ultra devices detected lead levels and lead poisoning in the blood of children and adults using either venous (i.e., blood draws through the arm) or fingerstick samples. LeadCare II, which was predominantly used to test fingerstick samples, accounted for more than half of all blood lead tests conducted in the United States from 2013 through 2017. LeadCare Ultra was predominantly used to test venous samples.
Winslow, Maleknia and Daoust – Magellan’s former CEO, COO and Director of Quality Assurance and Regulatory Affairs, respectively – misled Magellan customers and the FDA about a serious malfunction that affected Magellan’s LeadCare devices when they were used to test venous blood samples. By hiding the malfunction and later misleading customers and the FDA about when they discovered the malfunction, the nature, extent and frequency of the malfunction, as well as the risks associated with the malfunction, the defendants caused an estimated thousands of children and other patients to receive inaccurately low lead test results.
“We trust that medical devices provide accurate results. We trust that when doctors give us information, it’s based on reliable science. These defendants eroded that trust by misleading regulators and customers about devices they knew could provide inaccurate results, and thereby knowingly endangered the health of children and other patients across the country,” said United States Attorney Leah B. Foley. “These convictions should make one thing clear: corporate fraud that puts public health at risk will not go unpunished. Individuals who choose to mislead rather than uphold the integrity of our healthcare system will be held accountable.”
“Medical device makers have an obligation to provide truthful information to protect patients. By deliberately concealing and consistently misleading consumers and the FDA about device malfunctions, Magellan acted with gross disregard for its responsibility to comply with FDA requirements and put patients at risk,” said Fernando McMillian, Special Agent in Charge, FDA Office of Criminal Investigations, New York Field Office. “We will continue to thoroughly investigate those whose actions undermine the integrity of the FDA regulatory process which exists to protect consumer health.”
“What these three senior executives did was downright deceitful and dangerous,” said Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division. “They concealed a medical device malfunction that resulted in inaccurate lead test results for thousands of children and other vulnerable patients in order to boost Magellan’s bottom line. The public should know the FBI and our partners are working hard every day to ensure those who put profits over patient safety won’t get away with it.”
“These corporate executives knew about a serious flaw in Magellan’s lead testing devices that produced inaccurate reporting of lead levels in the blood. They chose to conceal that flaw, completely disregarding the well-being of patients, in their corrupt effort to benefit the corporate bottom line,” said Special Agent in Charge Roberto Coviello of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General. “These convictions serve as a strong reminder that we will continue to work tirelessly to investigate and bring to justice those who engage in dangerous schemes that put patient safety at risk.”
The FDA ultimately found that the LeadCare devices could not accurately test venous samples, leading to a recall of all LeadCare devices using venous samples and a warning to the public not to use the devices for venous blood samples because of the malfunction.
According to court documents, as referenced by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there is no safe level of lead in the blood. Lead exposure may cause irreversible lifelong physical and mental health problems. Young children and pregnant women are most vulnerable to lead exposure, especially those from low-income households and those who live in housing built before 1978 because those homes are more likely to contain lead-based paint and have fixtures containing lead.
If you or a family member believe you received an inaccurate blood lead test result from a LeadCare device between 2013-2017, please complete the questionnaire located on the FBI’s website at www.fbi.gov/MagellanCaseInquiry. Information about the status of the case is located on the U.S. Attorney’s Office website https://www.justice.gov/usao-ma/press-highlights.
The charges of introduction of misbranded medical devices provide for a sentence of up to three years in prison, up to one year of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. The charge of making false statements provides for a sentence of up to five years in prison, up to three years of supervised release and a fine of up $250,000 or twice the gross gain from the offense, whichever is greater. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.
U.S. Attorney Foley; FDA-OCI SAC McMillan; FBI SAC Cohen; and HHS-OIG SAC Coviello made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kelly Lawrence and Leslie Wright of the Healthcare Fraud Unit are prosecuting the case.
Updated to include the quote of Fernando McMillian, Special Agent in Charge, FDA Office of Criminal Investigations, New York Field Office
Texas Man Sentenced to Imprisonment for Enticement of a MinorRead the Press Release
SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – Joshua Michael Bowden, 43, of Dallas, Texas, was sentenced to 120 months’ imprisonment after he admitted to attempting to engage in sexual acts with an 11-year-old and was convicted of coercion and enticement of a minor.
According to court documents and statements made at Bowden’s change of plea and sentencing hearing, on September 28, 2023, while in Utah for a business trip, he began engaging in an online conversation with an individual he thought was the father of an 11-year-old boy. The individual Bowden was communicating with was an undercover officer. During communication, Bowden expressed his interest to engage in sexual acts with the 11-year-old boy. When Bowden arrived at the meet up location to act on his interest, he was arrested. A search of Bowden’s phone found child sexual abuse material.
Acting United States Attorney Felice John Viti of the District of Utah made the announcement.
The case was investigated by the FBI's Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force.
Assistant United States Attorney Joey Blanch of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
Tangipahoa Parish Man Guilty of Federal Controlled Substances Act ViolationsRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LA – RINGO MITCHELL JR. (“MITCHELL JR.”), age 36 of Natalbany, Louisiana, pled guilty on February 27, 2025, to violations of the Federal Controlled Substances Act, before United States District Judge Barry Ashe, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson.
MITCHELL JR. pleaded guilty to Counts 1, 9, and 10 of the indictment pending against him. Count 1 charged MITCHELL JR. with conspiracy to distribute, and possess with intent to distribute, controlled substances, in violation of Title 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1); 841(b)(1)(A); 841(b)(1)(B); and 846. Count 9 charged MITCHELL JR. with illegal use of communications facility, in violation of Title 21, U.S.C. §843(b) and Title 18, U.S.C. §2. Count 10 charged MITCHELL JR. with possessing, with intent to distribute, 50 grams or more of a mixture containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(B).
On Count 1, MITCHELL JR. faces a minimum of 5 years and up to 40 years imprisonment, up to a $5,000,000 fine, and at least 4 years of supervised release following imprisonment. On Count 9, MITCHELL JR. faces up to 4 years imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to 1 year of supervised release following imprisonment. On Count 10, MITCHELL JR. faces a minimum of 5 years and up to 40 years imprisonment, up to a $5,000,000 fine, and at least 4 years of supervised release following imprisonment. As to each count, he also faces payment of a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.
According to the indictment, beginning on a time unknown but continuing until at least September 10, 2024, MITCHELL JR., and seven other individuals, conspired to distribute, and possess with intent to distribute, fentanyl and methamphetamine throughout the Tangipahoa Parish region of the Eastern District of Louisiana. The conspiracy was carried out through wire and electronic communications.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) and Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN).
Acting United States Attorney Simpson praised the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, Hammond Police Department, Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Lauren Sarver of the Narcotics Unit.
St. Louis County Felon Admits Gun, Fentanyl Possession ChargesRead the Press Release
ST. LOUIS – A convicted felon from St. Louis County has pleaded guilty to two gun charges and admitted possessing fentanyl.
James C. Taylor, 32, of Velda City, Missouri, pleaded guilty Monday to two counts of being a felon in possession of a firearm and one count of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl. Taylor admitted that on Jan. 16, 2019, St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department officers responding to a “shots fired’ call found a stolen .40-caliber HS Produkt XD-40 pistol that Taylor had hidden in a couch, a digital scale and two bags of fentanyl in the room where Taylor had been. Witnesses told officers that Taylor was cheated out of $300 in a drug deal and began demanding money from the cousin of the purported dealer. Taylor received $600 but wanted more and held the cousin captive while he tried to get another person to bring more money, witnesses reported. Taylor is disputing the witnesses’ accounts but acknowledges the U.S. Attorney’s office could prove the kidnapping incident by at least a preponderance of the evidence.
Taylor also admitted that on Nov. 7, 2020, St. Louis police received calls about a man in a gold Buick LeSabre on Enright Avenue pointing an AR-style firearm at people. Officers arrived and found Taylor in the driver’s seat. When told to exit the car and put his hands on the vehicle, Taylor dropped his phone and ran. He was arrested after a short pursuit. Officers saw a black AM-15 pistol with a large-capacity magazine in plain view on the back floor of the LeSabre and found a baggy containing marijuana.
Taylor is scheduled to be sentenced on June 17. As part of the plea, both the U.S. Attorney’s Office and Taylor’s lawyer have agreed to recommend a prison sentence of 12 years.
The St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Zachary Bluestone is prosecuting the case.
Springfield Man Sentenced to 15 years for Drug Trafficking Conspiracy and Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – Bryce A. LaNear, 27, Springfield, Mo., was sentenced today by United States District Court Judge Brian C. Wimes today to 15 years in federal court following his guilty plea and convictions for conspiracy to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine as well as distribution of cocaine, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense. The Court also ordered the forfeiture of $7,950 seized from LaNear that were proceeds of LaNear’s drug distribution activity.
As LaNear admitted in his plea agreement, from April of 2017 to October of 2019, he conspired with others to distribute cocaine and more than 500 grams of a mixture or substance containing methamphetamine as well as possessing firearms in furtherance of the conspiracy. On April 19, 2017, LaNear was arrested in possession of cocaine and methamphetamine that he intended to distribute to other persons as well as five firearms which he possessed in furtherance of his drug distribution activity. LaNear also sold cocaine to undercover Springfield, Missouri, police officers in August, September and December of 2017. On April 11, 2018, members of the United States Drug Enforcement Administration and the Springfield Police Department executed a search warrant on LaNear’s residence and discovered additional amounts of methamphetamine and another firearm. In May of 2018, Springfield Police Officers seized additional amounts of methamphetamine and another firearm from LaNear. The investigation concluded with the seizure on October 2, 2019, of over 5 kilograms of methamphetamine from one of LaNear’s codefendants. In total, LaNear was responsible for the distribution of over 9 kilograms of methamphetamine and over 3 kilograms of cocaine in the Springfield, Missouri, area.
This case was prosecuted by Supervisory Assistant U.S. Attorney Randall D. Eggert and Assistant United States Attorney Cameron Beaver. It was investigated by the United States Drug Enforcement Administration and the Springfield, Missouri, Police Department.
Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force
This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
Slidell Doctor Charged with Health Care FraudRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that ROBERT TASSIN, M.D. (“TASSIN”), age 64, of Slidell, Louisiana, was charged March 10, 2025 with conspiracy to commit healthcare fraud, in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 1347 and 1349, in connection with a scheme to bill Medicare for medically unnecessary cancer genetic (“CGx”) tests.
According to the bill of information, TASSIN worked as an independent contractor for several purported telemedicine companies. From approximately February through September of 2019, TASSIN, through the purported telemedicine companies, allegedly signed doctors’ orders for CGx tests for Medicare beneficiaries he never saw, spoke to, or otherwise treated. As a result, it is alleged that TASSIN‘s orders resulted in over $6.6 million in false and fraudulent claims submitted to Medicare, of which Medicare reimbursed over $2 million. To conceal and perpetuate the fraud, TASSIN allegedly made several false and fraudulent statements in support of the orders he submitted, including falsely certifying in medical records that the CGx tests were medically necessary for the patients’ treatment. In exchange for electronically reviewing patient charts and ordering CGx tests, it is alleged that TASSIN was paid a set fee per doctor’s order, typically $30, totaling $106,757.
Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson reiterated that the bill of information is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
If convicted, TASSIN faces up to ten years in prison, up to three years of supervised release, a fine of up to $250,000, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.
Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson praised the work of the Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General. Trial Attorney Kelly Walters of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas Moses, Healthcare Fraud Coordinator for the Eastern District of Louisiana, are prosecuting the case.
Savanna Police Officer Sentenced to 40 Years After First Guilty Verdict Obtained Under 2022 Reauthorization of the Violence Against Women Act Enhanced PenaltiesRead the Press Release
A federal judge sentenced former Savanna Oklahoma Police Officer (SPD), Jeffrey Scott Smith, 35, to 40 years in prison for sexually assaulting a woman during a traffic stop and obstructing justice by turning off his body-worn camera and dash camera in an effort to avoid recording the assault. This case represents the first sexual assault conviction and sentence under the 2022 Reauthorization of the Violence Against Women Act that added enhanced penalties for civil rights offenses involving sexual misconduct.
Evidence presented at trial established that on Nov. 2, 2022, Smith, working his first solo shift for SPD, conducted a traffic stop of the victim, K.H., and her then-boyfriend, J.G. After running their licenses, Smith realized that J.G.’s license had recently expired. He had J.G. and K.H. get out of J.G.’s car to switch who was driving. Smith issued J.G. a speeding ticket, and then began asking personal questions, including how long they had been in their relationship. At this point, while still speaking to J.G. and K.H., Smith manually deactivated his SPD body worn camera (BWC).
Smith then asked K.H. what she did for work. K.H. reluctantly admitted that she danced at a gentlemen’s club. Upon hearing K.H.’s answer, Smith asked to search J.G.’s car. During the search, Smith looked in K.H.’s purse and found a pre-rolled promotional marijuana cigarette from K.H.’s work. Rather than arrest her, or issue her a ticket, Smith walked back to his patrol car and manually deactivated his dashboard camera. Once the defendant had K.H. in his vehicle he sexually assaulted her.
“Smith’s despicable acts traumatized the victim and soiled the reputation of the law enforcement community,” said United States Attorney Christopher J. Wilson for the Eastern District of Oklahoma. “The sentence imposed is just punishment, and I am thankful to the FBI, the OSBI, and the prosecutors for their exceptional work in holding the defendant accountable for his crimes.”
“The entire law enforcement profession is disparaged when an officer betrays the oath to protect and serve. That is exactly what Mr. Smith did on his first solo shift as a police officer,” said Special Agent in Charge Doug Goodwater of the FBI Oklahoma City Field Office. “I am proud of the joint effort by the FBI, OSBI, and US Attorney’s Office to hold Smith accountable for his despicable actions. The sentence handed down today represents our commitment to pursuing justice for victims, and to protecting the reputation of those who wear the badge with integrity.”
The Oklahoma City FBI Field Office investigated the case with the assistance of the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation.
Trial Attorney Laura Gilson of the Civil Rights Division and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Nicole Paladino and Clay Compton for the Eastern District of Oklahoma prosecuted the case.
San Diego Man Admits Guilt in Sending Hate-Filled Email with Death ThreatRead the Press Release
NEWS RELEASE SUMMARY – March 11, 2025
SAN DIEGO – George Joseph Wellinger II pleaded guilty in federal court today, admitting he intentionally targeted a member of the LGBTQ community and threatened her with violence via email.
According to his plea agreement, the defendant admitted that he intentionally selected this victim as the object of his threat based on the victim’s actual or perceived sexual orientation, and because of the defendant’s animus toward members of the LGBTQ community.
According to court documents, the victim was targeted after being interviewed for a KTLA news report about a hate-inspired murder in Lake Arrowhead in August 2023.
According to the plea agreement, the threatening email called the victim “another alphabet clown that wants to take a dirt nap, too,” and included a link to the KTLA news report which featured the victim and others discussing the murder of a Lake Arrowhead business owner who had been gunned down for hanging a Pride flag in her business.
The email continued: “We know what you look like and know where are you are....only a matter of time....Love it....get ur ghey on sister....scissor it up....we coming for ur rainbow azz. Click Click!!!
On August 18, 2023, Laura Ann Carleton, a known ally to the LGBTQ+ community, was murdered for hanging a pride flag outside her store. Carleton was shot by Travis Ikeguchi, who fled the scene and was later shot and killed by law enforcement. On August 30, 2023, KTLA, a local Los Angeles news station, wrote an article about Carleton’s death.
Wellinger pleaded guilty to Interstate Threatening Communication with a special finding that he targeted his victim because of her sexual orientation.
Wellinger is scheduled to be sentenced on June 9, 2025, at 10 a.m. before U.S. District Judge Linda Lopez.
If you or anyone you know believes you have been the victim of a hate crime, please contact the FBI at www.tips.fbi.gov. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jacqueline M. Jimenez and Alicia Williams are prosecuting this case.
DEFENDANT Case Number: 24-CR-1591
George Joseph Wellinger II Age: 49 San Diego, CA
CHARGE
Transmitting a Threatening Communication - Title 18 U.S.C., § 875(c)
Maximum penalty: Five years in prison
INVESTIGATING AGENCY
Federal Bureau of Investigation
For more information and resources about the department’s work to combat hate crimes, visit https://www.justice.gov/hatecrimes.
Russ Ferguson Sworn in as United States Attorney for the Western District of North CarolinaRead the Press Release
CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Russ Ferguson was sworn in today as United States Attorney for the
Western District of North Carolina (WDNC). Appointed by Attorney General Pamela Bondi on March 3, 2025, Mr. Ferguson took the oath of office administered by United States District Judge Frank D. Whitney.
“It is the honor of a lifetime to serve as United States Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina,” said Mr. Ferguson. “I am fortunate to be coming into a well-regarded office with some of the best lawyers in North Carolina. I am ready to roll up my sleeves and get to work for the people of my home state. I thank Attorney General Bondi for trusting me to lead this office, and I pledge to serve with utmost integrity and dedication.”
As U.S. Attorney, Mr. Ferguson serves as the chief federal law enforcement officer in the Western District, responsible for representing the United States in all civil and criminal litigations. Mr. Ferguson leads an office of nearly 100 federal prosecutors and support personnel, serving 32 counties across western North Carolina, including the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, the largest Native American community in the eastern United States.
U.S. Attorney Ferguson brings 16 years of significant legal experience to his new role. He began his legal career as a federal prosecutor in the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia, where he tried 28 cases to verdict. Before his appointment as U.S. Attorney, Mr. Ferguson was a partner at the international law firm of Womble Bond Dickinson, where he led the firm’s complex litigation group and handled complex civil and criminal cases. Mr. Ferguson’s work included representing clients in high-profile and complex criminal and civil trials, as well as in international arbitrations before a number of world arbitral bodies.
U.S. Attorney Ferguson has held leadership roles with the Mecklenburg County Bar, which honored him with an award for Best Individual Attorney for his pro bono service. He has been named to Super Lawyers, Best Lawyers in America, North Carolina Business Elite, and received the Charlotte Business Journal’s Forty Under Forty Award. Mr. Ferguson has also served as a speaker and panelist for local and national events and has published numerous articles on topics related to civil and criminal law.
Mr. Ferguson also serves on the Board of NourishUp, Charlotte’s food pantry and meals on wheels organization.
U.S. Attorney Ferguson received his undergraduate degree from Duke University and earned his law degree and a masters of law from Georgetown University Law Center. After law school, U.S. Attorney Ferguson clerked for the Honorable Frank D. Whitney in the United States District Court for the Western District of North Carolina.
Previously Convicted Felon Sentenced for Possession of a Firearm and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
Greenbelt, Maryland – On March 7, 2025 U.S. District Judge Paula Xinis sentenced Jesus Manuel, age 44, of Silver Spring, Maryland, to 58 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, for possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon.
The sentence was announced by Kelly O. Hayes, United States Attorney for the District of Maryland, with Special Agent in Charge Toni M. Crosby, of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives- Baltimore Field Division (ATF).
According to the plea agreement, on October 28, 2023, at approximately 10:30 p.m., a Riverdale Park Police officer arrived at a restaurant in Riverdale Park, Maryland to begin work at his secondary employment position as a security guard.
Upon the officer’s arrival, a restaurant employee informed the officer that the defendant had attempted to enter the restaurant earlier in the evening wearing a fanny pack around his body that may have contained a firearm. The employee detailed the defendant’s physical description to the officer.
At approximately 2:30 a.m., the officer went to the restaurant parking lot after learning of an altercation taking place there. A male restaurant patron approached the officer and indicated that the defendant had threatened the patron with a firearm. Then, a second male patron approached the officer and indicated that the defendant had also threatened this second patron with a firearm. Both men pointed towards the defendant. The officer called for police dispatch and requested additional officers.
At approximately 3:10 a.m., officers saw the defendant standing near the restaurant’s kitchen door and approached him. The defendant was wearing the same fanny pack around his body. The defendant saw the officers approaching and began to walk, then run, away. Officers chased the defendant across the restaurant parking lot, across Baltimore Avenue, and into another parking lot behind a fast-food establishment. As he ran, the defendant fully removed the fanny pack from his body. The defendant threw the fanny pack away from him. The defendant was then placed in handcuffs. An officer retrieved from the ground the fanny pack that the defendant threw. As the officer picked up the fanny pack, he felt what he knew to be the muzzle of a handgun.
The officer then used a flashlight to see inside of the fanny pack and pulled out a firearm, specifically a Glock model 21 .45 caliber pistol, loaded with approximately 8 rounds of .45 caliber ammunition. The defendant was prohibited from possessing both the firearm and ammunition because he had at least one prior felony conviction.
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.
United States Attorney Hayes commended the ATF and Riverdale Park Police for their work on the case. Ms. Hayes thanked Assistant United States Attorneys Brooke Oki and Dawn Williams who prosecuted the case.
For more information on 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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Portuguese National Admits to Illegal Entry, Faces Second DeportationRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE – A Portuguese national arrested at his West Warwick home in August 2024 by members of the U.S Marshals Fugitive Task Force on multiple outstanding arrest warrants pleaded guilty on Monday to a charge of illegal entry and was sentenced to time served (six months), announced Acting United States Attorney Sara Miron Bloom.
At the time of his arrest, it was learned that active arrest warrants were pending for Joao Luis Vieira, 45, in Bristol County, Massachusetts for cocaine trafficking, for reckless driving/eluding police in East Providence, and a failure to appear in Kent County Court in Rhode Island.
A review of immigration data bases performed by Homeland Security Investigations Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents determined that Viera had been removed from the United States to Portugal in December 2013. An immigration judge ordered his deportation a month earlier.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Lincoln D. Almond sentenced Vieira to time served (six months). An immigration detainer has been lodged by ICE.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Peter I. Roklan.
The matter was investigated by the U.S Marshals Fugitive Task Force and Homeland Security Investigations Immigration and Custom Enforcement.
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Portage Man Sentenced to 120 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
HAMMOND – David Allen Swisher, 29 years old, of Portage, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Philip P. Simon after pleading guilty to possessing child pornography with a prior conviction, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.
Swisher was sentenced to 120 months in prison and 20 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, on or about June 23, 2023, Swisher knowingly possessed multiple videos and several images of child sexual abuse material after having being convicted of possession of child pornography in the State of Indiana.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations with assistance from the Porter County Sheriff’s Office, the Indiana Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, the Indiana State Police, and the Indiana State Police Digital Forensics Unit. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Nadia D. Wardrip and Steven J. Lupa.
The case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood. In 2006, the Department of Justice created Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
Ontario man attempting to enter U.S. arrested for making a false statementRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Omid Kazemimanesh, 38, of Mississauga, Ontario, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with making a false statement, which carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Franz M. Wright, who is handling the case, stated that on October 18, 2024, Kazemimanesh attempted to enter the United States at the Lewiston-Queenston Bridge Port of Entry. During primary inspection, he stated he had served in the Iranian Army approximately 13 years ago, but could not provide any documentation related to the military service. As a result, Kazemimanesh was denied entry, and advised that he would need his military completion card and supporting documentation issued by the Iranian military that showed which branch of the military he had served to gain entry. On March 8, 2025, Kazemimanesh arrived at the Lewiston-Queenston Bridge Port of Entry and during a secondary inspection, he was asked to provide proof of Iranian military service. Kazemimanesh provided an Iranian military service card as well as Iranian military discharge paperwork, stating the Iranian military documents were originals and were provided by the Iranian government approximately 3-4 months after the completion of his military service with the Iran Army Ground Forces. After a review of the military card, a Customs and Border Protection officer suspected the card was fraudulent. Subsequent review determined that the card was in fact fraudulent.
The complaint is a result of an investigation by Customs and Border Protection, under the direction of Director of Field Operations Rose Brophy and Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Erin Keegan.
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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New Orleans Man Charged with Possessing Files Depicting Sexual Victimization of ChildrenRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that ERVIN DALVECCHIO COOPER, (“COOPER”) age 23, a resident of New Orleans, was charged on February 27, 2025, by bill of information, with possession of files depicting the sexual exploitation of children under the age of twelve years old, in violation of 18 U.S.C. ' 2252(a)(4)(B).
COOPER faces a maximum term of imprisonment of twenty (20) years. COOPER also faces a lifetime of supervised release, up to a $250,000 fine, and can be required to register as a sex offender. He also faces payment of a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.
Acting U. S. Attorney Simpson reiterated that a bill of information is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by United States Attorneys= Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Louisiana Bureau of Investigation in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Jordan Ginsberg, Chief of the Public Integrity Unit, is in charge of the prosecution.
NC Department of Transportation Employee Pleads Guilty to the Sale of Dangerous Counterfeit Car AirbagsRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – A Raleigh man pled guilty today to importing thousands of counterfeit car steering wheel airbags into the Raleigh area over the past two years. The counterfeit airbags were sold locally and to online buyers through Facebook Marketplace.
According to court documents and other information presented in court, Mateen Mohammad Alinaghian, 31, imported approximately 2,500 counterfeit air bags into Raleigh between May 2022 and April 2024. Alinaghian imported steering wheel airbags with counterfeit markings of Honda, Chevrolet, General Motor, and Toyota, from a supplier in the United Kingdom. Alinaghian then sold the counterfeit airbags to unsuspecting customers using Facebook Marketplace. Alinaghian used the Facebook Marketplace seller profile of “Matt AutoParts” or “Medo Smith” to advertise and sell the counterfeit airbags. Alinaghian is currently employed as an engineer with the N.C. Department of Transportation.
According to testing done by Honda, General Motors, and Toyota, the steering wheel airbags obtained and sold by Alinaghian were not manufactured by the car companies, and often included materials of lesser quality. In testing, the counterfeit airbags often malfunctioned, either not fully inflating or inflating late – posing a potentially serious risk of injury to the vehicle driver.
The Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) led the investigation, along with the U.S. Department of Transportation, Office of Inspector General. The investigation included a search of Alinaghian’s house, which resulted in the seizure of approximately 20 counterfeit airbags, and multiple seizures by Customs and Border Control of in-bound packages from the United Kingdom containing counterfeit airbags en route to Alinaghian.
“In this case, the defendant put profit over safety by selling counterfeit airbags that had the potential to put drivers in harm’s way if the airbags malfunctioned during a collision,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Bubar. “I’m so proud of the cooperation on display by this investigative team, which included partnering with our state, federal and international colleagues, and will hold Mr. Alinaghian responsible for his illegitimate enterprise.”
“Airbags are critical life-saving devices that are designed and produced to protect motorists. Counterfeit airbags pose a serious threat to the safety of consumers,” said Cardell T. Morant, special agent in charge of U.S. Homeland Security Investigations Charlotte that covers North and South Carolina. “HSI actively collaborates with its law enforcement partners to disrupt and dismantle transnational criminal organizations that seek to exploit global commerce and threaten legitimate supply chains.”
“The sale of counterfeit air bags that are not regulated or tested to ensure they meet federal safety standards puts drivers and those on our nation’s roadways at serious risk,” said Greg Thompson, Special Agent-in-Charge, Department of Transportation Office of Inspector General, Mid-Atlantic Region. “Today’s guilty plea is the result of an unwavering commitment to safety demonstrated together with our law enforcement, prosecutorial, and agency partners.”
“Selling and using counterfeit car airbags can have dangerous consequences,” said N.C. Secretary of State Elaine F. Marshall. “Our strong partnerships with the brand holders and law enforcement was crucial to uncovering this serious threat and taking them off the market may have saved lives.”
After identifying that Alinaghian was importing the counterfeit airbags from a source in the United Kingdom, HSI contacted law enforcement abroad. As a result, a search warrant was executed on September 19, 2024, by the City of London Police’s Intellectual Property Crime Unit (PICU). PICU officers searched two residential and one business address and seized a total of 500 counterfeit airbags and an estimated £140,000 in cash. Three men were arrested on suspicion of fraud by false representation, conspiracy to commit money laundering, and conspiracy to distribute counterfeit goods. The investigation is still ongoing.
According to a consumer alert published by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), three people in the U.S. were killed and two people suffered injuries from September 2023 to July 2024 as a result of their vehicles being fitted with substandard replacement airbags.
Individuals who suspect they purchased a counterfeit airbag should consult their brand’s dealership or a reputable mechanic to determine if the parts need to be replaced, and report it to their local Homeland Security Investigations office or submit an online complaint to the National Intellectual Property Rights Coordination Center or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
If you have reason to believe that you are a victim the defendant’s conduct, either because you believe you received a counterfeit airbag from the defendant, or if you believe that you were injured or incurred costs as a result of the defendant’s conduct, please contact HSI at 919-677-6392.
Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after the guilty plea was accepted by U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert B. Jones. The Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) led the investigation, along with the U.S. Department of Transportation, Office of Inspector General, with assistance from the N.C. Secretary of State Trademark Enforcement Division or Anti-Counterfeit Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Karen Haughton prosecuted the case.
Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 5:25-cr-00013-FL.
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Missouri Sex Offender Sentenced to 14 Years in Prison for Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
ST. LOUIS – U.S. District Judge Stephen R. Clark on Tuesday sentenced a registered sex offender who was caught with child sexual abuse material to 14 years in prison.
Charles R. Hamilton, 66, of Chesterfield, had 1,288 image files and 185 video files containing child sexual abuse material on his phone. In May of 2023, law enforcement officers in Alabama identified a Kik social media account that was being used to distribute child sexual abuse material. They traced the account to Hamilton, a convicted sex offender. When investigators interviewed Hamilton on May 25, 2023, he consented to a search of his phone. Investigators later found images of child pornography matching those distributed via the Kik account. A forensic examination found that Defendant had used Kik, Instagram and Telegram accounts to receive and transmit child pornography.
Hamilton pleaded guilty in August to one count of possession of child pornography.
The FBI, the St. Louis County Police Department and the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency’s State Bureau of Investigation investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Hayes is prosecuting the case.
Milton Man Sentenced to 336 Months in Prison for Production of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
WILLIAMSPORT - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Robert A. Kohl, age 50, of Northumberland County, PA, was sentenced on March 7, 2025, to 336 months of imprisonment to be followed by ten years of supervised release by Chief U.S. District Court Judge Matthew W. Brann, for production of child pornography.
According to Acting United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, Kohl previously pleaded guilty on September 11, 2024, to production of child pornography. On January 3, 2023, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Kohl’s residence following a cyber tip. Pursuant to the warrant, several electronic devices were forensically examined and thousands of images that contained child sexual abuse material was discovered, including a video depicting a 4-year-old child. Kohl produced child pornography on five separate occasions between August 2021 and September 2022.
Multiple members of the victims’ family addressed the Court and expressed the devastating impact this crime has had on the victim and their family.
The case was investigated by the Pennsylvania State Police and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Alisan V. Martin 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 individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc.
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Mexican national sentenced for trafficking methamphetamine through East TexasRead the Press Release
BEAUMONT, Texas – A Mexican national has been sentenced to over 11 years in federal prison for drug trafficking violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Abe McGlothin, Jr.
Audivier Martinez-Gomez, 24, of Oaxaca, Mexico, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and was sentenced to 135 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Michael Truncale on March 11, 2025.
According to information presented in court, on June 18, 2024, Martinez-Gomez was identified as the passenger in an eastbound vehicle stopped on Interstate-10 in Beaumont for speeding in a construction zone. Martinez-Gomez and his wife, who was the driver of the vehicle, gave conflicting stories about their travel, and were unusually nervous during the interaction. Consent was given to search the vehicle, and law enforcement located THC edibles in the passenger compartment. In the trunk, law enforcement located large garbage sacks containing multiple bags of crystal methamphetamine totaling 29.6 kilograms.
This case was investigated by the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Matt Quinn.
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Mexican National Extradited to U.S. to Face Federal Drug Trafficking Charges in New MexicoRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Mexican national was extradited from Mexico to the United States to face federal drug trafficking charges in New Mexico.
Guillermo Amaro-Rodriguez, 42, made his initial appearance last week in federal court after being extradited from Mexico on a charge of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.
A federal grand jury indicted Amaro-Rodriguez on October 12, 2022. According to the indictment, Amaro-Rodriguez conspired with others to distribute methamphetamine in Bernalillo County and elsewhere.
Mexican law enforcement authorities arrested Amaro-Rodriguez at the request of the United States in Chihuahua on October 3, 2024. The FBI assumed custody of Amaro-Rodriguez from Mexican authorities on March 7, 2025.
“Mexican authorities' efforts have ensured that the defendant will face justice in the United States for his alleged crimes,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Holland S. Kastrin. “We thank our partners at the Fiscalía General de la República for their commitment to combating drug trafficking and holding those responsible accountable. Our continued collaboration guarantees that international boundaries will not shield criminals from prosecution.”
“The extradition of Mr. Amaro-Rodriguez is an example of how the FBI will pursue justice no matter how long it takes,” said Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office. “Thank you to our determined FBI agents and the help of our federal, local and foreign partners for your hard work to hold this man accountable for his actions.”
Amaro-Rodriguez will remain in custody pending trial, which has not been set. If convicted, Amaro-Rodriguez faces up to life in prison.
Acting U.S. Attorney Holland S. Kastrin and Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Drug Enforcement Administration, Albuquerque Police Department and the FBI’s Legal Attaché Office in Mexico City. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs worked with law enforcement partners in Mexico to secure the arrest and extradition of Amaro-Rodriguez. Assistant U.S. Attorney David Hirsch is prosecuting the case 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).
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Massachusetts Man Sentenced to More Than Three Years in Prison for Obstructing Federal Hate Crimes InvestigationRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Massachusetts man, who was extradited from Stockholm, Sweden, was sentenced today in federal court in Boston for obstructing an investigation of fires set at Jewish institutions in Arlington, Needham and Chelsea, Mass., in May 2019.
Alexander Giannakakis, 37, formerly of Quincy, Mass., was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Patti B. Saris to 42 months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release. In November 2024, Giannakakis pleaded guilty to concealing records in a federal investigation; tampering with documents and objects; and tampering with an official proceeding. In February 2022, Giannakakis was indicted by a federal grand jury. In February 2024 he was extradited to the United States from Sweden.
“Rather than assist authorities, Alexander Giannakakis chose instead to impede the FBI’s investigation by lying to investigators and destroying and concealing evidence,” said United States Attorney Leah B. Foley. “Obstructing law enforcement is a serious crime that can embolden individuals to continue criminal behavior, sometimes with serious or even deadly consequences. Today’s sentence leaves no room for doubt, that this type of deceit and obstruction will not be tolerated.”
"With today’s sentence, Alexander Giannakakis learned the hard way that the family ties that bind you together can also land you in federal prison,” said Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division. “Mr. Giannakakis destroyed evidence and obstructed the FBI’s investigation into his brother’s acts of domestic terrorism that sent shockwaves of fear throughout the Jewish community. Instead of doing what was right and calling out his brother’s vile conduct, Mr. Giannakakis tried to cover for him. Anyone who thinks they can lie to us and get away with it, should think twice. The FBI can’t properly carry out investigations, if the people we interview think they can deceive us without consequence.”
In approximately February 2020, Giannakakis’ younger brother became the prime suspect in an investigation into four fires set at Jewish institutions in the Boston area: the first during the evening of May 11, 2019 at a Chabad Center in Arlington; the second at the same location during the evening of May 16, 2019; the third at a Chabad Center in Needham; and the fourth during the evening of May 26, 2019, at a Jewish-affiliated business in Chelsea. At the time Giannakakis’ brother was identified as a suspect, he was hospitalized in a coma. He remained in a coma until his death later that year.
Shortly after his brother was identified as a suspect, Giannakakis left the United States for Sweden, where he was living at the time, with his brother’s electronic devices and documents. According to court documents, when Giannakakis returned to the U.S. in March 2020, he was questioned by investigators about his brother’s involvement in the arsons and made false and misleading statements. He later concealed and destroyed physical evidence being sought by investigators that implicated his brother in the arsons. Within hours of concealing and destroying that evidence, Giannakakis fled the United States for Sweden. Giannakakis remained in Sweden until his arrest by Swedish authorities in February 2022.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division; Chief Juliann Flaherty of the Arlington Police Department; Chief John Schlittler of the Needham Police Department; and Chief Keith E. Houghton of the Chelsea Police Department made the announcement today. Substantial assistance was provided by Swedish authorities. Additional assistance was provided by the Quincy Massachusetts Police Department; the Massachusetts State Police; and the Massachusetts State Fire Marshal. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs provided substantial assistance to secure the arrest and extradition from Sweden of Giannakakis. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jason Casey of the National Security Unit prosecuted the case.
Man Sentenced for Violations of the Federal Controlled Substances ActRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – JERAD M. BARRETT, (“BARRETT”), age 41, a resident of New Orleans, was sentenced on February 26, 2025, after previously pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute, and possess with intent to distribute, fifty kilograms or more of marijuana, possession with intent to distribute, fifty kilograms or more of marijuana, and maintaining a drug-involved premises, violations of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(C), 846, and 856(a)(1), respectively, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson. BARRETT was sentenced to 135 months imprisonment, three years of supervised release, and a $400 mandatory special assessment fee.
According to court documents, BARRETT, with the assistance of his mother, maintained his residence to cultivate and distribute kilogram quantities of marijuana. Agents also uncovered communications between BARRETT and his mother related to distribution, packaging, and relocation of narcotics within the Eastern District of Louisiana. During the investigation, agents recovered approximately 940 kilograms of marijuana stored in plastic bins and barrels from within BARRETT’S residence and multiple storage units associated with BARRETT.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Louisiana State Police, the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Lynn E. Schiffman of the Narcotics Unit.
Man Found Guilty of 6 Counts of Child ExploitationRead the Press Release
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico – After a five-day jury trial, Lionel Albino Galindo was found guilty of six counts of child exploitation. United States District Court Judge Maria Antongiorgi-Jordan presided over the trial.
According to court documents, from February 2024 throughout March 19, 2024, Lionel Albino Galindo sexually exploited a 13-year-old female minor. The defendant used a cellular phone as well as internet instant messaging services, to knowingly persuade, induce, entice, and coerce a 13-year-old female minor, to engage in sexual activity, which includes the production of child pornography.
During trial, the government presented evidence to prove that Albino Galindo knowingly transported the female minor to engage in sexual activity on several occasions and produced visual depictions of such conduct. The defendant also received child pornography from the female minor and sent obscene material to the minor.
The jury found Lionel Albino Galindo guilty of one count of coercion and enticement of a minor; one count of transportation of a minor with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity; one count of sexual exploitation of children; one count for receipt of child pornography; one count for possession of child pornography; and one count of transfer of obscene material to a minor.
The defendant faces the following possible sentences: for coercion and enticement and transportation of minor to engage in illicit sexual conduct, the defendant faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 10 years up to life; for sexual exploitation of children he faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 15 years up to 30 years; for possession of child pornography and transfer of obscene material to a minor he faces up to 10 years; and for receipt of child pornography he faces five to 20 years in prison; all charges followed by a term of supervised release of no less than 5 years up to life. The sentencing hearing is scheduled for June 10, 2025, at 9:30 am. The defendant was ordered to remain under the custody of the Bureau of Prisons pending sentencing.
“I commend the prosecutors, and our law enforcement partners for their hard work and dedication in bringing this child predator to justice,” said United States Attorney W. Stephen Muldrow of the District of Puerto Rico.
“The FBI remains steadfast in its commitment to protecting our most vulnerable—our children,” said Devin Kowalski, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s San Juan Field Office. “This verdict underscores the seriousness of crimes against minors and reinforces our dedication to holding offenders accountable. We will continue working with our law enforcement partners to ensure that those who prey on children face the full force of justice.”
The FBI investigated the case with the collaboration of the Puerto Rico Police Bureau.
Assistant US Attorney (AUSA) Jenifer Y. Hernández Vega, Chief of the Child Exploitation and Immigration Unit and AUSA Emelina Agrait Barreto prosecuted 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 the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
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Madison Man Sentenced to 78 Months for Possessing a Firearm as a FelonRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Timothy M. O’Shea, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Donald R. Spivey, Jr., 23, Madison, Wisconsin was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge William M. Conley to 78 months in federal prison for possessing a firearm as a felon. Spivey pleaded guilty to this charge on December 18, 2024.
On July 15, 2024, Spivey abused his partner after she kicked him out of the house. During this incident Spivey strangled her and then grabbed her phone preventing her from calling the police. Spivey also pointed a handgun at her and stole a Glock 19 9mm from her.
Only July 17, 2024, police found Spivey sleeping in a stolen Jeep and tried to arrest him. Spivey drove off, causing officers to jump out of the way. Spivey then led police on a chase at speeds up to 115 miles per hour before he crashed, rolling the Jeep which landed on top of two vehicles in a driveway. Spivey then fled from the Jeep and was arrested with the assistance of a K9. Officers found the victim’s stolen Glock 19 9mm along Spivey’s path of flight and near the Jeep. Officers also found a Glock 20 10mm handgun equipped with a machinegun conversion device (MCD) in the Jeep.
Spivey is a convicted felon and is prohibited from possessing firearms. Possession of an MCD, also known as a “switch,” is illegal. An MCD is itself considered a machinegun and converts a handgun to fire fully automatic.
At sentencing, Judge Conley noted that Spivey’s criminal history started at a young age and included offenses where he assaulted the two mothers of his children, firing a handgun at one. Judge Conley observed that Spivey had served time in prison and was on state supervision when he once again engaged in domestic violence in this federal case, concluding that Spivey poses a danger to society.
The charge against Spivey was the result of an investigation conducted by the Madison Police Department and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Corey Stephan prosecuted this case.
This case has been brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the U.S. Justice Department’s program to reduce violent crime. The PSN approach emphasizes coordination between state and federal prosecutors and all levels of law enforcement to address gun crime, especially felons illegally possessing firearms and ammunition and violent and drug crimes that involve the use of firearms.
Long Island Pastor Pleads Guilty to Sexual Exploitation of a ChildRead the Press Release
Earlier today, in federal court in Central Islip, Jose Saez, Jr., a pastor at a church located in Brentwood, New York, pleaded guilty to sexual exploitation of a child. The proceeding was held before United States District Judge Joan M. Azrack. When sentenced, Saez, Jr., faces a minimum sentence of 15 years’ imprisonment and up to 30 years in prison.
John J. Durham, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York and Leslie R. Backschies, Acting Assistant Director in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, New York Field Office (FBI), announced the guilty plea.
“The defendant’s sexual exploitation of minors, both in person and online, is horrific, and he now faces at least 15 years in prison for his unspeakable crimes,” stated United States Attorney John J. Durham. “That he held a position of trust and responsibility as a pastor of a local church makes his conduct even more reprehensible. Protecting vulnerable children from predators like this defendant will always be a priority of this Office.”
Mr. Durham expressed his appreciation to the Suffolk County Police Department for their work on the case.
“The defendant not only admitted to sexually abusing young children, but also discussed his church and his congregants as targets of additional abuse. His sustained exploitation of children—in person and online—is clear, and this plea is a step forward on the road to justice for his victims. Children are among the most vulnerable in our communities, and the FBI will stop at nothing to make sure they are protected and the monsters who would do them harm are put behind bars,” stated FBI Acting Assistant Director in Charge Backschies.
As set forth in court filings and today’s plea proceeding, Saez used an encrypted messaging service to engage in sexually explicit conversations with minors and with a law enforcement officer acting in an undercover capacity (the UC). In August of 2023, Saez had online conversations with the UC. During those conversations, the defendant stated that he had sexually abused an infant, that his “sweet spot” was molesting children between the ages of 11 and 15, and that he was able to find his younger victims at “church.” Pursuant to a court-authorized search, FBI agents recovered numerous images and videos of child pornography from the defendant, which he had solicited from minors. The defendant also admitted to law enforcement officers that he encouraged a minor to produce child pornography and send it to him.
This prosecution is 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 United States Attorneys’ Offices, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
Anyone with information about sexual exploitation by the defendant is asked to contact the FBI at tips.fbi.gov or 212-384-1000.
The government’s case is being handled by the Criminal Section of the Office’s Long Island Division. Assistant United States Attorneys Mark E. Misorek and Adam R. Toporovsky are in charge of the prosecution, with assistance from Paralegal Specialist Dejah Turla.
The Defendant:
JOSE SAEZ, JR.
Age: 29
Brentwood, New YorkE.D.N.Y. Docket No. 23-CR-480 (JMA)
Jefferson County man sentenced for federal firearms violationRead the Press Release
BEAUMONT, Texas – A Port Arthur man has been sentenced to prison for a federal firearms violation in the Eastern District of Texas, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Abe McGlothin, Jr.
Christopher Dante Karo, 34, pleaded guilty to carrying a firearm during a drug trafficking crime and was sentenced to 60 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Michael Truncale on March 11, 2025.
According to information presented in court, on April 3, 2024, Karo was observed during a drug transaction in Port Arthur by law enforcement. After driving away from the scene with two minor passengers, Karo was stopped for speeding. During the stop, Karo did not have a driver’s license and was asked to step out of the vehicle and stand in front of the patrol car. Officers observed a bottle containing what appeared to be PCP under their patrol car where Karo was standing, and determined from video evidence that Karo had dropped the bottle during the traffic stop and kicked it under the patrol car. A search of Karo’s vehicle revealed a pistol under the driver’s seat. The firearm had an extended magazine with 17 rounds of ammunition and had previously been reported stolen out of Port Arthur.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
This case was investigated by the Port Arthur Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Matt Quinn.
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Jacksonville Woman Sentenced to Federal Prison for Credit Scheme and COVID Relief Fraud Involving the Paycheck Protection ProgramRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – U.S. District Judge Wendy Berger has sentenced Crystal Denean Harvell (37, Jacksonville) to two years in federal prison for conspiracy to commit wire fraud involving a line of credit scheme and wire fraud involving COVID relief fraud through the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). The court also ordered Harvell to pay $131,782.63 in restitution to the victims she defrauded and to the United States government. Harvell agreed to forfeit $20,415, which is traceable to proceeds of the wire fraud offense involving COVID relief fraud. Harvell entered a guilty plea on September 4, 2024.
According to court documents, Harvell and her co-conspirators fraudulently obtained the Social Security numbers (SSNs) of others. From February 2016 through September 2019, Harvell and others recruited individuals to obtain lines of credit at various businesses using the SSNs. After fraudulently obtaining the lines of credit, they obtained jewelry and other merchandise. Harvell resold some of the merchandise and lines of credit on social media platforms.
In April 2021, Harvell submitted a PPP loan application to a lender authorized by the Small Business Administration (SBA) to lend funds for approved PPP loan applications. The PPP loan application falsely claimed that Harvell operated her own business. Throughout the loan application Harvell made multiple false statements regarding her purported gross income and expenses associated with operating her business. In support of her PPP loan application, she submitted a false IRS Form 1040 - Profit or Loss From Business. It contained false statements about operating expenses, gross income, and wage expenditures for her purported business. Harvell’s business did not exist. In reliance on the false statements made in her loan application, Harvell’s application was approved, and she received a PPP loan totaling $20,415.
After receiving the PPP loan proceeds in her bank account, Harvell began making withdrawals and spending the funds on personal expenses. In October 2021, Harvell submitted a PPP loan forgiveness application to the SBA that included multiple false representations. In the application, she falsely claimed that she spent more than $18,000 on payroll costs and that the PPP loan proceeds were only used for eligible purposes. In reliance on her false statements the SBA forgave the entire loan, plus accrued interest.
This case was investigated by the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office and the U.S. Secret Service – Jacksonville Field Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kevin C. Frein. The asset forfeiture was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer M. Harrington.
Jacksonville Man Pleads Guilty to Possessing A MachinegunRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – Acting United States Attorney Sara C. Sweeney announces that Andres Felipe Mejia (19, Jacksonville) has pleaded guilty to possessing a machinegun. Mejia faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been scheduled.
According to court documents, on August 13, 2024, undercover agents with the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives met Mejia to purchase a “switch.” The “switch” Mejia sold was a machinegun conversion device designed to convert a semiautomatic Glock pistol into a fully automatic machinegun. During the sale, Mejia explained to the undercover agents how to use the switch and offered to sell them more in the future.
This case was investigated by the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Brenna Falzetta.
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.
Jacksonville Man Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – Acting United States Attorney Sara C. Sweeney announces that Brian Gregory Brightman (31, Jacksonville) has pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of actual methamphetamine. Brightman faces a minimum sentence of 10 years, up to life, in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
According to the plea agreement, beginning no later than July 7 and continuing through September 11, 2024, Brightman, a convicted felon, orchestrated and led a drug trafficking organization to distribute controlled substances. The investigation revealed that Brightman supplied, staffed, directed, and profited from the sale of drugs from at least six different locations in and around Jacksonville. Brightman arranged for mid-level distributors, his co-conspirators, to sell more than a kilogram of actual methamphetamine to a confidential informant. They also sold crack cocaine, fentanyl, and marijuana. Brightman or an associate would drop off drugs on a near daily basis for his co-conspirators to sell, then Brightman or an associate would pick up cash proceeds from the drug sales. As a conservative estimate, two of the locations sold approximately $3,000 worth of methamphetamine and fentanyl per day. Brightman engaged in these activities while on pretrial release for separate offenses charged in the Fourth Judicial Circuit Court in Duval County.
On September 11, 2024, federal agents executed search warrants at eight locations associated with Brightman’s conspiracy. Drugs, including oxycodone, fentanyl, marijuana, cocaine, methamphetamine, and four firearms were seized at those locations.
As part of his plea, Brightman has agreed to forfeit a Glock firearm, a Smith & Wesson .380 pistol, a Radical Firearms AR-15, and a 9 mm Sig Sauer pistol and associated ammunition because these assets facilitated the drug conspiracy.
On January 31, 2025, Trey Allan King, one of Brightman’s co-conspirators, pleaded guilty to conspiring to distribute 50 grams or more of actual methamphetamine and distribution of 50 grams or more of actual methamphetamine. His sentencing is pending.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Nassau County Sheriff’s Office, with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Rachel Lasry.
Illegal Alien Charged with Immigration and Firearm Offenses for Shooting a Man in Front of His DaughterRead the Press Release
NASHVILLE – A federal indictment unsealed today charges Jose Guadalupe Vazquez-Delgado, 36, of Mexico, with possession of ammunition by an illegal alien and unlawful reentry into the United States, announced Robert E. McGuire, Acting United States Attorney for the Middle District of Tennessee.
According to court documents, Vazquez was drinking heavily in a house in Antioch, Tennessee, when he started arguing with the victim. The argument continued outside of the house, and the victim’s seven-year-old daughter followed the men outside. Moments later, Vazquez shot the victim numerous times before running away from the house. The victim was transported to the hospital where he received life-saving emergency surgery. Vazquez left 14 shell casings, his truck, his Mexican passport, and other items at the house. Before this shooting incident, immigration officials had previously deported Vazquez from the United States to Mexico on at least two prior occasions.
If convicted, Vazquez faces up to fifteen years in federal prison for the firearms offense and up to two years in prison for the immigration offense.
“Operations like this underscore the FBI's commitment to working with our partners to keep dangerous people and weapons from infecting our communities” said Special Agent in Charge Joseph E. Carrico of the FBI Nashville Field Office. “The FBI in Tennessee is committed to actively investigating and apprehending individuals wanted for federal violations and those unlawfully present in the United States and remains steadfast in its mission to uphold the Constitution."
This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Nashville Field Office, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ahmed A. Safeeullah and Joshua Kurtzman are prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation. The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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